I am in love with the idea and meaning behind Valentine's Day. I think that this is a holiday where love is in the air. However, sometimes I think that Valentine's Day can become overrated with the ridiculous charge of flowers and the pressure that couples experience when getting their significant other the "perfect gift." And do you ever wonder how much money the average person spends on this holiday? IT'S INSANE!

When we think of the "perfect gift" for Valentine's Day, we often refer to items such as jewelry, chocolate, or flowers. All of this costs a tremendous amount of money. Let's not forget that the date itself for Valentine's Day can be quite expensive as well. Going to grab dinner, going to the movies, etc. can cost a pretty penny as well. According to a source from USA Today, the average person will spend $136.57, which leads to the total spending of $18.2 billion in the United States. These numerical values were expected of 2017, which indicates a decrease in spending from 2016 for this holiday. The individual expected amount decreased 96 cents, whereas the average spending for the entire nation was expected to decrease at approximately 7.6%.

I am in love with the idea of love, but I think it is absolutely crazy to think about ALL of the money that individuals and our country spends on a holiday. I think that the value and meaning that is associated with Valentine's Day is very important, but I think that these values and meanings should be as important throughout the entirety of the year as well (and I think it's as meaningful, if not more, throughout the rest of the year as well).

Ultimately, I think it is important to celebrate Valentine's Day with your significant other. Or spoil yourself. A treat yo' self day every once in a while doesn't hurt. Just keep in mind that Valentine's Day can be quite expensive, but it doesn't have to be. A homemade gift or time spent with your loved ones means way more than any price tag. Personally, I think that time and thought is way more valuable in a relationship.