Deep down, I am a really sensitive woman, and a romantic at heart. For those who know me casually, it may not seem that I care about all of that mushiness, but I really am a sucker for all things romantic. I'm also a sap when it comes to books and movies that have parts in them that make me cry. That mentality, of course, can set me up to get my feelings hurt easily and often, but I have adjusted by putting on a tough exterior. That is part of who I am, and that part of me enjoys the idea of Valentine's Day. However, I don't understand why we should just show our love on one day, Valentine's Day, that has been set aside for lovers to express their love to each other.

I would rather show my loved ones, regardless if they are family or friends, that I love them every day. Love is not about the cards, candy, flowers, jewelry, etc. the retail community tries to shove down our throats, but rather simple acts of kindness, time, and attention we bestow on those we love. I want those around me to truly know I love them by my daily actions, not just from one day when I decided to buy them a small box of chocolates and a card. I think the whole idea is absurd. I am not knocking gifts because those are wonderful and it really is the thought that counts, but it is really unnecessary. I would rather spend quality time with those I love than receive something the retail market is telling my husband I would want.

For Valentine's Day, my husband and I usually share a box of candy. Sometimes we go out to dinner either alone, or with our two young sons. It is the family time that is important to me. We are making time for each other, and showing our two sons our love for each other, as well as our love for them. I think that is the greatest lesson of all because it will help them when they are older and forming their own relationships.

My sons both receive a very small box of chocolate from me, and they, in turn, usually make us homemade Valentine's Day cards. I would give anything for my hand-drawn hearts on construction paper from my son because he is showing his love for me in a very thoughtful manner. I, in return, make sure I provide his classmates with candy and Valentine cards, as well as participate in their Valentine's Day party at school. I enjoy being part of my son's activities. I hope he can look back on my being an active participant in his school life and realize how much I love him.

If I could plan the perfect Valentine for each of those in my family it would be quite simple.

For my husband, I would give him a massage because his back hurts frequently from a work-related injury several years old. You can see the knots in his lower back so I know a massage would be greatly appreciated. He’d also love to be able to sleep in on the weekend, but that would require getting the kids out of the house, because they are a bit loud while he is sleeping and always wake him up.

For my oldest son, it would be playing a few rounds of fighting with his action figures. This usually ends up with my hands getting hurt while he is attacking my action figure, but it is something that he enjoys very much. I would also give him a new notebook to draw in because he is a little artist and loves using my copy paper to make his pictures.

For my youngest son, he is a sensitive soul like myself. He’s still young and I can get away with cuddles and kisses so he would enjoy cuddling in my lap and watching Cars for the millionth time. He loves that movie and knows it by heart, but it is something that he really likes.

Just having my family is the best Valentine for me.

I challenge each of you to love one another each and every day, not just on Valentine's Day because love is the greatest gift we can give one another. Love can be given freely and doesn’t cost a dime. Just try to spend more time with your loved ones and let them know daily that you love them. Not just in words, but show them by your daily actions. If you know of an activity that they would really enjoy like I mentioned what I would do for mine, find a way to add it one day for your loved one. It will make you and the one that you are loving feel good.