Nastrovje!*

* Pronounced Za zdorovye - Duly noted Ridiculousman

In a bid to shake off the constraints of the commercial bedlam that the day of Saint Valentine has become, Husband and I have adopted the traditions upheld by my sister Babushka and her friends. The 14th of February is also the day of Saints Cyril and Methodius - co patron Saints of Europe. These 9th century byzantines set out to Moravia and Khazaria (near Russia I hear), where, amongst other things, they translated parts of the bible to old Slavonic tongues. In honour of these two heroes of the faith, we decided to ditch the roses and over-priced dinners, replacing them with lashings of vodka, Russian caviar and general Moravian merriment. Given my current ante-natal state, I opted for mocktails. Mum, Dad and Husband enjoyed refreshing vodka cocktails with pineapple, lemongrass and a dash of cherry juice. Don't get me wrong, we are still rejoicing in the love, spreading the love and living the love this 14th of Feb, just not in the usual way :o)

This blip is a toast to you, Babushka and Ridiculousman in Moscow. Your health! Be well, be blessed, be in Love - and I am sorry to say to you that this Vodka was not served at -20 degrees. Will be sure to stick it in the freezer for the next round.

Love to you all, and goodnight x X x X x