Honestly, sometimes I find Valentine's Day a little annoying.
A confirmed newspaper nerd in high school, I wasn't one of those popular girls getting flowers and cards, so I learned to blow the holiday off.
Now that I have my own young 'uns, I try to provide chocolate and hugs on the day and kind of let it go at that. I also firmly believe your dog, your best friend, or a favorite family member can be a valentine.
There are some cool events on Friday and Saturday, however, that would be fun to attend with your honey or your friend. I think a dog might not be allowed in. A few of them even start early, which is advantageous for those of us who like to be home in bed by 8 p.m!
Brenda's Old West Cafe
If you want to celebrate an early dinner, this is it! Brenda and her staff will serve their usual Friday night dinner with some extra special touches. The meal is from 5 to 8:30 p.m. with tablecloths and candles complimenting the rustic decor. Reservations can be made by calling 884-7340.
The Patio
My favorite coffee shop in Ignacio pulls out all the stops for at early Valentine's Day on Saturday night, providing a sirloin steak, baby shrimp, brie served with honey almond sauce and fruit and homemade bread, and cheesecake to top it all off! Tablecloths and candles complete the ambience. At $45 for two people, this is a bargain for a gourmet meal. Dinner starts at 4 p.m.
Sky Ute Casino
The Willows Cafe will serve a special Valentine buffet, also on Feb. 13, with prime rib, salmon, coconut shrimp, and more. Double chocolate cake and cheesecake end the evening. Reservations are recommended, call 563-6238. $24.95 per person, starting at 5 p.m.
So with dinner under your belt, it's time to support local music!
Local boy Tyller Gummersall will release his latest CD, Long Ride Home, at 8:30 p.m. Saturday at the Wild Horse Saloon in Durango.
Grammy Award Winning Producer Lloyd Maines collaborated with Ty on songs, voice and guitar to create this newest release. It was recorded in Austin with an incredible list of pro musicians, including cuts by local legend Gary Cook. Gary is a two-time national flat pick guitar champion and leader of the local Bar D Wranglers.Â
Gary taught Tyller guitar at the early age of eight!
The event is $5 for those over 18 and $10 for 21 and over, with proceeds benefitting the bands.
More cool stuff
Need a Valentine gift? Think local! The new Bayberry Market and Floral Expressions next to Brenda's in Bayfield, as well as Glo's Salon downtown, have handcrafted local gifts.
Lewis True Value Mercantile and Walker's Do It Best have items for the handyperson on your list. My godmother loves power tools.
Ignacio Floral has handcrafted jewelry, yummy chocolates, and of course, flowers for a favority sweetie.
Flowers also can be purchased inside the Grocery Store in Bayfield.
Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!
