My wife and I don't actually celebrate Valentine's Day. The cynic in me sees it as an over-commercialized excuse for companies to guilt us into buying cards, flowers, chocolates etc. at marked up prices. It's not that I don't love my wife or enjoy giving her gifts. (Truth be told I did buy her a couple of bags of Ghirardelli heart chocolates yesterday. The dark chocolate sea salt hearts are her current favorite.) I just don't like feeling that it's an obligation. I'm probably in the minority. Is there a Cranky Old Men Anonymous?
On a more positive note here are some Valentine related cards.
I like to play up my crankyness but I really am just a sentimental old fool. My postcard collection includes about a hundred early 20th century romantic images. I saw this one and loved illustration. It dates from around 1906.
This card actually deserves it's own post. You may see it again.
Bob Love's #10 jersey was the second in Bull's history to be retired (Jerry Sloan's #4 was first). He was a key member of the first Bulls teams I remember watching as a kid. These days he's the Director of Community Affairs and Goodwill Ambassador for the Bulls.
There have certainly been times in my life when Valentine's Day was sad and lonely.
Mr. Valentinetti turned 92 last September. As you can see Vito is in the "played on both Chicago teams" club. I think this photograph is from his time with the Cubs. He wore #57 on the North Side.
If you're alone today, have some chocolate. If you're in love, have some chocolate. Chocolate's always good. (Unless you can't eat it for medical reasons). What's your favorite chocolate?