Happy VD! Would You Rather Have Chocolate or Gold?!?

Growing up, Valentine's Day was not just for lovers -- it was for me from mom.  Previous recitations would suggest that mother's interest in Valentine's Day culinary delights might be minimal, if existent at all. True, this.  I do not remember a Valentine's Day meal ever being prepared, either for my father or for the family.  Siblings may correct if their memories differ. Mom always acknowledged the day with a Russell Stover Heart or Whitman's Sampler Heart, or whatever, 6-8-10 candies and a card, but I guess she noted my indifference to sweets at some point and one Valentine's Day in either my 10th or 11th year, instead, I woke up to a small jewel box containing a gold, filigreed heart pin. How could she know it would take my breath away, or did she just get lucky? I continue to be a sucker for quality bling.

I wore that small gold heart frequently, mostly on my sleeve (for real!) for years, and when I went to college it mysteriously disappeared along with a fantastically exquisite green silk blouse. I say mysteriously because I never caught Amy (Yeah, I'm naming names -- girlfriend NOT!), the suitemate who everyone knew wasn't quite on the up and up, mostly because she (ineffectively) tried to steal boyfriends, and was found slinking amongst dorm rooms...A piece of my heart went with mom, and her gold heart is gone, but that's ok, because the heart is a muscle and it can repair and strengthen, and has the amazing capacity to grow as long as your mind and your arms are open wide.A Note From Chef LoriHearts aren't just for Valentine's Day - you can order Lula's "Heart's Afire" anytime - 5-Spice Quail Breast in Puff Pastry with Wilted Mustard Greens, Pomegranate and our Secret Spicy Sauce!Click here to visit Lula's website!