Thursday, February 09, 2006

Put Down the Chocolate Roses


As if you hadn't noticed, Valentine's Day is just around the corner. If the hearts, lace and roses are starting create a nauseating blur, consider some sweet alternatives.

First of all, ditch the chocolates. How special can something be when it's staring you in the face every time you go through the checkout line with toilet paper and broccoli? Instead, try something more decadent: Cheesecake. Junior's is the real deal from New York City, plus they'll ship overnight. And yes, they have a special Valentine's Day cheesecake in the shape of a heart.

After you devour something from Junior's, you'll want a relaxing, low-key activity for 2. If a hot tub isn't available, try an old-fashioned puzzle. Not the kind that come in a cardboard box with a picture of a covered bridge on the front, but a real, hand-cut wood puzzle. Keystone Puzzles in Pennsylvania makes gorgeous puzzles with specially shaped pieces. For a romantic twist, pick one with a nostalgic or Victorian theme.

Finally, flowers. The only thing more lovey-dovey than long stemmed roses? Seeds. Go straight to the heart with a packet of heirloom Forget-Me-Not seeds from Yankee Gardener that you can plant together and watch grow, like your love.

Don't forget the Dramamine.