Last minute Valentine's gifts

Couple Danielle Brewer, freshman nursing major, and Keaton Stiggers, junior general studies major, make it a point to keep their love strong all year long, but particularly on the special day by giving each other time for themselves, as well as treats in a unique homemade way. "I'm addicted to Pinterest," said Brewer. "There are lots of ideas on there. It doesn't cost anything but time, which is most important to make a relationship last."

For some women, like freshman Vanessa Peiper, who said, "I'm too gangster for Valentine's Day," maybe a little TLC will soften her heart with a starlight gaze at the Lower Dam and a little hand holding, both creative ideas for a free, yet meaningful experience. Around campus and the community, there are several options for tipping the see-saw of equality on this day of love. We all know you can't buy love, but you can sure try. With gas prices skyrocketing once again, try shopping locally. Stay in town for this Valentine's Day. Here are a few options for a well-rounded V-Day:

The only advertised special at a restaurant in town is the Fat Boys' Sweetheart Ribeye Steak Special. Their slogan is "Valentine's Day, Treat ‘em Sweet. Ribeye Special, Feed ‘em MEAT!" Their Sweetheart Ribeye special is "in its third year of celebration with two aged, hand-cut, marinated and open-flame grilled Ribeye steaks, with a pair of potatoes, salads, Texas toast, drinks and surprise dessert for under $40," hostess Ashley Brosh said.

If jewelry is what your significant other is into, like freshman biology major Amanda Devereux, who said, "the best gift I ever received on Valentine's Day was a diamond necklace," both jewelers in town, Kelzek and Diamond Designs, offer options.

All sterling silver jewelry at Kelzek is 50 percent off. Diamond Designs is introducing a new line of casual pieces characterized by wire and leather-wrapped jewels, particularly pearls, called Love Heals, where a portion of the proceeds benefits nonprofit organizations. They also have an array of discounted items to choose from for both him and her. Cathy Hathcoat at Hardman Interiors said, "The perfect gift can be affordable. Hardman Interiors offers a great variety of discounted jewelry and gift items for under $10."

The men of Alphia Phi Omega and the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta can help you out with your Valentine's Day gift. Alpha Phi Omega Juan Huerta, senior education major, said they have been hosting the popular Buy a Crush event for six years. "When you buy a can of Crush, you give the name and number of the individual and they will get a text letting them know to come pick up their gift. Nothing says ‘Be Mine' like a surprise," said Huerta.

Most important to remember is that gifting isn't always about the price tag, either. The best gifts are the thoughtful ones. Freshman Jessica Parks, undecided major, just wants "flowers on the bed." It's about an experience. Junior general studies major Jill Temples said, "My best Valentine's Day gift was a romantic dinner and flowers."

The moral of this love story is don't be boring. Ditch the standby presents and opt for something more creative.

Recreate a special moment with a token of your feelings for your special someone, who might be your parent, siblings, pet, favorite teacher or neighborhood grandmother.

If Valentine's Day is about spending, spend money or spend time. Either way, you will be just fine.