Color Me Valentine

Monday, February 9

Dear Diary,

I normally don’t make a big deal about Valentine’s Day.

I had a bad experience that tainted my view of it.

This year is different.

I’m actually excited about spending some time with my husband.

Dinner.

Drinks.

Lots of snuggling.

And most importantly…

a kid-free weekend!

Woo-Hoo!

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Wednesday, February 11

Dear Diary,

 “Hey.”

I knew by the look on his face whatever he had to say wasn’t going to be good.

“The girls will be here this weekend.”

Silence.

“I know you were hoping for a weekend with just the two of us—but you know how much they love coming over.”

Silence.

“I promise I’ll make it up to you.”

He kissed the top of my head and walked out of the room.

I won’t lie. I was disappointed.

I only ask for a kid-free weekend maybe once or twice a year.

I love his kids, I really do.

But we’re surrounded by kids 24/7.

My kids are with us during the week and every school break.

His kids are with us on the weekends and every school break.

I just wanted it to be the two us.

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Thursday, February 12

Dear Diary,

After my day-long sulk, I decided something.

If we’re doing Valentine’s weekend with two preteens, we’re going to do it right.

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Saturday, February 14

Dear Diary,

Tonight was wonderful.

The family room was transformed into an upscale restaurant…

Linen tablecloth.

Flower centerpieces.

Candles.

Soft jazz.

The good plates.

Nice silverware.

Delicious food.

Yummy desserts.

After dinner, the room became an art studio…

Valentine-themed canvases.

Vibrant colors.

Good conversation.

Lots of laughter.

And the finale…

A small decorated box filled with chocolates and little trinkets.

It wasn’t the Valentine’s Day I wanted.

But seeing the smiles on their faces, hearing the joy in their laughter and receiving the endless “thank yous” and hugs…

 made it the Valentine’s I needed.

~ Autumn ~