Happy Monday everyone! I honestly can’t believe I’m back at work already—disappointing. The weekends go by so quickly. That’s probably the most cliche thing I’ve ever written, but it’s absolutely true. The level of fun this weekend partially made up for having to work for another five days…

Friday evening was probably our best Valentine’s Day celebration so far! We headed up to Salt Lake for dinner at Settebello then checked into the Grand America. Rather than join the majority of the guests in the lounge, we were truly posh and explored the ballrooms and leaped and waltzed around like school children. There’s nothing more entertaining than dancing the Landler scene like Captain von Trapp and Maria in the Regency-inspired ballroom. After a few pirouettes and jetes (and sideways glances by the hotel cleaning staff), we decided it was time to watch Olympics and eat mounds of mint truffles. I couldn’t have asked for anything better from my sweet valentine. I’m so happy we were able to laugh, gain five pounds and just enjoy the time together.

Happy Valentine’s Day all! I’m so thrilled for today. It’s truly one of my favorite days. I feel like it’s an excuse to eat all the chocolate I can. I usually start around 9 a.m. and can go through lunch. Talented. I love all the red, pink, white and gold that accompanies today and I have selected my favorites to share today! Have a wonderful day and eat something sweet today!

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Ah…Valentine’s Day. A holiday (or pseudo-holiday to some) is so emotionally charged it often borders on ridiculous. So much is invested into a single 24-hour period, which hardly seems fair. So much pressure and build-up just begs to end in disappointment and heartbreak. Should you be fortunate enough to have an obliging, enthusiastic counterpart, well done. If not, I send my electronic condolences. I’ve found that the most advisable (and emotionally cautious) course of action is to expect absolutely nothing, so that anything is joyous and appreciated. Yes, this includes any mental conjuring that involves grand gestures or red flowers. This advice is appropriate not only because there shouldn’t be an official day to love and show affection, but simply to remind that everybody expresses and reacts differently to love. While we shouldn’t be emotionally devastated by a lack of romantic actions; it is also appropriate to remember that every girl likes an occasional surprise flower…especially on the most sacred of female holidays. 
While I’m glad I no longer spend hours daydreaming about possible “cute” scenarios with Jack (they’re now a reality!), it’s always fun to get a little giddy. Since I’ve known my husband a long time, it’s exciting to think back on our previous Valentine’s Days together. There were high school sponsored valentine grams and not-sure-if-we-are-dating nights filled with eating too much candy and nervous hand holding. Not gonna lie, knowing he loves me now and is my perma-Valentine is ten times better.