Dia de Amor.

I wake up happy, realizing I'm up before the little ones...even Maylie.  And I get to see their faces twinkle when they catch sight of the Valentine's baskets on the kitchen counter full of candy and love notes from loved ones.  

A few hours later, while we were wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day via phone calls, Easton asked me if he could be first to write in the "Mommy and Me Journal" I had given him for Valentine's Day.   I nodded and finished the phone call.  "Go see what's on your pillow," Easton urged, the second I hung up.  So I walk into my bedroom and see the journal lying on my pillow.

I opened to the first page and see this:

 I envelop him in a hug and he explains that this is a picture of him with a mustache and the squiggles all around him say, "I love you with all my heart, Princess."

My heart melts.

After the sun sets and all turns to night, Patrick will come home.  7:00 or even 8 is so much later than we wish but his work schedule right now is one more thing that will give us experience and be for our good.  And after we greet him with our usual hugs and kisses at the door, we'll have heart-shaped pizza, raspberry frappe, and strawberries dipped in chocolate.

So much to do to get ready for tonight, but there is this little whisper deep down inside urging me to make today more than just a day of red-glittered cards and lacy hearts.  There is something about this holiday that speaks to the spirit, urging us to focus less on ourselves and more on others...especially those we love the most.

So today I make a resolution...a determination to create just a little bit more of a family culture of love in our home.  A space set apart where all who reside feel unconditional love from family here on earth and Father up above.  I cuddle my pink-hearted little girl and give a little extra time and care to my sweet boys and I resolve to be better.  For this year I could choose to refine this holy habit...and it all could start today...

with this "Dia de Amor."