Happy Valentine’s Day!
On this Monday, February 14th, I’m celebrating Valentine’s Day with my husband of ten years, Charles. He doesn’t go by Chuck, Charlie or Chip, just Charles. But he is anything just. He is kind, considerate, silly and goofy, and he’s a loyal, loving husband and fun dad. After his near-death injury and continued recovery from brain damage, our relationship has been tested, oh boy has it been tested, and tested again and again, but it has also grown. And although my role has evolved from wife, lover, and best friend to also include caretaker, we’re still in love. And I thank God every day for him.
We’ve grown stronger as a couple. I’ve even written about our journey in a memoir that’s on my to-do list to edit. Our life is different and also simpler after the accident, but it’s also the same centered around our family of four. We love. And that my friends and family is what’s most important.
I’ve always loved love stories. My grandmother, Yaya, as we called her (and no we’re not Greek, but it’s a long, funny story!) gave me my first romance novel as a young teen. I still remember telling her I’d finished my recent library book and then following her into her back office, which smelled like peppermint gum and her delicate, floral perfume. Her office was quaint—no larger than ten by ten feet—but it held a 1970’s era, brown, synthetic velour couch for reading, a small desk, and packed bookshelves.
She lifted her arm and selected a book. “Here, darling. Read this one.”
“What is it?” I asked, turning over the pink bound book with scrolled, gold lettering on the spine and cover.
“A romance. It’s just a bit of fun and you can skip through the silly scenes.”
Little did I know ‘silly scenes’ were mild, spicy sex scenes, but that’s a story for another day (lol YaYa).
When I set out on this author journey, my goal was to focus on love. I am seeing that goal through with a handful of romance books as well as a dozen children’s books written, nearly another handful in progress, and many more in my imagination. In my life, I’m also focusing on love. I hug and kiss my husband and children every chance I get and show others love through words or acts of kindness.
Although my husband and I aren’t making a big deal out of Valentine’s Day this year, we still celebrate because love should be celebrated. In the past, I’ve made heart-shaped peanut butter chocolate chip cookies (he is Mr. Peanut Butter Cup!), purchased special clothing, watches, etc., but this year, like the last few, we’re keeping things simple with a dine-in lunch. You see, I don’t want any gift. Every day with him is a gift.
Our love story isn’t what I thought it would be looking back, but just like us, it’s not perfect, it’s ours. And most importantly, we continue to love. And the greatest give of all is love.
Charles,
I choose you today, tomorrow and every day after.
Love you more,
Erica
If you’re celebrating today with a loved one or by yourself, I’m sending you lots of love.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
xoxox
Erica Mae