Love is...

As I write this, Valentine's Day is in full swing. The shelves at a local mass merchandiser were picked over as I made my way to the pet aisle to pick up Bo's food on sale (with a $3 coupon, to boot). Vendors braved the cold to sell flowers on street corners. Tomorrow, these same flowers and candies will be on sale for half off.

Admittedly, I think that Valentine's Day is highly overrated and is basically a day used to separate us from our money in the name of love. But love is not a feeling, or a $5 greeting card, or a bouquet of overpriced buds. Love is a decision. Love is giving even when your spouse is not lovable, or even likeable (trust me, we all fit that description from time to time). Love is giving more when he or she doesn't have 50% to give, and not keeping score. Love is doing the right thing because you vowed to, through thick and thin.

Don't let February 15, 16, 17 and March 20 and October 3 go by without showing and telling your spouse why you love him or her. Ladies, tell your husband five specific reasons why you respect him (it's not as hard as it sounds). Men, show your wives your tender side; you'll be glad you did.

Cari Pemberton is a Certified Family Manager Coach and Director of Outreach and Training for Family Manager Coaching. She is the CEO to one husband, two daughters, two cats and one Labrador who thinks he is a person.