My girlfriend keeps dropping hints that she expects something sparkly and special for Valentines Day, aka jewelry. I just don't have the money to get her what she wants. I really care for her and fear that she will see my not getting her a flashy gift to mean that I don't love her. I really, really do love her and don't know how I can make her understand that I can't afford an expensive piece of jewelry. Any ideas about how I can talk to her about this without sounding cheap? Any gift ideas that say, "I love you!" without costing a months salary?
A:
I like to believe that it is the thought that counts. You should just sit down with her one night and say something like, "I love you but right now I can't afford jewelery, at least not the kind I would like to get you. I want to get you something special to show you how much I care for you. Something unique, like our love." If this girl cares for you as much as you care for her she should understand. I personally think that if her feelings are as genuine as yours she'll appreciate your sincerity in wanting to get her what she wants as much as she would appreciate getting it for real. I mean it is a special day, a time for sharing love and commitment. A present should always be something from the heart and not something that you feel obligated to give. Now jewelry is nice, but real love and sincerity are much nicer. Just be straight with her and tell her where you are coming from. If she cares for you she should understand.
Now for some ideas... I think you should go sentimental, give a gift that means something special to the two of you, a reminder of something you have done together that was really fun for both of you. Or get her something that she can use while doing a hobby or sport she enjoys. Now I am someone who likes teddy bears (Winnie the Pooh especially... LOL), and lots of other girls do too. They are something special from you that we can cuddle when you aren't around. Bottom line, it's the thought that counts. What you decide to buy should be something that would show her that you care for her, that you think of her and that you know her and what she likes. For a really special touch get something that has special meaning for the two of you, like an inside joke that only the two of you "get". I am sure if this girl returns your feelings she will love anything that you get her because it is something that YOU picked out for HER. It will be special just because it is from you and your heart.