There are a few days on the calendar that are particularly dangerous for Mother Hens.

1. New Year's Eve - because we're a little shnockered and the kids are spending the night at Grandma's

2. Anniversaries - because sex is a given

3. Valentine's Day - all of the above.

You may protest "I'm done! Really!" But is that true? Do you feel that twinge when you're holding your best friend's newborn, smelling their hair? Do you get a little weepy when you're packing up those tiny onesies to bring away to Goodwill? Are your teenagers snarly and your preschoolers impossible - and you wistfully think back to those days of friends bringing supper for a month and tiny gurgly noises while you hold a soft flannel-wrapped little person?

Go ahead, blame it on your ovaries. I know I do!

Is it the champagne that convinces us to forgo the prophylactics? Are Northern Hemisphere mamas and papas cuddling together on long winter nights come Valentine's Day, and it turns into "more"? Whatever the reason, should you find yourself peeing on a stick in 3 weeks you'll be in good company.

I did some really scientific research to learn the truth of this (ok, I Googled it). Several sources claim late September to early October are the most common birth dates in the US. Do the math - that's a New Year's baby. If you were born in late October/early November, you were conceived around Valentine's Day. I counted my relatives and in-laws born between September and November and discovered that the overwhelming majority fit the bill.

Think about it! Will you double up on your protection tonight or accidentally-on-purpose get carried away in the moment?

See you in a few weeks at the back of the drugstore! I'll be the one with 6 coupons, 2 preschoolers, and a frantic look in my eye.