Flowers say 'I love you'

Whether you believe this day originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity or that St. Valentine was a priest who was jailed by Emperor Claudius for defying him, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers.

Some old traditions:  In some countries, a young woman may receive a gift of clothing from a suitor.  If she keeps the gift, it means she will marry him.

In Wales, wooden love spoons were carved and decorated with hearts, keys and keyholes, the decoration meaning ‘You unlock my heart’. 

If a woman saw a robin flying overhead on Valentine’s Day, she would marry a sailor. If she saw a sparrow, she would marry a poor man and be very happy.  If she saw a goldfinch, she would marry a millionaire.

Think of the names of men/women you might marry.  As you twist the stem of an apple, say the names until the stem comes off.  You will marry the person whose name you were saying when the stem fell off.

Being the day of love means a time for weddings.  Difficult to forget your anniversary, a special and lifelong Valentine, and remember to give & receive two presents.

When I think of love, I think of roses and red hearts, quiet walks and very soft, tranquil music.  I envision an eagle taking flight on a crisp fall morn, the first snowflake in the winter and the sound of the first robin in the spring.  I envision a glorious sunrise, a spectacular rainbow and stars brightly shining on a summer night.  But most of all, I envision you … your eyes radiating warmth, joy and vibrance and the tender feelings in my heart from your friendly smile.