Valentine's Day just isn't what it used to be. In previous times, about 11 Saint Valentine's Days were recognized: These were later condensed into Feb. 14. I don't know that being mayrtered is a particularly romantic concept, at least not in our modern interpretation of the word, but to each is own. Various legends sprung up around the day, of course, including one involving a St. Valentine who secretly married single male Romans when the emperor banned any marriages from taking place. As is usual with these types of stories, Valentine was caught and interrogated, and set to die. Valentine sent a note the evening before his execution, to his beloved, the jailer's daughter (who, in the original legend, he is said to have healed) or a combination of the two. The note was signed, of course, "From your Valentine."

Tomorrow is the one holiday where I have an excuse to quote poetry at length, and no one will find it particularly odd. I find it a bit refreshing. Usually, quoting Shakespeare will get me odd looks; tomorrow, I can put my English major and ability to remember (occasionally) useless quotes to good use.

I also have an excuse to lavish my loved one with gifts. Christmas and birthdays are the downfall of my paychecks. Buying presents for others is perhaps one of my major joys, and whenever I go out to get things for myself, I manage to pick something out that someone close to me would like. I can't always buy it, but I do have a list in my planner. Valentine's day, however, I can focus on buying presents for one specific person, and go all out. I, however, am the one who usually makes a big deal of the holiday, perhaps because I take any excuse to celebrate.

So, when I got to work this morning, I was surprised by flowers at my desk. Lilies, to be exact, mixed with irises. I didn't even know my boyfriend knew my work address. It was a fantastic surprise, and entirely unexpected. In addition to the lovely smell, I had the distinct pleasure of watching the flowers bloom throughout the day.

Not everyone, however, has a significant other. For this reason, I tend to prefer the South American version of the holiday, where friends are included and appreciated. Though a boyfriend or a girlfriend or a married partner is excellent, sometimes, someone standing beside you as a friend is just as good, if not better. There isn't a a "Friend's Day," so perhaps Valentine's Day should be extended to celebrate those who surround us platonically as well.

Whatever you're planning on doing tomorrow, I wish you all the sweetness of the day.