Valentine's Day

Let's be honest. Valentine's Day was created by Hallmark. There is really no other explanation for it. And because I have a husband (and for five years prior to that, a boyfriend/fiance) who is very anti-Valentine's Day because of all the commercialism, we pretty much never celebrate (he argues that he doesn't like being told that he has to be romantic). Which is fine with me. Because by the time February 14th actually rolls around, I'm pretty sick of all the pink and red and love and gifts and articles that have been displayed ad nauseam for at least the month prior. In fact, for our first Valentine's Day, Darrell went out and bought one of the sappiest Hallmark cards he could find, crossed out all the romantic words, and replaced them with negatives and insults. Good thing we share a sense of humor. Although I do look forward to the post-Valentine's Day sales on all those delicious chocolates.


However, one thing that has become tradition around Valentine's Day is the Johnny Holm's Dance at the El Riad Mosque. We've gone the past four years (you have to be 21 to attend), and it's always a blast. Literally. They sell the place out weeks in advance (and capacity is around 1100), and everyone who is there is always out to have a good time (makes for some prime people-watching). This year was a little different because Darrell joined the Shrine unit (the Fife and Drum) that hosts the event, so he had to be there early, stay late (he didn't get home until 2:30 AM!), and work during the event, but he made sure to get away as often as he could to dance with me, especially when he knew one of my favorite songs was being played. Rather than narrate the whole night I figure I'll just post a couple pictures!

Macy (my brother's girlfriend), my sister Amanda, and myself

Cupid makes an appearance every year (and unfortunately--or maybe intentionally--the photographer cut off Cupid's diaper!)

I had to steal my busy worker away for at least one photo!

Everybody loves a little Johnny Holms--I know it's not the best picture, but that dance floor is PACKED!