Show some love on Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is like sushi. You hate it or you love it; there’s no middle ground.

I happen to enjoy when February 14 comes around. I feel bad for those of you who detest Valentine’s Day because there’s really no way to avoid it; everywhere you go, the Valentine's Day stamp is imprinted, for what seems to be an eternity. Co-workers  start recieving roses from there significant others, pharmacies stack heart-shaped boxes of chocolates on it's shelves, and gas stations hang cheap paper cut-outs of cupid on their storefront. Businesses of all types are taking advantage of the meaning of this "holiday" and many of us fall for it each and every year.

Sorry folks- if you don’t like Valentine’s Day you may have to go into hiding for about a month.

This lovey-dovey day is not only one where women of all ages can look forward to receiving thoughtful gifts from their lovers; it’s also a day to appreciate those extraordinary people you have in your life. It’s not just about your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife- it’s a day to recognize all the friends and family who you love and care for day in and day out.

Personally, I make it a habit every year to send out Valentine’s Day cards to those special people in my life. I know that it’s just a piece of folded paper with a cute image accompanied by a few words and that it’s probably going to end up in the garbage a few days after the holiday, but it’s the thought that counts.

My grandmother, for instance, lives by herself and all of her children and grandchildren live at least an hour away. I feel as though if the card that I send her puts a smile on her face, I’ve done my duty (for Valentine’s Day, at least).

Besides the gratifying feeling of sending V-Day cards out to my friends and family, I also look forward to a night out with my boyfriend of four years. However cliché it may sound, a romantic dinner at our favorite seafood restaurant is definitely what tops off this affectionate holiday. You can’t go wrong with a little lobster (even though my bf always wants to order oysters.. I wonder why?)

Whether you think of Valentine’s Day as merely a holiday created for retail shops like Hallmark to take advantage of corny people like myself, or if you enjoy the sweetness of it all, just remember to recognize all the people in your life who mean something to you.

“Life’s greatest happiness is to be convinced we are loved.” –Victor Hugo

Giving more than a card and need some ideas? Check these links out.

SheKnows.com:

http://www.sheknows.com/holidays-and-seasons/articles/807286/100-romantic-ways-to-show-your-love-on-valentine-s-day

The Pajama Company.com:

http://www.thepajamacompany.com/store/home.php?cat=428&gclid=CLyFqL7xk64CFUFN4Aod8CGNKQ

Courtesy of Youtube- "Valentine's Day Gift Ideas 2012"

Leading Ladies

From Charlize Theron to Julia Roberts, female celebrities are constantly used as style icons by other less famous women like myself.

We see them glittering on the red carpet... We see them walking their dogs in Central Park (accompanied by their intimidating body guards) sporting their stylish jogging outfits... And of course we see them in glorified movies with their handsome leading man. Many of us idolize them for their confidence, poise, and of course their keen fashion sense.

Which leading ladies steal the spotlight?

I absolutely adore the "girl next door" appearance of actress, Rachel McAdams. With the release of her new film, "The Vow" co-starring the heart throb Channing Tatum, Rachel has stepped up her game, and is dressing to impress. Her natural beauty along with her carefree personality are just a few things that tweens, teens, and even mature women admire about her.
Check out this great MSN video: Rachel McAdams' Leading Lady Style

And what about someone a little bit more over the top when it comes to their fashion choices?

Beyonce, the leading lady of the girl-band "Destiny's Child" (currently a solo artist) is one woman who seems to know what she wants, and she gets it. Her style is sometimes considered risque, but overall she represents strength and drive. I'm sure she has her moments of acting like a diva just like every other female I know. Her passion for expressing herself through her music and fashion is refreshing and inspiring. You go girl!

Where did you get those shoes?!

All of us (especially women) have asked that question at least once in our lives.

I have to admit, it's more like an every day occurence for me! I have no problem approaching the stylish stranger who I've eyed across the store or where ever I happen to be and inquire about their fashion statement. Most of the time they don't mind, but there are always those incidences where the person either doesn't speak English (foreigners have great taste) or they look at me like I'm a crazy person. And unfortunately, today I had an experience just like that...

I was working my usual shift at a furniture retail shop where we get lots of upscale clientele. Celebrities are known to shop at our store all the time. There was a woman, probably around the age of 50, "click-clocking" around the store in these amazing grey suede wedges.

I don't usually wear anything with a heel since I already tower over people like I'm Shaquille O'Neal. But these wedges were only about two inches high; they were definitely do-able.

So I approached the woman and asked "Where did you get those shoes?" She turned around, scanned me up and down, and said "Oh, these old things. You wouldn't want them anyway. You're so tall!"

The facial expression she made was priceless. It was a combination of "you poor girl" mixed with a sort of disgust.

I wanted to come back with a response like, "The better to stomp on you, my dear." But since I have bills to pay, I graciously replied, "Well, you carry them off very well."

People can be mean.

I quickly got over it and moved on.