Love is in the air

First a little lesson about where it all came from...

The history of St.Valentine has been surrounded by mystery for centuries. 

The time of year is closely linked with romance,love and fertility. 

The first official Valentines day was in 496, declared by Pope Galasius in memory of a martyed priest in Rome.

He was known for betraying Emperor Claudius for performing secret weddings for young lovers, some were as young as twelve.

Bishop Valentine believed that marriage was a part of Gods plan.

He continued all in the name of love.

He was jailed and beheaded, but not before falling in love with the jailer's daughter.

It is believed that on the eve of his execution he gave her a note saying "from your Valentine".

This is where the tradition spread from.

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With Valentine's Day this Saturday many of us are stressed out. You may have that special person and feel pressurised to get that perfect present. 

If you are free and single you may feel hassled by 'loved up' couples flaunting it everywhere. Whichever path you are currently on you can enjoy yourself by indulging in life's simple pleasures.

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Couples

Thoughtful gifts and gestures will be appreciated more than splashing out on expensive gadgets and gifts. 

• Don't feel under pressure to buy cards,wrap,balloons and all the other commercial 'junk' shops offer. 

• A hand made card is always appreciated-you can choose exactly what you want to say.

• What really makes your partner tick? Find their ultimate vice and surprise them.(Chocolate, Jack Daniels, DVD's with Johnny Depp or even Spongebob Squarepants!)

• Cook a simple meal-it costs less than a tenner to make a smashing spaghetti Bolognese.

• Sounds so 'high school' but make them a C.D- you can put songs that are relevant to your relationship (first time you met) or just their favourite artists. Guaranteed to raise a smile and maybe more ;)
  

IT'S THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS not the pounds in your pocket.

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Free 'n' Single?

Don't feel like you have to find some one for the big VDAY-so dont jump on the first person who pays you any attention.

•  It's not just for couples. Enjoy your freedom and celebrate life! Go and have some cocktails!!

• Spend time with your best mates let them know how special they are.

•  Don't over overboard to show up those couples. A night in with a DVD and a bag of popcorn can be as much fun as hitting the town.

• If there is some one you have your eye on MAKE A BLOODY MOVE already!There's no time like the present ehy?(they can only say "well i don't feel the same" which means you can find someone else and move on...?)
  

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Valentines day is not the only time to express your love and care for someone. 

Tell your boyfriend,girlfriend or best friend 

EVERYDAY 

that you love them and love their company.

For some funky gifts and card ideas visit the clinton cards website.

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" The greatest thing you will ever learn is to love and to be loved in return"

Moulin Rouge- Christian ( Ewan McGregor)