5 Great Valentine's Ideas for Guys' Eyes Only!

OK, guys, it’s Thursday, and Valentine’s Day is Monday. That gives you plenty of time for that well-planned gift idea that will make her heart melt. Now don’t give us any guff about “I don’t need the greeting card companies to tell me when to tell her I love her.”

Wanna bet? Here’s five ideas that go beyond the usual.

1) Make her a gift. has a huge selection of neat stuff that you can personalize just for her. The staff there will work with you and teach you how to paint heart shaped coffee mugs, ceramic shoes, and huge plates. They will even schedule a session on the potter's wheel a la Ghost! The stuff can then be fired and ready in a day or two, and Lisa Barrios says she’ll even be there on Monday to deliver stuff hot from the kiln. This is also great for the kids to make something neat for mom and grandma! 

2) will bake you an individualized heart-shaped cake (go for the chocolate--DUH!) and have it decorated in two days' time. They are closed Sunday, so you do have to plan ahead a bit. Get in there ASAP and place your order. 

3) Speaking of chocolate, there is a new place in Old Town, the Candy Connection. It’s right next door to which has a bunch of neat “stuff” and cool cards that she is sure to like!--and just opened up this past week. They’ve been in business for almost 30 years in Covina and just moved here. Tasty hand-made confections say far more than that heart-shaped box of stuff you spied at the gas station! 

4) will set you up with the perfect combination to dazzle your honey. They specialize in matching terrific wines with great cheesy comestibles. A nice cozy fire, the above mentioned chocolate, a cup of wine, a wedge of brie and …

5) Sometimes, the old stand-bys are just what you need. Flowers, especially roses, are a sure fire hit. So , one of the city’s oldest businesses and the place. You might want to order a bit early, but we were assured  that they will have a plentiful stock of roses and other great choices on hand.

So there you have it. No excuses. The pressure is on: You know what’s expected, just do it. And, by the way, remember, sexy lingerie is a gift for you, not really for her. Trust me, after 30 years of marriage, I’ve learned that one!