My Valentine's Day Tradition

Okay, it's a little early to be blogging about Valentine's Day, but I wanted to share a Valentine's Day tradition that you might actually love.  I published this post early, because pulling it off will take some planning ahead and lots of preparation.  Wouldn't it be great if you could send your special someone a greeting card that bears a postmark from Kissimmee, Florida?

This city is one of many having a special name, and whose postmark can add a touch of charm and romance to your Valentine's Day mail.  Some postmarks even say, "I love you".  How cute is that!

Here's what you do:

Send your addressed and stamped gift (or greeting card) in a separate stamped envelope to the Postmaster in the city of your choice (an envelope within an envelope if you will).



Include a note requesting the special cancelation. The postal worker will open the outer envelope, remove the contents containing the pre-addressed and stamped Valentine's Day gift (or greeting card), stamp it with the special cancelation, and then send it on its way. This is a free service.



Just make sure you adhere the correct postage.

Other cities providing special postage include:

• Lovely, KY 41231
• Lovejoy, GA 30250
• Lovejoy, IL 62059
• Loveville, MD 20656
• Loving, NM 88256
• Loving, TX 76062
• Lovelock, NV 89419
• Loveland, OH 45140
• Lovelands, OK 73553
• Valentines, VA 23887
• Valentine, NE 69201
• Valentine, TX 79854
• Romance, AR 72136
• Bliss, NY 14824

I like to send my Valentine's gifts at least 3 weeks in advance to be sure that they arrive on time. I send 3 to 4 gifts, which arrive in succession beginning somewhere around the 10th, and I usually leave a postscript from, "Your Secret Admirer". Included with each package is some sort of riddle that hints at the contents in the next parcel. The fun culminates with a final envelope on Valentine's Day, and a big reveal of the true sender. 

One year, the theme was What You'll Wear and each package had an article of clothing that I wanted Teddy to wear for our Valentine's Day evening (did I hear somebody say butt naked with a smile).  When the gifts arrive, I like to play coy pretending that I am clueless.

At the onset of this tradition, BC (before children), Teddy was flattered by the gesture. He was especially titillated at the idea of having a secret admirer--even more than he cares to admit.

So, if you're looking for something different that will likely add some flare to your Valentine's Day greeting this year, consider adding a special touch with romantic postmarks for sweethearts.