This is one of my most “unfavorite” weeks of the year as a mother.  When I should be basking in pre-Valentine’s Day anticipation, I’m begging, pleading and rolling around on the ground like a maniac trying to get my kids to fill out 30 tiny “specially messaged” cards for each of their classmates (i.e. that’s 30 per kid=60 cards, people!!!!!).  Of course, in the end – I will sign most of the cards myself, lick the envelopes and tape on the crappy candy.  I guess I don’t know why I even have to bother with the cards, because just like Halloween—it is all about the candy.  In fact, I think I’ll start a friends of “No Valentine’s Day Card” Facebook page ASAP.  I’m sure Hallmark won’t be joining.

The other thing that I find ironic is that I’ll have to prepare a card for the kid who eats half of my kid’s lunch every day or that other kid who pushes my kid down on the playground once or twice a week.  What kind of message is that sending?  Reward the evil?  Or, love thy neighbor?  OK, it’s the later.  But, still.  . .

Now that I’m past my Valentine’s Day rant, I can move forward and talk about fruits and veggies.  I asked both of kids if they wouldn’t mind handing out Valentine-themed fruit to their classmates and they both just made a nasty face and walked away.  Evidently, they don’t think handing out a healthy treat will make them very popular—even if I did offer to scribble “I Heart You” in permanent marker on every apple.   And, I suppose they are right.  The kids will not only NOT open or read their card, but the “Bodacious Banana” will go brown waiting for lips to stop smacking on mini-Snickers and Sweet Tarts.

And, I suppose I don’t blame anyone for their insensitivity.  How will I react if my husband gives me a bouquet of beets vs. a box of chocolates?  Even though it would be so thoughtful of him in light of my healthy eating journey, would it make me cry due to the lack of romance in foods that don’t melt in mouth?

The answer this year could be as simple as “thinking” outside of the Valentine’s Day feedbag.  I think I saw some really cool red-hearted pencils at the grocery store tonight that would be perfect.   Yes, those pencils WOULD be perfect.  I’d be saving some kid’s teeth and I’ll also have something to sign all of the cards with.  Maybe the V-Day-themed writing utensil will put me in the holiday spirit.  Add in some red, red cherries and a rosy apple (with “I Heart You” written on it’s skin) and gee whiz. . .it will be a Valentine’s Day to remember.  Do I sound convincing?  I still hate this week. I’m ready to move on to “I’ll Pinch You If You Are Not Wearing Green” Day.