Jewelry Store, Florist or Attorney’s Office – Which Will You Choose?

The mid-February holiday, dreaded by some, and embraced by others, has been around for a long time. I thought it would be fun to dig up some facts and legends about this holiday.

• According to legend Saint Valentine, imprisoned by Emperor Claudius II, restored sight to the blind daughter of his jailer. He wrote the jailer’s daughter a letter signed “Your Valentine” as a farewell the night before his execution. I wonder if he had a will or estate plan.
• The first recorded association of Valentine’s Day with romantic love is believed to be in the Parliament of Fowls (1382) by Geoffrey Chaucer, a dream vision portraying a parliament of birds to choose their mates.   
• For young men in love in 1797 but unable to express it, they could turn to “The Young Man’s Valentine Writer,” a publication packed with suggested sentimental verses.
• Elaborate Valentines became all the rage in England in the early 19th century resulting in a new industry; valentine factories. The valentines were made with real lace and ribbons and then with paper lace, introduced in the mid-19th century. More than 60,000 Valentine’s cards were mailed in the UK in 1835 despite postage being quite expensive.
• Giving chocolate for Valentine’s Day appears to originate in 1868 with Cadbury. They created heart-shaped “Fancy Boxes” filled with chocolates.  
• Today about 145 million Valentines are exchanged in the US alone. Over 200 million roses are purchased, and about 58 million pounds of chocolate are gifted.

I know couples who like to keep to tradition and exchange gifts like candy, jewelry, and flowers. Others enjoy a romantic evening out. As an estate planning attorney, I suggest a gift that really delivers the message of love. Far beyond roses that will die, candy that will be consumed, or even a piece of jewelry that will be rarely worn. Why not make February, the month of love, the month you review and update your will and trust? No – it’s not sexy, and your partner may not be bragging about it to their friends. But I know from experience that making sure all your affairs are in order will ensure they feel cared for and loved. And isn’t that what celebrating this holiday is all about? To be on the safe side, I’d pick up a box of candy too!
 
I’m always happy to help you review and update your will or trust. Just let me know when you want to get together.
 
Happy Valentine’s Day to everyone!