Monday, February 14, 2011

My Funny Valentine

What a difference a year makes. One trip around the sun ago, Hubs and I trudged through our snowy driveway, dressed in our finest, to enjoy one of the most memorable meals we've ever shared, at Asheville's The Admiral. We stashed our "fancy" shoes in a satchel and made our way down the snow-covered dirt road in snow boots, guided by the dim glow offered by a fading flashlight and a sliver of moon. Once at the car, we changed into heels and loafers and set out for an epic evening.

A year later, we're enjoying over-easy eggs on rye bread with strong coffee at home in our p.j.'s with our favorite Valentine. In our home, gestures of love happen on a daily basis. They come in the form of a scratch-made plate of the best sloppy joes you have ever tasted (made with local pastured beef and served alongside purple sweet potato fries, to boot!). They're evidenced in freshly laundered clothing lovingly folded and put away. They remember each others preferences, predilections, strengths and assets and capitalize on them.

Sure, there are profound, grandiose, sweeping gestures of affection. And they're mighty appreciated. We love the little things the best, though. The hot mug of tea or coffee made every morning, doctored up in just the way he likes it. The delicious stews, seasoned with my favorite herbs. The small measures because, you know, that's what it's all about.

From we three Englishes, with love.

*Thanks to my abiding, oh so dear, much adored friend Bonner for the adorable onesie Huxley is sporting above, pictured with his Gigi (my mom) yesterday.

8 comments:

Morgan G said...

Happy Valentine's Day to you and your gentlemen, Ashley! Enjoy.

Alison said...

I think it is LOVELY that you brought along some fancy shoes to change into after trekking through the snow!

Freshly folded laundry...now that's LOVE!! That's what I want for Valentines day!!!

KT @ KT's Refinishing School said...

Happy Valentine's Day!

Beautiful prose, as always. Your line about folded laundry is a good reminder for me that even tasks I don't enjoy doing (especially laundry) can be acts of love. Thanks for the friendly reminder :)

elisa said...

so lovely. i love the little things too. x x

Shannon Mac said...

Such a lovely Valentine :) Though I have to admit, The Admiral ain't too shabby either!

Jess Roy said...

Lovely! That onsie is darn cute...and so is your little one. :) Hope your Valentine's Day is fabulous!

jenny said...

A very lovely valentine indeed! Love to you. Oooh and could you share the sloppy joe recipe, pretty please?

ashley english said...

jenny-recipe forthcoming, with a photo! soon! promise!