I remember back in grade school, we’d spend a couple days before V-day decorating tissue boxes. Then the teacher would set them on the window sill, and V-day, we’d each go around dropping cards into friends’ decorated boxes.

There would be lots of treats, provided by parents, and a lot of fun for all or most all. I remember one boy in school hurrying before class started to get his v-day cards ready. This was very important stuff for 1st and 2nd graders and excitement charged the air.

I think what sticks in my mind is him trying to get the perforated cards off the sheet. (Do some still come that way?) My mom always bought separate cards with envelopes for me, and she also “helped” make sure each was addressed and ready to go before we left the house.

This boy was on his own, and clearly having a helluva time of it. The teacher finally pitched in and helped him get his cards singled out, but man that had to be frustrating for him. Embarrassing too.

I’ve always wondered why his mom (or dad) didn’t help him the night before. Why they bought cards that were tough for a kid to separate. I wonder if the memory of that one v-day sticks with him as well. I doubt I’ll ever know.

Happy Valentine’s Day!