This morning I woke up to flower petals strewn all over outside my bedroom and down my stairs to the kitchen. My boys were so excited to show me their surprise. Today was Valentine's Day.  I had no expectations at all.

This last week has been tough for me. I took my kids on a cruise this month as their big Christmas present, an adventure instead of more stuff. It was a long week for me. I haven’t posted any pictures of it because it was all so hard for me. I’ve spent this week at home just recovering. 

I’ve let expectations go for holidays. So I was really surprised to experience so much joy today. And no, I didn’t have a hot date. I spent most of the day putting my son’s bed together.  My back even aches now from working on it all day, but I am good.  

I wish Grant were here to help put the bed together. I wish he was here to spoil me today and to just be with me.  Instead I worked really hard by myself and I got it all done by myself. And I am proud of myself.

I gave myself my own Valentine's day present. I did one of those painting classes.  I am using a close up picture of my youngest son’s face and drawing it. I’m creating, painting his cherub face and his beautiful eyes from the picture. I have to keep practicing the eyes because they say so much. 

I’m just filling my life with things I love. I’m also bringing back an old Valentine’s tradition. Grant and I used to do Fondue on Valentines. I’m choosing to have fun and feel love with those I love and have. 

At the end of the day, grapefruit bubbly, a cupcake and I smile to myself. I had a lot of joy today with our boys. The day turned out to be a very lovely day. Thank you to all those who helped my boys make this day special.

 I’m so grateful for the many people who cared about me today. Thank you.