Romancing Any Day In No Order of Preference, Cross My Heart!
by Barbara L. Steinberg
1. Spend the night Amber House Bed & Breakfast Inn. Ask for dinner recommendations -- all nearby and very walkable. Champagne, extravagent chocolate-covered strawberries, and roses delivered to your room upon request. There are ten lavish guestrooms -- try to secure a fireplace and Jacuzzi. Even if you have to reserve before or after the big day of hearts, it's the worth the wait and a gift you won't forget. Maybe a gift certificate will do! 2
2. A box of Salted Caramels from Kobasics. It's all about the family and their love for delicious chocolates. Locals know and love this hidden gem. Do you? If you're not feeling adventurous, Ginger Elizabeth's in Midtown is an excellent second choice.
3. Couple's massage at Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa. If you're feeling particularly romantic, spend the night at The Villas -- a sumptuous experience tucked away in the Sacramento suburbs of all places, Breakfast, afternoon tea and Access to Health & Wellness Pavilion are included. Enjoy dinner at Mangoes (Wed- Sat). where delicious (but healthful) meals are created and served in elegant surroundings. Other dining options are nearby, but once you've checked in....well, just wait and see!
4. Stop and smell the roses at the World Peace Rose Garden located on the grounds of the State's Capitol Park. While the roses may not be blooming this time of year, it's was voted on of the Top Ten Rose Gardens in the nation. Enjoy a romantic moment on one of the many benches. Look for the messages of peace and love in the rose beds written by local school children.
5. Drive the California Delta. Take a slow and peaceful tour of the California Delta. Maybe as far as Walnut Grove. Then on the return, enjoy a little wine tasting in Clarksburg – the Yolo County side of things. Wonderfully quaint, family-owned and operated wineries. Bring a picnic just in case the weather cooperates. At the new Miner’s Leap Winery you can relax under giant oaks. The winery dog, Lilly, will greet you with love and a wag. Back across the river in Sacramento, visit Scribner Bend Vineyards. The vines are delightful and the sunsets will make your heart sing.
6. It may be too late for dinner reservations at Biba Restaurant or The Waterboy! If they’re already full, try the day before or after February 14th! It’s never too late to say, “Te amo!” I love you. Or how about a quiet dinner at home catered by Magpie Cafe and some homemade ice cream sandwiches from Goodie Tuchews on L Street. It’s fun to mix and match your food and dessert!
7. Seriously, if you’re looking for a little bling this Valentine’s Day skip right over to California Loan & Jewelry. Yes it’s a “pawn shop” but they have fantastic jewelry. If you’re looking for something special just ask! You can even have pieces custom made. Bling doesn’t have to be big-ticket prices. If you want something absolutely one-of-a-kind, Little Relics in Midtown…that’s all I’m sayin’ on that subject!
8. And about that one-of-a-kind subject: If you want the love your life know just how special they are consider a gift of local artwork. There are so many great galleries in Midtown. Wouldn’t your honey love to own a fabulous Steve “Bubba” Cook sculpture? It's all salvage and found stuff -- fantastic "junkyard" art. Visit the sculpture garden at Gallery 2110. Humor is the next best thing to love and Steve’s sculptures will keep you smiling and laughing. BUT there are many more options in the gallery and artist studios of the adjoining Sacramento Art Complex.
9. It might be a little cliché but there’s nothing so romantic as a horse-drawn carriage ride under the stars. If the weather cooperates there will be a partial moon on 2/14/2012! Carriages are available for hire in Old Sacramento. On the far side of the equation, check out Hornblower’s Valentine’s Cruises. Escape the crowds and take a leisurely float on the Sacramento River. Menu choices will tempt you with a little Lover’s Salad, some Red Velvet Cake, and champagne.
10. I leave this one up to you! How are will you be romancing this Valentine's Day in Sacramento?
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