When the end of January came around, I went looking for the bin of Valentine’s decorations. I was surprised to realize we only had 3 wooden hearts, a table cloth, and two things that hung from the ceiling. I was sure we’d decorated in past years, but couldn’t figure out why we didn’t have more. Which is why I love this blog, because it reminded me that last year we decorated with homemade Elmo and Abby Cadabby decorations, because that was what the kids wanted. And the year before I think we taped paper hearts to the wall.

So this year I was determined to find some more permanent decorations. The kids made it clear they were not happy with what we had, and honestly neither was I. There’s nothing like a nice distraction when life feels too heavy. So throw ourselves into Valentine’s day we did. We ended up with banners and hearts on the walls and a fully decorated house.

It was kind of nice, because the schools didn’t do anything super special this year. They never even passed out class lists, instead giving us a count the night before. I was glad I made a bigger deal at home then. We celebrated the Sunday before with our usual cookie cake, matching PJs and whatever other random thing I found to fill their Valentine baskets.

We’d all been just a little bit sick, too. E even had his first sick day from school recently, so staying at home and spending the day watching a movie and eating treats was good enough for us. Of course we’ve now realized we have nothing to decorate for St. Patrick’s day, but I think I’m going to let that be next year’s problem.