More aptly titled Saint Valentine's Day, the annual holiday was named after an early Christian martyr named Valentine. Traditionally it has been a day where people express affection for others. Yet it can feel stifling for some. This is perhaps because there are those who expect, or wait for another to validate them, on the day of confection, flowers, and Cupid. However, why not choose to do something different? As Ethnic Beauties, why shouldn't we take the reigns and thereby create something memorable for ourselves? If you have someone, or if you don't, if you wish for someone, or if you do not -- you can yet enjoy the holiday that might have caused you to cringe or scowl, in the past.

First, why not get romantic -- and you do not necessarily need another person to do so. Sure, having someone would be nice, but go for it, either way. Why not light candles and try a Sea Salt Scrub or Shea Souffle from Carol's Daughter? These lightweight whipped confections are divine, and almost seem edible. Your newly pampered skin may wordlessly thank you for the scented hydration. Or you can try my new favorite. I happen to have the best sister friends in the world! They are always sending or giving me something new to try. This time it was MAC's Clear Lipglass. Wearing it, on nude lips, or over the color of your choosing creates a high intensity shine, that lasts. Infused with Jojoba oil, it softens and feels great. Thanks Denise! Ah, and something I recently found out is that this Lipglass can be applied on the body -- hmmm, to create interesting illuminating effects...now how about that for some Valentine's Day fun!

If you like scent, then Nicole Miller for Women, a formal fragrance offers mandarin essence, freesia, and ylang-ylang, along with notes of vanilla, amber, and sandalwood. Heavenly. Or why not get a whiff of the stunning fragrance which seems to actually contain joie de vivre. Smelling like life and fresh flirty fun, Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana has the crisp of a granny smith apple, the freshness of bamboo, and the calm of white rose. This casual scent also contains other not as recognizable but tantalizing notes.

Or turn your bath into a bubbling oasis with fizzing bath gelatos. Drop a colorful fragrant orb into warm water and watch it sizz and fizzle as luscious fragrance fills the air. Or try Jason Satin Shower, these natural products infused with herbs and botanicals tout fragrances such as cranberry, lavender, and apricot, to name a few. These should be used often for luxuriating and soaking. You could also check out Wrapables.com. Offered is the ever seductive Be My Valentine Chocolate Scented Bath Fizzy set. You'll receive two, individually and prettily wrapped and tied together with a satin ribbon. Since these come with a cute chocolate-hued Be My Valentine card, perhaps you can have one sent, to yourself, or to the one who just may bathe with you.

If love poems are your thing, you can peruse them or even send an e-card from several online sites where customizable cards are offered. Remember Beautiful, whenever shopping online, do so with care. Or choose to read the African-American, Grammy-nominated poet and author Nikki Giovanni. Her love poems can be intoxicating. I will warn you though, most of her musings are not for those underage or for the uninitiated. However, if you are willing, go for it. Her Intimate Kisses anthology should not leave you unscathed.

Perhaps you can check out the new movie Valentine's Day with its all-star cast. Or watch a steamy ethnic love story. If not, you could listen to the timeless Marvin Gaye, or Alejandro Fernandez, the Latin crooner who can work a love song. Whatever your preference, do not expect to be disappointed because the list of things that you can do for you happens to be endless. Ethnic Beauties remember, we'll not be sourpusses. We'll not slouch, sobbing, while ingesting a box of cheap chocolates -- unless that is what we choose to do. For if we have learned anything, it is that we have choices! We can create some of what we desire, even for Valentine's Day. And if you miss the mark, but not by far, at least you will be able to say you had fun -- trying!

Wishing every Ethnic Beauty a most enjoyable Valentine's Day!