Ugh! Don't buy me this or anything like it.

I have a collection of heart necklaces. One is an expensive marcasite heart; it's beautiful and was probably expensive, but it's still a heart. I've kept that, but any other heart-shaped jewelry sits unused in my jewelry box. I've given the occasional gem to a niece.

This is the time of year all the heart shapes come out and poor, unwitting men plunk down good money for "hearts" in gold, silver or worse. Don't do it! Red roses would be better. A candlelight dinner cooked by you would be great. Take your love dancing or to hear romantic music.

What do you think, girls? Do you dislike the heart-shaped jewelry as much as I do? What would you prefer for Valentine's Day? -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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A new video creation program, Amimoto Video Valentine, allows lovers (or perhaps just those who have a crush) to make their own Valentine's video from their own photos and music.

Users can add love notes, special memories, significant dates and other romantic touches to make their video personal. This could be the perfect Valentine for the geek in your life.

One user proposed with an Animoto video on his iPod Touch, according to the company.

Creating an Animoto Valentine is free for 30-second videos or $3 for full-length videos. Annual subscriptions to create an unlimited number of full-length videos are $30.

But remember you have a deadline: Feb. 14. You've got a little more than a week to get creative! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Have you figured out what to buy your sweetie for Valentine's Day next? I'm still debating.

Here are some ideas of free and discounted items at The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens.

Things Remembered: Want to show how much you care? Pick out an item at this shop, such as this etched photo locket ($65), and they will engrave the word “Love” for free.

Hamilton Jewelers: Mark you calendar for Feb. 13 and 14 and check out the Charles Krypell jewelry show with custom designs, special pricing offers and refreshments.

Eileen Fisher: Shop on Valentine’s Day to get free treats from Godiva and hand massages and aromatherapy from Aveda. If you buy, you get a free gift. This offer makes taking a personal day off from work a distinct possibility.

Tourneau: Buy a watch for him and get one yourself for free. This 2 for 1 special applies to selected styles.

The Gardens Mall is located one mile east of I-95 on PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens.
For more information, see www.thegardensmall.com.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Don't like the drippy sentiments or bawdy greetings on Valentine's Day cards? Create your own through Stories By Everyone

The Web site offers six free Valentine's cards until Feb. 1. Move fast - that's Sunday.

Now all you have to do is write a poem, or something clever or sweet. Gee, maybe it's easier to buy a card. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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It's not too early to plan a romantic Valentine's dinner. Whether your romance is new or needs some rekindling of the fire, start with the right stuff.

Crate & Barrel has some cool items that won't break your budget. I love this Valentine plate with pink and red hearts around the white porcelain plate. It's perfect for a romantic dessert and is only $5.95.

Team it with a five heart candleholders down the center of the table or in a circle if the table is round. They are only $1.95 each.

Happy romantic evening and don't forget the champagne.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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