Happy Valentine’s day everyone! We all celebrate this day with our significant others, but do we even know the history behind it? I’m not so sure we even want to after researching. Here are some interesting tidbits –

1. The ancient Romans may be responsible for the name of our modern day of love. Emperor Claudius II executed two men — both named Valentine — on Feb. 14 of different years in the 3rd century A.D. They were beaten, stoned, and beheaded for the crimes of marrying Christian couples.

2. As the years went on, the holiday grew sweeter. Chaucer and Shakespeare romanticized it in their work, and it gained popularity throughout Britain and the rest of Europe. Handmade paper cards became the tokens-du-jour in the Middle Ages.

3. Eventually, the tradition made its way to the New World. The industrial revolution ushered in factory-made cards in the 19th century. And in 1913, Hallmark Cards of Kansas City, Mo., began mass producing valentines. February has not been the same since.

Probably not as romantic of a history lesson as you were hoping for, but I hope you all have a special Valentine’s day!

Over the weekend my girlfriend (Sarah) and I went to see the movie "Lady Bird". We heard only good things about the movie and that it was filmed right here in Sacramento, so it was only a matter of time until we had to see it. Needless to say, it was a powerful and well put together film (highly recommend). Sarah and I live in the city, so it was awesome to recognize so much of the movie's scenes throughout. One location in particular, the McKinley Rose Garden (pictured above), is a place Sarah and I visit frequently and is featured in the movie.

Whether you're a Sacramento local or not, I hope this encourages you to go out and see this film!

Redmond Gerard, a 17-year-old from Ohio, won the first gold medal for the United States this year. This snow-stick gypsy went from last place loser to first place stud with his last epic run, making him the youngest American male to medal at the Winter Olympics since 1928. Redmond is also the first medalist born in the 21st century. Originally born in Ohio, his parents moved him and his 6 brothers and sisters to Colorado when they noticed his natural talent to shred. This is also in the same weekend as Chris Mazdzer making history by becoming the first American to win a medal in men's singles luge, and Mirai Nagasu made history Monday when she landed a triple axle during her ice skating performance. Not to mention a second gold medal Sunday night for team USA is making this year of the Winter Olympics very exciting!

P.S. send it!