Valentines Quote for the Day:
The very name of a friend can warm the heart, as mine is warmed when I hear yours.
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I have no idea who wrote this. I remember receiving a beautiful card from a dear friend when I was in my 20's that had these words. I have never forgotten them and every now and then I write it myself in cards to special people. I smile when something reminds me of most of my friends, but there are some that really warm my own heart because we have shared such fond memories together--some from long ago, others from more recent times. Some of them have made me special gifts that I still have or at least remember well.
I occasionally buy greeting cards but for the most part, I prefer to make them myself. I usually design on the computer using software, print on white cardstock and often add little flourishes like stickers, glitter, buttons, stitching and/or marker outlining. I have used Greeting Card Factory for Mac but recently purchased Print Master Platinum with a Christmas gift card and can't wait to try it out. Making cards is a bit time-consuming but the end result is always worth it. Like handwritten notes, homemade cards are rare these days. In today's busy-ness, something handmade is a treasure for most people, a unique gift in itself.
This Valentines Day I would encourage you to make something for someone --a meal, a card, a piece of clothing or accessory, record some music or your thoughts, take a photo and frame it, write a mushy letter (I love mushy cards and letters), plant flowers in their garden or give a potted plant or herbs you grew yourself. Think about what the person appreciates and let your thoughts wander over to the right side of the brain to help you be a little creative. Whenever they see your love expressed in something just for them, their heart will also be warmed remembering you. :)
