Valentine’s Day conjures a lot of different feelings for different people, from love to resentment to indifference. This year, happily married, I find that it means more to me than simply having a significant other versus being alone, or even getting the usual trinkets, chocolates, flowers, etc. This year Valentine’s day is a celebration of the many amazing relationships that I have in my life. I am partial to my husband of course… I did get some beautiful flowers and a brand new kitchen after all! I’m sure I get some points from him too, for bearing his children and what not.
We spent this weekend with our family, as we often do. Today I was again reminded of how lucky I am to be a part of my husband’s especially large and welcoming family, who I hope I will never take for granted. We spent the morning with “Mamama & Papapa,” my husband’s grandparents. Even at their advanced age, you can find moments of intimacy between them. A hug they thought we didn’t see, or the silent understanding between them as they go about their morning. This all exists between the hearing-challenged bickering of course, which I cannot help but find cute. As we left, both gave me a big hug and kiss and told me that they loved me. I know they say it not out of habit or obligation, but because they mean it.
And of course there are our parents, cousins and siblings, who since our move from Florida have become so integral to our daily lives. I’ve maintained friendships from across the globe, having moved so frequently, but having a tight-knit community and our best friends essentially in our backyard is priceless. They care about our children, our successes and supporting each other when we need it most. You know you’re in the “crew” if you have low ball glasses dedicated to you in our liquor cabinet.
Call me crazy, but this Valentine’s Day I’m actually thinking about my staff too and the relationships that I have formed with people on my team the past few years, and the relationships that they share with each other, as colleagues and also as friends. I have never been able to completely subscribe to an “it’s just business” policy when it comes to our staff. In part due to the small size of our company, it’s hard not to get to know people well and care about them beyond what they bring to your bottom line. I’m not sure what our group dynamic would feel like if I didn’t. The general “quality of working life” seems substantial when I know that people enjoy coming to the office every day, happy to be a part of the Pearse Street family and work as a team through our highs and lows together. The past few months, we’ve been able to support each other through some trying transitions, with great success and at this point I feel that our team is closer and more focused and capable than ever.
It’s probably the hormones, but I love everyone today. I’ll even give a shout out to the office kitties. Seriously though, I believe there is something to be said for following your heart when, for me, it has brought so many wonderful people into my life. My husband, my children, my best friends, my family, my Pearse peeps. I hope today you’ve had time to look around and appreciate those people in your life too.
