When I was young
In the United States (and also in Canada) Valentine’s Day was a popular holiday. It was a time to express love to sweethearts (I loved the heart shaped boxes of chocolates!), but also a time to let others (good friends, teachers, parents, etc) know that you appreciated and cared for them.
At school we passed out cards (homemade or purchased) to all the children in the class. We carefully chose the right message for each person and often included heart shaped candies with short messages written on them. Often we had a decorated box or bag on our desk or chair to receive these messages, many were secret ones, but others were signed. It was so much fun to be able to open this container and read our messages at the end of the school day. It was fun trying to figure out the sender of “From your Valentine” messages.
Around the world
Many countries celebrate this holiday in a variety of ways. England celebrates by writing verses; Japan by making chocolates for special friends; Italy by going out to dinner or exchanging chocolate covered hazelnuts with messages; and Denmark with messages signed with dots (one for each letter in his/her name and if the receiver guesses the sender correctly, he/she get an Easter egg in the Easter season. Australia, how do we celebrate? Very low key, I think. Lots of restaurants (including our Poachers Pantry) and hotels have Valentines specials on, and I noticed that there are a few balls which will earn money for charities.
History of this holiday
There are many stories about how Valentines Day started. I like the legend of the Bishop, Valentine, who healed the Jailor’s daughter. She visited him during his time in jail, and some say he loved her. It is thought that he actually sent the first Valentine greeting, a message to the young girl before he was beheaded. He signed this “From your Valentine”.
Valentines Cards
Valentine cards can be simple, fancy, large, small, handmade or purchased. The modern cards started in the 17th century and became more popular when postage prices came down in the 19th century.
Today there are many e-card sites where you can quickly send an electronic message. There’s no excuse for not making contact.
Quotes for Valentines
Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be.
Robert Browning
Love may not make the world go round, but I must admit that it makes the ride worthwhile.
Franklin Jones
Paradise is always where love dwells.
Jean Paul F. Richter
How Do I Love Thee? Let me count the ways...
Elizabeth Barret Browning
How will you celebrate?
I have sent a card and will send flowers to my mother this week. Hopefully I will find something for David. What will you do? Will you be celebrating?
Sites to visit
http://valentines-day.123holiday.net/love_quotes.html
http://valentines-day.123holiday.net/love_poems.html
http://www.crewsnest.vispa.com/valentine.htm
