Make It a Valentine's Day to Remember

Comment from William: When I buy my wife a dozen roses and a box of candy, she literally berates me for having spent money we don't have. I have to raid the cookie jar to do it, since we have no money because we're unemployed.

PS: William, it doesn't have to cost anything. Go take a ride out in the country or explore a town you haven't been to. Go to the zoo or window shop art galleries. Do any number of things that simply celebrate your relationship. You are giving each other the gift of time and the fun of looking at things together. Your big splurge could be sharing an ice cream sundae, or a couple of hot dogs at the park. But make it a date and it might be the best Valentine's Day ever.

Question from Bashful: There's a man at my work who just got divorced. He's depressed. As a recently divorced lady, should I approach him about it?

PS: Let me be clearer Bashful. Are you concerned about his depression? Or are you wondering about his status? If it's the latter, just ask him out for coffee and get to know him. That could go a long way to modifying his depression. It's natural, however, for people to feel depressed when they've ended a significant relationship. Often it helps to meet someone new. But remember that someone who is recently out of a marriage, and still sad about it, may not be ready to start up a relationship with you.

Question from Marion: Are oysters really an aphrodisiac? Am considering serving to hubby on February 14th.

PS: Marion, the answer is yes and no. Yes, oysters have a lot of zinc. And some people think that's an aphrodisiac. But even if it is, he would probably have to eat the entire oyster bed to get any results. On the other hand, some people find the texture of oysters very sensual. So that eating them together might be a turn on.

Comment from William:  I love your responses here.

Comment from Mary: I play bridge on Valentine's Day.

PS: Mary, I think you know what my reaction is going to be: Not too romantic! Might be a lot of fun, but it seems like an odd choice for Valentine's Day. How about doing it with a bottle of champagne and eventually going out as a couple for dinner or a movie? At least do something about love.

Question from Bud: It's too cold to go out for V-Day. What can I do for the wife?

PS: OK Bud, Baby It's Cold Outside. I don't know if you know that song, but when I hear it I think of warm fires with fleece wrapped around me, watching old movies and finger foods. I also think of cooking together, particularly baking so you can lick the bowl! Or maybe splurge on special foods, wines or boutique beers. I think you can make it very special by creating a little nest that you don't ever want to leave.