On Valentine's Day, we spend time with loved ones. And what better way to do that than with a nice dinner out? With a little planning and these six easy tips, you can take control and treat yourself to a special night without over-doing on calories..

1. Relax.
Don't approach the dinner with trepidation. You're not denying yourself anything. You're making choices about your life. And you're sharing a meal with those you love, whether that's your partner, your family, or a group of friends. How could it get any better than that?

2. Ask for what you want.

• Scan the menu to create your own dinner. If you want the fish, but don't want the cream sauce, ask for it to be served with the salsa that comes with the chicken, or the fresh herbs from the pasta. If you want veal but don't want it drenched in butter, ask for it with lemon juice and herbs. Fancier restaurants prepare dishes to order, so it's no problem — less fancy dining establishments are often willing to make changes, too. There's no harm in asking!  Grilled foods are always healthier than fried.

• The same goes for the side dishes. That prawn dish you want might come with potato gratin, but the roast chicken comes with grilled asparagus. Just ask for the prawns with asparagus. Veggies are always a good choice nstead of greasy cheesey dishes.

• Tell the chef not to 'finish' the sauce. Chefs sometimes swirl butter into a sauce before it's served. Ask if the sauce can be plain, fresh and bright, not 'finished'.

• If the chef cannot accommodate you, ask your waiter to recommend an alternative lighter preparation. But ask for what you want the way you want it. That's taking control of your life!  Most restaurants will accomodate your wishes.

3. Order simpler food prepared in a healthy manner.
In terms of calories, steamed and grilled is usually better than fried or roasted.

4. Ask for your meal to be divided.
Meals these days are often served in enormous portions. Ask the waiter to divide yours before it's served and put one half in a takeaway bag that's reserved for you in the kitchen. That way you'll have dinner the next day, too.

5. Cut things out during the meal.

• Forego the cocktail, which can be loaded with sugar, and have a glass of red wine instead.

• Ask for lemon juice or balsamic vinegar on the salad.

• Ask for a small pat of butter on the side for your baked potato, rather than letting the chef pile on butter and sour cream.

6. Share.
You can split an appetiser, a salad or a dessert. It's so romantic to share a dish with someone you love.

7.  Dessert - order fresh fruit or share a light dessert.  Better yet order a cup of coffee or tea and talk awhile.

Steve and I always share our dishes.  We often will order two appetizers and share and a glass of wine each.  Easier on the wallet as well as lighter in calories and fat.

Best ofall have a wonderful time talking to each other!!!