The girls had a good Valentine's Day today. They got valentines from their classmates, many of which came with candy or lollipops. Very few were homemade. I am thinking store-bought for next year; the handmade ones take too long.

They also got cards from Grandma Sandy and Grandpa Ron/Grandma Dina, homemade bracelets from Grandma Sandy, huge heart lollipops from Grampy and Nana, and lots of candy and chocolate from me and Daddy.

Daddy left for Pakistan today for the rest of the week. He left his scarf for the girls, and they are sleeping with it in my bed upstairs. Cute.

Here are some valentines for the girls, from me.

Dear A:

You are a ray of sunshine in my life. You wake up with a smile, and you go to sleep with a smile, and the hours in between are full of your easy, sweet demeanor. You are a beautiful singer. You sing all day – so much that sometimes I don't even notice. You love animals of all kinds, and you're unbelievably sweet to Allie. I love how comfortable you are with your friends and that when you walk into school, there are immediately 4 girls surrounding you with the news of the day. You love to hold my hand, and to be near me, and that makes me so happy. You're a beautiful dancer and your smile just lights up the room. You are beautiful and sweet and smart and curious about the world. You watch movies and are still talking about them days later, asking questions and making observations. I am so lucky to be your mother and to have all your sunny days to treasure with you.

Love, Mommy

Dear M:

You amaze and impress me every day. You're so smart and funny and earnest. You pick things up so quickly, and you don't tire until you've mastered them. You love to learn, to absorb, to demonstate what you know. You feel so intensely – your joys as well as your disappointments. You are sweet and gentle, and you love being with me. You are affectionate and encouraging to A. You give the best hugs in the world. You are responsible and dependable and have an amazing mind and memory. You love to finish projects and are so proud of all that you have done. You make me laugh and smile and just want to hug you, all day long. I am so incredibly happy to be your mother and will always treasure you!

Love, Mommy

Tomorrow… even more cuteness from Valentine's Day.