Chicago - February 02, 2010

Gimme an Aorta

2010 Valentine's Day Guide

In love and war, all is fair. Here are fourteen ways to show you care.

1. If you’re lonely, solo, single, meet your sweet and mix and mingle.

2. Not a broad or dame compares — when you’re in your underwear.

3. Is your relationship platonic? A friendship bracelet’s quite ironic.

4. If his temper’s not your thing, throw him in the boxing ring.

5. You don’t need a rhyme or reason. True love always is in season.

6. You mustn’t be misunderstood. Say “I love you” with some wood.

7. Perhaps you live a state away. He’ll think about you when he pays.

8. A V-Day dinner you’d never shirk, take your guy to David Burke’s Primehouse. Oysters, Kobe, caviar, dry-aged steaks that raise the bar (616 North Rush Street, at Ontario Street; reservations recommended to 312-660-6000).

9. If buying prime rib’s too much hassle, take him to a secret castle.

10. Having zero luck, dear lady? This dating show looks pretty shady. But if you do believe in chance, perhaps you’ll find a sweet romance.

11. His heart will flutter on the floor if he sees this on his door.

12. Move your chairs and tables, too, fill your fridge with loads of brew. Lay a blanket on the floor, make it nice, we do implore. Buy some chocolate, bake a cake, make your man an oyster bake. Light a candle, make it quick. Et voila — indoor picnic.

13. If you think this day is cheesy, get literal with your main squeezy. Tour the Great American Cheese Collection, sample nibs, show your affection (Saturdays, 4727 South Talman Avenue, at 47th Street; 773-779-5055).

14. Old school, yes, but nothing’s better than a signed and sealed love letter. Don’t know how? Now that’s just sad. Try this site — it’s not half bad.

Photos: Courtesy of Anthropologie; Courtesy of Opening Ceremony; Courtesy of Jonathan Adler; Courtesy of The Curiosity Shoppe; Courtesy of White Castle; Courtesy of Cardboard Safari; eszter / Flickr

  Good for Gifts, Romantic