Do mediocre boxes of chocolates and grocery-store bought carnation bouquets make you want to hit the snooze button every Valentine's Day? What would really jump start your heart? Maybe you would like to be surprised by (or surprise) your beloved with something a little different this year. Here are a few ideas for "Landing" a Valentine on February 14, a day celebrating love in all its many incarnations. These are gifts that often keep on giving--let's call them Valentines for cherished people and places.

For procrastinators:Stay tuned for the Land Trust's schedule of hikes, walks and preserve tours, coming out in April. Sign up for a Land Trust walk or tour with your sweetheart, partner and/or kids. Or sign up for you and a friend!

For creative types:Gather the family for a special meal. Tell stories about your favorite places. Or put together a scrapbook of photographs from your favorite outdoor adventures. Include hand-written stories and memories with each photo.

For the foodies:Write an IOU for warmer weather, then plan a picnic with a spectacular view of the Three Sisters mountains at Indian Ford Meadow Preserve. Pack deli sandwiches, cheese and crackers, dessert and a nice bottle of wine, then enjoy a warm spring day on a picnic blanket outside!

For the planners:If you are a forward-thinking type who loves to get outside, consider giving your loved one a gift membership to the Deschutes Land Trust. Your donation will help us protect land for wildlife, communities and future generations. Years from now you'll be able to walk freely in a protected place and see your Valentine's Day love still thriving.