The Day of Lurve

Rose and Rosalina, while incapable of making proper eye contact with the camera, would like to wish you a Happy Valentine's Day.

It isn't a secret that I was born completely devoid of the smushy, mushy, sappy girl gene. Contrary to what Craig might tell you, I do have feelings. Really, I do. My eyes get teary at appropriate moments; I like chick flicks, flowers and pink. But, for some reason, I like mush for others, and don't expect it for me.

I suppose, with my low expectations, I've lifted quite a weight from Craig's shoulders. I think some women set such high expectations for their mates that it causes fear and panic in the poor men's eyes when they're out looking for the perfect gift. Fortunately for Craig, I simply don't care. But, in his defense, if I were the type to want to be showered with gifts and mushy words of affirmation, he would man up to the task. He's very adaptable.

We've been married for nearly 13 and a half years and I cannot think of one single solitary Valentine's Day in which we did something special. I know for a fact we've never eaten out on Valentine's Day. Usually the restaurants are packed. And besides, we hardly ever eat out and when we do it's at an order at the counter kind of place. I know we've exchanged cards over the years and perhaps added some candy to the mix, but seriously, I'm drawing a blank.

Some might think this is sad, and maybe it is, but it's real and it's the way we operate.

I'm never opposed to the idea of receiving flowers, but being the unconventional girl that I am, roses are very low on my list of desired flowers to have delivered. I like roses very much, especially pink ones, but I'm a gerbera daisy kind of girl. They add a level of cheerfulness to my home that my personality alone is unable to project.

As I've mentioned before, I'm a big talk radio fan; all this week, the radio ads have been peppered with Valentine's merchandise, mainly flowers, teddy bears and pajama grams. I've already mentioned my thoughts on flowers, but let me tell you something: contrary to what the Vermont Teddy Bear Company ads tell you, I don't know a single woman who, being of sound mind, would like to receive a Love Bandit or Lover Boy stuffed bear.

Is it possible that I'm out of touch with my feminine side and these are actually desired Valentine's gifts?

I mean, a lot of those bears are sold out of stock; perhaps I'm in the minority? Do grown women like stuffed animals? Where would you put them? I understand if you have one from childhood, one that holds lots of warm memories, but a Lover Boy bear? Really?!?

The other ad that made me chuckle this week is for the Hoodie-Footie Snuggle Suit. But wait, they're out of stock (!). Why?!? If Craig bought me a Hoodie-Footie Snuggle Suit, I'd be rendered speechless. Why would a grown woman want footie pajamas. If your feet are cold, wear some socks. And if you're really desperate, get a Snuggie.

Am I wrong here?
Am I missing the allure of such gifts?

I'd seriously rather receive a pair of jumper cables for Valentine's day than a Hoodie-Footie Snuggle Suit.

But wait, PajamaGram.com does have His and Hers matched PJ sets.

What do you think Craig? Should I order the Crossword Puzzle set?