Valentine's Day 2010

I had no idea what I would do. I had no idea how I would react. But I knew it was coming. 

My mother called on Saturday, February 13 and told me he was gone. 

I was quiet. 

I was calm. 

I was numb.

I was alone with the ballerinas. 

BSD was coming home the next day. Valentine's Day was the next day. They were so excited about the next day. 

I couldn't tell them. I didn't tell them. I waited. 

I was determined not to ruin Valentine's Day. We have a family tradition on Valentines' Day. And the ballerinas look forward to it almost as much as Christmas morning. 

On Valentine's Day, we cover the table in newspaper. 

Cook up a big batch of crab legs.

 

And then we feast.

There are gifts. Nothing extravagant. BSD was gone for a month and unsure of his exact return date so he sent roses. A big beautiful bouquet of roses. Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture of them. :( 

The ballerinas each got a little candy necklace making kit and a hula hoop.

 

And this year, after realizing how important it is to cherish those you love while you can, I stayed up late on Saturday night creating little "Love Tins." I spray painted, cut out hearts, turned them into stickers, and then stuffed the cans with 20 things that I love about each of my Valentines.

 

There were smiles.

" Nuh Uhs!"

 

 A few "Most Defs."

And even some near tears. 

 

It was a Valentine's Day I'll never forget.

  

"Papa" 

Thanksgiving 2008