My mother has always enjoyed Valentine's Day. It is probably her favorite holiday. She always used it as a reason to give us, her children, a small gift, a tradition she carries on today for both us and our children. She never looked at this day as just between two people in the throes of romantic love, and, by and large, I find myself feeling the same way.

When I was younger, I did have those days where I'd grumble about the day since I was sans boyfriend, but I always had at least one friend who I knew loved me, and when I was in high school, my friends and I sent each other enough carnations to know we weren't alone.

The point of the rambling is that I don't think Valentine's Day should be about people getting jewelry or cars or cell phones or whatever else it is the advertisers think we should spend our money on. Rather it should be a day where we remember what love actually is. That it isn't just about who you are sleeping with, but about the people who share your life, whether a little or a lot, and how much they mean to you.

All my flist is important to me. We may not be 'real life' friends, and there is the possibility we may never meet in person, but I still value what you say and what you do, and I know my life is richer for having you in it.

Happy Valentine's Day, flist.

P.S. Just as I finished writing this, Charlie woke up and said, "Guess what day it is, Mom?"

"What day is it?"

"Valentine's Day." he paused a moment, and then added in a sweet voice, "I love you, Mom."

Now that's a Valentine.

Seems the majority of the people on my flist are less than thrilled with this most Hallmarky of holidays. Well, I have a suggestion.

Remember when you were a child at school, and everyone got cards regardless of rank, since 'fairness' took president over who liked whom. All the cards had pictures of cartoons or licensed characters with some silly pun, and a little space for 'to' and 'from'. No pressure, no commitment.

Even if you didn't do the card thing, much time was spent cutting hearts out of construction paper, and there was usually cupcakes. Valentine's day had as much impact on us as St. Patrick's day, really. IT was an excuse to get away from school work for awhile, have a party and wear really bright colors.

So why not go back to that frame of mind? Who cares if it's a boyfriend or a girlfriend, send a card to the people you like, or just say 'Happy Valentine's Day!' Buy yourself a flower, wear a cheerful color, smile at people.

Let's make this a day that's not about lovers but about love.

And if that doesn't work, just remember that tomorrow all the chocolate will be 1/2 off!