Our youngest learners have a challenging time saying the word “valentine.” It comes out in several unique ways and always with a big smile! Many just give up and say “happy hearts day” instead. Such is the case when one precocious little friend climbed into my lap to share his 
thoughts today:
Child: Happy ‘Balentiney-heart’ Day, Mrs. Van!
Me: Thank you…and Happy Hearts Day to you too!
Child: Do you love me?
Me: Always and forever.
Child: But what will Mr. Van say?
Me: He’s okay with it; he knows I love all our Miller family.
Child: WOW! That’s a lotta love! 🙂
As Victor Hugo noted: “What a grand thing to be loved…what a grander thing still to love!” We are blessed everyday to work in an environment where our relationships with our learners and each other model unconditional love. Here’s hoping everyone feels this love today and every day! Happy Valentine’s Day!
Van Am Gram 
Mrs. Van:
Tell this child and all others that it is really OK. Love is better when shared, especially on Ballentiney’s Day.
Sincerely,
Mr. Van
Thanks, Mr. Van, for loving all of us unconditionally, even when the LME fire alarm goes off at 2 a.m. and you get up with me to check on things… 🙂