It's not too late ... It's not too late ... (February 10, 2006)

... to find that perfect something for your sweetheart
by Jerri Long

Attention, husbands and boyfriends: You are about to take a pass-fail test on Tuesday, Feb. 14. That's Valentine's Day, and you can bet that your sweetheart will be expecting some sort of remembrance (since probably she already has one for you). If you think commuter traffic is frustrating, that's nothing compared to the lines you'll face if you wait until next Tuesday to try to buy something--anything--on your way home from work.

Save yourself potential heartache by shopping this weekend for that perfect gift for the one(s) you love. Valentine's Day has expanded to include not only lovers, but friends, grandparents, and children. Appropriate items for all of the above can be found within a few blocks' stroll in Pleasanton's downtown, mostly on Main Street. (Yes, of course there are many other stores in which treasures may be discovered, but we limited our search to five blocks in order to help focus the last-minute shopper.) Here are a dozen ways to delight your Valentine:

* Sweets for the Sweet - Chocolate is a basic ingredient for romance, and Gourmet Works is the place to go for the freshest, most delicious truffles or hunks of fudge, made on the premises. The friendly staff can make your gift look beautiful, too. For gorgeous cakes (including a size perfect for two to share), go just around the corner to Primrose Bakery on West Angela Street. You may be tempted to skip Valentine's Day dinner and go right to dessert!

* Words of love--Nothing beats a handwritten love letter, but if you need help with what to say, pick a greeting card at Sincerely Yours or Domus. They have selections ranging from romantic to friendly to hilarious.

* Inspire Imagination--Books open doorways to new worlds. The staff at Towne Center Books can help you select the right read for any age--or you can treat your favorite bibliophile to a gift card to allow personal selection.

* Feasting Is Fun--Downtown Pleasanton offers wonderful choices of places to eat out, from early morning omelettes to late-night pizzas and everything in between. Besides American cuisine, you can find Chinese, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, Afghan, French, and Mexican. Check out the Weekly's restaurant guide and the ads listing Valentine's Day specials (but don't forget to call for reservations).

* Love on a Budget--Everything tastes better by candlelight, even fast-food or take-out. Set the mood with little heart-shaped candles from Domus. You may find candlesticks (and lots of other treasures) at bargain prices in the Hope Hospice Thrift Shoppe.

* Adorn the Adored One--Put a sparkle in her eyes with a glittery gift from Jeweler's Gallery. If you know her clothing size, surprise her with something from Apparel Co., Accsentials, Destiny's Path, Emmi & Me, Lilly Ann's Lingerie, or Chic and Unique. No clue about her size? Scarves, earrings, and handbags are the solution ... or the promise to take her along on a future shopping spree.

* Make History (or at least buy a piece of it)--Museum On Main now has an expanded gift shop that includes one-of-a-kind treasures from the past, such a delicate teacups, elegant letter openers, and much more, in an ever-changing display. American Harvest also features antiques and replicas of vintage greeting cards, plus hand-crafted items to please many tastes. Several vendors share space at the Antique Store.

* Hometown Hugs--If your Valentine loves Pleasanton, consider a gift that honors our hometown. Clover Creek has an exclusive new throw that includes many local landmarks woven into the vertical design. The Mesa Trading Company features wonderfully detailed miniature wooden replicas of local buildings, created by artist Gary Winters.

* Picture This--A snapshot captures a memory, but it takes a picture frame to transform it into a fond display. Domus has a selection of attractive frames. Or elevate it to art by seeking custom matting and framing from Alexander's Art Gallery or Gregory's Frame Shoppe.

* For the Man in Your Life--Lest you think that downtown Pleasanton caters only to women, stop by Accsentials Luxury Accessories (on West Angela Street) for personalized service in selecting quality menswear, such as distinctive belts, cufflinks, or sumptuous robes. Help your sweetie stay fit by getting his gift from Pleasanton Bicycles (don't forget the helmet). Or how about indulging your cowboy fantasy by getting your guy boots, hat, or a belt buckle worthy of a rodeo champ, all at Christesen's Western Wear? (Don't forget to pet the life-size horse on your way in--it may be against the law not to in Pleasanton).

* Strictly Kidstuff--For your youngest Valentines, stop into G.R. Doodlebug to find toys, games, and stuffed animals. Pure Girls lives up to its name for your young daughter, niece, or grand-daughter.

* Home Sweet Home--Feather your Valentine's nest with accent pieces from Clover Creek (such as a pillow covered in last-forever plush roses); tableware or clocks from Domus; or handicrafts from The Berry Patch on West Angela Street. American Harvest has a continuously changing, artfully arranged selection of new and antique home decor, including panels made from tin ceilings and unusual cabinets. For a really big gift, step into The Antique Furniture Market to admire the imported European armoires, sideboards, and tables.

Love is something money cannot buy ... but lovely gifts can be an appreciated addition to many relationships. Don't fail the "test" this Valentine's Day: Choose a token of your esteem by Tuesday. >

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