Valentine's Day: Romantic enough for a woman, but, made for a man

Do you dread this time of year? Do you find yourself downplaying Valentine's Day? Always making excuses for the lack of planning or creativity on your significant other's behalf? OK, not all men are incompetent and completely clueless when it comes to being romantic. But, some of us definitely belong in this category and deservedly so.

My grandmother used to say, "if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself." This year, Valentine's Day may fall in that category. Or, perhaps, last year, your man overdid himself and this year you want to return the favor. If you are of the female gender and are in charge of being Cupid this year, here are few tips that the both of you will really enjoy. It's time to say "goodbye" to the typical reservations, chocolates and candles. These should have your guy bragging about your "Cupidness" Monday morning at the water cooler, as well as, to his buddies on the golf course or at the gym.

1. Rock Climbing: Talk about killing two birds with one stone. Whether you choose outdoor or indoor, this date will get you two going with a great workout. If you opt for indoor, you can be assured that this is the perfect "sporty" date for the beginner to the experienced. Want to make it more competitive? Race to the top and whoever loses...gives the first massage.

2. Winery/Brewery: Many towns now have wineries, breweries or microbreweries. This is a date that both men and women will enjoy. If you do have a brewery or winery near, make sure you go on the tour to learn the process. Learning something new is always fun to include in a date. Afterwards, a wine or beer tasting is equally fun to end on.

3. Bed & Breakfast (Man style): Often, when you use the word "bed and breakfast," the picture of French Country or doilies might pop into your head. A night away is not only fun for Valentine's Day, but, all throughout the year. To not exclude the more masculine tastes, some "B&B's" are built like log cabins. Another option is a stay at a ranch. Some ranches have rustic housing and activities that will be a blast for you two. One in my area offers up a "Cowboy for a Day" excursion that includes learning to ride, rope and wrangle cattle.

4. Cook Dinner: Two of my least favorite days to eat out are Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve. Many times, the restaurants are far too busy and understaffed. The food is not always the best and prices can be inflated since it's a special day. Take Valentine's Day this year to try out that new recipe. Or, perhaps, try out your kitchen for the first time. Even better, cook as a couple. The internet is saturated with very easy meals to the most complex. My suggestion: Do a search for "easy romantic meals." See where that leads you.

5. Manicure/Pedicure: I know what you my be thinking. "A mani/pedi for a guy's Valentine's Day???" Trust me on this one. And, this may be one you don't tell him where you are going first. But, this is so fun to do as a couple. It's also very relaxing and the perfect "mood setter" for the rest of the evening. Speaking of "mood setter," have you ever wondered why a foot massage is often referred to as "better than sex" or "orgasmic?" Apparently, the part of the brain that is connected to the feet lies right next to the part of the brain that is connected to the reproductive organs. I'm just sayin'...

Of course, it's not always the girl's job to plan everything. Especially, a romantic day like Valentine's Day. Perhaps, the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have done unto yourself" applies here. By creating this amazing Valentine's Day, you might be setting the tone for future ones to come. And, by including yourself in the festivities, you are guaranteeing a great Valentine's. No matter who plans it. Enjoy!

Michael Bloomberg, a marriage proposal, dating and romance consultant, is better known as "The Romance CEO" (www.TheRomanceCEO.com) and author of the Romance Rocks! monthly newsletter. Bloomberg has been seen on The Learning Channel, might have been photographed with a Supermodel and definitely writes a weekly column, Date Night, for the Fort Worth Business Press. @TheRomanceCEO is where you can follow him on Twitter.