Valentine's Day mistakes men make and how to avoid them

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching, and Yahoo News reports that there seems to be a spike in men researching "When is Valentine's Day." Guys, it's Februry 14th every single year, that never changes. However, this year Valentine's Day does fall on a Monday, so you'd best make your plans for the weekend.

In an article published today, Yahoo reports there are six mistakes men make on Valentine's Day. Don't be one of those guys to make one of those mistakes. Take time to ask your love what she wants this year. It's not unromantic or a cop-out. We really do appreciate when you ask, and we really appreciate it when you listen.

You can send roses, they're beautiful and always welcome. However, if you take the time to find out what your special lady's favorite flower is, you'll score more points. Does she adore sunflowers? Consider buying not only a bunch of beautiful sunflowers, but also buy her a packet of sunflower seeds and write her a love letter, telling her that you'll plant them together and watch them grow. Tulips more her thing? Buy a beautiful potted tulip plant in addition to the bunch of tulips in a vase. Use the love letter idea for the potted bulbs.

Candy is nice, but most women will tell you they don't need the calories and then gobble them up in secret and feel guilty. Instead of buying a large, heart-shaped box of mass-produced sweets, create your own chocolate-covered strawberries and bananas. Use dark chocolate, as it has antioxidants that are good for you. Strawberries and bananas are good fruits to use as they are low in sugar and good for you. Make just a few, just enough to satisfy the sweet tooth and make an impression on your lady love.

Restaurants can get crowded and overly noisy for Valentine's Day. It's not very romantic to be squeezed at a tiny table, listening to other couples' conversations. Consider creating a romantic dinner at home. Even if you're not very handy in the kitchen, there are many simple recipes that you can create that will impress and taste good: Mediterranean chicken with rosemary orzo, chicken with pecan-orange rice, or for the vegetarian perhaps tofu with asparagus and snow peas or falafel with tzatziki.

Need some more ideas for Valentine's Day? Check out Six cheap but romantic ways to celebrate Valentine's Day from Jennifer King, Valentine's Day ideas from Susan Hillman. Looking for ideas for the gay couple? Check out Valentine's Day: Gift ideas for the gay couple from Belky Perez Schwartz.

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