A FAT GIRL'S GUIDE TO LOVE:

Reflecting on love this Valentine's Day, I realize that I am a very lucky woman when it comes to love. Love is not all about hearts and flowers and romance. There are lots of different kinds of love, and I have them all.

I grew up with loving parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Being the oldest of the oldest, without cousins or siblings for 5 years, I had plenty of attention. Unfortunately everyone fed me because that was a sign of affection. So I was a chubby child with sausage curls. (Hmmm sausage curls to match the sausage body?)

My teenage years were full of angst like all teenagers. I was still fat while Twiggy was in. But I was smart and talented, too. I dated older guys because they were mature enough to see beyond my size to the person beneath.

I met my first husband, Jack, when I was 19. He was 10 years older than me. We have 2 grown children of whom I am VERY PROUD! We were married almost 24 years when he passed away.

I'm married to Charlie almost 2 years. Talk about an older man, he's the same age as my mother. But, he has the enthusiasm of a teenager, and we have a great time together!

I feel very blessed to be loved by both these men. I feel blessed to be loved and have great relationships with my children. I'm thankful that my mother is alive and in good health, as well as my wonderful aunts. I have cousins,nieces,nephews,a terrific Church family and lots of friends.

To feel love you have to open your heart and give love. (I think that line is in a song) Yes, there are risks, and sometimes feelings get hurt, but there is such a thing as FORGIVENESS. So you hug and kiss and make up.

So HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to all those I love and who love me back! And if my sister sees this blog: I LOVE YOU! I MISS YOU!