happy valentine's day!

the ever-dreaded day of love. everywhere we look, it seems cupid threw up. reds and pinks fill our eyes with hearts, candy, balloons, flowers, cards, and chocolates, reminding us single gals about our current (lack of) love life. happy singles awareness day to us!

but not this year.

you see, for as long as i can remember, i have hated valentine's day. i'm one of those people who "doesn't hate anything", except for that one day that seems to roll around faster than the length my last relationship. in my opinion, valentine's day should be changed to february 30th. that would be wonderful. in fact, look what i posted last year to my friends and family:

i was the definition of a v-day hater.

but this year is different. i am choosing to embrace valentine's day for all it's worth.
i made a list of things i am thankful for as a single gal celebrating v-day:

• i don't have to share my chocolate with anyone.
• i don't have to try to keep flowers alive by watering and what not.
• no trying to figure out what to get my significant other.
• "girls who are single have pockets that jingle."
• i can lounge in my sweatpants and messy hair while enjoying a good book.
• no waiting in line to get seated or worry about there being food in my teeth.
• i still get little valentine's gifts from my mama.
• two words: ice cream.
• did i mention chocolate?
• sweet texts from friends who know how i feel.
• no crowded restaurants filled with dudes who'd rather be at home watching basketball.
• chinese takeout and teen mom.
• chocolate.
• getting little boomer kisses.

 sweet and sour chicken & wontons! yummmm.

 red diamond tea.

 chinese & pj's.

this is the first year that i haven't uttered the words, "i hate valentine's day." i've been studying through a little 7-day devotional about dating this week. i know the Lord is changing my heart. and the fact that i can sit back and not be concerned that i am still 25 and single on valentine's day is proof. my mama is is disbelief that i am not acting like the grinch of valentine's day. what can i say? time's are a changin'.

so, single ladies, enjoy your singleness! you are lovely, beautiful, and worthy of only the best. what can be better than knowing that the God of the universe loves you? He's got you, sista. and so do i!