What, do I live under a rock? I consider myself to be pretty aware of things, and especially when it’s female-oriented. I wouldn’t say I’m a die-hard feminist or anything, but close to it, I suppose. And I swear I’ve never heard of International Women’s Day. Yep, that’s what women around the world are celebrating today. In fact, they are celebrating it’s 100th year this year. Where the hell have I been? The more research and googling I did, the more I have to conclude that under a rock is exactly where I’ve been! Now, to give myself  a break, I will say that this holiday is much much bigger in countries other than my own (the US), particularly Europe, Russia, and the Soviet bloc. Which is a shame, because it is such a great concept! It has been compared to Valentines Day, but I think it is much much more meaningful.

To be honest, I think V Day has become this dreaded day where guys feel pressure to wine and dine their ladies, and the ladies have completely unrealistic expectations (“he should just KNOW what I want…”) And why is it that those same women don’t feel any sort of obligation to do anything for their men? Since when is a Valentine defined as female only? OK, now that my feet are firmly planted on the soap box….Here’s what else is wrong with V Day: it’s limited to only people in love/sexual relationships. You’re a single person? Sorry. You’re screwed on Valentines Day. In fact, it’s the proverbial salt in the wound if you ask me. All those love-struck sweethearts running around being all lovey-dovey and shit. Bleh. And I’m saying this even though I’m in an awesome relationship with a wonderful guy who totally wined and dined me for V Day. And while I appreciate what he did and does for me, to the general concept of Valentines Day, I still say, “bleh”.

Now Women’s Day, that’s something I can get behind. First of all, the title makes it very clear who it’s for. Women. And by the way, I have no problem if someone wants to create “Man’s Day” – in the interest of being fair (despite so many inequalities in the world for women…but I digress….) Anyway, what I also like about it, is that it’s an opportunity to appreciate ALL women. Wives, girlfriends, sisters, mothers, aunts, co-workers, you name it. From all cultures, countries, and walks of life. And it’s also an opportunity for ALL people to appreciate the women that have made a difference in their lives. I mean, this holiday has some substance to it!

So, ladies: Happy Women’s Day. Whether you celebrate with your significant other, your family, or with your gal pals, remember this. You are the backbone of the world. You work tirelessly for others, you have the strength and tenacity of a pitbull, and yet you would give the shirt off your back to someone in need, you would protect your children at all costs, and you have the ability to find beauty in this f’d up world – in fact, you ARE beauty in this world. And so many more wonderful qualities. Each and every one of you can hold your head high, and be proud of being a woman.

Cheers, Peace, and Love to all the women of the world!

Christmas isn’t the only holiday to choose between naughty and nice! And if you aren’t ready for handcuffs and leather, the folks over at Extreme Restraints have all the “normal” (whatever that means….lol) stuff too – like rabbit vibrators, sexy lingerie, and lube. It’s a one stop shop!

 Take advantage of their Valentines Day sale. You get 15% off just by using coupon code VALENTINE at checkout! You might even decide you can be naughty AND nice!

I know, it sounds lame – especially if you ARE single. You are probably saying, yeah – you go love YOURSELF, beeyotch! But sometimes something cliche can still be good. When was the last time you pampered yourself? When was the last time you devoted a whole day – even a whole hour - to indulging your every whim (OK, well maybe not your EVERY whim, but at least one or two…)? Well, why not use Valentines Day as an excuse to do just that?

I challenge you to come up with a day just for YOU. I realize you may not be able to “get away” from work/family/life, so if you can’t devote a whole day, at least devote part of the day – even if it’s just 60 minutes. I’ll list some ideas off the top of my head, but obviously you know yourself best and could come up with things that are perfect for you. In fact – I wanna hear some of your ideas, so I invite you to show me some love with a comment and your own list. Here’s mine:

. Massage
. Mani-Pedi
. Chocolate/Dessert
. Comfort Food
. Glass of Wine/Pretty Umbrella Drink
. Bubble Bath (candles, music, etc.)
. Shopping
. Leisurely Hike
. Fire in the fireplace
. Curl up with a good book
. Some one-on-one time with Bob*

No doubt you have your own personal activities that make you feel good, but the key is to make it about YOU, and make it fun. For some of you this may be difficult because most women – even the single ones - are so programmed to keep others in mind, do things for others, and you have come to believe that anything else is selfish. I’m here to tell you it’s not. Do something for yourself, by yourself. You do not NEED anyone. You do not need to be NEEDED by anyone. Make Valentines a celebration of loving yourself. You deserve it!

*Bob = Battery Operated Boyfriend (ya know, your favorite “toy”)

You could give the “usual” for  Valentines Day (if you’re a guy that means chocolate and flowers. If you’re a girl that apparently means you don’t give anything – at least that seemed to be the consensus of several aquaintences of mine last year – which I think is WRONG, but that’s another post….) Anyway, you could give/get the usual again this year, but why? There are some great options at adult sex toy stores. This year, why not try something a little more racey? Spice things up a bit! C’mon, you KNOW you want to!

One of my favorite adult toy websites is Eden Fantasys, and I have hand-picked 12 items that I think would be fantastic gifts for Valentines Day. Check ‘em out, or go to the website to browse their awesome selection. I am not singing their praises just for advertisement purposes - they really do rock. The site is easy to navigate, has THE MOST product information of any competitor on the web, and there’s tons of great tips and guides. I could go on and on, but I’ll let you just see for yourself.

Shop at the #1 rated online sex toy store: Adam & Eve*

* Rating at SexToyHunter.com