Bring on your memories, sweet love notes, mysterious valentines, reds and pinks, flowers, first kisses, warm hugs, making clever rhymes, cutting and pasting with paper, lace and ribbons, kindnesses, and the most fun --special valentine boxes!

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Scroll down for an amazing love story, Parmalee

Nicole M. Young, MSW

I loved celebrating Valentine’s Day as a child. My favorite memory is of the Valentine’s “mailbox” that appeared every February. It was a big box that my mom decorated with colorful paper, hearts, and lace, with a large slot in the lid. My siblings and I loved “mailing” our cards to each other and trying to guess what was inside the box. Even though we knew it contained cards and candy, the anticipation and curiosity made the Valentine’s celebration — and us — feel special.

Before I had kids, I vowed to create a Valentine’s mailbox and holiday rituals that would make my own kids feel that special. However, once I became an exhausted parent, the best I could do was cover a shoebox with a few stickers. It was a simple version of my childhood Valentine’s mailbox, but somehow my young children still felt the same anticipation, excitement, and joy as they imagined what was inside the box. It was a good reminder that when it comes to love, the simplest acts often have the greatest impact.

Dear Nicole, I can barely think straight after the chaos of the holidays and the recent storms. But my kids (5, 8) have become obsessed with what they’re getting for Valentine’s Day. They’re asking for toys and video games, which seems extreme. How can I teach my kids that we can show love without giving big gifts? This tired dad could use some creative ideas. Arturo

Dear Arturo, Great question – I’m sure many other tired parents would welcome some ideas, too! So many holidays feel like a giant commercial for cards, candy, flowers and toys. It’s easy to forget the true purpose of many holidays, like giving thanks, celebrating miracles, or showing love.

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Thank you Lookout for sharing this warm story > > >

Cereal boxes and shoe boxes are easy to convert to valentine boxes, easy for small hands to cut thin cardboard, easy to decorate, a way to share one's interests and fun to make! Check out Pinterest > > >

You don't eat sweets, but have a favorite Girl Scout cookie and you like to support girl scouting programs. So, buy one, gift a friend and ask to taste one!

First, meet the cookies. Don't know a girl scout? Go here to find cookies.

Image: Raspberry Rally

This story about Kevin, aka Cole Summers online, a 14 year old boy may open your eyes to a lifestyle different from yours; cause you to rethink your ideas about family life, parenting, roles and loyalty; inspire you to gain new perspectives on your family's challenges; make you feel both sad and happy; and linger in your heart. Read Kevin's story > > >