Stuart's Web Log (blog)

2 February

We have had a stay of execution, so to speak. Incorporation has been put on hold until the end of the financial year, which means I have a job for a little longer. Its good because I still have no idea what I am going to do about that.
There is also a good chance that there will be better incentives for us as well... Stay posted!!!

I take Emily and James swimming just about all the time at the moment.
They love the water and are getting so much better at swimming, they both can swim to a degree, Emily is a little better than James, but what he lacks in ability he makes up in his total lack of fear.
His lack of fear means I have to have the fear for him. It's a full time job watching him at the pool. The latest escapade it to jump off the diving platforms in the main pool. Not that it is high, although for them, I guess it is, the trouble is, Jamie will jump when you are not ready for him.
Always vigilant Top

12 February

I haven't written anything for a few days, about 10 actually so I thought it was time I did, and I can't think of a more appropriate subject to talk about than the impending Valentines day.
What exactly IS valentines day?
Apparently it was a good excuse for a certain American greetings card company to promote it as a day for lovers so they can sell cards in the post Christmas lull. Of course everyone else jumped on the bandwagon and the rest is history.
Yes I know there is a legitimate cause to celebrate the day, I know there was a Saint Valentine, but really... That's not the point I am trying to make.

So what is so wrong with Valentines day?
I have three main concerns.

The first one is, it lacks spontaneity. Is it really romantic that your significant other has got you chocolates and is taking you out to dinner? If this is unusual for your partner to do then you probably should feel insulted. They are taking you out, or buying you things, because they have been subjected to business propaganda, not because they are thinking about you.

Secondly, it allows people to equate material objects to how much someone cares for you. 'Oh, but if you loved me you WOULD buy me that lovely 1.5 carat diamond set in solid gold'

Lastly, it isn't a great feeling if you are lonely and don't get a Valentine. Even worse if you get rejected by someone you sent one to.

So I say this to you. Reject Valentines day, take your partner out on a different day, unexpectedly buy flowers on some random day of the week, and whatever you do, don't buy a card... It is the hallmark of rampant commercialism.
Suffering 14 Feb cynicism Top