That Kind of Girl

by Megan Hussong

I am that kind of girl. The kind that spends an hour painting miniature pink hearts on each fingernail. The kind who channels her inner Celine Dion in the shower. The girl who can’t resist dropping $2.50 for giant “I ♥ U” shaped cookie cutters.

Yep. I’m a romantic, and I celebrate holidays to the brink. I distinctly remember Valentines Day in 8th grade. You know that age – the age when friends get their first serious boyfriends, when giving cards to classmates becomes outdated, and when “real” Valentine’s Day gifts start counting. It’s also the time when not having a boyfriend makes you feel completely out of the loop.

But I had a remedy – Valentine’s Day was not going interfere with my fun. So I painted those hearts on my nails. I wore a red shirt, crafted cards for my parents, and made a V-day themed lunch. I exchanged candy with my friends at school and pushed thoughts of boys out of my head. Then the girl at the locker next to mine received a big bouquet of roses from a secret admirer, and that was the end of my happy little bubble. At some point in every girl’s life, a similar situation contributes to a less-than-stellar Valentine’s Day.

To all the ladies who relate all too well – just hold on! Please don’t put too much stake in Valentine’s Day. It only creates disappointment. Instead, take the day for what it is worth: a fun holiday and an excuse to eat great candy. So make those Valentines. Tell your parents how much you love them. Hide a surprise in your best friend’s purse. Whatever you do, don’t let cynicism trump romanticism. It might not be this year. It might not even be in high school or right away in college.

But someday, your dream will happen. You will find the guy who makes you feel beautiful every single day. It will be the guy who takes you to your favorite restaurant, just because. Every day will feel like a holiday because he loves you so much.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t define the meaning of love – it’s simply an opportunity to showcase it.