Our poor Valentines have had quite the ordeal this year. First they were painted, here, and then glittered, here. Then- just when they thought their journey was over- they were lovingly drawn upon...

...and Rubbed upon! It's quite a difficult life, I think, becoming a Valentine. Or any work of art for that matter. To be poked and prodded at, rubbed on and erased off, over and over! But, when the brushes are put down and the markers put away, I think it would be worth it. 

Because how lovely is to be admired? And these definitely were- by the artist and the recipients alike. Of course special Valentines like this couldn't go into just any envelope, especially since a certain Mama had, um, ran completely out and didn't have any on hand (ahem).

I'll do just about anything to save money- and not wrestle coats and shoes on for a mad dash to the store- so we set about making our own envelopes. I was inspired by this, but adapted it to fit lengthwise on a piece of construction paper to make it large enough to be postal friendly. 

By this time the kids were napping, so I went ahead and wrote the messages inside the envelopes. I was happy that our friends and family would get to open up their heart envelope only to find another coffee filter heart inside: A Valentine inside a Valentine! 

And then they were ready for mailing. Someday Isia will realize that Valentines can be bought at the store (with Hello Kitty on them nonetheless), and she might be less interested in us making them together. But for now I'm happy to share her simple delight in glitter, hearts, and everything pink. And to help create a little token of love for those we love best. 

Wishing you a wonderful Valentine's Day!