Love funny stats? Well, this number may not get you laughing, jack. But you need to hear it just the same. Looks like people across the country will spend 17 billion smackers on Valentine's Day activities this year. That's everything from overpriced flowers to slipping the host a 50 to get a decent seat at your favorite restaurant.

Here's a tip ... the best things in life and love are free, baby. Why spend 80 bucks on a meal when you can cook dinner for your dame at home? It'll mean more to her. And it'll free up some cash that you can use to get out of debt. That holds true for any holiday ... don't let a special occasion be a budget buster. Create a budget for your home to get out of debt, and stay out by not blowing a chunk of change on Heart Day. Don't think that's just me talking; The Dave Ramsey Show would say the same thing.