Flowers, chocolates, plush animals, dinner for two. They’re all associated with Valentine’s Day, and they’re all a boost to retailers who offer those products and services. It’s a day to lavish attention on loved ones, and it’ll be a boost to the economy. According to the National Retail Federation, $17.6 billion was spent on and around Valentine’s Day 2012 in the U.S. The federation estimates that $18.6 billion will be spent this year, with the day of love and roses on tap for Thursday. A survey indicated that individually, people will spend an average of $130.97, almost $5 more than …