No, DCist hasn’t forgotten that it is Valentine’s Day. But the controversial nature of the day just makes us feel like tiptoeing around the holiday. On Feb. 14 you are either a “have” or a “have not,” no matter how much spin you want to put on it — Yes, we know that mom is always your valentine. Some of you are panicking because you are procrastinators. Some of you are wallowing in self-pity. And some of you are acting non-chalantly, jaded about the Hallmark holiday. But DCist must proclaim that any holiday is a reason to celebrate, so celebrate we must. Heck, we even create our own holidays when there isn’t a convenient one around.

Procrastinators! Need a few last-minute suggestions? First, DCist says shame on you. It isn’t like this is a new and changeable holiday every year. But we’re here for you, even if you screwed up. If you haven’t gotten a reservation, you aren’t getting one now, but you can pull the “give the gift now for later” routine. To do this you book a table for a date in the future — we suggest that you go big to make it work, perhaps City Zen at the Mandarin Oriental because its hefty wait list in general will add more authenticity to your ploy. Now, make a fancy invitation with doilies, hearts and your nicest penmanship, and present it with some flowers, your smiling face and a kiss. This also works well with gift certificates for couples’ massages, lessons, clothing, etc.