Turn Junior's Doodles into Valentine Gifts
Surely you have come across the "make your own mug" kit... You know - the $9.99 "craft" set that includes a plain white coffee mug and a few crummy permanent markers? We both know that your kids deserve better.

This Valentine's Day, turn their greatest works of art into gifts that will actually be appreciated - for both style and substance. They'll be worth their weight in sentimental value.

Note Cards
Packages of blank note cards, together with matching envelopes, will set you back about $5 for a dozen. Have Junior create his own line of greeting cards with favorite folks in mind. Grandma's cards might have a floral tableau while Uncle Ted's shows off your kid's truck-drawing ability. Tie four coordinating cards together with a pretty bow and you've just struck Hallmark gold for a little more than a buck per person.

The "Traditional" Framed Portrait
Family photographs are a treasure, of course. But there are few things cuter, or more touching, than a 6-year-old's much-labored-over drawing of Dad. Instead of relegating the piece to the front of the fridge (where it will inevitably get torn and then tossed), save a magnet and have it framed. If you're really into the concept, set your child up with acid-free paper and markers to ensure that the next generation will know that Little Billy was quite adept at drawing mustaches.

Dining Accessories
Make friends with the local copy shop's laminating machine and you'll be in art-preserving Heaven. Great drawings can easily evolve into drink coasters and placemats once they are covered with a thick coat of plastic. Art not the right size? Technologically-advanced parents can scan the art, then size it to their preference using desktop computer software. Or, make a colored copy of the original, taking advantage of the ability to shrink or enlarge the image.

Wearing the Heart on the Sleeve
Why spring for a generic sweatshirt that loudly declares him "World's Best Grandpa" when a sweeter sentiment can be made in your child's own unique font? Craft stores carry "old school" iron-on crayon sets that can adequately get the message across on plain cotton clothing, but newer versions have emerged that use your home's printer.

Regardless of your preservation method, be sure to have your artist sign and date their work of art.

Valentine's Day Dining Both of You will Love
Plan Now for Valentine's Day - Saturday, February 14

Drinks and a Movie
Celebrate early! On Thursday, February 12 and Friday, February 13, Vino 100 will host a private screening of the hit film Bottle Shock to coincide with the flick's national release. The fun evening, which is limited to 20 guests per night, includes blind wine tasting (just like the film). Vino 100 is located at 28112 Newhall Ranch Road in Valencia; 294-6886

Romance and Decadent Treats
He'll love Salt Creek's Mesquite Grilled Filet Mignon; she'll swoon over their made-to-order Chocolate Ganache Souffle. A special Valentine's menu will be available to help make it a memorable evening. Reservations are accepted for parties of seven or more, just in case your Valentine's festivities include friends. Salt Creek Grille is located at 24415 Town Center Drive in Valencia; 222-9999

Heavy Pours and Dancing Floors
Gents who really want to exceed expectations will score major points for reserving a table for two at the Valentine's Dinner Dance at All Corked Up. Starting at 7:30 p.m., guests will enjoy great wine, food and music with a fantastic four-course meal, one bottle of wine per couple and live music with the band Acoustic Soul. Prices start at $85 per person. All Corked Up is located at 26340 Diamond Place in Santa Clarita; 799-7979

Brewery and Exceptional Eats
Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewing Co., one of Santa Clarita's favorite any-time restaurants, is now taking reservations for Valentine's Day. He'll love it because the fully-functioning brewery offers award-winning ales on tap (try the awesome Timberwolf Bourbon Oaked Red) - and the dress code is distinctly casual. She'll love the eclectic menu (we recommend the Taos egg rolls) and impressive wine list. Wolf Creek is located at 22746 North McBean Parkway in Valencia; 263-9653

Couples and Kids
Extend the romance, or treat the kids, the day after Valentine's. The Sunday brunches at El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant and Presidente Mexican Grill are both family (kids under 10 eat for $7.25) and couple friendly (adults are only $14.75, and then there's the complimentary Champagne...). Nosh on eight hot entrees, omelets, fresh fruit, a salad bar, yummy Belgian waffles and more from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. El Chaparral is located in Canyon Country (252-5599) and Presidente Mexican Grill is located in Santa Clarita; 297-7244