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What His Valentine's Gift Really Means

By Olivia Ford

February 2009

You've always heard that it's the thought that counts when receiving gifts. However, it's hard not to wonder what your Valentine was thinking when he got you that little something special. While we can't completely crack the code behind a guy's mind, here are a few insights into the possible thinking behind his Valentine's Day present.

1. Flowers and Chocolate – Cute but, well, the go-to gift. Maybe your guy just isn't that creative, or perhaps he waited until the very last minute (surprise, surprise!) to get you something. But if he bought your favorite flowers or chocolates, or somehow personalized this common V-day gift, then he's a great listener…and he really did try! So don't be too bummed that you only got the standard. At least you got something!

2. Electronics/Things He Likes – Either he's really not that into you, or, more likely, he's clueless! But he did get you something, so don't get mad—just help him figure out that girls don't always like the same things…especially on a romantic holiday!

3. Perfume – Ahhh the sweet smell of love. If he gets you your signature scent, then he's really paying attention to you. On the other hand, if he gets you something other than that, he might be a little out of touch. Then again, he also just might not know that much about perfume!

4. Lingerie – This one's a little tricky. On one hand, he could just be interested in the sex. But on the other hand, he did gather up the courage to walk into a store and buy it for you, meaning he cares about you enough to suffer the humiliation of a Victoria's Secret checkout line. Not bad, for almost any guy!

5. Jewelry – if your sweetheart surprises you with something sparkly, he's serious about you! Not only did he take the time to pick it out, but he also spent more money. You mean a lot to him, and he wants you to know it! Awww, aren't you lucky in love?

6. Dinner and a Night Out – At Harvard, one thing we almost never have is time! So if your guy sets aside a night to spend his time with you, then he's really trying to show you how special you are to him. Not only did he have to plan, but it's one less boys' night out for him!

7. Nothing – Ouch. Ok, well, so maybe he isn't into you, at all. But then again, maybe he's just a skeptic when it comes to Valentine's Day. Or maybe he was too nervous about finding you the right gift. If he spends time with you, then don't worry too much about what he did or didn't get you – he likes you. Besides, isn't time spent together worth more than any present?

In the end, no matter what the thought was behind that Valentine's gift, he was still thinking of you, and that's more important than any gift. Now for the hard part: what should you get him?!