So Valentine’s Day is only five short days away. That special someone in your life keeps asking what the big plans are and you keep responding, “it’s a surprise.”

Truth is: There are no plans and you are headed for the dog house on a first-class ticket. It’s too late to make reservations at the Melting Pot (that would have required planning back in November) and Stake `N Shake just won’t cut it.

Flowers are out. All the florists in town stopped taking orders last weekend and there’s nothing growing in your mother’s garden to turn into a makeshift “I Love You” bouquet. Never fear, all hope is not lost. Here’s a few last minute Valentine’s plans that will make her melt (you can thank me later.)They say that the way to a man’s heart is his stomach. Who said that women don’t eat?

Virtually no planning is required for the extreme procrastinator. Find yourself a 24-hour Schnucks, grab some pasta, chicken and a couple of candles, don an apron and you’ve got a dream Valentine’s in the making.

Option number two: Pray that it’s nice out (the weather gods are sympathetic on Valentine’s). There’s nothing more romantic than a walk in the park and Forest Park is right around the corner. Lucky you!

In all honesty, any girl is going to be happy to not be alone on the national day of love. If you’re looking for bonus points, put together an original love poem. Don’t worry if you’re not the poetic type. She’ll love the fact that you tried. Just read through your sonnet before you hand over the deep secrets of you soul.

Never underestimate the power of Blockbuster. A couple of classic romances, a big bowl of popcorn and pajama pants will form butterflies in any romantic’s stomach. Old Navy has a Valentine’s line out and his and her heart-themed pajamas would be a great accompanying gift.

One last fail-safe plan is jewelry. I’m not talking about Kay Jewler’s Valentine’s Special. Just something from you that she can wear everyday. I promise that no matter where she is she’ll spin that ring on her finger or touch the charm hanging from her neck and think of you.

XO,

Cupid