To do list - Redlands Daily Facts

To do list
CATHERINE GARCIA, Staff Writer
Posted: 02/08/2007 06:44:13 PM PST
Click Here to see the orignial article.

Flowers, jewelry and chocolate: been there, done that. This Valentine's Day, treat your special someone to something unique. You'll be the toast of the town for thinking outside the box.
Women love anything (well, almost anything) that's been handmade with only them in mind. Guys, head down to A Rolling Stone in Redlands and get crafty with some beads and string. The friendly owners will help you create anything from a bracelet to a necklace to a matching set of both. Use beads in her favorite colors, and add charms that will mean something to her. There's also Collective Journey, the one-stop shop for everything scrapbook related. Take your favorite pictures from a recent trip or event and turn them into a book that she can look at again and again. The employees here are also very helpful, and can work with you to find all the paper and trimmings you need. Don't be afraid to get in touch with your creative side.

A Rolling Stone: 320 E. Citrus Ave., Redlands. 798-2282

Collective Journey: 1755 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands. 793-2200

When money is no object, go all out with a day trip or even an extended vacation. Due to Redlands being centrally located, you can hit the mountains, desert or beach in two hours or less. Take a jaunt up to Lake Arrowhead or Big Bear, or venture east for a day in Palm Springs or Rancho Mirage. There's always a glamorous night on the town in Hollywood, or a relaxing stay in San Diego. One of my personal favorite hotels is the Hotel del Coronado on beautiful Coronado Island. For Valentine's Day, they're hosting the Ballroom Sweetheart Gala in the Oceanfront Ballroom, featuring a lavish four-course dinner, music provided by The Mar Dels and a rose for each woman in attendance. It's $95 per person, but money well spent. Stay for the night in one of their lovely rooms or suites.
Hotel del Coronado: 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. (800) HOTELDEL

In the mood for indulgence? Treat yourself and your special someone to International Skin and Body Care's $140 Massage a Trois. Each of you will get an hour Swedish/American massage. During your partner's treatment, you will learn how to give a massage, and vice versa. Afterwards, you get the use of the steamroom. There are plenty of other packages available if you're not in the mood for a massage.

325 Cajon St., Redlands. 793-9080

A fantastic gift for anyone looking for a furry friend is an adopted animal. Either bring your loved one with you to pick it out, or surprise him or her with a new four-legged companion. However, do this only if you know the person wants an animal and is in a position to take care of one. I recently adopted a dog from All Breed Dog Rescue, and so far, my new poodle mix Marcel and I are getting along fabulously.

All Breed Dog Rescue: 12826 13th St., Yucaipa. 795-4867

Since not everyone is made of money, there are also gifts that cost nothing but a little time and imagination. Make a mix CD with either your favorite tunes or theirs. Create a coupon book, with coupons redeemable for everything from free car washes to dinner of their choice.

It's not hard to please your mate on Valentine's Day, so it's a safe bet that even if all you do is make a card and pick some flowers from your neighbor's yard, you'll be appreciated.