Manolo says, here is the Manolo’s latest column for the Express of the Washington Post.

Dear Manolo,

This year, one of my New Year’s resolutions is to get my legs in better shape by St. Valentines day, so I can wear some stunning heels when I go out with my boyfriend, just in case, he, you know…pops the question, or something. Can you suggest a pair of red shoes for me to wear on the big day, something I can use as motivation to stick with it.

Emily

Manolo says, needless to say, the Manolo approves of using the promised acquisition of beautiful shoes as the carrot to spur oneself to greater accomplishment. Of the course, if one were really serious about the resolutions, one would also use the stick to enforce compliance with the new regime.

Imagine how much more motivated you would be if you swore to all your friends that if you did not meet your goals you would appear in public, at the fancy restaurant for the Dia de San Valentino Festival of Amour, in the bright orange Crocs.

For the Manolo the shame of having to wear plastic dork shoes on his feets that would certainly keep him on the Stairmaster.

As for the beautiful red shoes, the Manolo recommends the Festivity from Stuart Weitzman as being the suitable, and suitably named reward for your efforts.