Here's how to do it in style. From browsing a gallery of artwork created by local artists to indulging in a chocolate extravaganza, romantic offerings are plentiful in Estancia Valley and the East Mountains.

Estancia and Mountainair

The quaint little town of Estancia is perfect for a quaint little Valentine's Day. Start out the evening at dusk by heading down to Lake Arthur Park with your sweetheart. The pond is now filled to the brim with graceful cranes.

After the sun sets, mosey to The Old Mill. It's usually closed on Sundays, but for this special day, owner Pearlene Lutrick has prepared a decadent menu meant for two. Ribeye and shrimp dinner with salad and drinks will be followed by dessert.

Live music will also be on hand.

There are four seating times: 5, 5:30, 7 and 7:30 p.m. Reservations must be made in advance, and the meal is $35 for two. Call 384-6000 to reserve spots.

When discussing love at one of their recent monthly meetings, Mountainair artists who show their work at Cibola Arts Gallery decided their spring show should highlight the concept of home.

The show, titled "home is where the heART is" is set to open Feb. 13 at Cibola Arts Gallery in Mountainair.

The artwork includes ceramics, oil paintings, watercolors, acrylic paintings, photography, birdhouses, multimedia pieces and more.

The show will run until March 5. The gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A reception will be held Feb. 13 from 2-4 p.m. at the gallery on U.S. 60 in Mountainair. For more information, call 847-0324.

In the mood for a good love story?

If you're in town for the reception, stop in for lunch at Alpine Alley at 210 Summit Ave. The homey little sandwich and coffee joint is owned by husband and wife Scott and Mary Childers. And while you're there, ask them to tell you their love story. The two met in fourth grade and their story is one for the ages.

Turquoise Trail communities

Bite while the gas prices are low: Take your sweetie for a drive along the historic Turquoise Trail.

The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway encompasses 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Cuddle up while enjoying breathtaking views from atop Sandia Crest, then drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid and Cerrillos, now coming alive with art, crafts, theater, music, museums and restaurants.

Or put on the brakes and hit the trail. Cedar Crest Country Cottage gives horseback riders the opportunity to ride trails through an evergreen forest in the Sandias.

Trail ride rates are $30 per hour plus tax. There are several rides to choose from, even personally designed ones. Lodging is also available if you want to make it a weekend.

Reservations can be made either by calling 281-5197 or 980-7429 or by e-mailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Check out www.cedarcreststables.com for more information.

While up in the Sandias riding, take a break by visiting The Old Schoolhouse Gallery in San Antonito. The gallery will be holding a Valentine's Day opening on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.

The gallery is at 12504 N.M. 14. Call 281-1250 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information. And end your night or weekend at the theater. The East Mountain Centre for Theatre's production of "Steel Magnolias" opens Feb. 13 and 14. Saturday's performance is at 7 p.m.; Sunday's is at 2. Watch local talent perform Robert Harling's play about the life and death of his younger sister and the women who were always there through the laughter and tears. This show is full of laughs, but be sure to bring tissues and use your sweetie's shoulder to cry on.

Moriarty

This Saturday, get out on the dance floor of the Moriarty Civic Center for the Knights of Columbus' Valentine's Dance.

And if you're up for two weekends of dancing, celebrate V-Day twice by attending the annual Moriarty Chamber of Commerce banquet on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Moriarty Civic Center.

Dress up as a favorite Old West character for the banquet theme of "Crossroads of Old West Romance."

The menu will include a ribeye steak dinner with a chocolate extravaganza dessert. Entertainment will be provided by Lance Valliant with live music and Ken Karter with a blend of comedy ventriloquism and audience participation. Both a live and silent auction will also be held.

The dance begins at 8:30 p.m.

The event is open to the public. Tickets are $300 for a table of eight, $75 for a couple, and $40 for a single, and may be purchased by any Moriarty chamber board member or by calling the chamber office at 832- 4087.