DAY 18: Valentine's Day

The most commercialised day is upon us.  Almost every shop I’ve been into this week has been exaggeratedly decorated in red, urging you to spoil the one you love.  As children, we were often caught up in the hype of this well-marketed event, often suggesting to our father that he should get something special for mom.  He often relied on the cliché that, “one did not need a specific day to prove his love.”

My sister and I would find it difficult to grasp such an insensitive opinion, and often blamed my father’s response to his traditional (sometimes ignorant) Cypriot upbringing – unaware of the importance of western traditions.

Admittedly, before the novelty of Valentine’s wore off, I was caught up in the magical lovey-dovey images of hearts, candy and cupid.  In fact, I even proposed to my wife on this day, slipping my question into a fortune cookie at a Chinese restaurant in Johannesburg. 

But sixteen years into my marriage, I am inclined to agree with my father.  My wife and I have celebrated Valentine’s Day in the past, bringing all the proverbial gifts to the party: chocolate-coated strawberries, antique-silk roses, an intimate evening at our favourite restaurant, or even a weekend trip to a seaside resort and spa.

But the reality lies within our pockets at the moment.  The unfortunate economic climate dictates the quality and quantity of gifts brought to the table. 

So, instead of a shrimp cocktail entrée, Duck a l’Orange (as a main meal) and Crème Brulee for dessert, we will have to settle for grilled chicken breast and chocolate-coated digestive biscuits with coffee.  Not quite what I had in mind, but at least it’s within budget.

As for the diet, I am well within my limits; but if my wife decides to add more to dessert, I will ecstatically accept.  If not, I will resort to the erotic romance waiting patiently for me on my nightstand; Fifty Shades of Grey, and enough steam to encourage Valentine’s on a regular basis.

Weight for me tomorrow. Paul

Paul Lambis is the author of “Where is Home?” – A journey of hilarious contrasts.  
For more information on Paul Lambis, and to order his book online, 
visit www.paul-lambis.com