In recent decades, Valentine's Day has become increasingly commercialized as a popular gift-giving event.  In fact, in the United States alone, the average Valentine’s spending has increased every year, from $108 a person in 2010 to $134 in 2014.  But guys, I’m here to say that all that extra money spent is NOT NECESSARY!  But first, let’s get back to the true meaning of our beloved, St. Valentine’s Day. 

It is believed that the day was originally meant to be a date to celebrate the first anniversary of King Richard II to Anne of Bohemia.  That’s right; there were no boxes of chocolates, no cheesy greeting cards, and no red roses were delivered to the Queen.  It was merely just a day to celebrate the happy couple–poems were written, couples danced through the streets, and birds were released–all in the name of love.  And thus, the romantic holiday as we know it, was born. 

In my opinion, Valentine’s Day should be special and most importantly, personal.  Call me old fashioned, but there’s no way a mass-produced pink and red greeting card could possibly sum up what it means to be in love; I don’t care what it says!  So next time you find yourself running through aisles of hearts, roses, and teddy bears, please, STOP!  Then rush to the grocery aisle and pick up the ingredients to your own Beloved’s favorite dinner.  Grab a piece of notebook paper and write down the way your heart flutters each time they walk into a room.  Do something APPRECIATIVE.  Because really, that’s what we all want.  Some recognition for how awesome we are at being yours.