We didn't have a lot of money growing up. A testament to my mother, I was unaware of our financial situation. While I knew that she worked several jobs after my Dad left, in my young mind it was simply because she was a dedicated teacher. In the day she taught high school students. At night she would teach adult GED classes. I thought she just really loved to teach.
Growing up, we didn't celebrate Valentine's Day with candy and treats on February 14th. Valentine's Day was for school parties and cards. We didn't get our Valentine's treats until the evening of February 15th, when the "Valentine Boogie" would come before dinner and leave the surprises on our plates. Throughout my childhood, I had no idea that the Valentine Boogie was invented so that candy could be secured at 50% off. I simply accepted that Valentine's Day candy boxes were exchanged on the 15th.
I remember going to school and excitedly asking my teacher if the Valentine Boogie came to her house. I absolutely adored this teacher, so when she laughed in my face it really stung and has stayed with me 40+ years later. I still didn't know that it was unusual to exchange candy on the 15th. Instead, I assumed that the Valentine Boogie was selective and didn't visit every house. I never publicly mentioned him again although I eagerly anticipated his arrival every year.
Although it wasn't the 15th, I decided it was time to resurrect the Valentine Boogie. Last night I decorated the dinner table "Valentine Boogie style" with a basket of treats and cards arranged artfully at each place. The boys were ecstatic when they came out to dinner and discovered their surprises.
Whether or not the Valentine Boogie came to your house, I hope you had a great day!
No comments:
Post a Comment