Valentine’s Day has always been a very special day for me. My first child, my beautiful, talented daughter was born on Valentine’s Day. Her birth was a gift far greater than flowers and chocolates (which are also very welcome).
She did not always appreciate that her birthday was on Valentine’s Day because she did not feel singled out and special. “Everyone gets something for Valentine’s Day,” she would say. One day, in an attempt to make her feel special, I sent the Cookie Monster with a bouquet of cookies to her 3rd grade class. She did feel special, and she decided not share the cookies with her classmates. That was not my intention, but for a 3rd grader it seemed like the right choice to her at the time.
As a single adult, I look for heartfelt memes on Facebook for Valentine’s day and don’t necessarily expect gifts. It is always a beautiful surprise if something shows up, but not expecting sets my heart free and I can shower my daughter with the love she deserves. I will see her on Feb. 13th this year, socially distanced to wish her Happy Birthday and give her a small gift.
Happy Valentine’s Day to all you beautiful ElderChicks.
ElderChicks 
Nothing can ever equal that gift, Wendy. I love that your daughter was true to her 8 -year old self and kept her present. And thanks for reminding us that “not expecting” sets the heart free!