I want you to put on your rose colored glasses and take a trip with me.

A romantic views the world in a unique way. One of the most famous romantics was William Shakespeare. So imagine yourself in your Renaissance attire and start looking at things from a romantic viewpoint.

Romance takes time. You need to slow down to be romantic. You need to pay attention to details. It doesn't have to mean spending a lot of money. You're not trying to buy their love.

For the hopelessly non-romantic people reading this, can you answer these questions:

When you think of your lover, what is the color of their eyes? I once did a singing telegram for a man's anniversary of 23 years and he didn't know the color of his wife's eyes or the color of her hair.

What is their favorite flower? Don't assume it's red roses. It may be cheerful daffodils or exotic Bird of Paradise stems. Stroll through a nursery and see which flowers they ooh and ahh at.

If they won a trip abroad, where would they go? If it's Italy, you could get them an Italian opera CD, a snowglobe of Venice, and a meal at the local Italian restaurant.

How would they prefer to be pampered? Some people love massages. Others would rather wade in the surf as the sun sets.

What kind of music puts them in the mood for love? Barry White? Barry Manilow? Being romantic is all about knowing what their tastes are. You have to be flexible. Can you listen to jazz for one night if that is their favorite and not yours? Can you grin and bear it through a ballet or an opera? Most women do not find a Lakers game romantic.

What type of jewelry do they wear? Victorian jewelry is very romantic. Do they prefer silver or gold? Or would a handmade friendship bracelet make them grin from ear to ear? Maybe a gothic poison ring would have the desired effect. How about the perfect marcasite watch?

What is their dream car? Even if you can't buy them a red corvette, maybe you could rent one for the weekend. Maybe they'd prefer a trip on a train overlooking the Pacific Coast. Try the Amtrak surfliner.

Do they like surprises and mysteries? If they hate surprises, please don't throw them a surprise party. That is just too big and overwhelming. Maybe a more subtle idea would be a tour through a wine country.

If they love surprises and mysteries maybe one of those murder parties would be fun. Or how about a romantic scavenger hunt. Or hop on the Metro and get off at Hollywood Blvd. and see the sites. See if you can dress her in '50's clothes and go do lunch at Johnny Rockets or the nearest retro diner or bowling alley.

Are they always exhausted? If so, the most romantic thing you can do for them is make sure they are relaxed and rested. Spa time may be in order. Or at least an at home bubble bath with rose petals.

Do you dance? Learn at least one useful romantic dance. If neither of you dances, how about going for some ballroom lessons? Or how about those fiery Latin dances?

Do you recite? Recite your own poetry or Shakespeare or Robert Frost or Rod McKuen. Every bookstore carries books on favorite romantic poetry. I remember a giant volume my father bought my mother.

Do you sing or play the guitar? Serenade your lover. Write them their own song. Even if it's not American Idol material, it will still be special to them.

Get into wearing costumes. Can you seduce her as a vampire? How about singing him a country song in your sexiest cowgirl outfit. Would you dress like a Playboy bunny for him? Use your imagination.

Are you willing to be a fool for love? Go the extra mile.

Charm your lover with food. Heart shaped cookies, rich chocolate fudge, home made apple pie. What's not to love?

Every day is a good day for a romantic gesture. You could tuck a Valentine in their lunch, even if it's June.

Now off you go. Wink.