Valentine’s gifts that say, ‘I know you’

Once, the greatest part of Valentine’s Day was receiving a Looney Tunes card from a classmate that had perforated edges and said “You’re Tweet!” Cheap, sweet and chosen to evoke a smile, it was casual. Fun. The opposite of a cheesy, dutiful box of chocolates or an embarrassing clutch of ill-chosen lingerie -- the grown-up stuff that came later.

The best gifts, on Valentine’s Day as always, are the ones that say, in a relaxed way, “I really know what you like.” Even when it’s less “adult elegant” and more “schoolyard exuberant.” We’ve collected a selection of gifts meant to spoil and entice but most of all to connect with friends and lovers: “I Love You” on toast. Wearable lip glosses. The exotic perfume of a six-month supply of bacon (because we know what women really want). . Pair one of these with the right recipient and we can’t guarantee sparks, but smiles are almost certain. Especially if you stick a Looney Tunes card on top.