Are You Smushy... Or Not?

With Valentine's approaching, I'm wondering if you're a die-hard romantic, or if you prefer eschewing commercially-enforced love days? Bet you can guess what I am, based on how I phrased that!

As a romance writer (of a sort), I'm expected to be romantic... I guess. The truth is, I cringe writing super-smushy scenes -- that's why there aren't a whole heck of a lot in my writing. To me, the real romance lies in day-to-day gestures and actions, and not just in one day of the year when you're supposed to act all ga-ga in love. That's not to say I don't appreciate a good romantic gesture as much as the next girl (flowers! chocolate! hint, hint!), but I reckon it's empty if it's just an annual occasion.

This has got me thinking what I do find romantic: two people who choose to be together, not because they need to be, but because they want to be. And, more specifically, it's that moment when I press my freezing cold toes under Mr TR's legs at night, and he shivers but pulls me closer. Or, when he offers me the last bite of his favourite dessert.

Now that's romance!

What's real romance for you? 


(Continuing on the romance theme, I'm over on Myne Whitman's blog, talking about marriage 'n' stuff. Pop over if you get the chance!)