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Valentine's Day on a budget

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Valentine’s Day can be expensive when you’re trying to spoil that special someone. But as broke college students, there are ways to accomplish showing your love on a budget. By doing small, creative things, you can show your affection on Valentine’s Day. “A bouquet of flowers can make a girl’s day,” said Emily Brown, an education major from Idaho. Bringing a rose to that girl you have had your eye on can be the start to a great Valentine’s Day. Brooke Dillingham, an art major from California, said, “Sometimes the simplest of things turn out to be the best when it comes to romance.” Don’t over think your plans, keep things fun and relaxed. Start out your night with a nice dinner or romantic picnic. There’s no need to go all out. Making a few peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and heading out to the beach for a sunset picnic is more than acceptable and only costs a few dollars -- but the experience? Priceless.If you feel like getting out of town, head over to Kaneohe for a bite to eat. Don’t forget to document your night by stopping at the mall and taking some pics in the photo booth. Valentine’s Day isn’t the time to show off by buying that special someone a gift you can’t afford. Although you would like to be able to go all out for the person you love, it’s not always possible or needed. If you are a limited budget, consider making something. Here are some additional ideas for Valentine’s Day gifts from familylife.com. • Make a book about why you love your special someone and why you are thankful for him/her.  The woman who sent this idea wrote, “He loved it! Said it was the best gift he has ever gotten. And it helped me to focus on the things I love about my husband and not his shortcomings.” • Take your sweetie on a scavenger hunt. Ask him/her to answer riddles to find the clues to items that you placed somewhere around town. The last item should give instructions that lead to your Valentine’s Day activities. • Enjoy a candlelight dinner for two at home and watch a romantic movie. • Give your honey a rose while reading a love poem. • Order food from a take-out restaurant and have a picnic for all the Valentines in your home or apartment to include everyone. • Make a meal with symbols of love. Examples: Write I love you with string beans or make a cake in the shape of a heart. • Hide little heart candies in your special someone’s shoes, coat, car, etc.  The woman who suggested this said she has been doing this for decades. “Now a couple of the grandkids help me with delight.” • Fill a jar with Valentine candy and notes about why you love the person. • Write a poem for your sweetheart and frame it.  • On individual note cards, write why you love your honey.Insert these cards in a small photo album.  The woman who suggested this idea began her album with a honeymoon picture and introductory note card, and ended it with a love note. • Make a special “14 Reasons I Love You” Valentine’s Day breakfast for your sweetheart. On his/her plate, leave a letter or card listing 14 reasons why you love them. Whether it’s a treat, a card, or a piece of jewelry, it will make their day as long as it comes from the heart. The most important thing is to enjoy the time spent with your significant other. Experts say that is what really matters. Uploaded Feb. 12, 2015.
Writer: Ali Apgood