The other day, we were watching the excellent Star Wars series Andor, and were struck by an exchange between Cassian and his maternal figure Maarva. Cassian needs to leave his home planet to keep his friends safe, and asks her to come with him. She refuses, knowing her place is there. “I won’t have peace,” he tells her. “I’ll be worried about you all the time.” “That’s just love,” she responds. “Nothing you can do about that.”

What a beautiful (and succinct!) summation of an aspect of love, right? And it’s one that’s particularly resonant with parents. Anyway, we’re thinking about this because today is Valentine’s Day. And whether you enjoy, despise, or feel generally meh about the holiday, it’s nice to have a moment that prioritizes love and connection.

That’s why we’ve dedicated this newsletter to love in its many shapes and forms. Below you’ll find a writer’s musings on finding love again later in life, some letters about love from parents to partners and kids, a recipe to consider making your loved ones tonight, and some advice for getting the most bang from that bottle of bubbly. You’ll also find some sex tips because, hey, we’re all adults here. Happy Valentine’s Day.