I must admit that in my 13 years of marriage, we've never once celebrated Valentine's Day. When newly engaged, I informed my future groom that I detested the very idea of being told when I would receive flowers and chocolate, or celebrate the concept of love.

"The best time to get those," I said, "Is when I really need them, like when I am sick or depressed... or when something very special happens."

Contrary to the popular misconception that guys 'don't listen', instead of flowers he'd care for me when I was sick with tenderness. In the hospital, when each of our lovely babies was born, he'd bring me exquisite chocolates and gorgeous roses, right when I could MOST appreciate them. The best part was that no one 'instructed' him to do so, and the day was ours alone to cherish.