Lots of people are put off by the commercialism of Valentines day-- the same ones who decry the commercialization of Christmas, no doubt. Here's the thing, though-- It's OK to show someone you care about them; and a lot of us do it with gifts. The bigger point, we think, is that it isn't quite so special a gift if you just go out and blindly purchase the first thing you see with hearts on it.

As with any other gift, it means a whole lot more if you put some thought into it--- and make it his or her favorite color, or scent. If you KNOW her favorite rose is orange, then send them-- don't go with red just because that's the norm. If you don't know what his favorite color is, ASK. Then tailor your gifts accordingly.

It's also OK to celebrate your love and caring all year long-- you don't need the "experts" to tell you what or when to celebrate. You can make up your own traditions to celebrate, and celebrate them how YOU want to. Do you celebrate your anniversary every month, or once a year? Do you celebrate someone's birthday month, or the day?

Our perfect valentines day looks like this: The freight comes in on time-- every flower is umblemished and usable; the staff is focused and working efficiently; deliveries are gotten out in a timely manner; every recipient is easy to find, and right where they are supposed to be; each order has all it's "parts" when it's delivered the first time around-- balloons, candy, right number of roses or other flowers.....

What does your perfect valentines day look like? Give that some thought, and make it so. If now is not a convenient time to celebrate for you and your mate, make up your own date. The important thing is to acknowledge each other, and show appreciation.

Keep blooming, everybody.