Do you remember the thrill of getting a handmade Valentine from a crush when you were younger?  I can distinctly remember covering a Quaker Oats tub in red construction paper and doilies, with a generous ’slot’ cut from the top, and watching in sheer joy as it filled with Valentines from my classmates, and of course, from my childhood crush.

This Valentine’s Day, the Children’s Art Project at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is making it easy to rekindle this cherished tradition and surprise loved ones with its new line of greeting cards. Gone are the doilies and glitter, but the same love was poured into each of the 2008 Valentines designs that feature the artwork of pediatric cancer patients.

And here’s some fun Valentines Tips from The Children’s Art Project’s young artists:

Not sure what to say?  In Valentines, hearts speak louder than words. Romika an 11-year-old Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia patient confirms a good Valentine has “hearts everywhere.” All agree to keep the message simple with an “I love you” or “Will you be my Valentine?”

The lucky ones to get a Valentines?  Joseph, age 10, who is undergoing treatment for osteosarcoma insightfully says send it to the “special one.” Shelia, age 15, adds, “Brad Pitt - he’s so cute. I really like the power that you can send a Valentine to anyone.”

Think a 41-cent stamp cramps its style?  Zoe, age 13 and an Acute Myelogenous Leukemia survivor, offers, “Make it a surprise and leave it at their door; ring the doorbell and run away.” She admits surprising someone in person with a Valentine is just as good.

All proceeds from the sale of these products fund programs to make life better for children and families touched by cancer.

Visit ChildrensArt.org to purchase these and other fun gift items that benefit this wonderful organization.