Carly Phillips' Fresh Fiction Valentine's Day 2013
February 14, 2013
Celebrate Valentine's Day No Matter What! I'm so honored to be asked to write Fresh Fiction's Valentine's Day Blog every
year and because I really enjoy it. Shockingly, I've been at it since 2008! How
lucky am I? Over the years, I've talked about Romance,
True Love, Valentine's Day itself, Commercialization of the
holiday. And last year, chocolate.
So what's left? Unconditional Love. Who gives it? Who gets it? Do you need to earn it?
Interesting, huh? So here goes - I've had a very rough, sad year. I lost my
father in October 2012 and I've been one of those very lucky people who had a
father who loved me unconditionally. The loss is huge and gaping, and frankly I
don't want to celebrate any holidays this year. I just want to get through it.
But in writing this column, I realize how fortunate I was. Am. I had
unconditional love in my life from both my parents, and my mom is still here.
:-) I have a husband I love and two girls I adore. But I admit it. My husband
isn't a romantic. I can live with that because he gives in so many other ways!
Which brings me to a very important point - you don't have to look to a spouse
or significant other, or parent love on this holiday. If you aren't in a relationship, it's a tough holiday if you let the whole,
special person notion, get you down. But here's the thing -- You don't need to
feel like you can't celebrate Valentine's Day if you are single ... And if
you're part of a couple but your "other" isn't big on gifts, or holidays, or
flowers, or cards, or chocolate, SO WHAT? It's better to give than to receive.
Look around you! A good friend, the kind who knows how to celebrate in good times and commiserate
in bad is worthy of a Valentine's Day hug. If that friend is online, send them
a cyber hug! Trust me, any recognition that they're valued will make them
smile! Wouldn't you love to get a Valentine from a friend, or a relative or
someone whose life you touched in a positive way? Next up who gives unconditional love better than a pet? WAIT! If you aren't an
animal lover, don't stop reading now because there's a giveaway at the end ...
(sorry but have to entice you to stick with me here!) I asked on my Facebook page what
readers wanted to hear about Valentine's Day, and a very smart person said: what
about a dog, who doesn't know the meaning of Valentine's Day or chocolate or
champagne ... or jewelry I might add, but who loves their family or person just
because. I know I wouldn't have gotten through many a tough time without my fur
kids. So accept that lick or greeting ... and give one in return. The point is, show someone in your life that they're special to you this
Valentine's Day - and hopefully someone will return the favor and make YOU smile
today. If not, I will! Comment for a chance to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card from ME to YOU! Good luck
and Happy Valentine's Day! All the best, Carly Phillips
Find Carly on the Web: Carly's Website | Carly on Twitter | Carly on
Facebook | Carly on
Goodreads
Comments
122 comments posted.
Re: Carly Phillips' Fresh Fiction Valentine's Day 2013
i am lucky to have a loving family and extended family for support through the hard times.we are huggers.a hug a day makes you feel good.happy valentines day and lots of hugs (Linda Gwiazdowski 12:13pm February 14, 2013)
I really think the only person who gives unconditional love is a parent. With your spouse or significant other, there are times where you will be selfish but with a child (grown or small) you always put them first. It's just the way it is. (Sue Galuska 12:14pm February 14, 2013)
Valentine's is a day to show people you care... do not need candy or flowers... I enjoy making cards and giving them to my family members... showing them that I think of them and wanted to take a little time out to make something special for them. Smiles and hugs are wonderful too! (Colleen Conklin 12:22pm February 14, 2013)
I agree with sue i think only a parent and child gives unconditional love.I always give my two children little boxes of chocolates on valentines day. (Raeline Peterson 12:24pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! I like the idea of your post, to celebrate all the people and pets we love today. (Maureen Emmons 12:27pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentines Day!!! Thanks for the fun post! (Erin Fender 12:28pm February 14, 2013)
First of all, I am so sorry about the loss of your father. Both of my parents are gone and I also was blessed to have them. I too felt that unconditional love.
Unfortunately, you are going through "the year of horrible firsts." It gets easier but some pain is there, I think for most people, no matter how long it has been. Daddy has been gone for 29 years and Mummy for 14 years and I still miss them.
Now, on a cheerier subject, we had cats and dogs when I was growing up. Dogs are enthusiastic just to see you. Cats are much more aloof...they are your owners! Unfortunately, I am I found out when I was in law school that I was allergic to animals! I still could be around them until I developed allergic asthma when I was in my 40's. So, no animals because you have to breath!
I do miss not having animals. I told my cats more secrets when I was young and they never judged! LOL
Anyway, there are friends and, most importantly, chocolate.
Have a happy and blessed Valentine" Day! (Marijane Diodati 12:28pm February 14, 2013)
I agree, also. Parents give unconditional love. They may not approve of things a child does, but there's always LOVE - unconditional love. (Anna Speed 12:29pm February 14, 2013)
Unconditional love is something you earn, I think. My husband has definitely earned it as he puts up with my crazy schedule and picks up the slack. Of course children automaticly get it, although a wise couselor told me once that we love our children but that does not mean that you have to like them sometimes. I guess that goes for husbands sometimes too. Happy Valentine's Day to you! (Linda Scarchuk 12:30pm February 14, 2013)
When you receive unconditional love, you are able to give it back or to someone else. That's a great gift! (Suze Rice 12:30pm February 14, 2013)
I agree with all the above! And pet lovers are very lucky - we get to witness unconditional love on a daily basis. (Rebecca Whitehead-Schwarz 12:46pm February 14, 2013)
LOVE YOUR BOOKS THEY ARE MARVELOUS AND I WOULD LOVE TO WIN THIS CONTEST. I NEVER WON ANYTHING IN MY LIFE AND I REALLY WOULD LOVE TO WIN THIS COMTEST. (Shelly Caggiano 1:04pm February 14, 2013)
Hi Carly, I totally agree about my fur kid giving unconditional love. I sometimes feel like with everyone else I have to walk a straight line to get any love. But with my doggie who is pushing 14 years this year I know she always looks for me and is always there for me when I need her. I don't know what I will do when she passes on. (Gigi Hicks 1:08pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! I am fortunate in having unconditional love from my parents, too. My greatest goal is for my children to recognize that they have it from me. (G. Bisbjerg 1:09pm February 14, 2013)
So sorry for the loss of your Father. I lost my pappa in July and he was my father figure and I feel his loss every day. I was lucky enough to be there as he took his last breath and say our goodbyes, but it's times like that that make you realize to hold onto those you care about and let them know how much they mean to you every day. (Jolene Allcock 1:20pm February 14, 2013)
Today, probably more than any other day, I give thanks not only for my valentines, husband and 2 boys, but the fact that I have had the opportunity to become a wife and mom. Got married late and count my blessings every day. I am also thankful for the authors who write so much to entertain me. Glad for the chance to read! (Jan Mintz 1:20pm February 14, 2013)
Even if there is no one in your life that you feel gives you unconditional love, there is One who from the moment of your conception and even before then has and does love UNCONDITIONALLY. So much so that He gave the one person who meant the world to Him so that the world could be saved. Unconditional because we did not have to do anything to be loved. There are no conditions attached to it. This kind of love I have and also have been fortunate enough to receive from my husband, children, grandchildren and my parents. (Angelina Daniels-Shaw 1:23pm February 14, 2013)
Happy V day everyone.. Carly I am sorry about the loss of your dad. I am thankful for every day I get with my momma and daddy. Daddy has been sick with cancer and I look at each day as a gift. So having him here on Valentine's Day this year is the best gift so far. (Robin Bromiley 1:24pm February 14, 2013)
My hubby forgot today was Valentine's day but he doesn't do dates of any kind (except his birthday) but he did bring me coffee and take the dogs out this morning so I wouldn't have to go out in the snow and ice. Unconditional love, that comes in the big slobbery love from my American Bulldog who follows me everywhere. She is not quite a year old but she has the heart of a warrior. (Pennie Morgan 1:26pm February 14, 2013)
I gave a "Happy Valentine's Day" to my dog as soon as she woke up and wanted to be let out this morning! (Suzy Wilson 1:32pm February 14, 2013)
I know exactly how you feel. When I lost my Dad I was numb. Don't think I celebrated holidays for some time. It's been 11 years and it's still tough. But I know Dad would want me to celebrate life just like he did. So I live each day with the wonderful memories. Enjoy today. There are many people that love you. Happy Valentines Day! (Christina Schreffler 1:35pm February 14, 2013)
Sorry for the loss of your Dad, I still miss mine and it has been two years. Hope you have a Happy Valentines day - doesn't matter about gifts - all about taking time to let someone know you love them each and every day. (Sonya Miller 1:36pm February 14, 2013)
I'll have to go home and give my Snickerdoodle (kitty) a very special hug and kiss!! (Kelli Jo Calvert 1:37pm February 14, 2013)
I appreciate the unconditional love of my family- especially my kids. That random hug and "love you Mom" when I least expect it, and most need it is always amazing. (Jaimee Wood 1:37pm February 14, 2013)
I'll be spending Vday with my mom & my 3 dogs :) (Terri Quick 1:43pm February 14, 2013)
My husband of 50+ years gave me a beautiful Valentine card. What more could one want. Blessings, Marjorie (Marjorie Carmony 1:49pm February 14, 2013)
I believe we should take every opportunity to let our family and friends know how special they are whether its a holiday or not. You never know how long you'll have them! (Mandy Comisford 1:50pm February 14, 2013)
I'm lucky that my guy is pretty good with gifts...and bringing home the chocolate... (Cate Sparks 1:50pm February 14, 2013)
I'm not a fan of these manufactured holidays BUT any day that promotes chocolate as a major food group is OK with me:-). (Ja Walter 1:57pm February 14, 2013)
My kids and I absolutely love each other unconditionally. (Same with my parents.) Doesn't mean we don't drive each other crazy! With my husband it's a little different, but still love. :) It's so nice that he thinks I can do anything I set my mind to even when I'm not so sure myself. I'm so lucky to have them all!! (Shannon Murphy 2:04pm February 14, 2013)
Unconditional love is a wonderful thing, and you are so right. Who gives it better than a four legged friend. I know my dog does. (Shawn Andree 2:05pm February 14, 2013)
Thanks for the post Carly! At it since 2008! That's amazing! Happy V Day to you!
I'll be having a nice dinner. The company is the best part! (Annie Tegelan 2:06pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentines Day. I am reading Perfect Fit right now, loving it. Just want to say I love my husband, children and dogs! (Shari Bartholomew 2:06pm February 14, 2013)
Hi Carly!
My special Valentine's Day gift this year was my husband coming home from the hospital this morning after getting 2 stents in his heart. After 43 years of marriage he still holds my heart in his hands with love and devotion!
I am the youngest of 3 sisters and Susan, who lived in Colorado, died two months ago from kidney failure. My oldest sister, Dorene, was there for me even though she lives on the other side of the country with daily phone calls and even up-dates to me while I was at work back in Rhode Island. Both of my sisters were always there for me over the years during the good and the bad and each year they both would send me a card with a special notation saying that they were sending hearts of love to their "little" sister. Many people save love letters from their beau but I have a special box full of Valentine's Day cards received over the years from my very special sisters! (Jeanne Miro 2:07pm February 14, 2013)
Spending valentines day with my little grand kids who know no theming and everything about true love as they are my true loves these days. Happy Valentines day to everyone and hope everyone gets something nice (Ava Curtis 2:09pm February 14, 2013)
My daughter means the world to me. My mom is my best friend. My cat and dog both are amazing, special fur babies too! No significant other but I am blessed to have the wonderful people mentioned above and wouldn't want it any other way! Happy Valentines Day to all ;) ♥ (Sheri Weber 2:11pm February 14, 2013)
Today I got flowers from hubby (he went to wholesale market, so I feel doubly lucky he took time to go, not just make phone call). Surprised because we normally do nothing. The past few years have been hard with losses and illnesses of many family members. We don't celebrate holidays anymore. They just remind us of bad times (almost everything bad happened between November and March). Just pretend they are just another day. (Susan Falkler 2:11pm February 14, 2013)
I sent some Valentine e-cards to some girlfriends. (Denise Holcomb 2:12pm February 14, 2013)
Hello Carly - I hope that you are having a great Valentine's day. My wonderful son bought me a beautiful small rose plant - hope to plant it out in the garden to enjoy every year. I currently am looking for a new man in my life so maybe next year on the boyfriend thing - still a romantic at heart. (Vickie Dailey 2:15pm February 14, 2013)
Thank you so much for the reminder Carly. My husband isn't the romantic type and he leaves me to figure out "dating" ideas...I will give several someones a hug today.
I too lost my Daddy this December. I understand your loss. He loved me unconditionally and was there for me as I was there for him at the end (4 years in a dementia home). I lost Momma 3 1/2 weeks before him and that was very traumatic. We had 2 funerals (Momma's on her 85th birthday), Thanksgiving, Daddy's Funeral, 2 family birthdays and Christmas in a 2 month period. I was ever so glad 2012 was FINALLY over. (Lenna Hendershott 2:21pm February 14, 2013)
We parents love our children even when they are not very loveable. Enjoyed your blog. (Sheila True 2:25pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day, all. Thanks for a lovely column, Carly.
I know folks have different religious beliefs and I'm not trying to sound preachy here. For me, God is unconditional love. Everything He did and does signifies how much He loves each of us. It's what teaches me to share love with my family and friends. (G S Moch 2:26pm February 14, 2013)
I love your writing! (Annie Joyce 2:29pm February 14, 2013)
My 2 beagles show me unconditional love---and hopefully I give it back to them. (Sue Farrell 2:34pm February 14, 2013)
I enjoy your books! Happy Valentines Day to you and yours! (Vicky Shirey 2:40pm February 14, 2013)
My Husband and I don't make a big deal about Valentine's Day but our four children are our best Valentine's. (Annetta Stolpmann 2:41pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day, Carly. We never had pets growing up, but I have heard that pets do sense when you really need them. (Jane Cheung 2:41pm February 14, 2013)
I am blessed with a wonderful Husband, a loving cat, and an awesome family! On this Valentines Day, I hope that I have shown them everyday just how much their love and support means to me and that I love them with all my heart (Jennifer Legan 2:42pm February 14, 2013)
Just being with my family is the only way I want to celebrate the day! They are truly my daily valentines!! (Susan Dyer 2:45pm February 14, 2013)
*sigh* 2 sick kids, 1 living 1/2 hour away, another living 1800 miles away. Just glad we're all ok (except the sickies), and hope to see our oldest son soon! (Michelle Schafer 2:46pm February 14, 2013)
Whether in a relationship or not...it's not all about one person. It's about the people around you on a daily basis that has the benefit of sharing Valentine's Day with you. For me that includes my family and friends and doggies :) Happy Valentine's Day! (Chrissey Dormer 2:50pm February 14, 2013)
My husband loathes Valentine's Day and I love it. I love the hearts, the pinks, reds, and purples. I give my kids and sweetheart a little something every year. And I don't get anything. But it doesn't both me. Because I know that I am loved. (Phyllis Lamken 2:53pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Heart Day, everyone! (Margay Roberge 2:58pm February 14, 2013)
I'm lucky to have a great family. I'm happy just to be with my family on this wonderful day. We gave my nieces and nephews their valentines today. I know they will love their stuffed animals and chocolates. Happy Valentine's everyone. (Amy Smith 3:09pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! I have never received a gift on Valentine's day. I've never in my life received flowers. Anyone want to be my Valentine? (Cathy Thomas 3:20pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! I am blessed with a family that makes me feel loved and appreciated today and every day. (Cheryl Castings 3:34pm February 14, 2013)
happy valentine's day! :0 (May Pau 3:35pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day, Carly!! To me, it's just another day, even though I'm sitting here with my sweatshirt that has a heart with an embroidered floral design. It's one of my favorite shirts, and very pretty. Anyway, I'm past the cutsie-romantic age, so today is more philisophical, perhaps, between myself and my Husband. He gave me a very nice card today, which he doesn't do every year. He also took me out for lunch. I got a sweet e-message from my Best Friend, who is like a Sister to me, wishing me a Happy Valentine's Day. My 2 kittens were running around, and the one in particular, Gizmo, laid in my lap a lot, purring and wanting more attention than usual. It has been an exceptional day for me, for the most part. Yes, it seems like every time an occasion comes up now, the advertisers seem to blow things way out of proportion, but that's only if you let them get away with it!! (Peggy Roberson 3:38pm February 14, 2013)
My true Valentine is my grandson, he makes my heart SMILE! Happy Heart Day! (S W 3:45pm February 14, 2013)
Is there really such a thing as unconditional love? Your mother, dad, spouse..maybe...but your CHILDREN, of course! I have been lucky enough to have a husband who has stood by my side through 3 bouts of cancer and 10 years of anxiety/panic and depression. I am lucky to be alive and even though I had to cancel our Valentine's Day plans, it's a glorious day to be on this earth. (Susan Coster 4:15pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! Your photo did make me smile. What a happy little family! Unconditional love can come from many places and I'm lucky enough to have it from my hubby, family, friends and my pet. I hope everyone has it! Best wishes! :) (Debbie Wright 4:27pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! I'm fortunate enough to have 3 wonderful Valentine's. My husband and 2 children. I agree with Susan in that it is truly "a glorious day to be on this earth!" (Sharon Shearouse 4:29pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day (Andrea Abel 4:35pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. (Susan Jang 4:43pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! I am spending the day with my Mom and brought some chocolate covered strawberries over to my brother and his family. (Chelsea Knestrick 4:51pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! My husband is not a romantic either, nor is my son. I am just happy that I have both of these men in my life right now. Its my family. (Gail Hurt 5:22pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day!! Our's has been pretty good so far bought the kids stuffed animals and cards, no candy. My mother showed up with candy, now the little dears are muttering and going in circles looks like a classic case of McBeth's three witches. I do believe the older one was muttering an incantation. My be a lot of frogs in this house tomorrow. (Theresa Norris 5:33pm February 14, 2013)
Thanks for the post!! :D (Oscar Diago 5:34pm February 14, 2013)
Condolences for your loss. Sadly, my father never has shown me that kind of love so know that you were very blessed to experience that with your family. Fortunately, I have had others (two- and four-legged) in my life who have given me plenty of love and have given them mine in return. Thanks for the beautiful post! (E Felder 5:39pm February 14, 2013)
Carly, Love your pooches! Bailey looks like a doodle...that is one of the sweetest, gentlest breeds, and Brady must be "king" of his castle! Happy Valentine's Day to all of you! I lost my little shitzu I had for over 15 yrs. and it tugged at my heartstrings for well over a year. She was a big part of my life and fun to have around! Loved reading your blog today and I'm sure it brought some smiles and love to all! Thanks! (Linda Luinstra 5:49pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine Day to you and all. Since my hubby is out of state right now, I spent Valentine with my fur baby, Shasta who has greeted me with kisses every time I go out and come back in. (Carol Trochelman 6:24pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! Enjoy your family. Best wishes and happiness. (Sharon Berger 6:42pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's day. My fur kids have been so well behaved today it is strange! Did not remind them what day it was either.(laughing) (Holly Vanderhule 6:46pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentines Day! thanks for the giveaway (Cindy Vinzant 6:50pm February 14, 2013)
I have a pet that I rescued and this has been an unexpected blessing. She seems to know when something is wrong and cuddles up, expecting nothing in return. True love (Lisa Ankney 7:00pm February 14, 2013)
I am so sorry for the loss of your Father! I lost my Mother a few years ago, way too young. Wish she could have met her Grandchildren. She loved me unconditionally, and I am so blessed to have had her for a Mother. I hope that my children feel the same way as they get older. I am also extremely lucky to have an amazing husband (Been together since I was 14, married when I was 18, and still going strong) He is my rock and support through it all. Embrace those you love, you never know when they wont be with us anymore. XO (Stephanie Briggs 7:18pm February 14, 2013)
I think pets do love unconditionally and they are really good at keeping secrets (Beth Reimer 7:37pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! (Kathleen Conner 7:40pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentines's Day! I agree with all you said. Years ago I lost my Dad (both parents now) and feel the loss years later, so I'm sorry for your loss of your Dad. My husband remembers all the anniversaries, birthdays and even Valentines. We went out for a nice lunch today as I have to work tonight. But I really agree with your assessment of a pet's unconditional love. I lost my cat, Buddy some months back and I still miss him dearly. He was actually my dog in a way, he was where ever I was and as soon as I sat or slept or watched tv he was in my lap. We had to put him down as he had cancerous tumors in has belly and neck, it was so sudden. I've been a cat person all my life have never had a day without a cat since I was a very little girl. My mother was a cat person. And the loss is dramatic. Buddy gave more love and affection than I can possibly explain. I am so glad to have had his love. (Sandra Stipins 7:43pm February 14, 2013)
I have four fur kids and four human kids. The human ones are grown, so I baby the fur ones. My oldest just went blind from her diabetes, so I spend lots of time with her. Everyone laughed when I took her to the animal opthamologist, but she is my baby. (Ann Sheiring 7:59pm February 14, 2013)
I love your website and visit monthly. I have 3 fur cats and 1 large dog. The three inside cats I sometimes wonder how they've lived so long. I have 8 more outside. God Bless. Enter me please. jrs362 at hotmail dot com (Jane Squires 8:10pm February 14, 2013)
having a family dinner thanks for a fun idea and contest (Debbi Shaw 8:10pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentines to all...love you writing:) (Lisa Fitzgibbons 8:54pm February 14, 2013)
I fondly remember making Valentines with my children when they were school-age (with my daughter more than with my sons, who only wanted to sign a name!) - I miss those days. Now I have an annual charity Chocolate Auction the week before, and really, I am all-Valentined out for today. I did make a special dinner for my husband, and bought some gorgeous red yarn for next year's auction knitting - and it didn't snow, the sun was out, and every day is a blessing. (Beth Fuller 9:10pm February 14, 2013)
You know that your dad is sending Valentine wishes to you. The best part of my day was getting a Valentine's Day call from our grandchildren. (Cheryl Ricin 9:12pm February 14, 2013)
I think my office did the essential valentine this year to a woman who is fighting for her life with a brain tumor that just won't react to any treatments. so we all chipped in to give her the gift of money to use in any manner that will make her life easier. And of course we all included our prayers that the treatments will kick in and help this wonderful caring and loving mother and grandmother and friend. (Sandra Wurman 9:13pm February 14, 2013)
Wishing everyone a wonderful Valentine's Day! Remember, it's the day... TO EAT CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *HUGS* (Chelsea Brooks 9:17pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentines Day Carly,
My boyfriend is in France, studying abroad for 4 months. I miss him so much, but he is having the time of his life. Keep on writing!
-Rachael (Rachael Whitzman 9:27pm February 14, 2013)
That's what happened to me. I don't think I would have gotten over my depression if it wasn't for my furry kids (4 cats and 1 dog). It was a year where bad things were happening in three. Three deaths in the family, it was just too much to process. After the funerals, I sunk into a depression. If it wasn't for my cats and dog, I would have snapped out of it or have a purpose to keep going. MY pets took care of me emotionally. (Kai Wong 9:36pm February 14, 2013)
I was never really into Valentine's Day except maybe as a kid when we were able to exchange candy with everyone. Thats the part I liked the most, the candy part. Then growing up, it was a "I have a boyfriend or gf" bit, and why did it come to that? I still prefer my own candy. Lol Vday itself doesn't matter, but I do like to make everyone feel special by telling them I love them etc. The important thing is, I know I love myself the most! tehehe (Lazydrag0n Puff 9:37pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's! Thanks for the information... (Diane Pollock 9:45pm February 14, 2013)
Hang in there - I lost my father too and was loved unconditionally by both parents. I had a wonderful childhood. I love my children unconditionally (although I may not like what they do)and hope that they will feel this way about their own children someday. Pets help you feel good about yourself - they love unconditionally - even when you are feeling low. I have two cats that I adore so I can relate. You can always count on parents and pets! (Kathy Martocci 9:47pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day (Rita Wray 9:51pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valetine's day!! (Pamela Dolen 9:53pm February 14, 2013)
I am very fortunate that I have a loving hubby and he and I just celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary (and 13 years together) on 2/12/13. He's the love of my life, and it only took me 33 years (and one divorce) to find him. :)
May all of the single woment out there be lucky enough to find someone as sweet as he is. (Donna Holmberg 10:08pm February 14, 2013)
Oh... forgot to say, he's defintely NOT the romantic type, but I never have to doubt that he loves me. He shows that and tells me that all the time. (Donna Holmberg 10:09pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day. I agree only a young child or parent will give unconditional love. (Pat Lieberman 10:09pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day, Carly!
I lost both my parents (7 monyhs apart from each other) so I can relate. But time will help. I promise. (Marcy Shuler 10:10pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! We had a nice dinner. (Cheryl McEwen 10:11pm February 14, 2013)
I hope your Valentines Day was full of happy memories. (Christine Didyk 10:22pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's day! (Callie Stuck 10:22pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! Both my parents have passed, but they are in my thoughts as we celebrate the Chinese New Year. (Mary C 10:22pm February 14, 2013)
I so enjoy Carly's books! And everytime I see her two buddies I think about getting myself one of those shaggy lumps of unconditional love - I just need to get out there and make the right match. (Diane Sallans 10:27pm February 14, 2013)
While I'm the "non romatic" my fella is fab. Instead of flowers and candy, I get to spend time with him just relaxing... and he cooked me dinner: steak and taters for a meat and taters girl.
You're right, unconditional love is just that... unconditional... given and not earned. just there for no real reason except the giver cares. My BFF who lives several states away, my kid and cat fall into those categories. How lucky am I!
Holidays are hard when someone precious is not there to celebrate with you. Sometimes you have to just bite the bullet and do it anyway, for and in honor or them. Not easy, but ... fake it enough and you learn to actually get through them with a real smile and maybe even a few giggles. If it's a holiday they were part of, remember them on it, what they did, how they'd react, favorite stories. Make it good ... for them, if not for you. (Faith Huffman 10:44pm February 14, 2013)
I love your books! (Melissa Roma 10:53pm February 14, 2013)
I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my Dad in '09 and the holidays are still hard to get through.
I have a wonderful Mom and a fabulous Husband so I'm a lucky girl. (Crystal Coe-Benedict 10:57pm February 14, 2013)
Happy Valentine's Day! The best thing about today is that it reminds us to love! Whether it is a person or pet, we get to show that love. But it is even more special when the love comes all year 'round! One day is definitely not enough!!! (Latochia Bell 10:59pm February 14, 2013)
I lost my dad in 2007, and it took a long time to get to the point where I could remember him with smiles and not tears, well, at least some of the time. :)
I love my cats pretty unconditionally. Even when they make me mad. Everyone else, you better do right! LOL!
But seriously, how many times have you seen someone say "but I love him/her" and thought to yourself, "what's to love?" No one should put up with someone who mistreats them or abuses them physically or emotionally. The "love" is not worth the damage. I'd rather be alone on Valentine's Day and every day than be with someone who made me miserable. (Auriette Lindsey 11:14pm February 14, 2013)
My hubby didn't want cats as pets, but guess who they love the most. That's right my hubby. They wait for him in the morning and follow him around most of the day. He calls the female his girl friend. :D (Deb Pelletier 11:16pm February 14, 2013)
Today is the one day in the year for you to think about who you have in your life and how lucky you are..i love to watch and see what you do...thanks for the gift..... (Kimberly Hoefs 11:53pm February 14, 2013)
Hi Carly--Happy Valentine's Day! I am fortunate to still have my mother, and we do many things together...including Bridge. I also have a Husky, and he's very cute. Sorry about your father's death. I know how it's like, since I lost my father almost 16 years ago. Hugs to you, Carly! (Ann Garland 2:08am February 15, 2013)
Love is love no matter where it comes from. (Mary Preston 6:01am February 15, 2013)
Good post. You've got to find it in the little things. I have my parents and I know exactly how you feel. I'm very fortunate. (Eileen Roth 6:37am February 15, 2013)
my puppy girl was always my valentine :) (d Kenney 8:28am February 15, 2013)
My grandkids always make sure I enjoy Valentine's Day, I love their homemade cards. (Linda Henderson 8:45am February 15, 2013)
Love for me is books and yarn. (Cathy Thomas 11:54am February 15, 2013)
Love comes from friends, family, and pets. A good pet is always there for you. (Carol Woodruff 7:48pm February 15, 2013)
For me, love is my husband & 2 kids. My husband is also not the romantic type, but it's worked for almost 22 years (next week!) (Sharlene Wegner 10:57pm February 15, 2013)
I'm not a parent, but I wish I could let my Mom know that she has my unconditional love - it doesn't only have to be from a parent to a child; it works the other way too. My Mom is everything to me and I only wish I could give her back a little of what she has given me. Happy Valentine's Day! (QuenKne M 4:31am February 16, 2013)
Love for us is each other and our cats. We love who loves us in return. We also love our extended families and our friends, but tend not to share Valentine's Day with them. Ever since my husband started going out with me he started planning long term for us. He was a lot more certain than I was! (Clare O'Beara 1:30pm February 16, 2013)
Chocolate and sweet thoughts and dreams of friends and family to share them with is what Valentine's Day means to me. Support is key for any endeavor and love is one of the biggest challenges of all. The power of touch and even a gaze can increase your natural endorphins and I believe that hugs generate a lot of love and help fulfill our craving for attention. Why do you think people greet each other with hugs? It's for support for one another, a giving both ways. (Alyson Widen 2:50pm February 17, 2013)
I love all of yours books. Your characters make me forgot about what is going on in my life. Always glad when I see a new book is coming out. (Sharon Salituro 10:27am February 21, 2013)
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