At first blush, a heart in the sand can seem very romantic-- but then there's hesitation: Won't the tide come and erase this message? Or the wind tear it until nothing remains?

That is all true. But good romance is hardly ever effortless- this message could be preserved, but it would take work, the same kind of dedication a relationship itself is going to take if it's going to be the sharing and nurturing and rewarding and happy affair we all dream of.

And whether you write hearts in the sand, save ticket stubs, or exchange rings, take care not to confuse the symbols with the romance itself.