My boyfriend and I moved in together at the end of last year, after being together for almost a year. Ever since then, with moving in and dealing with bills, we haven’t really had time to give each other gifts. We didn’t give each other anniversary, Christmas, or Valentine’s gifts. It’s not that we're angry with each other, in fact we’re quite happy except for the customary stresses that come with living on your own. It’s just that this year we aren't in a place financially where we can buy each other cards, flowers, or chocolate.

What we did was buy a pizza and watch gaming videos together. We cuddled and told each other how much we love each other. In spite of all of the problems we’ve faced, it all feels worth it when I lay next to him at the end of the day. So, in order to commemorate celebrating Valentine’s Day in a non-traditional way, here are three ways that you and your significant other can celebrate next year.

1. Give each other a handwritten letter.

It can include whatever you want to say in it, but make it personal. Writing your loved one a quick note would probably be much appreciated. Relationships are hard work, and it’s nice to show how much you value that in your partner.

2. Watch a movie on Netflix together and let your loved one pick first.

I’m just as guilty of wanting to have sole reign over what both of us watch -- whether it’s on Youtube, Crunchyroll, or Netflix -- but something anyone can do at anytime is to let your boyfriend/girlfriend pick first for once.

3. Instead of going out to eat, cook a meal together at home.

My boyfriend and I enjoy cooking together. Most recently we made stir-fried rice with vegetables and pork. It tasted awesome, mostly because we made it together. Having those kind of moments together makes the life we’re trying to have together even more real.

With being in college and living on my own, it can be really hard to celebrate Valentine’s Day when you don’t have that much (or any) disposable income. Hopefully the options I’ve provided help you and your partner celebrate a wonderful (and cheap) Valentine’s Day.