I walked into a convenience store the other day and was blinded by red and pink hearts screaming out from the shelves. Retailers do like to promote the holidays, don't they?

I'm not a big fan of Valentine's Day, but Seattle does have something to offer when sharing the day with your honey or maybe finding a new one. Here are some local favorites:

Salish Lodge and Spa is a perfect way to get away. Located just outside town, convenient to I-90, and right next to the beautiful Snoqualmie falls, this is one romantic weekend every couple should experience. The interior is a rustic/upscale pleasure with spa treatments and fine dining available. Book your trip from citysearch.com to receive a discount.

Salish Lodge and Spa:

6501 Railroad Ave SESnoqualmie, WA 98065Phone: (800) 272-5474

Chocolate is the signiature treat of Valentine's Day. Stop in at Dilettante Chocolates for a taste of heaven known to bring some to their knees. One taste and you may never go back to the average chocolate bar.

Dilettante Chocolates:

1603 1ST AveSeattle, WA 98101-1524

Phone: (206) 728-9144

When the average bouquet just won't do the job, try Topper's European Foral Design. Perfect for party centerpieces or an unforgettable gift arrangement, this shop goes above and beyond with some of Seattle's classiest clientele.

Champagne Delight $150.00

Topper's European Floral Design
411 University StSeattle, WA 98101

Phone: (206) 622-6330

More On Pick-Up Lines

In response to my 'Pick-up/Put Him Back Lines' post, I received some suggestions (from my mother, of course) for "good" pick-up lines. Here they are with my interpretation written in Purple.
(Just being honest here):

"Hi, my name is Greg and I notice you don't act vile and stupid like so many other women today. Would you like to have coffee sometime?"

*Note** Greg is a 46 year old with a hairy back and halitosis who likes to try and meet younger women to make himself feel better about still living with his parents* "Vile and stupid"? Someone here is DEFINATELY angry at the world. I wish him well (sort of), but still don't want to exchange numbers.

"Hi, I'm Richard and I've been admiring your friendliness and kindness to that older lady over there. Want to meet for dinner sometime?"

First of all, no one uses the terms "friendliness and kindness." Secondly, I'm picturing a scrawny, nerdy type who hasn't been on a date... well... ever come to think of it. He could use the practice, but frankly, he can practice on someone else. Besides, nervous dates sweat. And Richard will sweat... A LOT.

"Hi, I'm Adam and it's good to see you in Bible study. I hope you come back next week. I liked your comments and would like to get to know you better."

"Hi Adam, I think you're looking for someone; Her name is Eve. I hear she lives in this wonderful community far, far away. You better start trekking over soon. You have a lot of populating to do." = )

"Having met you recently, you seem like a deep thinker and less self centered than many women today. I've been admiring you from afar. Would you like to go hiking sometime?Oh, yeah, in case you've forgotten, I'm Tom."

"Hmmm... being a deep thinker is in NO WAY a compliment. What... Like I'm distant or something? Why the HELL would I want to wind up out in the middle of nowhere with you???? A stranger no less. What are you trying to pull here, Tom? You better start walking before I signal my bodyguard, T.J.... see? He's the one sizing you up right now."

"Wow! You cook? Oh, man, how about dinner out tonight and then at your place if we get along? I admire a woman who cooks!!"

Ummm... J? Please tell me you're smarter than to fall for the guy overly eager to get you alone at his or your place. You worry me!!

Pick-Up/ Put Him Back Lines

Why, oh why do men try those cutesy, rediculous lines on women?? And what's worse, some of them must actually work if they haven't stopped yet! I beg you ladies, have good judement and don't reward bad pick-up lines... For the sake of the rest of womankind. (I think situational pick-ups would count as well in this case.)

Some memorable and not so memorable moments:

- While out salsa dancing, asked by my partner:

Funky Awkward Guy: "So what's your SIGN?"

Me: "Hmm... not sure... Aries, I think" (Insert skeptical look here)

Funky Awkward Guy: "I KNEW we were destined to be together!"

Can I go now? This dance is over...

- While working as a gamer's event:

Pompous Gamer Guy: "Hey!"

Me: "Um, hi."

Pompous Gamer Guy: "So what do YOU play?"

Me: "I don't actually play video games... just working today with (sponsor deleted)."

Pompous Gamer Guy: "Well I'M really good at (insert gamer guy's favorite here). My team's doing really well because of ME! (Leaning in closer, whispering) So you're basically in the presence of greatness... it might rub off on you."

Oh my God! Well you didn't tell me THAT! I can't breathe.... go away?

- While walking down the street to a photo shoot wearing a bridal gown:

Cocky Street Guy: (Getting down on one Knee) "Will you marry ME?"

Me: "Tomorrow, hun... always tomorrow."

If I WERE a bride, which he wouldn't have known. Why on earth would you, even jokingly, propose on a street corner to her? Is that supposed to be cute?