I loved Valentine's Day when I was a kid and went off to school with my box of Valentine's Day cards (you know, the ones that say "Be My Valentine" coming out of Snoopy's mouth). Reflecting back on that, and in light of the economic times, it reminded me that Valentine's Day is the perfect day to act like a kid and be creative. There are many things you can do on Valentine's Day that cost very little money but will make your Valentine feel just as special as the things we do when we're on a bigger budget.

Here are five ways to make your Valentine feel loved without spending a bundle:

1. Valentine Card Scavenger Hunt. Get a box of those little kid Valentine cards and create a scavenger hunt. Write a different note on each one and seal it in its own envelope. On the first card you might write, "Welcome to your Valentine's Day Scavenger Hunt." Then continue to build the clues. Slip in some "I love you's" along the way, and end with something like "Meet me at ____ at 6 p.m." Have it end with the two of you meeting at a favorite spot.

2. Indoor Picnic. Have a picnic in your home, which is perfect for the middle of winter. Make the presentation fun and cute. Get flowers and create a little indoor garden. Lay out a blanket. Go the whole nine yards. Your Valentine will love it.

3. Sweetheart's Ball. Even when you have a Valentine, it is great to spend the day helping other friends find the kind of love you have. Throw a party -- call it a Sweetheart's Ball -- and ask everyone to bring someone who is looking for a sweetheart. Find the people in your life who really want to meet someone and invite them to the party. Helping others find love will remind the two of you how special your relationship is. It's also a lot of fun!

4. Table for Two Dinner. A great way to celebrate with your special Valentine is to create an amazing dinner. When I say "create," I mean you cook it. Set a really beautiful table. Light some candles. Serve your Valentine's favorite meal. It doesn't matter how the food turns out. Anyone can call a restaurant and make a reservation (and pay double because it's Valentine's Day). Your effort to cook will make your Valentine feel extra important.

5. Create a Private Spa. Give your Valentine a long and sensual massage. Have a bubble bath. Whatever you choose, take time to make the atmosphere an incredible experience. Light scented candles. Put on some soft music. Use massage oil. Dress in something sensual (whether you're a man or a woman). Make the evening all about pampering your Valentine.

These are just a few ideas. The main thing to remember is that your Valentine will appreciate these gestures as much (if not more) than things that cost a lot of money, because of the amount of time, thought, and effort required to do them. It is when you give those priceless gifts to your Valentine that you make them feel really special.