The love of letters...

In our house, Valentine's day has always been a special day.  Not because of lavish gifts, candy, and grand gestures - but because of letters!  It's kind of ironic, because in the last month letters have taken on a whole new meaning. Letters are a tradition in our home! There is something about a hand written letter, that has a meaning like no other.  It is a very simple act...picking up a pen and a piece of paper. It doesn't cost much at all... which is why the Valentine tradition in our house started to begin with.  

Years ago (approximately 11), I was newly single with 3 small kids. Valentine's Day was fast approaching, and quite honestly - I simply did not have the money to spend on Valentine's gifts.  So, that year... I sat down and wrote all three of my kids a letter.  I can tell you as I wrote each letter, I sat and cried like a baby.  As I went through their accomplishments for the year, and told them how proud of them I was,  I never expected the reaction I got when they opened them.  On that morning, I explained to them that we were not doing gifts, but I had them all a letter.  As they read them, there was not a dry eye in our living room.  We all sat down, and just appreciated our love for each other and had a great morning just simply spending time together.  Each year after that, my kids looked forward to their letters - it was truly their favorite gift! The next year, when Valentin's Day rolled around - I had each of the kids gifts, and they got mad at me... they wanted their letters!  This is when I knew we had a new tradition...the year it all began! Over the years, they have each stored them away in their own special place - and I love that they cherish them.  When J left for college, he really didn't take a lot of stuff with him to decorate his room.  But, while we were setting us his desk - he pulled out his letters.  Y'all they were neatly placed on his desk, and this mom's heart was so very happy!  I love this tradition, and I hope it is one that truly stays in place over the years!   There is something so simple, yet so very special.  

This past year, we had several big things happen in our lives.  And...my favorite gift of all - a letter my sweet daughter had written me!  Now, with C being gone - letters have taken on a whole new meaning.  Letters are currently our only means of communication, and I have cherished every word my sweet boy has written.  For me, there is nothing like seeing his handwriting on a piece of paper! All of the letters in our home are something we will keep forever!  So...if you're trying to figure out what to give someone - I would encourage you to simply write a letter!  You might be surprised by the reaction you get!

Happy Valentine's Day y'all!