Not much is definitely known of St. Valentine, but one legend I read tonight says that he was a kind-hearted priest who married young couples against the wishes of the Emperor, Claudius II.  For his kindness, it is believed that he was beheaded--whew! what a price to pay for kindness, huh?

In any case, people usually use this day to express their love to someone in a very special way, either by sending beautiful cards or gifts or perhaps eating out or whatever.  This is nice, but how much nicer it would be if these signs of our love were expressed on a more regular basis, sort of like the commercial I've been seeing for some restaurant (can't remember the name right now).

In the commercial, the husband and wife are eating out, and the waitress asked what they are celebrating.  The lady says that there isn't anything special; it's just Monday!  Those kinds of celebrations are the best--when you're not expecting it, when it's a surprise, when it's a "just because" thing.  Those are truly my favorites!

Anyway, I hope your and your special Valentine demonstrate your love for one another in a special way tomorrow, but that you remember to show that love at other times as well.  And, as I've said before, "showing is good; but SAYING is even better."  So, say I LOVE YOU tomorrow and more often; your beloved will appreciate it so much!

Randi and I went to Mass at noon again today.  We discovered that the Mass was being celebrated in the Parish Center and was a Senior Mass followed by a luncheon.  We did not stay for the meal because we had things to do before my dental appointment.  There were many 'seniors' in attendance, though, and I thought that was great.

After our lunch here at the Cottage, I left for my dental appointment.  I must have had a lot of prayers heading up to heaven for me, 'cuz the appointment went very well--no cavities, not too much tartar, and just an over-all good check-up and cleaning.  Of course, he reminded me that I have some very old fillings that will probably have to be tended to at some future date.  We shall see about that!  Thanks for your prayers!

The news of NanNan hasn't really changed.  She is still in very bad shape and it seems that her time is drawing near its closing.  Again, I ask for prayers for her and her family, especially her daughter, Di, who has been so wonderful in taking care of her Mom.  Di lost a baby sister many, many years ago, and she has been alone in taking care of her parents.  By the grace of God, her children have been wonderful and have been a strong support to her.  Her husband, Rich, has been a doll as well.  I know they are all going through a terrible time, and I'm sure they selfishly wish NanNan would be here for a long time (as I do and as I felt about Dad); but deep in their hearts, I'm sure they know that it's probably time for NanNan to join her husband in their eternal reward in Heaven.  NanNan has been through so much; she deserves the reward that she has earned.

HEARTFELT BLESSING:  "You don't drown by falling in the water.  You drown by STAYING there."           --Robert Allen

NOTE:  God never sends us more than we can handle WITH HIS HELP!  No matter our problems, we can handle it.  As I used to tell my students, we learn to go over, around, or through that mountain that is a problem.  We are much stronger than we think we are, but we must always remember that help is ours for the asking.  See yourself in that light--you are strong, you are capable, you can overcome all obstacles!