Yes, the box of chocolates you bought your wife came in a red heart-shaped box that screams, "I love you." Or the three-pack of heart-clad boxers are just what your husband wanted. But why not try something that really spells L-O-V-E? Here are some great last- minute tips on writing the perfect love letter that will stay with the two of you forever.

1. Think about the message you want to send. Decide if your letter is going to convey love, appreciation, or some other emotion you want to express.

2. Make a draft. Before ruining your good stationery, write down what you want to say, put it away, and read it again later to see if you still like your wording.

3. Spend some money on great stationery. For special occassions, like Valentine's Day, splurge on some beautiful paper to pen your feelings.

4. Address your love interest by name. If you have a nickname for your sweetie, use it at the beginning of the letter and again, in the body of the letter.

5. Don’t forget the date. Always date your letter so she can look back and remember the year.

6. State some specific reasons why you feel the way you do about your Valentine. Cite a special moment that made a big impression on you and how it made you feel.

7. Let her know why she is different. Be sure to include some of her special attributes in your letter. These may be things you've told her in the past or something surprising to her.

8. Write in your own "language." This is not the time to practice your French or flower your speech with words that you never use or can’t pronounce.

9. If at all possible, handwrite your letter instead of using the computer. Even if your handwriting is bad, she will appreciate the extra effort.

10. Close the letter with a nice send off. "Yours Always" is a nice touch to a thoughtful letter.

11. Use a decorative stamp. Do not run your letter through the meter at work to save a few pennies or use that leftover holiday stamp you have lying around.

12. Time the arrival of the letter. It is bad form for your Valentine love letter to arrive late!

Diane Gottsman, a nationally recognized etiquette expert, is the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in etiquette training for corporations, universities and individuals, striving to polish their interpersonal skills. You can reach Diane at 877-490-1077 or www.protocolschooloftexas.com.