Discussing
Valentine's Day dinner deals and true romance

Women shouldn't let romance movies distort their relationship expectations in the same way that men shouldn't let magazine celebrities distort their expectations of women's beauty. Both are fantasy. If either are relied on, people are going to be disappointed and unhappy.

I think the story of Ruth and Boaz is incredibly romantic. In it both Ruth and Boaz are heroes and rescuers. Their love grows from mutual respect and admiration. The part where Ruth lies down at Boaz feet just melts my heart. I like to imagine that throughout their married lives she did that from time to time.

This Valentines my husband is taking me out to the same Italian restaurant we went to last year (cliche, I know). It doesn't have to be the ubiquitous pasta and flowers, but I think there are all sorts of romantic symbols in relationships, little traditions and seemingly meaningless banter that uniquely translates for each couple into "I still want to be with you."