Backdraft #12: Strawberries Instead of Flowers

Drafted on February 14, 2006

I bought strawberries as a special treat for the kids on Valentines Day – a “treat” because strawberries are not particularly inexpensive this time of year.

I took out the strawberries to rinse, and I heard such a squeal of delight come from the below the counter. It was Olivia – “OOOH, yummy strawberries! I looooooooooove strawberries.” When did she stop calling the “strawbabies”?

In a nurturing maternal voice reminiscent of June Clever I warmly noted, “I got these for you for Valentines Day instead of flowers – because I know you love them so much.”

With a tone of pure joy she gasped, “Yeah, and you can't EAT flowers!