Valentine's — without overreaching
Cut stress, save money with simple, heartfelt gestures
But how did commercialized hearts and candy become a holiday, and who is this Saint Valentine?
According to History.com, we celebrate Valentine's Day in February to commemorate the anniversary of the death or burial of Valentine.
The title can be attributed to at least three different saints named Valentine. One legend contends Valentine was a priest who defied Emperor Claudius II, who in the third century outlawed marriage for young men, by continuing to perform wedding ceremonies. When this was discovered, Valentine was put to death.
Another legend suggests Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they often were beaten and tortured.
A far stretch from today's valentines, the oldest known valentine in existence is a poem by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. Written in 1415, this poem is on display in the British Library in London.
While many celebrate more out of obligation than anything, Valentine's Day still can be a wonderful opportunity to show compassion and appreciation for the people we love. More often than not, simple, heartfelt gestures are the best way to offer that gift of love.
So men, instead of waiting until the last minute on the way home from work Feb. 14 and then standing in line at the grocery store with flowers in one hand and a box of cheap chocolates in the other; and ladies, instead of spending too much money and dealing with the hassle of creating the perfect valentine while hoping — usually in vain — to receive the perfect valentine, here is a list of ways to celebrate Valentine's Day that just might earn you some brownie points with your better half.
10. Go sledding, or snow-shoeing: Get out and get active. Who says you have to gorge on food and chocolate to show your love and appreciation for your significant other? What better way to spend time with the one you love than to take a day and enjoy the beautiful outdoors? End your day with a cup of hot chocolate or hot apple cider while cuddled up in front of a fire, or watching a favorite movie. Guys, this is a perfect time to cave in and watch those "chick flicks" she has been wanting to see. Or ladies, maybe you could put a smile on your face and watch "Remember the Titans" with him for the 35th time.
Recent comments
My duaghter reports extravagant gifts exhchanged among friends, girlfriends...
Its getting insane | Feb. 14, 2008 at 9:29 p.m.
That was a lovely thing to do, JT, but gol-lee, I wish you hadn&#...
JB | Feb. 11, 2008 at 12:18 p.m.
Your suggestion to make a cd of special music is a really good one...
JT in Provo | Feb. 7, 2008 at 10:27 a.m.
