THE HANDMADE VALENTINE

Years ago I received a care package in the mail from my late Grandma Van. In it was a handwritten letter about her adventures, a handful of photos she found of my sister and I as children, a few lotto scratch tickets and this sweet treasure... a handmade Valentine I made for her and my Grandpa many years ago. In her letter she wrote, "Brooke Leigh, you were destined to make greeting cards." It brought tears to my eyes then, and it does now as I write this post.

As a graphic designer and paper artist, I often hear my family and friends express anxiety at the thought of making a paper project for me for fear they will suffer in comparison. The thing is, I don't compare... I just love that they took the time to make something for me and express their love from the heart.

This valentine is the perfect example of sweet love. So my message here today is it's not too late, don't hold back, grab some paper, pens, paints, scissors, glue, glitter, pictures, the works... and make your loved one a one-of-a-kind, Original, valentine. And while you're at it, tell them in your own handwriting just how much you love them. It feels fabulous to give such a card, not to mention, receive such a card.

FOR THE LOVE OF PAPER Happy Valentine's Day!