Happy Valentine's Day

 I got this kind of scary-looking guy a million years ago on my birthday. Yep, I'm a Valentine's Day birthday girl. There was some kind of candy in it, I suppose, but I really don't remember. I've received a lot of heart-themed gifts over my many years of life, but this is probably one of the most unique.

Then there is this dress my Aunt Ruth and Uncle Mike gave me when I was a child. I have always loved it, and even though it is fragile and has yellowed, I still have it and display it each year at Valentine's Day. It has a very special place in my heart.

 And here is how I looked the year I received it, wearing it as I wait to blow out the candles on my heart-shaped cake. Yes, my mom always baked a heart-shaped cake. I loved that so!

My parents named me for my grandmothers (first and middle name, lucky me), but I almost was Valerie Harper. When I was born on Valentine's Day, my mom almost changed her mind and thought about naming me Valerie. Since my maiden name was Harper, I could have had a "famous" name. 

As difficult as some people seem to find the name Nona, I'm glad my parents stuck to their original plan. Not everyone would want it, but it's mine, thank you very much. Oh, and it's short for my grandmother's name Winona -- not for the Italian word for grandmother, as so many people have told me it means.

 I hope everyone enjoys today -- you don't have to have a sweetheart today… Just have a sweet heart inside you.