Monday, Feb. 08, 2010
Valentine's Day gifts plentiful in Los Banos
By Samantha Salas / ssalas@losbanosenterprise.com
Valentine's Day may have a less-than-normal price tag attached to it this year.
It's not because of a fading devotion to our loved ones, it's the ongoing recession that's caused holiday budgets to dip.
But many would agree it's more about showing why we love someone and taking the time to purchase, create, make something that's just for them. It shouldn't be able the price tag to begin with.
Los Baños has more than enough to offer in the way of gift giving options for those looking for the perfect gift. From inexpensive items that someone can turn into something larger or the piece of jewelry (or engagement ring!) you've been saving for, Los Baños is the perfect place for all types of gifts for all budgets.
Start downtown and stop by the Country Duck, 1009 Sixth St. Nothing gets more personal, and detailed than a new cross for her wall, an elegant clock, or a figurine to embellish the entryway table. Fleur de Lis, 946 Sixth St., also provides a one-stop gift shop for women who are looking to give their home the perfect touch, or even a new handbag or tank top to welcome spring in a few short months. The Peppermill, 601 I St., also has the perfect touch for home decor or an item only she's been looking for.
Pearson's Jewelers, 928 Sixth St., and Pereira Jewelers, 1040 Sixth St., offer a wide variety of collections from rings and bracelets to a new string of pearls. A new watch is also something he may needing.
Flowers from the Los Baños Flower Shop, 624 K St., or Simply Unique Flower Shop, 946 Sixth St., can be the perfect introducion to that home-cooked meal. It doesn't have to be a dozen roses, a simple arrangement can definitely make a difference on the dinner table.
There are also numerous restaurants in town that's sure to make the evening special. Olinda's Restaurant, 400 Pacheco Blvd., España's Southwest Bar and Grill, 1460 E. Pacheco Blvd., and Ryan's Place, 955 W. Pacheco Blvd., are all offering specials that'll give the opportunity of a dish we've been eliminating because of our own budget cuts. The holiday is the perfect time to splurge, if that's what your spouse is looking for, a night out on the town.
However, there are also numerous things one can do to show love and stay within a much smaller, more creative budget.
Make some "love coupons" that your spouse can use throughout the year. Offer a message or a night off with his/her friends. Get creative. There's a lot someone may be needing to feel loved.
Plan to have a romantic night in. Since Valentine's Day falls on a Sunday this year, it's not unheard of to want to stay indoors. Make your spouse's favorite dish with a favorite dessert fire-side, or by candle light. Either way, the surprise will help make the night romantic while staying cozy in the comfort of your own home.
While taking a stroll down the Valentine's Day aisle may seem like the easy way out, and what she's looking for, there's more to someone can do in showing affection. A red teddy bear shouting 'I love you!' with the press of his paw may be cute to start the day, but definitely not how it should be finished. It's the thought that counts, which is understandable, but save the $5.99 and put more personalized thought into it.
While creativity varies by person and expectations vary by relationship, start thinking about what your spouse appreciates the most. There's definitely clues dropped from mid-January, and more obvious ones a week before the holiday. Taking a night out for a movie may be all she's needed to relax with her "hubby." Check with Premiere Cinemas, 245 N. Mercey Springs Rd. or Los Baños Cinemas, 923 W. Pacheco Blvd. for the newest listings. Or a new addition to his collectibles collection will help make the day special.
