WASHINGTON — The United States Postal Service wants to make sending your Valentine some love as quick and easy as a stop at your local Post Office, where the new “In the Mailbox Love Bear” and other lovely gifts await.

The limited edition “In the Mailbox Love Bear” comes ready to ship — the furry guy is already in a box. He’s holding a red heart, has the 2012 Love Stamp in his right paw and comes with a greeting card for your personal sentiments. Use Express Mail, Priority Mail or Parcel Post to ship your present to that special someone.

The “In the Mailbox Love Bear” is available for just $11.99 at select Post Offices and online at usps.com while supplies last.

“One-stop shopping at the Post Office makes sending some love a little easier to ‘bear’ this Valentine’s Day,” said Kelly Sigmon, vice president, Channel Access.

The Postal Service also offers additional products perfect for Valentine’s Day giving. American Express Gift Cards are available in denominations of $25, $50, and variable dollar amounts between $25 and $100 at nearly 5,000 Post Offices. Place your gift card in one of the Valentine’s Day cards offered for sale at select Post Offices and you’re ready to mail some first-class love.

Also making its debut this year is the Love Tote Bag, featuring an image of the beautifully designed 2012 Love stamp. This eco-friendly item is made using 80 percent recycled materials and sells for just $2. It’s a great gift on its own or it can be used as an economical (and sustainable) gift bag.

Customers also may select from various ReadyPost boxes and bubble mailers featuring Valentine’s Day colors and designs. These items are priced from $1.79 to $4.29 and are ready to use as gift wrap or to ship anywhere.

Source: USPS