10 Valentine's Traditions from Most to Least Overrated

Even Valentine's Day haters have to admit there are some good things about the holiday of love, and even those who enjoy it have to admit that some typical elements reek of cheese.

Here are ten Valentine's traditions in order from most to least overrated, according to the reaction they invoke when encountered:

The tradition: Cupid as the holiday mascot.

The reaction: RUN AWAY SCREAMING.

I know, I know, the actual mythology of Cupid is totally different, but let's just talk the Hallmark card variation: a weird fat baby-man shooting arrows at people's butts to force them to fall in love with each other is like an extra-creepy arranged marriage.

The tradition: Stuffed animals holding "I love you" hearts.

The reaction: Cringing embarrassment.

If you are 13 with your first crush, receiving one of these is adorably heart-stopping. Otherwise, why do places keep stocking these like they're not the most horrifying gift in the world for a grown woman to receive?

You see how she looks holding this? Ridic, that's how.

The tradition: A fancy dinner for two.

The reaction: Indigestion and poverty.

As much as it pains me to say anything involving food is overrated, V-Day dinners are just that: overpriced, overbooked and probably overcooked. It's a good idea in theory, but the reality tends to not live up.

The tradition: The pressure to buy jewelry.

The reaction: Slight eye roll.

In general, I love jewelry. I even love cheesy heart jewelry, and in fact am wearing earrings in "xoxo" shapes as we speak. And while it may say good things about your relationship if a guy buys it for you, mall jewelry store commercials in February make me want to un-pierce my ears.