Love and Affection – ND #69

A Lesson in Love and Affection – Photo: L. Weikel

Love and Affection

Valentine’s Day means different things to all of us. For most, it’s an opportunity to declare or express one’s love and affection for a significant ‘other’ in your life. For some, that means a romantic dinner by candlelight or a bouquet of roses. And for others it means the gift of a piece of jewelry or a wonderful book.  It’s not the cost of the gift, it’s the care and attention to its selection that matters.

A lot more often than many realize, though, is that for many there may not be an ‘other’ with whom to share one’s Valentine’s Day affections. That should never, ever be a reason to eschew the holiday (even if you generally dismiss it as a fiction created by Hallmark Cards). No. It’s my contention that Valentine’s Day can be a day ideally suited to displaying to yourself just how much you’re treasured.

And while it’s true that some have mastered the art of being an elf to yourself, I have a feeling there are a lot more of us who find it weird or selfish. When in fact, what’s weird is how tough it can be to honestly express love to ourselves; don’t you think?

“Give us a kiss” – Photo: L. Weikel

Unlikeliest of Teachers

For some of us, loving ourselves means taking a long hot bath and soaking in our favorite bath salts and essential oils. Then there are those who crave some alone time and set aside an entire day to turning off their phones, reading a book or two, and writing in their journal. Still others indulge in a manicure, pedicure, or perhaps even a facial.

And so it is the most unlikely of teachers, my Princess, enters the picture.

Imagine my surprise when I encountered my sweet little girl on Valentine’s Day, mid-solo-celebration. How did I know she was indulging in a little sanctioned self-love?

The mask of mud and hay gave it away.

Princess in all her ‘masked’ glory – Photo: L. Weikel

Princess’s Inspiration

What an inspired spirit this sweet porcine princess embodies! I’ve never entertained the thought of giving myself an at-home facial. But what a delightful and indulgent way to ‘celebrate’ Valentine’s Day.

I’m going to have to remember this as a possibility next year. Most important to remember? It’s not necessarily an option reserved for swinging singles like my bad-ass Princess.

(T+69)