a gift of love songs: Think about the music your love listens to. Put together a tape of CD of his/her favorite music, and then fix a romantic meal. Play your love's new tape/CD as the background music for a very loving, very thoughtful, gift.

a painted portrait: Anyone can get a photo taken, but why not schedule a sitting with a local artist to paint your portrait together? Not only would this look wonderful as a focal point in your living room or bedroom, it will become a treasured heirloom to be handed down to future generations.

a gift from home: Does your love ever think about his/her hometown? Check online for gifts specific to the place your love grew up. How about a figurine from a local sculpter? or, a t-shirt from his/her old alma mater?

in with the old: Does your love have a favorite painting or picture with a worn frame? How about an old dresser stuck in a corner that he/she cannot bear to get rid of? An old photo album? Try restoring or refinishing the item. Take the time to find out what it is about the item that makes it so special...and let your imagination take off from there.

a lover's scrapbook: Even if you're not into "scrapbooking", it's easy to put together a simple - or even more complex - book chronicalling the love you've built together and enjoy today. There are kits available practically everywhere to get you started, or you can simply purchase a very simple journal-type album with blank pages. Make sure your choice contains acid-free paper (most do now). Decorate the cover, if blank, with doodles and scribbles of love. Place just a few photos on each page inside, adding messages about each photo and what it means to you. Include poetry...special song lyrics...little stories...whatever will help personalize your scrapbook. Have a dried leaf you've saved from your first walk in the woods together? How 'bout that movie ticket stub from your first date? Remember, using your imagination is the greatest gift of all.

favorite flowers: Surprise your love with flowers - all day long! Either your love's favorites, or take your cue from the "Say it with Flowers" section on this site. You could even tie a little note to each flower you leave for your love, letting your love know the meaning of each. Surprise him/her everywhere: on his/her pillow; on the desk at work; in the car; in a drawer sure to be opened; in the shower. Have fun!

grab the camcorder: Make a movie for your love, similar to the scrapbooking project. Gather friends to sing a favorite song; interview family members (don't forget your own - they are important, too); try to track down an old friend or two. Go to a favorite spot with special meaning for you both, set up the tripod, and add your own message of love and what makes the relationship you share so special.

simple gifts from the heart: Intimidated by the idea of trying out something new? Or maybe short on time? Champagne, roses, candy, a quiet dinner at a favorite restaurant, jewelry...these are time-honored gifts that will never fail you. Teddy bears are also a great way to say "I'm thinking of you".

personalized gift certificates: Many people have computer access now...try using your gift-card making program to make gift certificates or coupons for loving favors. Try one, or several, of these: a massage; a special home-cooked meal (gourmet or down-home -- Yumm!); a back-scratching session; a sensual sponge bath; how about a pedicure with a foot massage?; a special date (Don't like base games? Make an exception for your love.); a dinner by candle-light.

the collector: Does your love keep a collection of something? Beanie Babies; Magic Attic collectibles; Hummels; Christmas ornaments; baseball caps; maybe a china pattern, or antique glass? Every once in a while, stop by and pick up something to add to his/her collection. If your love doesn't have something in particular he/she collects, maybe you can start a collection together. How about souvenir spoons or keychains whenever you take a trip together, showcased on a shelf in your kitchen?

romance ... expressions ... together