I've always loved Valentine's Day. My parents got engaged on Valentine's Day, so they made a big deal out of the holiday when I was younger. They stressed something that I don't think enough people understand: Valentine's Day is a celebration of love in general, not just romantic love.

Every year, my parents get me a Valentine's Day present, and I get them something too. I give cards to my grandparents and tell my friends I love them more than usual. When I was little, my mom and I would make heart-shaped Rice Krispies Treats and red velvet cupcakes. I would buy those cheesy Valentines from CVS and hand them out to the kids at my elementary school.

I spent three Valentine's Days with one boy, and every year we would go out for dinner and ice cream and exchange gifts. We were a little too in love, so we made a big deal out of a day that justified just how much we loved each other. I hated everyone who was anti-Valentine's Day. I understood that they may not have someone special to share the day with, but that didn't mean they couldn't celebrate with family or friends. Why was there a need to wear all black and complain that Valentine's Day is just a Hallmark Holiday just because they weren't in a relationship?

To be honest, it's kind of insensitive to people who are in relationships. This is a really special day for them, so let them make a big deal out of it. Don't make vomiting noises when you walk past couples holding hands. Wish couples Happy Valentine's Days. They'll really appreciate it.

Now, I'm single, and I still love Valentine's Day. I plan on giving my friends Valentines, and I'm making some sweet treats for people too. Valentine's Day was created to spread love, all types of love. So, if you're single, spend the day with some friends you love who may or may not be in relationships. Call your family, or go home for the weekend if you can.

Self-love is important too. My mother always told me that when she was single on Valentine's Day, she would go out and buy herself a present, because why not? Buy yourself something you've wanted for a while. You deserve it! Eat some chocolate, drink some wine, cuddle a stuffed animal, watch a cheesy movie about love in your pajamas. Or dress up!

Valentine's Day was also created to recognize how lucky we are to have love in our lives. The feeling of love really is a gift. Once again, I'm talking about all types of love, even love for a pet (which is the most important type of love, in my opinion. Have you ever thought about just how much your dog loves you?)

Happy Valentine's Day!