On December 26, the Christmas lights, wreaths, and red felt bows that had greeted every customer in almost every store nationwide were replaced. Now, we're welcomed by shiny, red, heart-shaped boxes of chocolate and greeting cards covered with cupids and collagen-filled lips.

Ladies, we all know that Valentine's Day sneaks up like a nasty little cold. First, the store displays. Then, friends start chatting about their lovey-dovey plans. Finally, one of either two realizations: you're going to spend yet another February 14th alone or pressure. That is, pressure to prove your affection to the guy on your arm.

If you're destined for an independent Valentine's Day, don't despair. Be your own Valentine and make the most of your night.

For those of you who are coupled off, you're left in the annual gift-giving predicament. The most important thing to remember is that you don't want to scare off your man. Consider this: you hatch an elaborate plan, complete with a couples massage, fancy dinner, and a night at the Ritz. He shows up at your door in sweats, holding a dented box of chocolates and headed straight toward the television to catch the end of the game. Yikes!

Sure, you want him to know that you care. But that's not a factor of how much you spend or how many gifts you give him. And you certainly don't want to overwhelm him with too much emotion.

So what's the perfect gift for your valentine? Chocolate? Too easy. A fancy night out? Too pricey. A homemade card, complete with a doily and construction paper heart? Too elementary school.

You need some fun, creative ideas and you need them now.