I remember when I was younger the excitement and anticipation I would feel before Valentine's Day, especially if I happened to have a boyfriend. Like most girls, I wanted a box of chocolates, a teddy bear, and a piece of jewelry. My how times have changed. 10 years into marriage and 3 kids later, I just long for peace and quiet, which I was able to attain for a few hours today. The original plan for this weekend was for the in-laws to take the kids on Saturday, and Wesley was to go camping with his graduate school class. Then, the snow came and dashed my hopes and dreams of a quiet weekend of hot baths, long naps, and a Buffy marathon. The camping trip was canceled, and the snow caused power outages at the in-laws, so I was house bound with the family. I decided I had to break free, for a few hours at least, so I headed to Target after the snow melted and got the kids their Valentine's presents. So, this morning, I was awakened bright and early by Victoria, who was anxious to see what we got her for Valentine's Day. She received pink roses, since she's been begging for flowers for weeks, a cute shirt, and a doll who had pink streaked hair to match hers. I got Trevor a couple of t-shirts and Batman toys, and the baby got a cute dress with a book. Then, whether he knew it or not, Wesley gave me the ultimate gift- he took the kids to his parents house and left me alone. I did have work to do from home, so I really had no choice but to stay, but I managed to squeeze in a nap and a few episodes of Buffy while accomplishing my project. Then refreshed and recharged, I cooked us filet mignon with a balsalmic vinegar/red wine glaze, twice baked potatoes, asparagus parmesan, and chocolate covered strawberries. It tasted as awesome as it sounds. Trevor and Victoria as gone until tomorrow, since they are out of school for President's Day, so my evening routine was 2/3 easier with only the baby to care for. She was bathed and in the bed by 7:30. I feel more ready to face a Monday than I have in a long time, so despite the fact that my husband is passed out on the couch, and I'm up alone, this has been the best Valentine's Day.
