What is the point of... Valentine's Day?

It's time for a new feature here on Baby Baby.

Let me introduce to you to 'What is the point of...?'

I have a massive list of things I can't see the point of, starting with today, Valentine's Day.

When I was at school, the run up to Valentine's Day was exciting. I'd spend ages making a card for the object of my affection. Doilies cut into heart shapes featured heavily. I'd hide my initials somewhere in the design, just in case the lucky recipient was determined to find out who his secret admirer was.

On the day I'd slip the card onto his desk or into his bag. Then I'd wait. One year my target was a boy called Rodney (note to self: Facebook him, see if he's still alive/gorgeous). He blushed when he opened the card, then put it in the bin. The swine.

I'd wait all day for someone - anyone - to give me a card. They never did. I'd rush home and oh-so-casually ask if there had been any post for me. There never was. The first time I received a Valentine was when I actually had a boyfriend on 14th February, I was 14. I made him the full lace doily card complete with declarations of love. His card contained a rude joke and a question mark. We split up soon afterwards.

As an adult I've seen Valentine's Day grow into a commercial event. Restaurants charge inflated prices while old married couples sit in silence, occasionally tutting at the service. Flowers, chocolates and cards are there to be bought. I once received two dozen red roses at work. Yes they were stunning, but my boyfriend at the time was massively in debt and couldn't afford them. I'd rather he saved his cash, but I guess you're either a saver or a spender.

Andy and I have bought small gifts for one another. I made him a card, no doilies this time, but it feels like we're going through the motions. We're in love, but we don't need to spend an arm and a leg to prove it.

I'd happily say goodbye to Valentine's Day - Pinterest wouldn't drown under a sea of hearts for a start.

Valentine's Day doesn't do anything for me and I can't see the point of it. What about you?


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What is the point of... Valentine's Day?

Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day doesn't have to be a Hallmark day. You don't have to buy a card, although it would be rude not to buy chocolates, especially when Thorntons have been flogging 333g boxes for £3.49!

I made Andy this simple card by layering a few papers and sticking on a ready-made heart:

I also wrote him a blog post, What is Love?.

In return he wrote a 'What is Love?' for me and it made me cry. It was lovely and means more to me than any card or gift.

There's nothing wrong with taking a little time to appreciate your partner once in a while.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

You can find more Valentine's Day ideas in the Homemade Valentine's Carnival over on Make it, Bake it.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

There is also a Valentine's Day Blogging Carnival over at The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend x




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Happy Valentine's Day

What is Love?

With Valentine's Day just around the corner I have been thinking a lot about love. I've decided to write about my love for my husband, Andy. I am dedicating this post to him. Don't worry, love, I've bought you some chocolates too! x


What is love?


That fleeting look you exchange with your husband when you are in public. The one that means did they really say that? We must talk about this when we get home.


The supportive shoulder stroke that means I know you're having a tough day, but I'm right behind you and as soon as I finish work I'll take over and entertain our children.


The glistening eyed smiles when, together, you witness the first steps of both of your children.


Being able to be yourself totally and completely. No embarrassment. No awkwardness. Being able to relax in each other's company.


Watching a father encircle two toddlers in his arms to read them The Gruffalo. Seeing their three heads bowed over the well-loved book and hearing the father do all the voices. Who knew The Gruffalo sounded like the late snooker commentator, Ted Lowe?!


Supporting each other's dreams and goals by finding ways to make them happen.


Having to pause a documentary twenty times to discuss what is being said. No raised voices. No one losing their temper.


Reading a poem your husband has written you and crying tears of joy and admiration.

Someone offering to clean the bathroom so you can spend more time having a bath than cleaning it.

Making time for each other, especially when you have children. Making sure life doesn't get in the way of your relationship.

What is love?

Laughing together
Singing together
Dancing together
Crying together
Being together

I heard this today and thought of you, Andy, my love.










Photo Credit

What is Love?