Make Your Valentine's Day Happy This Year

Every year when St. Valentine’s Day rolls around, it seems like at least one of my friends is having problems with her husband or boyfriend. In fact, I must admit that in years past, even my husband and I have had arguments about the special day set aside for sweethearts. My spouse swears the occasion had to have been invented by a woman, as a way to make men feel inferior and specifically lacking in gift-buying judgment.

Okay, perhaps some of my fellow females expect too much on Valentine’s Day from their significant other. After observing men all year as they’re glued in front of a TV watching football, NASCAR, basketball, golf, baseball, and God forbid, wrestling, why should we think that these males are suddenly going to get in touch with their practically nonexistent romantic feelings on February 14^th? Let’s face it, ladies, most guys – especially the married ones – are much more interested in scratching and belching than they are in shopping for a romantic gift.

What’s that you say? He used to be romantic? Yeah, but that was back before he was sure he had his hooks in you! He felt the need to woo you then. Now that you’re safely and securely bound to him, he no longer feels the need to shower you with personal, thoughtful gifts. Okay, but don’t we at least deserve a little sprinkle?

Instead of falling victim to his lack of thoughtfulness, don’t set yourself up for failure this year. Vow to make Valentine’s Day happy this year for both of you. To start with, remind him several times during the weeks preceding the day that Valentine’s is just around the corner. Give him a STRONG hint about the Valentine’s gift you’d like to receive. Most men don’t pick up on subtlety – the testosterone destroys that particular trait. You have to be pretty blatant and plant the idea in his mind. Then you have to water it, feed it, and otherwise nurture it. If you don’t, instead of receiving gourmet chocolates, fancy bubble baths, perfume, jewelry, or flowers, you might end up with an iron, an electric drill, or a fishing rod.

If you can find something online that you really like, point him to it. That way, he won’t have to go to the big, scary mall or leave the comfort and safety of his sofa or recliner. The friendly mail carrier or the UPS guy will deliver it right to the door. No fuss, no muss.

Actually, I think most guys would be perfectly happy to let you make all the plans for that special day. Take it and run with it! He’ll more than likely be willing to go along with just about anything if he knows he won’t have to make the decisions. Suggest going to a nice restaurant for a candlelit dinner, seeing a show, or going away for a romantic weekend.

Now I realize that I have used scathing generalities of men in this article and that there are wonderful, considerate, thoughtful men who love to shop and are more than capable of both remembering Valentine’s Day and selecting a wonderful gift. It’s just that I haven’t met any of them. I think I can safely say that the type of guy with whom I’m familiar is by far in the majority.

If your guy is like my husband, don’t leave Valentine’s Day to chance. If you do, your feelings could very well end up being hurt. After the hurt, the anger will set in. then you’ll take it out on your man, and he’ll be hurt…then mad. See how much trouble you could save yourself?

Guys, if you’re reading this, take the initiative this year. Surprise your love with a thoughtful, romantic gift. I’ve offered some suggestions below. You’ll notice that there are no power tools, appliances, or fishing equipment!