Surviving Valentine’s Day!

February 14, 2025

Whew, chile! I thought I would absolutely dread this day. Watching all the happy couples flood social media with their “forever love” posts while my own love story unraveled like that one loose thread on your favorite crochet cardigan—next thing you know, it’s in shambles. And yes, I know I’m dramatic, but at this point in life, I’ve fully embraced every version of myself. So, let’s get into how I magically made it through my first Valentine’s Day as a single mama!

The Countdown to Love Day (Dun, Dun, Dun…)

As February 14th crept up, I was nervous. I just knew Jesus was gonna crack the sky and catch me red-handed with all the envious thoughts swirling in my heart. Because listen, my love life? It has been giving Greek tragedy. One love story ended with a tragic burial, and the other? Well, let’s just say I got “baby mommed”—with two kids—and I’m still waiting for my Oscar because the way I’ve been acting like I’m fine? Unmatched.

So, here I am, a few days out from Valentine’s weekend, trying to prepare my heart, mind, and edges for the emotional rollercoaster… when my children’s father calls to tell me he and his mother have come down with the flu. And, of course, in classic single-mom fashion, this meant he could not get the girls for his weekend. Now, mind you, we were sick too! But do you think that changed anything for me? Nope. So there I was—calling off work, wiping noses, making soup, and being the human pillow my kids refused to let go of. They, of course, were thrilled to have extra mommy time. Me? Overworked, overwhelmed, and over it per usual.

The Unexpected Blessing in Disguise

Now, here’s the twist—I thought I was going to be drowning in heartbreak, but honestly? I felt… peace. The truth is, I’ve had more anxiety around holidays while in a relationship than I did going through this one solo. And that’s when it hit me—I was so used to being disappointed that I had already learned to expect nothing.

See, I’m a gift-giving girl okay?! I love thoughtful, intentional gifts. No price limit, just pure love wrapped in a bow. But in past relationships? I was made to feel like my expectations were “too much.” I was gaslit into believing that wanting to be cherished made me ungrateful. Meanwhile, I was over here giving my all and receiving the bare minimum like it was a luxury package. Whew.

But this year? Babyyyy, I had zero expectations. Not because I was bitter—because I was free. And instead of sitting around waiting for someone to disappoint me, I put my energy into making the day special for the two little loves of my life. Just like my mother did for me growing up, I made the girls their own little Valentine’s Day baskets. They were so excited, and seeing their joy filled my heart in ways no man ever could.

Falling in Love… With My Life

As I close the chapter on that relationship (while still navigating co-parenting with the very person who hurt me—Lord, be a fence), I feel myself slowly coming back to me. And if there’s one thing about me? I love a holiday, okay?! September 14th (my birthday) will always be my #1, with July 29th and November 2nd tied for second and third place. And let’s not forget Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s, Cinco de Mayo—okay okay, any excuse to celebrate, I’m there!

But the biggest thing I’ve come to realize? I am no longer mourning what I lost—I am toasting to what’s ahead. Life is not a “glass half empty” situation for me anymore. Nah, my glass is half full of:

• 1 ½ oz (3 parts) Tequila

• ½ oz (1 part) Grenadine syrup

• 3 oz (6 parts) Orange juice

You know, a Tequila Sunrise—because this is my new beginning.

I can either sit here crying over what should have been, or I can embrace what can be. And for my daughters’ sake? I’m choosing joy. I’m choosing balance. I’m choosing to believe that God will restore my heart and remind me what it feels like to be light again.

So yeah, I survived my first Valentine’s Day as a single mom. And guess what? It wasn’t just about surviving—I actually enjoyed it. And as 2025 unfolds, I’m looking forward to healing, growing, and falling in love with this beautiful new life I’m creating. 💕✨