Love Stuff!

Best Love Quotes: Shakespeare

2018-02-10T04:57:00.000-06:00

From Shakespeare's Twelfth Night:

"If music be the food of love, play on!"

Love is Lame: Shit Bitch You Are Fine!

2018-02-08T16:24:00.000-06:00

Hey, I'm old! Everybody in the world has probably seen the cute little teddies that say "Shit Bitch You are Fine!" except me. But they are SO cute!

Find this bear and more at Love Is Lame (and also at Amazon).

You can find this Love is Lame Shit Bitch bear HERE at Amazon.

Berries and Chocolate for a Valentine's Day Dessert

2015-02-12T19:07:00.004-06:00

It seems to me that any Valentine's Day dessert needs to include chocolate, berries of some kind, and some kind of cream. Try this fairly simple Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake.

Posted by Kris Maks HERE.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup chocolate cookies
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 packages, one pound Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup caster sugar (Fine sugar or baker's sugar.. but not powdered sugar. Granulated sugar can be processed through a food processor if you can't find "fine sugar")
1 cup milk chocolate, melted
1/2 cup cream
3 cups frozen raspberries
Fresh raspberries and chocolate for decorating (as desired- See picture)

Instructions:

Step 1

Place chocolate biscuits into a food processor and process to a fine crumb. Add butter and mix together. Press into the base and sides of a lightly greased 8 inch springform pan and chill.
Step 2

Beat Philly cheese and sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth. Beat in melted chocolate and cream until well combined. Fold through frozen raspberries.
Step 3

Pour into the prepared crumb base and refrigerate until set. Serve topped with fresh raspberries and shaved chocolate.

(This recipe was found at a weight loss site on Facebook.)

My Girlfriend Is Going To Dinner With Another Guy on Valentine's Day!

2015-02-12T02:11:00.005-06:00

From Yahoo Answers:

"Girlfriend going to dinner with another guy on Valentine's Day?"

We've known each other for 4 years. Been talking for past year and a half. I've been in the navy for the past 2 years. We finally decided to start flying and seeing each other. We really fell for one another and decided to commit. Today she is going to dinner with her male personal trainer. I told her to have fun. I hate being controlling but I'm pretty irate.

Any advice?

Of course I had advice for this man!

I'm really sorry, but Valentine's Day is ALWAYS reserved for the person you are closest to. I think you have a big problem here, sailor. (My husband is a Navy vet by the way- Thank you for your service!)

But there is not much of a commitment if she is going out to dinner with somebody else on Valentine's Day.

I know this must be really, really heart-breaking for you, but you've got to face facts: Something here is really, really wrong.

If you continue this relationship, you may be in for years of misery. I hate to say it, as it sounds as though you really care for her, but it's time to pull the plug.

Valentine's Day Around the World (Updated for 2014)

2013-02-12T15:06:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Day Around the World
A great series of pictures of people celebrating Valentine's Day everywhere in many different ways. Published in Christian Science Monitor in 2012...
In Slovenia:

In Thailand:

Valentine's Day in Thailand. Click HERE for the whole gallery.

Click on the link for the whole gallery from CSM: Pictures from Pakistan, Egypt, Slovenia, the UK, the US, and many other countries.

Starting a Romance: One Rose or a Dozen?

2013-02-11T04:40:00.000-06:00

From Smell-the-flowers blog

From Yahoo Answers:

Should I get a girl who I'm not even dating a present for Valentine's Day?

Ok, so I've liked this girl for ages now... She doesn't know.. I don't think.. We're not really even friends either more like acquaintances.. I'm friend with one of her best mates but I've not plucked up the courage to actual speak to this girl... Ive liked her for about 6 months now and cant seem to get her off my mind... She is 18 and I'm 25 also I don't think that's an issue but others think it might be?

I was thinking about getting some white roses and a nice bit of jewelry sent to her house on Valentine's Day... (Anonymously also)

Any advice would be appreciated...

To clarify, I really want to... But I guess I'm being a wimp.. Girls hey! The handful of friends I've spoke to about the are torn between some saying a little over the top and some saying go for it... That's why I'm here...

My answer:

Valentine's Day is the perfect time to kindle romance. But be very, very subtle. I actually think that ONE perfect rose might be a better gift than a dozen roses or jewelry..

I wouldn't send her jewelry unless you were really dating her.. Right now you just WANT to date her. So be subtle.. ONE rose.. White, red, perhaps an unusual color.

Here's more about a gift of a single rose: A single rose

And, just for your reading pleasure, here's a great blog about roses...and all flowers: Smell The Flowers (Roses)

Celebrating Anti-Valentine's Day... Not (Updated for 2014)

2013-02-10T21:47:00.002-06:00

Broken heart image found HERE

Apparently many people really do hate Valentine's Day and there is a large (and growing) subculture of anti-Valentine's people.

The Christian Science Monitor captured the feel of the anti-Holiday in 2012:

Fed up with the romantic industrial complex, oops, Valentine’s Day? Don’t want to be among the Americans who fork over $17.6 billion for everything from flowers to chocolates to, well, whatever else retailers can emblazon with hearts and seductive sayings?

Join the growing crowds of Valentine’s Day protesters. This contingent has its own guide, “The Anti-Valentine’s Handbook” by J. More, not to mention numerous websites, such as meish.org, that suggest how to spend the day. Tips include the ebulliently juvenile – think taking old photos of an ex and decking the person out with fake mustaches and the like.

Or, compete online for the worst-nightmare date scenario. An early entry on Squidoo.com recounted a foray to a local petting zoo where not only was the writer jumped by a filthy-footed goat, but her date was spit on by an angry llama.

Anti-Love Songs

Anti-Valentine's Day should be celebrated with such songs as "Love Stinks" or "You're No Good", according to the anti-Valentine's contingent.

I was really surprised when I found dozens of anti-Valentine's Day song lists after a quick Google!

"Tainted Love" is mentioned, and another I didn't think of: "Every Step You Take" by The Police.. It's a stalker song, as pointed out by Jeannie at hubpages. Hmm... I missed that in the many thousands of times I heard that song, but, yep, it sure is: "Every step you take I'll be watching you", and "You belong to me."

Now, to my mind, "anti-Valentine's Day songs" aren't about broken love but about cynicism about love. The following lists, however, contain odes to broken love, crazy love, love gone bad, and other kinds of not-love.

If you are looking for a few great anti-Valentine's Day songs, here are a few lists to start with, then add your own:

Jeannie in a Bottle's hubpages Best Anti-Love Songs for Valentines Day
Ten Intense Songs; None of Which I have Heard of at Loudwire (includes "Die, Die My Darling" and "I know You are F#cking Someone Else")
Readers choose their favorite un-love songs here at Line Out the Stranger.com.
If you are a country fan, here's a list just for you at About.com Country music.

Some final thoughts..

In a sense, Valentine’s Day is now governed by Henry Ford’s principle of mass production, as standardized cards, chocolates, and roses spew forth. However, here’s the rub: Even the anti-Valentine’s Day mood has been captured by the maw of commerce. Websites hawking merchandise with cynical slogans such as “love bites” “Happy Singles Awareness Day!” abound.

But before you get too cynical, stop here and ponder the "I Hate Valentine's Day" sentiment. Maybe Valentine's Day isn't that bad after all.

Oh, and there are plenty of retailers (most online) who aren't part of the Mass Production of Love brigade. You may have to dig around to find them.

Thirty Days of Love for the World

2013-02-04T16:19:00.000-06:00

My "fifteen days of love" was going to be "thirty days of love". But I couldn't quite get it together by mid-January.

From www.standingonthesideoflove.org

So I was very excited to see a Thirty Days of Love campaign as I traversed the Internet. Not at all the same thing as my Fifteen Days of Love, but it is a great idea for people who want more from the holiday than the usual gifts, flowers, and overpriced meals.

Many kinds of love; many ways to celebrate Valentine's Day

"Standing on the Side of Love"s Thirty Days of Love project promotes a different kind of love, a love for all mankind through social justice, as described below:

Standing on the Side of Love is a community of people compelled to speak out against oppression, united in the common belief that love is the ultimate guiding force of our world. Join us for the Thirty Days of Love, a period for intentional action, service, education, and reflection running from January 19 to February 17, 2013.

Thirty Days of Love is a project that was born of their re-imagining of Valentine’s Day as a social justice holiday. It has now become “a month-long spiritual journey and commitment to sustained action and service.”

The goal of Thirty Days is to influence attitudes and public policy by elevating compassionate religious voices. From January 19^thto February 17^th, each week has a theme and each day has a Daily Action for participants to complete.

From www.standingonthesideoflove.org

You can participate!

Among the various projects at the website is this nonpartisan non-religious pledge for people to contact their CongressCritters and sign:

Our nation needs our message.

Tell your members of Congress to stand on the side of love by denouncing vitriolic language in the public discourse.

After a contentious election year culminating in nail-biting fiscal cliff negotiations and in the face of upcoming debates on several big issues like preventing gun violence, comprehensive immigration reform, and the debt ceiling, we find ourselves in search of a more compassionate national dialogue.

None of us has all of the answers. What we do have is our hearts. When we stand on the side of love, we allow our hearts to be our guide, and we ask others to do the same.

At this crucial moment in time, use your voice to ask your members of Congress to stand on the side of love by denouncing vitriolic language in the public discourse and committing to a more respectful, bipartisan climate.

Take this opportunity to ask our leaders to work with us for something better.

(Click on THIS LINK to learn more or sign the pledge.)

And remember... Love is expansive. The more you have; the more you can give away.. to other friends, family members, to your community, to the world.

There are many kinds of love and many ways to celebrate Valentine's Day.

Casablanca: Can You Love Two People? (Updated for Valentine's Day 2014)

2013-02-02T01:20:00.000-06:00

Can you love two people at the same time?

One of our favorite movies is Casablanca. (No surprise there.) My husband and I often watch the movie, and we frequently debate the question: Did Ilsa (the Ingrid Bergman character) love her husband (The Czech resistance fighter Victor Laszlo, played by Paul Henreid )? She was willing to leave him for Rick (the Humphrey Bogart character), but throughout the movie she expresses nothing but love and caring for Victor. In the end, of course, she leaves with Victor as Rick (the Bogart character) stays behind.

Photo of Lazslo, Ilsa, and Rick found at The Atlantic

Passion, Respect, Admiration: Love?

My husband contends that, while Ilsa respected and admired Victor very much (she was a young woman when she met him), she did not feel love for him in the same way she felt love for Rick. Perhaps it is true that she felt more passion for Rick. But the development of their relationship ended abruptly; they were still in the throes of the initial pangs of passion when the Germans entered Paris and Ilsa learned that Victor was still alive. Ilsa and Rick never had time to live together or develop a life together. Had they had that time, those initial flames might have burned down ..... And either burned out.. or cooled to a strong simmer that can last decades or even a lifetime. We'll never know and it was just a movie anyway. But I don't doubt for a minute that Ilsa did love Victor and might have been able to be very happy with him.. She may have loved him more and more deeply as the years went on and she matured.... But Rick, far, far away, may have never have left her heart.

Happy Birthday, Casablanca!

Casablanca recently celebrated its 71st birthday, and, to celebrate the movie, The Atlantic published THIS article last year. Ronald Reagan and Michele Morgan instead of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman? Impossible to even consider. Snopes says that this rumor is untrue anyway. HERE's another recent article about Jewish influences on Casablanca that you may wish to read.

The Atlantic contemplates the Ilsa character:

The motives of Ilsa, Rick's old flame, are no less nebulous. Is she merely manipulating Rick, rekindling their love as an expedience to retrieving a pair of visas? Or does she truly love him, and is she really preparing to leave her husband at the expense of the French Resistance?

My thoughts are above: She really does love Rick, and though she might just have left Victor for Rick, she really did not want to leave Victor. Ultimately, going with Victor was right and deep in her heart she knew it. Victor might really have needed her more than Rick ever did.

Now a better question: Can you love two people if they are close and you see them both?

Now that just seems like a recipe for disaster.

Casablanca for Valentine's Day

If you are in the Chicago area, the Music Box Theatre features Casablanca as an annual Valentine's Day tradition-- including a love song sing along. Details HERE.

In the Falls Church area of Virginia: Details here.

In the Austin, Texas neighborhood? Check out the Alamo Drafthouse HERE. Downstate Illinois, in Champaign: The Art Theatre.

Casablanca is also featured in dozens of "Valentine's Day movies" lists, including this one at Tinyprints, this one at the New York Daily News,and in the Christian Science Monitor.

More About Casablanca and Valentine's Day

On the Brattle Film Brattle Blog: Casablanca- Valentine's Day in Morocco examines the question:

So why celebrate it (Valentine's Day) by watching Casablanca – a film, by most definitions, about love lost?

They have some answers to that question. Click the link above.

How Much Would You Pay For Love?

2013-01-31T23:00:00.000-06:00

Matchmaker, matchmaker!

I caught an article on MSNBC a few weeks ago about a modern day matchmaker who will find a great catch for you...... for the bargain basement price of $250,000!

$250,000? Um.... I think I'd rather be alone. But the 250 grand is the top price that men will pay if they use the services of the named matchmaker, Janis Spindel. Her charge ranges from $100,000 to $250,000: The article states that the more you pay, the more time Ms. Spindel will spend with you, and she will ~~hook you up~~ arrange for you to meet more desirable females. It's not clear, however, what kind of "less desirable" woman you might get for the cut rate price of a measly $100K. Perhaps women who didn't go to Ivy League schools and aren't heiresses or business owners? Perhaps women who are not models? (The article doesn't specify.)

Really Special... Really..

Of course, you men out there have to be really, really special to use the services of Ms. Spindel: You've got to be well educated, well-groomed; you need to be some kind of "upscale professional" and you need to be targeting "commitment", as Ms. Spindel is NOT interested in hooking up people for one night stands or fun "on the side". (I wonder how she checks.)

The article quotes a 48 year-old man named Jeff who claimed that he was "ready for marriage and was tired of the dating game." He explains, “I could forgive myself for spending the money and not finding someone, but I’d be less forgiving if I didn’t take a chance on what’s really important — a great relationship and family,” he told TODAY.com. He says that it worked; he is now married and he and his wife are expecting their first child. The article doesn't really go into Spindel's techniques for matching people... I remember computer dating, in fact, we just watched an old Perry Mason in which dozens of punched cards were being run through a machine by some kind of computer dating scheme. I would hope that Ms. Spindel's techniques are a bit more... sophisticated.

Women! Jump into the Pool!

The dating pool, that is.

Ms. Spindel does work with women, and, even though they don't need to cough up as much change as the men, they still need to present themselves well... very well. If you are interested in one of these top notch, well-groomed men, you've got to write a long bio, you need to read her books, you need to fill out a questionnaire and attend a $250 "meet-and-greet". If you aren't sure if you are coming off well, you can get coaching from Ms. Spindel for $1000 for a 30 minute session. (I would hope that you would get more information than that you need to lose ten pounds. But maybe she doesn't take women who need to lose ten pounds.)

Spindel, according to the article, is "internationally known" and claims that she has 994 marriages to her credit. She does not guarantee a visit from the Love Bunny, only 12 introductions over 12 months. Even without a guarantee to find love, Jeff was willing to shell out six figures.

So.. If you have a spare $250,000 hanging around, gents, you may yet find a special lady for Valentine's Day!

Gifts and Shoes..

In the meantime, if you have a special someone, here are a few ideas for gifts:

Or the brightly colored crystal necklaces at Dorota's Jewelry:

Dorota's Jewelry: My Valentine's Day Wish List

And, ladies, if you have a special someone and are going to someplace special for Valentine's Day, you may need a special, Valentine's colored pair of shoes. Here are a few ideas:

My Valentine's Day Wish List (Updated for 2014)

2013-01-31T01:03:00.000-06:00

Counting down to Valentine's Day: 15 Days of Love.
(Note for 2014: Dorota has 322 items at her etsy shop right nowis

Swarovski Crystal hearts and Icicles for Valentine's Day.. and all year round!
(Note for 2014: Though I wrote this last year, Dorota has 322 items at her etsy shop right now, most with the Swarovski crystals and Czech glass of the items featured here.)

Dorota's Blue Purple Heart Necklace

I first found Dorota's Jewelry, at etsy.com over a year ago, and the items always take my breath away. I hope that you will have the same reaction. Prices, buying, and shipping information at the links. (And most of these items are remarkably reasonably priced.)

Dorota, the shop owner, writes:
I.. was born and raised in Krakow, Poland. From a young age, my appreciation for arts and craftsmanship was influenced by my mother, an antique restorer and a painter, and by the enchantments of my hometown.... Filled with breathtaking medieval architecture, Krakow is a city so bewitching and so rich in art and history, that large portions have been named World Heritage Sites by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultured Organization (UNESCO).

I spent many years studying about gems and learning the delicate trade of bringing them together to create balanced and beautiful jewelry. Since the mid 1990s, I have sold many of my creations in boutiques across Europe as well as the United States, and now they are available to you from this online gallery.
So, from Dorota's Jewelry, here are SOME of my Valentine's Day favorites for Day 15 of 15 Days of Love:

Ruby Crystal Earrings with Raspberry Swarovski Crystal Cranberry and Antique Gold Icicle: (Necklace on this picture is sold separately.)

"Eye-pleasing, refreshing blend of eco-chic and sparkling elegance with a touch of vintage flair!

- 14K Gold Filled (not plated!), handcrafted ear-wires

- Top Quality Antique Gold Brass Victorian Style bead caps, all nickel and lead safe - hypoallergenic!

- Large Swarovski faceted crystal teardrops in in Ruby Red/Pink, 40mm x 11mm

- Czech Crystals in Cranberry, 3mm"

Red Purple Heart Necklace of RARE Swarovski Plum Ruby Crystal Heart & Sterling Silver:

"Make an entrance with this amazing and dynamic and RARE Swarovski Crystal Heart Necklace. Precision facets and brilliantly flashing purple, amber, copper and pink sparkles create stunning elegance that is truly unforgettable.. The picture truly does not do it justice :)

- ALL Sterling Silver (1.4mm Double Rope Chain, lobster claw clasp and fancy jump-ring bail)

- Brilliant, Faceted Swarovski Heart in Brandy Purple (RARE!), 18x17.5mm. The crystals change colors at each angle -- from brilliant amber browns & fiery oranges to alluring rose pinks & eggplant purples. A special coating is applied over half the bead which creates a metallic play of color on the outside, and amazing depth and flash inside the crystal. When looking down into the stone, you will see a kaleidoscope effect. It makes these crystals so unusual and multi-dimensional. Because of its unique features, this crystal is impossible to capture in a photograph. It can only truly be appreciated in person."

Pink Heart Drop Earrings with Swarovski Pink Crystal & Sterling Silver for Valentines Day:

"So Feminine and Elegant!

- ALL Sterling Silver including gorgeous detailed roses and fleur de lis lever back ear-wires

- Faceted Swarovski Wild Hearts in Indian Pink, 12mm. These brilliant crystals features an elongated shape and asymmetric faceting for an innovative interpretation of the classic heart.

- The earrings are approx. 1 1/2" (40mm) long"

Ruby Red Heart Pendant Necklace of Sterling Silver and Swarovski Garnet Crystal:

"Make an entrance with this amazing and dynamic Swarovski Crystal Necklace. Precision facets create stunning elegance that is truly unforgettable. The picture truly does not do it justice :)

- ALL Sterling Silver (diamond cut double-sided heart, elegant 1.6mm Ripple Shape Chain, ring bail, wire and lobster claw clasp)

- Faceted Crystal Passions, Swarovski Crystal in Deep Ruby/Siam Red Aurora Borealis, 18mm

- Czech Crystals in Antique Clear/Red, 3mm

- The necklace is approx. 17" PLUS 1" extension"

I could post Dorota's beautiful crystal jewelry all night here, but she has over 400 items listed at her shop. Hurry over there and find YOUR favorites!

Fifteen Days of Love: Valentine's Day Is Coming!

2013-01-30T02:36:00.000-06:00

Fifteen days from now we'll all be celebrating (or ignoring) the great yearly festival of flowers, flutters, pink, purple, hearts, and heartaches known as Valentine's Day.

Join us every day from now until then as we explore the myths, the misery, the facts, the fantasy, and the weirdness of Love. Gifts, decorations, clothing, food are all a part of the fun, so don't miss any of it.

Dorota's Amber Purple Heart Earrings

Counting down the days... Watch for new links every day!

Day 15 (January 31st): Love for $250,000... But it's not guaranteed?

My Valentine's Day Favorites: Dorota's Jewelry
Day 14 (February 1st): Thoughts after watching Casablanca: Can you love two people?
Day 13 (February 2nd): Celebrate Valentine's Day by Cooking.. Together.
Day 12 (February 3rd): Spanking: Can you live with it? Can you live without it?
Day 11 (February 4th): Thirty Days of Love: A Worldly Way of Celebrating Love and Valentine's Day.
Day 10 (February 5th): Celebrating anti-Valentine's Day.. or Not!
Day 9 (February 6th): I Hate Valentine's Day!
Day 8 (February 7th): Starting a Romance: One Rose or a Dozen?
Day 7 (February 8th):
Day 6 (February 9th):
Day 5 (February 10th):
Day 4 (February 11th):
Day 3 (February 12th): Valentine's Day Around the World
Day 2 (February 13th):
Day 1 Valentine's Day is Here! (February 14th):

Valentine's Day Display

2010-02-11T18:40:00.005-06:00

Valentine's Day Presentation is Everything!

Valentine's Day doesn't have to be expensive or ostentatious (though I did see the cutest red heart necklace with red heart stud earrings today!... not that expensive either!)

For years, we had a "display" table... just a small table that sat up against the wall. I would decorate it for V-day, and we'd put our presents there.

Here's what I did: I'd start with handmade hearts that I'd save from year to year. I'd tape them around the edge of the table. I'd put a strand of Valentine's Day lights around the edge of the table. Then I'd take bags from the Valentine's Days of the past, and I'd open them and put them on the back of the table.. for color and texture. I also have a few red heart candle and heart-shaped ornaments that I'd put on the table. On the wall behind the table, I'd tape past Valentine's Day cards.

The center of the table was open for gifts and flowers from this year. Always pretty! I wouldn't put the display up until the afternoon of Valentine's Day.. unlike Christmas decorations, Valentine's Day decorations pop up on the day itself.

A lovely display makes even simple gifts (a little candy or treats, flowers, and perhaps a small gift) seem particularly festive and wonderful.

The picture above was taken with a cell phone a couple of years ago.. not the greatest quality, but you get the idea.

Valentine's Day Gifts for my Boyfriend? (Updated for 2013)

2010-02-07T11:00:00.002-06:00

What should I get for my boyfriend at Valentine's?

Love in a Grain of Sand (from Beautiful Engineering at Facebook)

This question is the most popular question we've received, much more popular that the inverse: What do I get my girlfriend for Valentine's?

So let me assure you that you should plan on doing something (or getting something) for your boyfriend at Valentine's Day. But the watchwords are: Keep it cute or funny, keep it simple, and personalize it.

Cute Valentine's Gift

Cute? A teddy bear or stuffed animal? I really don't think so, though something small and related to who he is is acceptable: A stuffed animal that represents a nickname, the name of a team that he plays for, or a team that he roots for.

A bone or chew toy for his dog? Catnip for his cat? (Just a cute add-on gift there.)

A cute or funny not-too-mushy card is probably best. It would be even better if you could make a cute card. Just cut out a heart shape out of an old painting or even gift wrap and write something cute and simple on it.

A small novelty gift that is perfect for him would also be a good choice. One of my boyfriend's favorite gifts was a silly little punching bag (just a few inches high) that sang out expletives and insults when somebody punched at it. He thought it was hilarious.

Simple Valentine's Day Gift

Simple? Cookies, candy, a home-cooked meal, a bottle of wine (if you are old enough)is simple. Maybe music, a favorite movie, or even a book? Try baking cupcakes or cookies or a whole cake for him!

Or.. get him some penny candy!

A Personal Valentine's Day Gift

Personalize it? Something he's mentioned that he would really like.. if it is in your budget. I bought my boyfriend a police scanner radio one Valentine's Day. He had mentioned it and obviously wanted it but he didn't want to buy it for himself.

I once bought him a bottle of "Red Truck" wine. The label was very cute, and he had just finished a project at work that involved red trucks.

And a handmade card.. or some handmade decorations:

Make a "display" in a corner of your (or his) home: Clean off a small table, put a fabric covering or tablecloth over it, place the gift and the unopened card on the table, perhaps even a small vase of flowers, and sprinkle about small paper hearts, perhaps some red lights... and the candies or cookies. I also save last year's Valentine's Day cards, and I tape them up behind the display. (Of course, you wouldn't do that if you were with somebody else last Valentine's Day.. that would be tacky!)

(I'm writing a separate blog entry about Valentine's Day displays, so more later on that!)

Just for the record, here is a picture of that bottle of red truck wine... The quality is poor as the pic was taken with a cell phone:

To summarize:

One or two small gifts, something cute or something he has specifically mentioned that he wants, something to eat, and remember the presentation! Always add a personal touch to something! He'll think you are great and he won't feel overwhelmed.

Keep it simple!

I Hate Valentine's Day! (Updated for 2018)

2010-02-06T16:45:00.002-06:00

"Why does anybody care about Valentine's Day at all? Isn't it just a way for card companies, florists, and candy stores to make money? Then I get to see all of the happy, smiling couples.. Grrrrr.. I hate Valentine's Day."

Many people are asking this.. and it's a good question. Why bother with Valentine's Day? And the expectations!!

I love this one, cynical though it may be.

I've lived through plenty of Valentine's Days, some good, some bad. Some with a special someone and some with no special someone. A few years back, my special someone (now my husband) was purchasing flowers for me when he got a call that his business had been robbed by a gunman who terrorized his employees. Needless to say, our special Valentine's Day celebration was a wash, as he didn't get back home until the wee hours of the morning.

So why do I like Valentine's Day... no matter what is happening?

1. It is a celebration of hope. Even if there is no special someone now, there may be next year.. or the year after. And the weather is warmer, the days a little longer, if you live north of the equator... There's only one more month of snow, not two or three! All reasons to feel hopeful!

2. It is a celebration of all kinds of love. You don't have to have a romantic partner to enjoy Valentine's Day... You can express the love you feel towards your parents, your friends, your kids, even your coworkers. Bake cookies, bring in chocolate kisses, smile, and wear something red!!

3. It is really a good time for a celebration. Christmas and Hanukkah are almost two months in the past, springtime is not yet here, Easter and Passover are still in the distant future. And it's still cold! Time to celebrate! And the red/pink of Valentine's Day is a hot color! It makes you think of things that are warm and fun.. not cold and dismal.

4. It's always more fun to join in a celebration.. even if you just share a few smiles with passersby or indulge in a chocolate heart. You don't have to spend a lot of money if you don't want to. You don't have to have a date. Just enjoy the day!

5. The best reason: You can always love yourself! If you have nobody to spend Valentine's Day with, do something special for you. After all, dates and partners come and go.. but the only person that you will spend every Valentine's Day of your life with is... YOU! So, if you don't have a special someone and your friends and family are far away, do something nice just for YOU. Indulge yourself a little! A special treat.. buy yourself something that you would normally not. If you're a guy, get yourself a steak or a lobster (if that's your thing). For men or women, dig out a recipe for some special cookie that you ate when you were a kid and bake yourself cookies or brownies. For women, take a bubble bath. Do nothing!! Watch old movies on t.v.! This year watch the Olympics!

Enjoy selfless love: Visit an old friend or relative who is in a nursing home. Call someone (a brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin) who meant a lot to you in the past and just say hi.

But make the day a real celebration of love that should exist (on some level) among and between all of us.

I'll repeat: Love yourself!

Heart-Shaped Meat Loaf for Lovers (Updated for 2018)

2010-02-03T17:27:00.009-06:00

Heart-Shaped Meat Loaf for Lovers

As promised, my meat loaf recipe, specially modified for Valentine's Day:

1. Two pounds ground beef, 75% to 80% lean. (Not too lean; meatloaf should be juicy.)

2. Mix the ground beef with one cup bread crumbs. (I like these Italian style breadcrumbs or these... or these.)

Add two eggs... work through with your hands.

3. Cut up onions (about one half), fresh garlic (2-3 cloves depending on your preference), and some green pepper with one or two stalks of celery-- All chopped up very finely. Add in to the meat mixture.

4. Freshly ground pepper is a necessity... probably a bit of salt. I've always added a bit of crushed or ground red pepper, just a tiny bit for some zest, but that is also a matter of personal preference.

5. Mix with your hands... You will probably need to add some water. just a quarter cup should do the trick. You need to keep meat loaf juicy. It shouldn't dry out while cooking.

6. Then a squirt of olive oil, then a tablespoon of a good steak sauce. A-1 is good; my current favorite, however, is the Lea and Perrin's brand from the same people who make Worcestershire sauce. Perhaps a dash of cooking sherry or a good burgundy red wine would give it a special flavor.

The biggest problem I've had with meat loaves is that they tend to be dry, so the water and the bit of olive oil really helps. If you get a leaner ground chuck or ground round, you may need to add a bit more water or oil. Meat loaf needs moisture in one form or another. And it's Valentine's Day, so don't worry that much about the fat content... He's going to eat more of the meat loaf than you will anyhow.

Now the Heart Part

If you can't find a heart shaped pan (a heart-shaped cake pan will probably work), use a nice square pan, 8 or 9 inches square. Turn it on an angle, so that the point of the heart is a corner at the bottom. Arrange the meat in the pan so that the point of the heart is on the bottom, and work the top part of the meat loaf into a heart shape. Some people like tomato sauce baked on top of their meat loaf; some like it plain.

Here we go:

Ready for the oven!

(Bake at 350 degrees F for about 40 minutes.. Baking times vary; so don't dry out the meat loaf by overcooking!)

To Complete the Dinner:

What else can you serve with meat loaf but mashed potatoes? Well, perhaps baked potatoes or scalloped potatoes, but around here, the potatoes are mashed. His (or her) favorite gravy, his (or her) favorite vegetables as a side dish, heart bread, and you have a great meal! Now, your partner can bring the dessert... or bake it! (Or you can enjoy cooking dessert together!)

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(More about that heart bread some other time.)

Cooking for your Sweetie on Valentine's Day? (Updated for 2018)

2010-02-03T17:25:00.001-06:00

Home-cooked Valentine's Day Dinner!

I've never been a big one for Valentine's Day restaurant dinners.... too crowded, over-priced, sometimes the service isn't that great.. and the Valentine's Day dinner specials might not be that wonderful either. So... He'll bring me flowers (and maybe some candy), and I'll cook.

Now maybe your man (or your lady) would prefer lobster, shrimp, or steak for a special Valentine's Day meal? If so, get the best ingredients and learn how to prepare these foods without ruining them. But I won't be of any help to you here. Because my Valentine's Day special meals are much simpler.....

Heart-shaped meat loaf ready to go in the oven.

Real hearty man fare: Heart-shaped meatloaf or lasagne with a heart on top. (Check back for the lasagne recipe... and then add red velvet cake for dessert!)

So for those of you are interested in the simpler pleasures of life.. I'll post my simple recipes... all ingredients are approximate... just season to taste!

Red Hot Valentine's Day Shoe

2010-02-03T17:20:00.002-06:00

A Red Satin shoe!

(Note as of February 2018: This shoe is no longer available.) Valentine's Day shoes need to be red and they need to be hot. I know that there are a lot of men out there who couldn't care less if their woman was wearing red hot shoes on Valentine's Day. I know there are plenty of hot women out there who wouldn't be caught dead in red hot shoes either. In fact, in a few days, I'll feature unhot red Valentine's Day shoes.

But today I will feature my current favorite red hot shoe. At this point in time it is merely a dream shoe, as I haven't yet bought it. But there are still ten days left before Valentine's Day... plenty of time to order this shoe from Zappos!

Here it is:

DeSoto shoe from Nina (No longer available)

I love, love, love this shoe, which Nine West has named DeSoto. It oozes with class and sex appeal. This shoe comes in other colors, but the red satin version is the only one that excites me, and, of course, the only one that makes the cut at Valentine's Day. The shoe has a very art deco look with the pleated red satin, hence the DeSoto name. I can imagine wearing it with a simple black skirt or pants and a simple white blouse. A touch of something else red.. a bracelet, necklace or earrings, and the outfit is perfectly coordinated for a Valentine's Day to remember.

I know it only feels like a 3 inch heel because it has a 1 inch platform, but those three inches would still be a struggle for me. I'd have to make sure I have a handbag that's large enough to hold a pair of flats if I ventured forth wearing this glorious DeSoto shoe.

So.. is it only me? Anybody else out there (men or women) who think this shoe is smokin' hot?

Her Valentine's Day Problem (Updated for 2018)

2010-02-03T14:44:00.006-06:00

A Valentine's dilemma from the woman's point of view

Q. Hi..

I met a new man at a holiday party. He and I have started to see each other every week. I like him, but I'm concerned that he likes me more than I like him. I know he would like to do a fancy Valentine's celebration, but I'm not sure this is right for us. We haven't been together very long at all.

Wondering....

A. O...kay.......

I sense something else in your question, wondering. You like him, but perhaps you don't feel very romantically inclined to him? You've known him for a few weeks now, but are you concerned that you will feel "obligated" if he rolls out the red carpet on this, your first Valentine's Day together?

Well.. the best thing to do is to talk with him about it. Make it clear that you've only been dating since the holidays, and you think a small celebration is best. You'd rather not get all dressed up for a fancy place... maybe next year for that! Suggest to him how you would like to spend Valentine's Day... If he is a good guy, he will understand and respect your wishes.

We can wonder ourselves in to a tizzy. So don't guess; talk to him!

... and have a great Valentine's Day!! Sometimes those feelings will grow.

Valentine's Day Candy... Penny Candy! (Updated for 2018)

2010-01-30T07:00:00.002-06:00

The Valentine's Day Ice Cube candies

Valentine's Day candy with a twist:

I remember one of the first Valentine's Days I celebrated with my college boyfriend, way back when I was 19. Anybody remember ice cube candies? I absolutely loved ice cube candies.. I'd always treat myself to 1 or 2 whenever I went into a store which stocked them. They have a smooth softer chocolate center in a slightly harder shell... kind of like a truffle. My mouth waters just thinking about them, and I haven't come across any for a couple of years now.

Well, my boyfriend bought me a whole box of them. 30? 40? 50 or more? I don't know how many were in that box, but I remember storing them close to the window in my dorm room (as refrigerators were not common in dorm rooms back in the 70's) so that they wouldn't melt. I guarded them carefully. I'd eat one or two a day. They lasted forever!

These candies are still around... I found them at two online stores; the Vermont Country Store and The Old Time Candy Store

Ice Cube candies from the Vermont Country Store

Candy is so appropriate at Valentine's Day.... What a great idea for an unusual Valentine's Day gift: Your lover's favorite "penny" candy! If not those ice cubes that I love, what about candy buttons? Or Mary Jane's? Or bubble gum cigarettes or cigars? You know, the Candy you ate as a kid!

Both the Old Time Candy Company and the Vermont Country Store have great selections of candy you ate as a kid... specials and assortments for penny candies going back to the 50's.

Who Was Saint Valentine anyway? (Updated for 2018)

2010-01-29T22:12:00.006-06:00

Many of us may have heard the story of St.Valentine's in Sunday school or even in grade school, but who still remembers the story?

Well, don't worry too much about it.. There's a good chance that the Patron Saint of Lovers never existed anyway.... Or, if he did exist, he had nothing to do with lovers or February 14th.

Valentine depicted in woodcut dating to the 15th century, many centuries after he was to have lived.

The feast of St. Valentine was not established until 496 by that well-known pontiff Pope Gelasius I. (Nope, I'd never heard of him either.) St. Valentine was either a Roman priest, a bishop in Terni (an early Italian city about 100 miles north of Rome), or a martyr somewhere in the Roman African provinces. He was not pictured until 1493 when he appeared in a woodcut in an early book of world history named The Nuremberg Chronicle. The text alongside the woodcut claims he was a Roman priest martyred during the reign of Claudius II (AD 268-270).

We don't know what is truth and what is legend.

Whatever the true story, somewhere along the way, the name of Valentine became involved with all of this Love Stuff. We really don't know what is truth and what is legend.

The story is that Emperor Claudius was persecuting Christians in Rome, and that anyone caught helping the Christians or marrying them was considered a criminal. The Christian Valentine was marrying Christians and he was caught. One version of the legend is that Claudius liked Valentine until Valentine tried to convert Claudius at which time Valentine was beheaded.

Another version says that Claudius felt that men made better soldiers if they were unmarried so he forbade any of his soldiers to marry. But Valentine married many soldiers to their sweethearts.. until he was caught. Another part of the legend is that Valentine restored sight to the blind daughter of his jailer while he was awaiting his death... and that, right before he went to his death, he sent her a note signed "From Your Valentine". Others say that Valentine fell in love with the blind daughter and her sight wasn't restored until he was executed.

Now, many people think that there wasn't any association between St. Valentine and love and romance until the time of Geoffrey Chaucer, and he really wasn't popularized as the "Patron Saint of Love" until the 17th century when he was mentioned in the popular "Lives of the Saints".

A Romantic Story

So we don't know who Valentine really was, nor do we know if he had anything to do with marriage, love, and those cute notes we call Valentine's Day cards. But it is a nice story, isn't it? The idea of people risking their lives to marry when forbidden to do so.... and the priest who helped them.

Would you risk your life to marry? Or... maybe we should put it like this: WHO would you risk your life to marry?

Valentine's Day Strikes Fear (Updated for 2018)

2010-01-21T12:30:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Day strikes fear into the hearts of strong men everywhere.

Let's just address this head on:

For many people, especially men but women too, there is nothing pleasant about planning Valentine's Day. They don't know what is expected of them; they feel that the wrong thing will be held against them; they feel that they don't have enough money to plan a "proper" Valentine's Day... and they are really tempted to break up with their girlfriend or pick a fight with their wife the week before Valentine's Day just to get out of the whole thing.

Here's a question from a reader:

Q: Hi Jo... It's almost Valentine's Day, and I'm a nervous wreck. I've been with my girlfriend for about six months now, and we are talking about moving in together. We are getting more serious by the day. But I panic around Valentine's Day! My ex-wife always seemed disappointed after Valentine's Day, and we usually fought afterwards. I thought that dinner and flowers was an acceptable way to spend Valentine's Day, but she seemed to want something more or "different"...... How do I guarantee that my new girlfriend will be satisfied without breaking the bank? And what do I do if she seems displeased? ... Scared

These oxidized Copper Heart Brooches by Rough Magic were found at Etsy a few years back, but they appear to be unavailable now.

Answer: Have you tried a hot air balloon ride? Or a train ride on the Orient Express? What about 4 carat pink diamond earrings? O.K., I'm joking. Let's be realistic here.

Scared, if she truly likes you for who you are and things are going well.. and she's a decent woman.... there isn't much you can do to screw up Valentine's Day.... except perhaps to forget the whole thing.

It would probably be best to talk to her well before the big day. Does she expect a big production? A dinner and flowers? If so, a fancy dinner? Maybe she dislikes the Valentine's Day dinner scene (as I do) and she's planning on cooking for you. But don't let things fester.. If she's as great as you think and hope she is, she will be happy to talk about her expectations and what might be reasonable. Don't let your experiences with your ex-wife color your experiences with this one. The ex may have been spoiled, demanding, and petty. Perhaps that's why she is an ex?

My sense is that, for most women, flowers, a bit of candy, and perhaps a small gift (according to your budget), are more than enough.

By the way, she should be doing something for you as well.. A small gift, your favorite candy, a home-cooked meal. Valentine's Day shouldn't be a one way street!

For Valentine's Day

2010-01-21T10:35:00.000-06:00

Cup of Love at Worth 1000.com

Valentine's Day is only a few weeks away, and our hearts are turning to thoughts of Love Stuff!!

(Updated for 2018)

Those without "relationships" may think that it would be nice to have a decent, healthy solid relationship... and those in relationships may wonder how to celebrate Valentine's Day in peace and joy... and love ... without acrimony or desperation.

Valentine's Day can bring fear to the heart of strong men everywhere. How many men look forward to Valentine's Day.. and spending a special evening with a loving wife or girlfriend.. and how many are in terror of not doing Valentine's Day "right"?

This year (2018) Valentine's Day is in the middle of the week. That may relieve some of the pressure, as people are busy with work during the middle of the week and they may not have to focus as much on Valentine's Day. But perhaps it means cramming more expectations in less time.

Over the next days and weeks, we'll discuss Valentine's Day here at Love Stuff, so follow us so you don't miss anything.

What makes a good Valentine's Day?

What do men do and what do women expect? Yep, a timely topic we talk about here:

Valentine's Day Strikes Fear Among Strong Men Everywhere! If you are one of the many terrorized by the thought of Valentine's Day, please read that entry.

Valentine's Day Candy

Candy and flowers for Valentine's Day.. How traditional! How quaint? How....boring?!

Well... If you think that candy for Valentine's Day is a bit passe, you can take that candy idea and put a twist on it.. the Penny Candy twist!

Follow our blog and you will see what we mean... Candy with a twist...

Cooking for Valentine's Day?

Follow our blog and you will find ideas to make a simple home-cooked meal special for Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day Gifts?

Follow our blog and you will find ideas for special gifts that say "I love you"... from simple and/or handmade gifts that spell "Love" in a very special way, to more traditional gifts.

The History and Lore of Valentine's Day

Why is there a special day for lovers? Did the florists just start to take advantage of a good thing a few years back? We'll explore the legends and lore of Valentine's Day as well.

Update for Valentine's Day 2013: 15 Days of Love