Hi <<First Name>>,

Remember back in elementary school when we made Valentine’s Day cards for everyone in our class? We decorated shoe boxes and put slits in the lids. Then, on the day, we went around and slipped our creations into each other’s boxes. Maybe we added especially pretty pieces on our best friend’s card or took a little extra time on the card for that boy we had a crush on ... or maybe we even made the plainest card possible for the girl we were mad at that week, yet we made something for everyone.

Now that we’re all grown up, the focus on Valentine’s is more romantic and seems designed just for those individuals who are married or in significant relationships filled with love. The ads, the cards, the flowers all promote love as the exclusive property of couples.

Yet, true love surrounds us each and every day! 1 John 4:8 says, “God is love.” And Hebrews 13:5 reminds us that He will never leave us nor forsake us. So, in truth, whatever season of life we are in today, we are surrounded by the greatest love of all, The Love that never fails!

I have to tell you that Robbie and I don’t really celebrate Valentine’s Day in a typical fashion. We rarely go out to eat (because there are way too many people out), and I don’t typically receive flowers (because I get them throughout the year already).

It all started six weeks after we were married (17 years ago now!), our first Valentine’s Day together. Robbie left for work at 6am saying, “I’m not sure what time I’ll get home.” The company he was working for was being acquired by a larger company, and the closing papers were to be signed that day. There were lots of meetings and additional negotiations and details to be worked out … and he didn’t actually come home that day at all! He arrived home at 2am on February 15, and our non-traditional Valentine’s Day began. On another memorable Valentine’s Day a few years ago, Robbie had his gall bladder removed. 

Today Robbie’s at work and I’ve been home directing the lawn service which limbs to trim from the trees in the front yard while alternately putting together kits for this weekend’s mini-class. While Robbie’s in meetings at work this afternoon, I’ll be taking my first piano lesson. (Yes, really – I’m working hard on my 50 Things To Do Before I’m 50 list … because time is running out y’all!)

How are you spending this Valentine's Day?

Even though we may be too far away to slip a handmade card asking “Would you be my Valentine” into each other’s boxes, I wanted to stop and wish you a very Happy Valentine’s Day! Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, whether you’re having a meal out with a special someone or are surrounded by lots of people or are spending today alone, I pray you will know and feel the love or our Lord and Savior!

Blessings,
Melissa

P.S. I shared the results from the Rate Your Creativity Survey and announced the prize winner in a Facebook live yesterday. Check it out HERE!

P.S.S. I'll be sharing an introduction to Bible journaling and a mini hymnal activity this Saturday at Allen Heights Baptist Church in Allen, Texas. If you're in the local area and would like to join us, email me for details.