Release Your Inner Romance
The red, white and hearts come out full blast in February, the calendar division highlighted mid-month by Valentine’s Day, widely known as the most romantic holiday of the year.
An estimated 160 million greeting cards were mailed in celebration of Valentine’s Day in 2010, according to the Greeting Card Association, with an additional 15 million e-valentines sent online.
Americans just like to spread the love!
I’ve had my fair share of romance in the last year — I got engaged and married the love of my life — but I’ve also been fortunate to share in the happiness of other friends and family members. It seems there’s always something to celebrate — a new engagement, an anniversary, a milestone accomplishment of 55 years of marriage — and February is a special time set aside to remember those we care for.
In the good spirit of love, many of our stories this month feature the words “romance,” “couples” and “together,” and for good reason. While love is the bond that keeps couples and families together, it can take a bit of work to keep those romantic juices flowing. Fortunately, we searched throughout Kane County and found couples happily in love with stories that can help inspire us to keep our own relationships brimming with happiness.
For those just starting out in a relationship, or those looking for an extra spark to their Valentine’s Day this year, we look at ways to get in the mood with chocolate (my favorite food group), romantic restaurants and spas and more (Setting The Tone, page 22).
Do you remember your first date? Your honeymoon? The last time your significant other surprised you with a small token of his or her affection? Some couples in Kane County have made lasting memories from romantic dates, and we all could borrow a few if their ideas (Endless Love, page 24).
Couples that work out together have found benefits to exercising with one another, not only because the hour at the gym they used to spend alone is instead spent with their significant other, but also because the sharing of a hobby strengthens the bond the couple feels for each other. Why not keep that New Year’s resolution to stay in shape by working with your partner? You can hold each other accountable while spending quality time together (Twice As Nice, page 36).
And what better way to show your love than to help raise a family member? Our monthly “Success Lives Next Door” series features grandparents who are looking after their grandchildren — all in the name of love (Building Bridges, page 8).
No matter how you choose to celebrate, spark or rekindle the love in your life this February, I hope that you enjoy the opportunity to release your inner romance and spend time with those who mean the most to you.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
— Stephanie N. Grimoldby
