Carly's Annual Valentine's Day Blog
February 14, 2014
~~ MEN ~~ I have to say (sadly) it's been a long time since I've truly celebrated
Valentine's Day. For the last few years, the holiday has always fallen on the
first day of or during my children's school break. We're usually leaving on
vacation or headed somewhere for the week, so my husband stopped sending
flowers. Now ... this is sad for more reason than not receiving flowers. I had
to train him to send the flowers in the first place and now the habit has been
broken. What? Did I really say I had to TRAIN my man to send me a Valentine's
gift?
 Yes! Ladies, not all men are born or raised knowing what to do on Valentine's
Day. Not all men are like the picture perfect specimens we write and read about
in our books. What!? Blasphemy, I know. But true. Come on, admit it. Our men
(if we have one in our lives) aren't always perfect. Isn't that partially what
the appeal of Romance Novels are all about? The good news (for some of us) is
that many men can be taught to behave in certain ways. I know it always shocked
me that even though he was surrounded by radio ads (even on his sports stations)
to buy gifts for women on Valentine's Day, he wouldn't do it. Once I explained,
once he saw my dad in action, he caught on ... to the flowers, at least. Gifts? I have to admit we buy our own. From early in our marriage we realized
we liked to buy what we wanted when we could. So we'd say to each other, hey
this is my (upcoming) "name the holiday" gift from you. It works for us. I'm
sure it's not for everyone. I bet many of you love the surprise of what's in
that box, whether it's chocolates, flowers (which I like getting no matter what
just because it says, "I'm thinking of you") or jewelry etc. Honestly? Even a
card means a lot to me because it says, I thought of you and walked into the
store to buy you a card. Hey ... it's the little things that count! So tell me about that special person in your life (if you have one at the
moment). Does he send flowers or buy gifts? Or do you need to nudge (shove or
elbow) him into it? Did he always know or did you need to teach him? I refuse to
believe I have the only man out there who needed a little ... ::ahem:: training.
Comment for a chance to win an e-Copy of DARE TO LOVE & a $ 10
Amazon Gift Card! HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!
N.Y. Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Carly Phillips has written
over 30 romance novels with contemporary characters and small town settings that
today’s readers identify with and enjoy. She’s a writer, a knitter of sorts, a
wife, and a mom to two daughters (16 and20!) and two crazy dogs (a 1 year old
Havanese named Brady and a 4 year old wheaten terrier named Bailey). In
addition, she’s a Twitter and Internet junkie and is always around to interact
with her readers. Carly lives in Purchase, New York and would love for you to
like and follow her on the ‘Net!
Comments
97 comments posted.
Re: Carly's Annual Valentine's Day Blog
Hubby and I have already decided we're going out to a movie and lunch tomorrow to celebrate Val's Day. Thanks for visiting, Carly! Happy Valentine's Day, all. (G S Moch 11:33pm February 13, 2014)
I definitely had to train my hubby. After 32 years together, he's finally got it right! ~LOL~ No, really -- he know that I love carnations and chocolates and that's what I get, most of the time. This year, money is really tight so I told him not to get me anything. Well, evidently he's trained well enough to save money when needed... I didn't get the flowers but I did get the chocolates and a card -- from my dogs! ~LOL~ I loved it and him! :) (Diana Huffer 6:59am February 14, 2014)
The guy I'm dating doesn't celebrate Valentine's. So I went and sent a Valentine to someone I know is alone and could use a pick me up. As well made me feel good. (Donna Cairns 7:00am February 14, 2014)
Happy Valentine's Day! (Sheila Kell 7:00am February 14, 2014)
Hubby and I don't buy anything, at first maybe a card but we just didn't have the money, then kids came and it was more about them. Now we are more like, if you want it, don't wait till a holiday, just get it if you can. He cooks almost every night, does your things to help me out and that is Bette than flowers. Sometimes he surprises me with a Little Debbie cake...LOL... takes all kinds to make the world go around!!! (Amy Casey 7:01am February 14, 2014)
I don't have a valentine. I got my two daughters and that's enough for me! They get a box of chocolates and a stuffed animal each Valentine's Day. They're too young to go shopping for me, so my sister usually gets me some chocolates and the girls sign the card. ;-) (Angela Nelson 7:01am February 14, 2014)
Right now my Valentine is my Faithful Friend "Maggie" the dog! She never forgets a Holiday and always tells me to go pick out whatever you want ;) Such a lucky lady am I (Delene Yochum 7:03am February 14, 2014)
Not a blasted thing!! Lol my hubby had to work all weekend twelve hour shifts so no time for fun! (Angie Turner 7:06am February 14, 2014)
My husband did not have to be trained! He started giving me flowers, not just for Valentine's Day but other occasions and non-occasions, from the start. Now, our girls get them from him, too :) (Cheryl Hastings 7:08am February 14, 2014)
In my life I have had both trained and super untrained men in my life. But I got a Valentine picture from my 3 yo granddaughter this AM so life is just precious. (Ellen Rose 7:21am February 14, 2014)
When my husband and I were dating he asked me to come over bad watch movies the night before valentines day! I was getting tired but he asked me to stay a little while longer, as soon as it was 12:01 he kissed me said happy valentines day and I love you ( first time he said that)!!!! It was so sweet, on valentines day he sent me pink roses!!! Now he buys me pink roses and we stay in and watch movies every valentines day!!! (Anna Bertucci 7:22am February 14, 2014)
My husband of 30 years has never forgotten a Valentine's Day (so far)always a card every year. Never had to train him in the card department. There have also been flowers candy, presents and even a rose bed in the earlier years. Now, like you and your hubby we buy things when we want or need them and say it is 'for what ever holiday'. Now for the last 3 Valentine's Day we have started donating blood at the blood bank and them going to dinner (you have to eat after giving blood :) ). He has given blood donations for our entire marriage. I just started when my youngest started college. I am a light weight and it takes me about 3 days to feel steady on my feet after a donation. Anyway Have a Happy Valentine's Day! (Gigi Hicks 7:35am February 14, 2014)
My husband never remembers until he sees his gift on counter with kids...then he's like "baby want to get you an amazon gift card on my way home from work". Like duh...why do you need to ask.i like plants too but not flowers. (Dania Merrifield 7:40am February 14, 2014)
Before we got married, my husband would buy lots of gifts for me. But after we got married we were quite financially tight so he didn't really buy anymore gifts for me. But he does do little things like giving me a back rub when I'm having backache or cooking breakfast for me. (Winnie Lim 7:55am February 14, 2014)
My husband never forget...he plans weeks in advance. I swear he is the most thoughtful man I ever met. He's like hat all year long too. (Bonnie Capuano 8:03am February 14, 2014)
He tries but romance doesn't come naturally to him. I love him to pieces anyways though. He did give me the best gift a week after valentines, the 20th is my daughters first birthday :) (Shannon Smith 8:05am February 14, 2014)
My husband is the typical alpha male and does not grasp the romance concept naturally. He does however enjoy making me happy. Prior to marrying I had boyfriend training and now I have husband training. This training is ongoing and the tricky part is to do it without him realize he is getting valuable training. It had been very successful. However, I expect that I will have to continue my training for the rest of our lives. I fully expect to receive flowers and something else today. Training successful. (Rachel Scotch 8:13am February 14, 2014)
This is the best Valentine's to me. My hubby has been so swamped at work. I told him we will celebrate next month for my bday instead. He surprised me this morning with the best present. Ticket's to go see Jersey Boys. I cant wait. I love him more and more each day. (Andrea Guerrieri 8:24am February 14, 2014)
My hubby tries really hard, he is a sweetheart but justnot the most romantic guy. (Carin Walker 8:27am February 14, 2014)
I don't have a significant other but I have a great friend that sends me flowers on valentine's day to make me feel special. (Pam Howell 8:31am February 14, 2014)
My husband and I are dealing with final days for his dad. But even in the midst of that, he wants to go shopping candy and stuffed animals for our youngest grandchildren! He wants their day to be normal though ours is anything but normal. Who doesn't love a man that loves little kids. (Beth Kaake 8:34am February 14, 2014)
no i do not have a special person in my life...but i did for 49 years....but the memory of all those years before he died are wonderful. (Mal Kaplan 8:46am February 14, 2014)
I have no one special in my life. But when my dad was alive he always bought me, my mother and my niece a box of chocolates. (Kathleen O'Donnell 9:02am February 14, 2014)
Since the first year of my husband and I dating he always remembered Valentine's day. That first year I was 15 and her was 17. He didn't have much money because he was in school. So he sold his entire baseball card collection to be able to take me out, buy me flowers and chocolate. Now that we've been married nine years he still hasn't forgotten. I always receive a card flowers & a gift that's uniquely me. For the last four years he has been getting gold dipped forever roses in different colors. I must day these are my favorite. (Melissa Roman 9:04am February 14, 2014)
I have no one special right now. When I was with my ex-boyfriend he would occasionally send flowers just because he felt like it......but I learned that was when he was up to no good lol. (Samantha Cudworth 9:17am February 14, 2014)
I don't have a significant other, but my friend & I usually do something. I will say, he is one of the best gift givers I have ever met! I haven't ever had anything to complain about, and his gifts are always unique. (Karin Anderson 9:21am February 14, 2014)
my husband and I don't do anything for Valentines day since we are so poor, but I'm happy with a "I love You" and a kiss. (Kelly Marker 9:30am February 14, 2014)
For my husband and I, it's not about one day, Valentine's Day, but for all the other days of the year! The kiss at the end of the work day, a smile, a special treat like a whoopie pie from our fav place in Maine or even a pat on the butt. All of these are what matter. Granted sometimes I do get a card on V-Day, which is a nice surprise. It's not the end of the world if I don't. (Kim Maynard 9:34am February 14, 2014)
After 16 years together, I know not to expect the big romantic surprise for Valentine's Day! My husband definitely needed training. He's not big on Valentine's Day...always used to say it was a made up holiday to stress men out. I "oh so gently" informed him early on that even if he doesn't "get it", he should consider what not doing anything for the holiday implied. Instead of cards, flowers, candy or jewelry, I get the best gift. A night off from cooking for the family & a chance to relax. He orders in pizza, buys me a bottle of wine, and we pick a movie to watch with the kids. Sometimes, it's the little things that are the best gift! (Michelle Harlan 9:36am February 14, 2014)
When we first got married, my Husband was very attentive, and blew me away with flowers, along with special cards and gifts, sometimes out of the blue, which were the best kind. As time marched on, he started marching to a different drummer, and it's come down to "if the mood strikes him." I suppose two can play that game, although I'm much better with the cards, at least!! I loved your posting, but am a bit disappointed that I'd have a shot at an e-copy of your book, which I'd love to read. I don't own an e-reader, so that leaves me out of the loop. It's always nice to know a fellow knitter. I also knit and crochet, and volunteer once a week, teaching a knitting class. It's a great past-time, and everything I've been making has been going to people who are deserving of the items, for one reason or another. Hope that made sense!! I'm a little disappointed that you're giving us a chance to win an e-copy of your book, which I'd love to read, because I don't own an e-reader!! It would have been nice to have an either or choice, but I suppose you have your reasons. Anyway, I hope you have a really nice Valentine's Day, and that your Husband surprises you with something special. If not, at least you have the love of all of your readers to keep you going!! (Peggy Roberson 9:42am February 14, 2014)
My boyfriend and I agreed not to but each other gifts or cards. He shows me that he loves me all year round. I don't need him to spend money on a created holiday. (Sandy Giden 9:43am February 14, 2014)
My husband and I exchange cards. Happy Valentine's Day! (Melanie Backus 9:47am February 14, 2014)
My husband is a constant each and everyday so no presents are needed. (Sharon Berger 9:51am February 14, 2014)
We don't tend to do a great deal on this day but my husband did buy fixing for making me dinner tonight. He's a sweetie and a keeper. (D Me 9:53am February 14, 2014)
My hubby and I have been married for ten years and I have to admit, he's pretty great! And to honestly, the longer we are together, the sweeter he gets. He's always buying me little things just because... If I'm not feeling well (I have problems walking at times) he will jump right in and help clean the house or do laundry when he's home. I am a very very blessed woman. (Karen Johnston 9:55am February 14, 2014)
My husband definitely need 'training'! He thought that you can stop this valentine day thingy once you get married. Ha! :) (May Pau 9:55am February 14, 2014)
I actually had to convince my husband to NOT send flowers for Valentine's Day! I'd rather go out to dinner with him & have fun. He always gives me 2 cards - one that will make me laugh and one that is guaranteed to make me cry; he's very romantic :-) This year, for the first time ever (and after 28 years of marriage) we're going away for Valentine's Day and I'm so excited - Cooperstown, here we come!! Of course, it's hard to top Valentine's Day 1995 when we got to meet and hold our twins for the first time - that was the best one EVER! (Meg Weglarz 10:16am February 14, 2014)
Needed training well we are still working on it but ya know sometimes he will just shock me and do it without a nudge (Dianne Ledford 10:56am February 14, 2014)
I don't have a sweetie. I was waiting for meds at the pharmacy last night & the techs were talking about flowers and gifts. One guy said he didn't like to be required to buy flowers. The others said he should buy flowers for any day- just because! I like that idea. (Laura Van Guilder 10:57am February 14, 2014)
I get flowers and a card (this year we managed to buy the SAME EXACT CARD for each other...great minds or what?!] February also includes my birthday and our anniversary, so some years I get 3 bunches, most only two. (Sandy Haber 11:14am February 14, 2014)
I haven't had a significant other in some time, but my sweet mom always remembers to get me a book from my TBR and a small box of See's raspberry truffles. (Christine LaRue 11:53am February 14, 2014)
I'm lucky - I have to STOP my husband from buying too much for me all the time, not just on special occasions. He is a sweetie and I'm a lucky woman. Your book sounds great. Thanks for the chance to win (Nancy Reynolds 11:56am February 14, 2014)
My husband is very good at surprising me for Valentine's day. He always goes all out to make it a special day for me. (Crystal Broyles 12:28pm February 14, 2014)
I've been sick since Tues. So my boyfriend bought me flowers and chocolate covered strawberries on Wednesday and brought them to my place. He said he wanted to make sure i had something sweet and smells good while we ride out this storm. Then he tucked me in and left. We had reservations for tonight but we've decided to stay in instead. (Lisa Maskulyak 12:39pm February 14, 2014)
I don't have a significant other, but my mom sent me some chocolate. (Kim Perry 12:45pm February 14, 2014)
Unfortunately, I don't think my guy has a romantic bone in his body. I've learned to accept it and not expect anything on Valentin's Day. I may have accepted it, but it doesn't mean I like it. :) (Rita Kelly 1:02pm February 14, 2014)
Each year my honey gives me a surprise for this holiday. Once I received a dozen long stemmed roses. Another time it was a weekend trip to a cabin in Northern California. We always exchange cards. (Susan Mahaffey 1:19pm February 14, 2014)
Valentines day was always special time for my husband and I. Gone but not forgotten (Laverne Taguchi 1:20pm February 14, 2014)
My hubby is not very romantic but we did go out for dinner last week for Valentine's Day because I kind of made him go. Happy Valentine's Day everyone. (Gail Hurt 1:38pm February 14, 2014)
Just going to read books. (Aaron Polish 2:12pm February 14, 2014)
Went out for breakfast with my husband; as we were leaving the restaurant my parents were walking into the restaurant. Went grocery shopping and saw my brother in the parking lot. Now I just need to see somebody from my sister's family and I have wished all my family a Happy Valentine's Day! (Sharon DiPrima 2:43pm February 14, 2014)
As usual, the hubby did nothing for Valentine's Day. I think I'll get the dog a treat and give him the big kiss. (Sue Farrell 3:06pm February 14, 2014)
I get a Valentine's card in my email. I guess it's better than nothing. (Rita Wray 3:38pm February 14, 2014)
My husband and I have been together for 21 years and we both decided early on not to exchange gifts on Valentines Day. We both know that we love each other dearly and we do not need all that fancy stuff to prove it.... (Carolyn Rhodes 4:23pm February 14, 2014)
I suppose I have trained my husband over the years (34 of them). But the pitiful thing is he has also trained me. haha Though I know how very lucky I am and therefore, I suppose I will keep him. :-) (Lisa Hutson 4:43pm February 14, 2014)
When we first got together he was so romantic he brought me a silk rose everytime we went out on a date he never forgot special dates but after he got the piece of paper it kinda stop...lol. But that is ok I know he loves me & I have my other 4 valentines that does let him forget...lol (Melissa Morr 5:11pm February 14, 2014)
Had to train hubby and he doesn't have a romantic bone in his body. After being together so 21 years, we decided to get our own gift. (Susan Tso 5:25pm February 14, 2014)
My husband occasionally sends flowers, its a nice surprise when he does. (Angela Daffern 5:34pm February 14, 2014)
My husband and I usually go out to dinner for Valentine's day celebration. Thanks for the giveaway. (Kathleen Beale 5:49pm February 14, 2014)
I don't have a significant other but I do have great friends that do make me fell welcome. (Kai Wong 5:54pm February 14, 2014)
I have loved every book I have read of yours. I look forward to many more books to come. (Gina Meier 6:58pm February 14, 2014)
My husband (of 27 years) has always hated Valentines Day. He's used the excuse that there shouldn't be a holiday to remind people to show each other how much they love each other. So, we've always ignored the day, until about 10 years ago, when he started bringing home chocolates and taking me out to dinner...too bad for him that he set the precedence. I still ignore the holiday *blows raspberries at husband,* (Gena Robertson 8:08pm February 14, 2014)
My bf & I haven't celebrated this year. (Terri Quick 8:22pm February 14, 2014)
No one special at the moment, but I did receive a little flower and card from my little nephew... so cute! (Colleen Conklin 8:29pm February 14, 2014)
My husband is a great guy who always has a card and candy for me on Valentine's Day. On our very first Valentine's Day, I took him out for dinner because he was student teaching, while I was working full-time. We've been married for 31 1/2 years. (Lynne Mauro 8:40pm February 14, 2014)
I am single and I love it! (Denise Austin 8:47pm February 14, 2014)
it's going to be a quiet Valentine night with me making my famous chicken dinner and watching American wedding (Marlene Smith 9:17pm February 14, 2014)
My beloved didn't need nudging, he recalls all holidays and birthdays. Embarrassingly, I am the one who gets caught up with other things on my mind and missing the actual day. We do just treat each other with love every day and so I don't think I am much penalized for my lapse. (G. Bisbjerg 10:07pm February 14, 2014)
Due to the weather, we opted for a quiet dinner and movie at home. (Mary C 11:08pm February 14, 2014)
We usually don't celebrate valentines day just the one day. But this year we went and bought a NEW BED and then dinner. Took him over 30 years. (RoseAnn Bruns Zimmerman 11:27pm February 14, 2014)
We go out to dinner before the big day to avoid the crowds. (Charlene Fraley 11:48pm February 14, 2014)
I work 3 jobs so that is what I'm doing for Valentine's. No sweetie and not sure I want one. (Samantha Small 1:49am February 15, 2014)
no sweetie but staying home and having pizza (Brenda Hook 2:05am February 15, 2014)
The only man in my life is my Dad. My parents only give cards on Valentine's day, but several times a year Dad will come home with flowers for us "just because". (Jen Barnard 7:01am February 15, 2014)
Had a wonderful Valentines Day. He got me a beautiful card and a wonderful necklace. I was a happy lady!!! (Bonnie Capuano 9:17am February 15, 2014)
Yesterday my husband was so tired after the doctor (a long drive to get there 50 miles one way) and because he has a disease that makes him so tired, I made him waffles, sausage and eggs for dinner. We were going out but I hated to have him get out again just to eat. After over 55 years of marriage a hug and a kiss works for me. (Leona Olson 9:22am February 15, 2014)
Since we met when we were 17 and 18, he had to be taught! All I have ever asked for was a card....and after 32 years I still get my cards! (Sue Galuska 10:43am February 15, 2014)
I have to admit, I haven't bought a gift that my wife hasn't liked! She loves flowers; when we were dating for one month, I bought her a bouquet of purple (her favorite color) flowers. She's pretty easy to please. (Richard Proctor 11:00am February 15, 2014)
my husband and i go out to eat every year we dont usually get to go out on valentines day day it usually a night on the weekend we have a severe autistic daughter and need a special baby siter to come and watch her while we go out (Denise Smith 11:22am February 15, 2014)
My husband is very thoughtful & romantic, & really knows the way to my heart. He worked over 24 hours during our last snow storm, & since I didn't know when he'd be home yesterday, nothing was defrosted for dinner. We ordered from our favorite Chinese take-out place around the corner, & we were both happy. I usually get flowers every Valentine's Day, but I honestly didn't miss them this year. I was just happy that he was home with me for a few hours. (He had to go back into work at 4 this morning & I have no clue when he'll be back - he works doing snow removal at our local hospital.) (Maria Proctor 11:34am February 15, 2014)
Since my birthday is so close to Valentines day, my husband always makes my birthday huge, and shows me enough love. He acknowledges Valentine's Day, but I am happier with my birthday celebrations! (Latochia Bell 12:04pm February 15, 2014)
My husband is great about getting me flowers and other sweet little things -- like breakfast in bed. He even ends up cooking more nights than I do because of our work schedules. No training was necessary. :-) (Glenda Martillotti 12:26pm February 15, 2014)
For the first 25 years of our marriage, my husband never sent me flowers (though he was/is great with thoughtful, sweet gifts). Once he decided to start sending me flowers on Valentine's Day, he's done so every year unless I've told him not to (which I have, on occasion!). (Janie McGaugh 3:10pm February 15, 2014)
One year we had no money and so when we were out and I found something just perfect for him I said to him "If I had the money that would be what I buy for you for Valentine's Day". It became a way with us for holidays that year. The year where thought is what counted. (Vennie Martinisi 3:47pm February 15, 2014)
We don't really celebrate Valentine's Day, Carly. We feel that you should show your special someone you love them throughout the entire year instead. We used to give each other cards but, once the kids came, we discussed priorities. We save our money as much as possible (because we don't make much), and we spend our money on what is important to us (groceries, bills, etc., of course, but then occasionally a trip to see friends/family makes it to the top of the list). I buy grocery-store flowers once a month for myself for $5.99 (and share with others who visit). I try very hard not to buy chocolate, but occasionally a Mars bar comes on special for 50 cents and I can't resist buying a few. (Elaine Seymour 4:22pm February 15, 2014)
I really was caught off-guard this year, when my significant other gave me a huge bouquet of flowers, chocolates, and took me out to dinner (with my choice of restaurants)! He must have caught the "love bug" somewhere, because he doesn't do this very often!! I'm still in a little state of shock and am slapping myself to make sure I'm not dreaming! (Linda Luinstra 5:51pm February 15, 2014)
Happy Valentines Day everyone. (Lisa Hutson 6:20pm February 15, 2014)
My husband gets it right after 30 years of marriage & always makes sure that milk chocolate is prominently featured on Valentine's Day! For other holidays, he buys Edible Arrangements. He wanted to get me jewelry in the past, but the only piece I love to wear is our plain gold wedding band. I am usually a t-shirt & jeans & no frills person! (Rachel Kerrinski 6:35pm February 15, 2014)
My hubby doesn't even know it's the holiday. But he does usually get some chocolates the next day for 50% off. Got to love a man who shops a good sale. LOL (Marcy Shuler 7:10pm February 15, 2014)
No special person for me at the moment! Happy (late) Valentine's Day! (Chelsea Brooks 7:22pm February 15, 2014)
My hubby use too do the flowers and candy thing. But the last gift for me was a membership for AAA, car service. When I told some friends about it, the women said" A real romantic.???" But the men would say " He must really love you. It shows that he cares. " Men are really from Mars. (Deb Pelletier 9:00pm February 15, 2014)
I don't have a special person now....but way back when I was married and the gifts that I got were...not what I would have wanted....I came across Estee Lauder that always had free gifts with a purchase. I told him what i liked and that way he could split the gift and it still would be plenty. it became the thing he bought every time. When we divorced I had enough Estee Lauder to last me at least 5+ years!!! (Barbara Studer 10:42pm February 15, 2014)
I live in hope, but I'm not holding my breath. (Mary Preston 10:47pm February 15, 2014)
Nobody special. Just have a lot of friends who love my thoughts and share their feelings. (Alyson Widen 4:33pm February 16, 2014)
Husband gets me flowers and or chocolate. Prefer the flowers; less fattening. (Pat Lieberman 11:44pm February 16, 2014)
my husband usually just buys flowers and a box of chocolate, and we do go out to dinner. (Denise Holcomb 4:53pm February 17, 2014)
I have been lucky. My SO remembers and knows what to do & get and what not to... Please enter me, thanks! (Vanessa Primer 4:21am February 18, 2014)
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