Written for Sooner yearbook online.

Let’s give Valentine’s Day a much-needed makeover. We shouldn’t feel obligated to spend hundreds of dollars to show someone we love them. More importantly, we don’t even need a significant other to have a reason to celebrate. The great thing about love is that it comes in many forms, including friendship and romance. So, even if you are single this holiday remember: you are still not alone. Even if everyone is busy and you end up flying solo on Valentine’s Day — no problem — show yourself some love this year. Cook your favorite meal and watch a movie that you have secretly been dying to see. You don’t have to compromise for anyone today.

Valentine’s Day has grown to be a day filled with disdain and sadness for many people. If we refocus and see goodness — the love and happiness that those around us bring to our lives — we may just find a good reason to celebrate this year.

Now, if you are feeling inspired to bring a little Valentine’s magic into your life this Thursday, here’s some food, fun and favors to help you make it a day to remember (no matter the budget or company).

 

If you want dinner:

Save: Victoria’s Pasta Shop

Don’t let the modest exterior fool you. The rumor is Victoria’s food is delicious. The Lasagna Rolls are held in especially high regard in reviews for this small restaurant. Try something new (and affordable) this holiday at 327 White Street on Campus Corner.

Splurge: Seven47

With its modern decorating and upscale menu, Seven47 is a great place to have a classy night out. It’s location on Campus Corner is convenient, especially if you have a bit too much fun and need to walk home. There will be a Valentine’s Day dinner special: a four course meal and complimentary candy bar for $40 per person. Call (405) 701-8622 for reservations. Located at 747 Asp Ave, Norman.

DIY: Chicken Kiev

Similar to Chicken Cordon Bleu, this stuffed chicken recipe may keep you in the kitchen for a while, but the juicy, flavorful result is worth it. You can cut down some preparation time by slicing the chicken breast open to stuff it rather than pounding the chicken flat. Also, the jack cheese can be substituted for mozzarella or other cheeses depending on your preferences.

If you want fun:

Save: “I Am Love” Screening

There will be a free screening of the Italian film “I Am Love” (2009) on campus this Valentine’s Day. Oscar-winner Tilda Swinton stars in this well-received dramedy. Check it out at 6 p.m. in 230 Kaufman Hall this Thursday.

Splurge: Musical Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre: A Killer Reunion

Murder mystery dinners are fantastic. Dinner, entertainment, and detective role-playing combined into one great night. This Valentine’s, Sooner Theatre is putting on their own musical version, and if you can spare the dough, you should definitely check it out. Tickets are $75 each or $600 for a table of eight. Reserve tickets by calling (405) 321-9600.

DIY: Valentine’s Themed “Minute to Win It” Games

Add some excitement and competition a Valentine’s party with friends by playing mini-games designed for the game show “Minute to Win It”. All the games use common household items, and can easily be tweaked to fit the holiday.

If you want dessert (and, really, what is Valentine’s without dessert?):

Save: Il Dolce Gelato

Grab some gelato this holiday for a taste of Italy right here in Norman. It is supposedly less fattening than American ice cream and more flavorful. That sounds like a Valentine’s Day miracle. The shop is located on 1318 N Interstate Drive, Norman.

Splurge: Gourmet Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Why go out when you can have dessert delivered right to your door (or someone special’s door)? Plus, everyone likes getting mail. Send something sweet this Valentine’s Day. Cost: about $20-$50 depending where you order.

DIY: Two Ingredient Strawberry Fudge

This pretty pink fudge uses strawberry frosting and white chocolate chips. That’s it. Two ingredients and five simple steps stand between you and fudge.

If you want to give a guy a gift:

Save: Credit Card Bottle Opener

Save those pretty teeth from harm by getting the guy in your life a bottle opener that fits in his wallet. Whether it is a beer or retro soda, he’ll be a lot less thirsty and frustrated when he finds himself without a regular bottle opener and remembers that one is just a pocket away. Cost: about $10 on Amazon.com.

Splurge: Hot Sauce Gift Set

Heat up this Valentine’s with a gift set that most guys would love! He’ll think of you every time he uses it because you help make his food a bit less bland. Dave’s Hot Sauce and Tabasco gift sets can be found in various sizes on Amazon.com and the retailers’ websites. Cost: There is a wide range depending on size, but most of them are about $30-$40.

DIY: Bacon Roses

The old saying is still true: the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. And while Engagement Chicken doesn’t seem to get results, this one just might. They’re exactly what it sounds like, and here’s how to make them.

If you want to give a girl a gift:

Save: Tea Infuser

An adorable and practical gift for a girl who loves tea. They come in many varieties, including a robot, dinosaur, monkey, rubber ducky, and many more on Amazon.com and other retailers. Cost: $5-$10.

Splurge: Camera

Let your girl embrace her inner photographer with the Lomography Diana + Dreamer Camera. It combines the vintage fun of Instagram with a beautiful mint colored camera that she won’t want to put down. Cost: $65 at UrbanOutfitters.com

DIY: “52 Reasons I Love You” Cards

Let’s count the ways you love her. Whether it is a friend, girlfriend, or someone else, she could probably use some reassurance that you think she is awesome. This is a cute and affordable way to show her.

Try to keep your heart open and your wallet closed as much as possible this Valentine’s Day. Have fun!