Only Seven More Days

…to get your sweetie something for Valentine’s Day. I know that some people think that it’s just a big scam created by Hallmark to sell more cards but personally I find the last two weeks of January and the first two weeks of February to often be times that challenge the spirits of even the hardiest folks. Therefore, I say, if life gives you a chance for celebration or romance, grab it with gusto.

Fortunately for the time- and/or idea-challenged, love is in the air, or at least the windows, of Downtown Northfield. The stores are open late on Thursday night and then again on Saturday, so you’ve got a little time yet and the retailers have plenty of possibilities. Those mentioned below are just a few that I noticed on a quick stroll down Division Street.

Swag has some cozy looking blankets, perfect for snuggling up to watch a movie, and Oolala has Love Letter Bath Salts for another way to warm up a cold night. Monkey See, Monkey Read has “The Hedonism Handbook” for some sensory stimulation on a special evening and Bookfellows has “Arthur’s Valentine” as a gift for that younger dear one. Fashion Fair has some really nice red ties for him, including a marlin fishing one that caught my eye, Present Perfect has a “How to Keep Your Husband” apron for the wife with a really good sense of humor, and Ragstock has a bright red boa for those truly theatrical lovers. digs has a flower shaped holder with pink candles that will lively up any horizontal surface and the Arts Guild shop has hand-thrown bowls that give a common offering a touch of casual elegance.

Then there are the old standbys. The bakery has some sweet treats, as always, and the Cocoa Bean has a wide variety of candy, for that classic Valentine’s gift. Of course, I believe that it was Will Rogers who said “candy is dandy but liquor is quicker” and the Northfield Liquor Store has a nice selection of fine wines to go with that exquisite dining experience that you’re planning to serve up to your sweetheart.

Finally, if you really let it slide to the very last minute, there’s two dozen restaurants in Downtown Northfield, where you can go out for the big night. Just check our Downtown Directory for a listing of options.

So, after reading this blog entry, you’ve got no excuses. Come on down(town) and make the 14th a bright light in dreary February.