Valentine’s Day Brings Happiness, Lots Of Advice

“Kiss Me!” says this Valentine balloon.

The usual gang at Turnage Drug Store held a romance round table last Saturday as they shared their opinions of Valentine’s Day. They are (from left) Jim Oakley, Jim Allen, Jerry Daum, Taylor Williamson, and Curtis Dennis. – Photos by Jack Gurner

Cupid comes in many forms and Kenny Burrowes played the role last Saturday as he delivered for his wife’s business, Doris’ Flowers and Gifts. He is about to surprise Barbara Durdin at Sartain’s Home and Auto.

Catherine Hill, eight-year-old daughter of Bonnie and Ricky Hill, took her time selecting just the right stuffed toy to give her big sister, Peyton, for Valentine’s Day.

By Jack Gurner
Reporter

WATER VALLEY – Love was in the air this past weekend as sweethearts celebrated Valentine’s Day.

But, not everyone has the same opinion about the traditional day of romance. And, it appears that feelings are pretty evenly divided depending on gender.

Mandy Sartor was shopping at The Velvet Glove on Main Street Saturday. When asked for a comment on Valentine’s Day, she smiled and said, “It’s a special day set aside to remember those you love and care for deeply.”

Meanwhile, Andrew O’Kelly was checking out his purchase at the front of the store. He held a colorfully wrapped gift basket that included a red “love” balloon. His take on the day: “You better get something before you get in trouble.”

Anna Williamson, 14, who was helping out in the gift shop, said that she enjoyed Valentine’s Day. “I like to get the balloons and the presents and the flowers.”

Not far away a wise and experienced university student was sharing his romantic knowledge with a male shopper who was trying to decide how many roses he should buy. “One is good,” said the college man leaning confidently on the counter.

Women within earshot rolled their eyes.

Just down Main Street at Doris’ Flowers and Gifts, David Burns was buying a full bouquet. “Keep momma happy and everybody is happy,” he said.

Hannah Higdon, 9, had been looking around the store with her granddad, Jerry Hill. She had decided on flowers for her Mom, Margaret. “We can’t find a flagpole, so we’re getting some flowers,” Hill said, explaining that Margaret needed a new flagpole. Hannah just grinned.

Near the front window Catherine Hill, 8, was looking for a stuffed animal for her big sister, Peyton. She said that Valentine’s Day was nice and she enjoyed giving and getting gifts.

Further up Main Street at Sartain’s True Value, Barbara Durdin said she was very surprised as a gift basket and box of candy were delivered compliments of her husband. “He told me he wasn’t going to buy anything,” she said.

And, back down the street at Turnage Drug Store, conversation at the soda fountain tables took a turn toward Valentine’s Day. The ladies were gathered at one table and the men at another.

Clara Spence shared a comment made by her husband, James. “He said it is just another day you have to buy a girl something.”

The other ladies nodded their heads in sympathy.

At the men’s table, Jerry Daum said that he didn’t celebrate Valentines Day. “Every day is Valentines Day for Margaret and me.”

His comment drew chuckles from around the table.

Jim Allen injected, “Peace at home is worth a whole lot.”

“If you treat her right all the time, you don’t have to worry about that,” said Curtis Dennis.

Taylor Williamson added, “It’s great for your wife.”

The other men nodded their heads in sympathy.

But, there may still be hope for the next generation. One of the ladies pointed out Michael Davis, 11, who was holding a stuffed cat and heart shaped balloon as he shopped.

When asked what he thought about Valentine’s Day, Michael said, “It’s a day when you show your love for other people.”