Mike Rainone
Hammertime
I really don’t care what the sleepy old groundhog saw, that the income tax forms have now arrived, what Trump tweeted, or how cold it is outside because we can all start to really warm up for the occasion by getting ready to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
At 75 years of age I still get flustered about what I should get for my honey of 38 years on Cupid’s special day, but I still love watching the grandchildren cutting out their bright paper hearts to pass out to the whole class as well as the ‘young at heart’ lovers dashing to the store at the last minute to choose up that once in a lifetime token of affection and sincere expressions for their fabulous partners.
Whether our romantic adventures have been short term, age-old vintage stock, a crush, or a secret admiration, it is on this special day that thousands of souls will suddenly or secretly be flattered or flustered by all sorts of gifts, unique surprises, and the kind of attention that shyly or boldly comes right from the heart.
Of course as is always the case the reaction of the youthful set as well as the ladies and gentlemen who have been struck by Cupid’s arrow will likely be most unpredictable and exciting to the point of screams, tears, and hugs. Hopefully the message and the moods that have been created will remain long after the chocolates have been consumed, the flowers have wilted, and the cards and jewellery have been safely stored away in the hope chests for many years to come. Whatever the case, the truest test of love and companionship is to keep the spark alive over the years by always taking precious time together, while remembering that we must never be too busy, too tired, or too old for ongoing kisses, hugs, and holding hands, which is a sure sign that through the test of time and daily rigours that flame and fun of love is still burning bright at your house, and spreading through the whole family.
Romantic facts and funnies
• Love may not make the world go round, but it sure does make a lot of people dizzy. Here’s to love, the only fire for which there is no insurance. Love is the only game that is not called on account of darkness.
• Even Mother Nature’s creatures get involved in the love triangle. Romance in your fish tank is called ‘guppy love,’ while birds in love are referred to as ‘tweet hearts.’
• Adam and Eve were the first couple to celebrate Valentine’s Day. He wanted to have a party but she claimed that she had nothing to wear, which hasn’t changed that much over time has it?
• I have a bumper sticker that says ‘Honk if you think I’m sexy’…and then I just sit and wait at the green light until I feel real good about myself.
• You know that tingly little feeling that you get when you really like someone? That’s just your common sense leaving your body, but it will all come back over the years as we settle in as partners and best of friends
• Valentine’s Day will always be very exciting for exchanging gifts and joy between girl or guy friends, of the present or wanna-be, and for newlyweds, but we must never forget our veteran valentine partners that include the moms and dads and grammas and grandpas who have been hanging out together and raising fine families for countless decades and generations. Most of the ladies I am sure have likely saved each and every valentine card and trinket that they have received, while the gentlemen have long consumed the ‘sweet treats’ but still wear the old ball caps, while all of them will always look forward to the little surprises and all the pampering on February 14th.
With all these wild and weird weather changes that we are getting the miserable flu bug is really making the rounds in all areas, but we can still get those very vital free flu shots by simply checking the paper for clinics or chat with your friendly neighbourhood pharmacist. In the meantime dress in layers, enjoy the Olympics, share your joys, and have a great week, all of you.