February 14

Valentine's Day. I love it.
Aside from the history of it, I love the fact that there's a special day set aside for love. And, I have to admit, I'm a sucker for all the red and pink stuff in the stores. I know some of it is oh-so-tacky, but I like it. :-)

If I had the time, I would go crazy making desserts and decorating with hearts. Instead, we settled for attending Heart Disease Awareness Week (or something), combined with a Valentine's party at Daryl's work. At least I got to bake Mocha Truffle Brownies, which were fun to make, and a pleasure to eat. :-)
The kids had a great time standing in front of a HUGE table filled with sweets (and fruit) and picking whatever they wanted. (Yes, even Adrienne! Only her choices were slightly guided by Mommy.)

To celebrate all the love, Daryl and I cooked a special meal of linguine, Alfredo sauce, and chicken. The girls had a great time setting the table with crystal wine glasses, candles and our good dishes. Daryl and I served them individual salads and bread to start, and we enjoyed a VERY quiet and well-behaved table full of girls. Even Emilie was quiet. The girls pretended they were at a fancy restaurant and just thought it was the greatest.

Daryl was such a good sport about joining into a "formal" dinner with us, and I was very thankful for a fun hubby who doesn't think he's too macho for that. :-) After supper he made the girls steamed milk and we had lattes.

The girls had such fun and used such wonderful table manners (a rare occurrence around here) that I think I'm going to do this once a month...