I mentioned in a previous post that my brother and I looked through the V-day chocolates while waiting for my prescription to be filled. Anyway, we chatted oh-so-briefly about the upcoming day, but didn't go into depth about it. He didn't mention having plans or making plans, so I'm assuiming for now that he has none. I have none myself, but seriously am not worried about that. I mean really, what the hell is that date about anyway????

I find it kind of sad, really - the idea that we need to set aside a single day of the year to let that special someone know how we feel about them. That's actually a very impotant thing I look for in a partner! If you can't get off your lazy ass to let me know you love me in some small way on a regular basis, you're gonna quickly find yourself shown to the door! It doesn't need to be gifts (though, they are accepted!) and it doesn't need to be big and showy. Something as simple as helping me out with errands or even calling with the offer to pick up take out and a movie on a Tuesday night. Or, if you happen to be out making groceries and see a paperback or even my favorite candy bar and pick it up for the sole purpose of making me smile - you're SO on the right track!

But, this Valentine's Day I'll once again be on my own. Again, not a big deal. It does bother me that it's the one day of the year that we singletons are forced to stay indoors, though. I mean, I have no problem with dining out alone. It really doesn't bother me. But, on V-Day, if one should venture out alone it's like wearing a giant bullseye on your back! The stares, the pity, the offers to join others because they ASSUME you must be sad and lonely if you DARE to dine alone on the lover's day! That will piss me off faster then Sybil changed personalities! Don't assume my presence in the heart-shaped, everything-draped-in-pepto-bismal-pink restaurant set aside for YOU, means anything more than my own desire to order from the "special" menu designed for the day! Ya, single people like chocolate dipped strawberries and a good steak, too!

Of course, what I find ridiculous about my own views of Valentine's Day is when I'm actually in a relationship. It actually makes me a giant hypocrite! Not that I suddenly fall into the trap exactly (most of the time I prefer to stay in unless there's something super cool being offered out!), but I do expect a cool and thoughfull gift! Even with my "evolved" views on the issue, I would still consider it an embarrassment and lack of interest if said boyfriend ignores the ritual day and leaves me with nothing to show off (or just look at). Not that I don't give my own thoughtfull gift, but it is the day for the girl. And, as retarded as it is, I still wanna show my friends that my guy loves me. Again, I'm more than aware how stupid that is!

But, I also refuse to indulge in the "anti-Valentines Day" rituals. I find it almost SADDER to go out in group force to mock the lovers enjoying their obligotory dinner and shiny boxes from cheap jewelers. Why be angry???? At some point even the loneliest of spinsters finds someone and then what??? You'll be one of them, so why mock what you actually aspire to anyway???? If you want to be alone, fine. But, it's ok not to be also.

So, I envision Valentine's Day to be just like any other day for me. I might buy something for the kid. Some little chocolate or something. After all, she's told me recently that she NEEDS chocolate, so who am I to risk her life by not indulging her on the day when they'll go on sale anyway? Or, I might look up what's going on and go out. Er, probably not. ;-p