Ruby Red Running Shoes

It's ironic that one of the earliest dates I can remember with my husband, was on Valentines Day. It was way too early in the relationship to proclaim our never ending devotion. And it was too late to pretend we were a couple of consenting singles, drunk, cynical, looking to get laid.

We lived in Baltimore, Md at the time and headed to a nightclub in Fells Point. The streets were packed with couples and drunks. Groups of girls, groups of guys. But no newish couples like us. Or so it seemed. Should we hold hands? Was that too Valentinesy? Sappy? I'd already decided twice for and three times against a card. In the end thought it would seem a little desperate. Even if it was one of the funny kinds. I sort of secretly hoped for something from him though. Hoped, not expected.  A really small token. Like a non valentinesy godiva chocolate bar. Or else he'd seem too desperate.

There was steam rising from the cobblesone street as we walked along, knuckles grazing, not holding hands. It was an unseasonably warm night and really quite romantic, in the lamplight. That's when it happened. Directly in front of us.

The couple in front of us had been strolling along, engaged in easy conversation. From the looks of things, they'd been dating for years. They were clearly so comfortable together. Her hand was in his coat pocket along with his, he was keeping it warm. Their strides matched perfectly. However, the very next second he was no longer strolling beside her. In a single swift and almost ballet like movement he knelt down in front of her.  It was so abrupt that we nearly tripped over the pair.  I watched as he reached into his other pocket. The girl was so surprised, but happy surprised. She had tears streaming down her face.

"Will you..."

I never did hear the answer, though I could guess what it was. I realized suddenly that I was standing there alone. Where was my date, my future husband? He was running full speed, in the opposite direction.

Now if you ask him, he'll tell you he was walking. He simply wanted to give them some privacy. Yeah. Right. I am telling it to you straight here. The man was SPOOKED. Like a bat outta hell. I honestly wasn't sure whether to laugh or to cry. To make fun of him, or break up with him. I'll tell you one thing. I was extra glad I hadn't bought a card!

I like to retell this story every Valentines day, particularly in front of my kids.They just love this image of daddy dashing away from me on our date. Why? I don't even know! But I've long suspected that for me,  it was this initial reaction of his that turned him from a casual date into a real prospect. I could never resist a challenge.

I give my husband the same Valentine's Day present just about every year. Not a card. Not chocolate. I give him a pair of running shoes. With the reminder that it's never too late to run. But if he does, I just might track him down!

This is an original LAmomsblog post. Ciaran Blumenfeld is married to a wonderful man who no longer tries to outrun her. When she is not chasing after him and her four kids, she is busy designing, writing and telling the story of modern family life. Catch up with her on The Accidental Momfluential.