Greetings to my Best Valentine. I’m writing to you to thank you for being my best. I consider you my Valentine because it’s the season for such. Otherwise I just think of you as a loving daughter. 

I well recall that you of all my offspring were the one who loved to sit on her daddy’s lap. Your siblings like to sit there too, but you enjoyed it and were in no hurry to move on. Of course as do most cute little people you grew up to be an adult and went on about your own business as normal folks do. You could have written more often but so could have I. Most all your adult life you’ve been a half orphan, which is a pity. You have always been close at heart to me.

Time takes it toll and I was on the brink of old age when you found out the truth about me. It wasn’t that I was feeble and needed help moving about. I was still able to do all my household chores although living alone. You realized, as I did, that things would soon change, that I would soon be a hazard to myself for lack of clear sight. I would have to get assistance one way or another.

You understood my dilemma. You invited me to come and live with you, and when I hesitated you offered me a trial run. I couldn’t refuse the offer so I tried it or a month or two. You provided me with a private room where I could hang out without feeling I was interfering with your family. I didn’t have to fix my own meals. I enjoyed my stay and within a few months I sold my house and moved in with you. I surely hope you have no regrets over the deal.

Even though I had plenty of qualms about leaving the place where I’d lived comfortably for sixty years you made me feel at home. One of the first things was to get me enrolled in the life writing class. I learned that I could write stuff though it is sometimes painful to start a piece. I’ve met some interesting people in the class. You connected me with Affiliated Bind, which has been a great help. Because of their help I have aids that enable me to do a lot of things that I couldn’t otherwise do.

It enriches my life and I think yours too when we go to symphony and band concerts together. I even like to go hear your Sweet Adelines. Oh yes, I think your participation is a good thing for you. And what about those warm nights when we sit in the back yard and sing silly songs! I guess I just enjoy being around you and whether we’re singing or eating one of your fine breakfasts.

Haven’t you spread the word around among the ladies that your dad is a good hugger? That’s fine with me. At times a woman comes out of a crowd headed straight for me with outstretched arms. Don’t worry. I’ll always have a hug left for my best Valentine, Catherine.

LOVE XOXOO