Links to Help You "Feel the Love"…or Not

Well, it’s getting to be that time again. Christmas has come and gone and taken our money with it, and New Year’s resolutions have found their way back into the deep recesses of our minds. Perhaps you’re looking for your next holiday fix. If that is the case, then it’s time to once again indulge in the emotional cataclysm that we fondly refer to as Valentine’s Day. Don’t have a Valentine this year? No problem! Let UNP be your date! And in lieu of gushing profession-of-love cards, long-stemmed roses, and chocolate candies, we offer you, dear reader, this simple gift: Ted Kooser. 

New this month from the University of Nebraska Press, Valentines by Ted Kooser is a collection of Valentine poems that have already graced the mailboxes of 2,500 women across the United States. Beginning 22 years ago with only one poem sent to fifty lucky ladies, Kooser has since garnered the reputation that so called “romantic” men all over the country have been vying for. So while we contend that this book is guaranteed to bring a tear to even the most calloused eye, just in case you’re still a bit skeptical of the beloved holiday, here are a few links to help you "open your heart" to the idea of Valentine’s Day.

Ever wonder what Valentine’s Day is really about? History is always the best place to look! Valentine was a priest who defied a Roman Emperor in the name of love. For all the juicy details, check out "The History of Valentines Day" on History.com.

Sitting at home, curious as to whether everyone is in love but you? Perhaps also fuming over the capitalistic influences making prices on candy, teddy bears, and all things red and heart-shaped skyrocket? Well don’t just wonder, find out on the U.S. Census Bureau Web site.

Not feeling romantic this year? Well it turns out, neither were Al Capone and Bugs Moran on Valentine’s Day, 1929. To read more about the Prohibition era St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, check out Wikipedia for a quick synopsis.

Looking for that link between love and politics? (We’re talking to you, bickering presidential candidates!) Well have no fear because Hallmark has found it!  Check out their Web site to view the new “Political Figures” Valentine’s Day cards. They’re a fun way to demonstrate your love and patriotism!

Finally, are you curious as to what kind of man sends Valentine’s Day poems to women all over the United States? Find out more about the former U.S. poet laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner, Ted Kooser at his Web site and get ready to fall in love (with his poetry, that is).

We hope these links have helped you “feel the love” for Valentine’s Day. If not, we’ll try again on St. Patrick’s Day. 😉

Happy Thursday, bloggers!