Walking through the grocery store, it's impossible to ignore the displays of Valentine's candy, cards and gifts. Some historians believe Valentine's Day started as an ancient Roman celebration of the coming of spring. Others tie it to Saint Valentine, who was executed for performing marriages of young men that a Roman emperor had outlawed to keep a steady supply of soldiers.
While the origins of Valentine's Day is a bit murky, the key is that centuries later, the tradition of sending Valentines is second only to Christmas. According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year.*
There are two things that I choose to embrace about the holiday. First, it's about sending out thoughts of love - especially to family and friends to let them know I care. Second, it is an easy way to uplift someone with a simple gesture. Hopefully, you enjoy receiving the same in return.
Will your valentines - little thoughts of love - be in the mail this week?
Try this - Send Little Thoughts of Love
Isn't it fun to think of Valentine's Day as one where a simple gesture, a card or e-card makes someone feel loved? Here are some great ways to share it this week:
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- Mail valentines to family members or friends - and yes, use stamps - at least one that will surprise and delight.
- Email a valentine to as many people in your contacts as you can, from your book club to longtime friends.
- Hand a valentine to a friend when you have lunch, an exercise partner, or a person where you shop.
- Hide valentines all around the house for your loved ones and yourself to discover during the week. A version for pets can be hiding treats, too!
Have fun and enjoy this week as you channel your inner Cupid and spread the joy with valentines.
P.S. I just couldn’t resist...this "vinegar" valentine is from 1909! There was actually a bunch of break-up style ones in Victorian times.**
* Greeting Card Association statistic: https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2
** History of Valentines Day: https://www.history.com/news/victorian-valentines-day-cards-vinegar#&gid=ci025d45bab000254f&pid=vinegar-valentines-lemon_valentine
