14 February 2008 - my first Valentine's Day as a dad. What does it feel like? IT SUCKS just like all the years before. V-Day has got to be the corniest day ever. For the last 6 weeks or so I had to put up with major obstructions in the form of red hearts and Valentine's Card stands in just about every shop in town. Worse still, I had to read, listen to or sit through constant reminders or ads that I'll be sleeping in the dog house should I DARE forget have a card/gift/special plan for my partner on V-Day.

Fortunately I am blessed with a wife who sees through all the corniness and who doesn't expect any kind of special treatment today. I'm also a firm believer of "Random Romance" and would give my wife flowers, gifts, cards or a special treat whenever I feel like it or when an opportunity presents itself.

I struggle to understand how any dad out there would totally buy in to V-Day (apart from in the literal sense). So today my "heart" goes out to all the dads who feel like they HAVE TO do something special to please their partner. Next year - be brave and be honest! If you don't like V-Day and think it's all bollocks - tell it like it is! Don't believe the hype and enjoy the freedom of random acts of romance.

(if you happen to own a restaurant, gift card or flower shop - sorry guys ... but I had to be say it)

-Stefan