Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is rapidly approaching...again. It's not like I didn't notice this, but I've been kind of busy trying to get the library reopened due to a power outage while handling a few other matters.

Now that the library is back in business serving patrons and the local community, I want to remind you that Valentine's Day will be here before we know it. Are you ready? We get so wrapped up in our daily routines that we often forget birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine's Day and other special events.


For so many people, Valentine's Day is a special day to remind the one(s) you care for that you love them. 

We can usually express this affection with the following items:


    Roses. Can't go wrong with roses. Stick with red roses. It's easier.

    Chocolates. Any kind of chocolates will do as long as they come in a box.

    Valentine's Day card expressing your devotion for the one you love.

    Dinner reservations at a restaurant where the meal is prepared in front of you or brought to you by a waiter or waitress.

    Optional: A musical stuffed animal that lights up and sings "Doctor, doctor give me the news. I've got a bad case of loving you," by Robert Palmer.

For others, Valentine's Day takes on a more sinister meaning. For example, it's a day many people hope to finalize a divorce proceeding or take the first husband or wife back to court to see about getting that restraining order removed.

Needless to say, Valentine's Day is an annual tradition and a boost to the local merchants and the economy.

I don't pretend to understand the intricacies of modern relationships, and I don't pretend to be Arthur Herbert Fonzarelli or "The Fonz," but there is a little advice I would have wanted to give my 18-year-old self when I first entered the dating arena:

-Avoid life-draining or toxic relationships.

-It's always good to have a background check done on your friend or intimate acquaintance.

-When searching for a suitable companion, take a look at their political affiliation, religion, education level, cultural background, marital status and age.

-Also take a look at their addictions: smoking habits, drinking habits, illegal drug habits and gambling habits.

-Ask if they are family-oriented or career-oriented. You can learn a lot from this question. You can also save a lot of time and money and effort.

-Social skills, something I was very much lacking at the time, are essential and take years or decades, for some people to develop.

Have a Happy Valentine's Day!