There are 365 days in a year (366 this year). That means that at some point you are going to do something stupid and get yourself in trouble. This is your one chance to make up for it or get ahead and get those brownie points.
First off, don't ACT like you care.... actually care. There will come a time in your life that you will be alone and reflect back on what you had and how you didn't show you cared even though you did. As cheesy as it sounds, I look at my parents. My Dad has to be one of the most romantic and caring men I know. My parents have literally been together their entire lives. Through all of my Moms cancer problems and health problems... he still manages to come through and never complain. He makes sure to let her know that he cares and she is special.
So all of that being said, the first sign if showing you care is to actually put some thought into the ONE day a year that women expect you to take charge. I understand that we all work and that sometimes a trip to George's might seem high class, but that is over played. Try planning out something that appeals to her. Try taking her to the place you went on your first date or maybe even sign up for that cooking class she wanted to go to but you were worried that your friends would give you hell about.
Second, roses are boring. I get that some women out there expect them... and by all means if your woman expects them, get them. However, step it up a notch. Try a different arrangement other than the first thing you see at Walmart. Call a real florist (Lola's does a great job) and ask them to sprinkle in flowers with her favorite colors. It always works out better if you actually go to the florist and hand write a special note. It also is a nice touch to randomly send some throughout the year with a card that reads "Just cause".
Next, remember that this day is really not about the male gender. So set the testosterone aside and ask her how her day was and listen to what she has to say. Put off going to the gym or the beer after work. Turn off your iPhone and ESPN and just pay attention.
Then it comes to a gift and card. Everyone has different financial situations, and it really is the thought that counts, as long as you do just that..... put thought into it. If you can't afford that watch, necklace or ring that she has her eye on, try another route. Take the time to learn her favorite perfume or something like a Kindle Fire so she can read her Twilght books and you can also play games on it. Then there is the card. Take 10 minutes and write her a note. It doesn't have to be Coleridge or Frost, but something that expresses what you rarely say.
For what it's worth, I have learned from my mistakes over the years and I am trying to throw my two cents into this commercial holiday. For those of you who head this advice... you can thank me later. Remember... don't rush the night just to get to the end. Enjoy the evening and the company, slow it down a bit and above all else..... plan ahead and show you care. That will make the ending all that much better. But then again, if you are reading this now... odds are it's too late to plan ahead.
Good luck Dudes.
