Dear Abby,

I’ve been in a relationship for seven months.  My boyfriend and I talked about Valentine’s Day, but he does not really think it is a big deal.  He says it is “just another day.”  How do I let him know that Valentine’s Day is important to me?

Sincerely,

Giftless Girlfriend

Dear Giftless,

When you talked about Valentine’s Day, did you tell him it was important to you?  If not, you need to do so.  Guys are very literal.  If you say, “It’s fine,” he will assume you mean everything is okay.  Basically, you need to straight up tell him it is important to you.  For you, Valentine’s Day is probably a time to celebrate your relationship with him.  However, he most likely sees it as a day in which boyfriends, fiancés and husbands are pressured into buying roses, balloons and chocolate.  When you tell him the day is important, you also need to let him know why it is special.  And try your best to not put too much pressure on him.  Do not get upset when your roommates, best friends and pledge sisters are all going on extravagant dates and receiving elaborate gifts.  Focus on your guy and why he is so special to you – not on the gifts you do or do not receive.

Dear Abby,

Recently, I have been “talking” to a girl I met just a few months ago.  I have taken her on a few dates and really enjoyed her company.  We have not exactly had the “DTR” talk, but I have reason to believe a relationship is in our future.  However, Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and I honestly have no idea how to handle it.  Do I send her flowers? Buy her chocolate? Take her out to dinner? How much is too much? Help!

Sincerely,

Lost in Love

Dear Lost,

Valentine’s Day has a way of stressing most people out.  Whether or not you have a significant other, you will probably find yourself worrying about the day one way or another.  Because you are not exactly sure where your relationship stands, it can be hard to determine how to handle the holiday.  I suggest you figure out how you really feel about this girl.  Is she the girl of your dreams?  Can you see yourself with her for a long time?  Or is she just another fling?  I think your gift should reflect how you feel.  Do not worry about scaring her away or doing too much.  While you should not go overboard or be creepy, do something thoughtful for her.  Most guys today are content playing games.  But if you are really interested in the girl?  Go out on a limb, be a man and let her know how you feel!  Girls would much rather feel appreciated and loved than receive a human-sized teddy bear or an enormous bouquet of roses.  Keep it simple and keep it sweet.