Softly before I scream

I'm not sure why I'm so apathetic toward Valentine's day; I haven't been single once on February 14th in the last 7 years, but still I can't make myself get excited about it. I'm not even sure what I'm doing tonight to celebrate. Hm.

I just think the simplest gifts are the best ones, not the gifts you feel obligated to give. Chocolate, teddy bears, flowers, you can have 'em -- well, no, I'll take that chocolate off your hands.

I was asked recently if I'd ever been to the most over-hyped restaurant in Dallas. I said yes, that an ex had taken me for my birthday 3 years ago. "That guy likes to feel important, huh?" he said. Bingo. Is it that I can't discern whether all the uncomfortable Valentine's Day attention is to make me feel special, or just to impress upon me that you're some kind of baller to whom I should be greatful for giving me the time of day?

All these scripted acts of affection can't be replaced by true, raw appreciation of a person...and you shouldn't need a special day for that.

Are you ready for some football?

Do guys in Seattle even know how to play football? Or are they too busy eating sushi and sitting in the coffee shop at REI reading books about sports? I predict: One shiny gold ring for the Bus. Go Steelers!!