Relationships are challenging and require care and attention to thrive. Add the long-distance element into the mix, and the couple must work even harder for their partnership to stay positive. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and perhaps that’s true. But fondness doesn’t necessarily keep a relationship where it needs to be to work. Long distance couples have to take their commitment to the next level, as it is not nearly as easy to manage the ups and downs all couples face when they are not face-to-face. These tips below can help make long distance relationships more doable, especially when the love and compatibility is already there. It may not be ideal to be miles apart, but when both parties are willing to handle the hurdle, the outcome can be beautiful.   Do Dinner             You may not be seated at the same table, but nowadays, you can go for a high-tech meal, even if you are on different continents. FaceTime or Zoom as you sit down to dinner, making the scenario as close to the real thing as you can. You may even wish to cook the same meal or “share” a bottle of wine. Discuss your day and spend time eating slowly rather than scarfing it down. Keep the conversation going as you clean up and sit back on the sofa. The time you have to talk is precious, so sidestep the small talk and get serious…or sexy!   Send Fun and Flirty Texts           Since you can’t see each other all the time, texting is your way of staying connected, any time of day. Whenever the mood strikes, send a love note, a “meme” or joke, a cute emoji, or even a photo of yourself to remind your partner that you are thinking about them. These quick communications may not be especially deep or dramatic, but they keep you both involved and intrigued, and they only take seconds to send. Promise one another that you won’t let too much time lag before responding and get to know one another’s schedules, so you are not left wondering where they’ve been when you don’t hear back.   Make the Most of Your Time Together             When you do have the chance to see each other in person, make every moment count. Clear your calendar and give your undivided attention to one another. Plan special dates, go sightseeing, or stay home to get reacquainted. You have plenty of opportunities to see your friends and family when your special someone isn’t around, so they will certainly understand why you’re “MIA” when your partner comes to town. There may be pressure for everything to be perfect, so don’t stress the small stuff. The most important thing is that you’re together, so use the time wisely and don’t get wrapped up in things that are a waste of time. Hopefully, your long-distance [...]

If you are lucky enough to be in a loving relationship, don’t let the comfort of settling in stop you from giving your partner everything they deserve. While the dynamics of your relationship will inevitably change over time, the core connection is what will keep you lasting for the long haul. Nurturing the love is vital for a relationship to thrive and prosper. Saying “I love you” is special, but it’s not nearly enough to keep it steady and strong. You will need to make a conscious effort to engage in actions and behaviors that speak volumes, along with what you communicate verbally. Being in a long-distance relationship personally, I am constantly aware of how attentive I must be so that our partnership is protected. Not being by each other’s side physically makes things tricky, but we’ve found our own ways to work our magic, even when we’re miles apart. Here are three ways to nurture love in a relationship. It’s worth your while, not only to show your significant other how much they mean to you, but as a benefit to your relationship overall.   Pay Attention to The Details               A little goes a long way, especially when it signifies that you’re looking, listening, and continually learning. You don’t have to go crazy with the grand gestures or gifts as signs of love. Your partner will be far more impressed when you remember how they love Kiwi Strawberry Snapple and you grab them a bottle when you’re at the convenience store, or how they once mentioned a song they love, and you send them a verse via text. Knowing your partner’s preferences and peculiarities shows that you’re paying attention – a sign of care and consideration. You’re invested in their happiness and feel honored to have them as your mate.   Compromise             Being in a relationship isn’t always easy, as we all have our ways and wants. If you’re willing to budge even when it’s a bit of a bother, you’re signaling to your partner that you can compromise, which is crucial for a relationship to work. When you love someone, you’re OK with putting their needs at the top of your list, as long as you find the balance that suits your overall situation. This doesn’t mean that your happiness gets put on the back burner, as they’ll have to share the load and shift their priorities too. Compromising shows that you’re a caring couple. You can work as a team to take on small steps as well as significant struggles. Make it your mission to manage this give and take, and always be the one to go the extra mile to make your partner comfortable.   Be Affectionate             You may not always be “in the mood,” but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your partner’s needs. A peck on the cheek, cuddling in [...]

A night on the town is always sexy, but you can create your own allure with a stay-at-home date night that’s just as juicy. There’s no reason to step out when you have everything you need right at home. Plan a romantic evening in to remember with your special someone and you won’t miss the crowds or cost of going out. Your partner will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and your sense of creativity when it comes to keeping it hot…at home. These three fun at-home date night ideas below are sure to please, proving having a good time doesn’t require reservations.   Fondue and Fine Wine             A steamy pot of fondue and a nice bottle of wine will hit the spot. Go for something savory with a blend of cheeses or stir up something sweet like dark chocolate mixed with gooey caramel and heavy cream. Supply all the treats to dip into the pot, such as crusty bread bites, long pretzel sticks, veggies and fruit, and whatever else comes to mind. Step up your gourmet game by tenderly feeding one another your bubbling creation. Wash the food down with a full-bodied merlot or a light prosecco. You certainly don’t need a full plate of food to satisfy your hunger, and fondue is the perfect mini meal for getting in the mood.   Binge-Watching with Your “Boo”             Staying at home means you can snuggle up in your jammies and get cozy. Catch up on your favorite must-see TV series or watch those movies you’ve heard rave reviews about from your friends. No theater, no problem. Pop a giant bowl of extra-butter popcorn to share, serve some hot cocoa with marshmallows and whipped cream, and get comfy on the couch under a giant blanket. You have all night to be entertained, so be sure you are wide awake before it is time to settle in and binge. Perhaps perking up with some coffee beforehand wouldn’t be a bad idea!   Good Old-Fashioned Game Night             Bring out the board games, a deck of cards, or even a box of Dominos. Dust off that old “Twister” and get all tangled up together. It’s fun to dive into some friendly competition, and a game night date at home is the best way to bond. If you do not have anything to play with, there’s always a game of charades to fall back on. Then again, there are plenty of online games you can download, so poke around through the apps for something you’re both eager to enjoy. Relive your childhood with a new sense of silliness. You don’t have to be serious all the time, and game night will get you feeling like a kid again. Perhaps the winner gets to choose the next date night plans!   Have tons of fun with your partner without setting foot out the front door. [...]

Is your love life lacking in the fireworks department? Perhaps you have been busy…or bored, and the idea of sparks flying isn’t exactly on your mind. It’s understandable, but let’s undo it. When it comes to staying connected to your partner, keeping things hot in the bedroom is part of a healthy relationship. You don’t have to swing from the chandeliers or reenact a steamy sex scene from a movie, but it would benefit you both if you took things up a notch. It is far too easy to fall into a rut, especially if you have been together for a while. Sure, the lust for one another may have waned, but the comfort level can be amped up with some conscious creativity. The “honeymoon” phase can last longer if you put in the effort. Here are three ways to spice up your love life. You deserve to feel sexy and satisfied.   Dress the Part             You can get into the mood by changing up your wardrobe. Rather than flopping around in stained sweats or your worn-out college T-shirt, slip into something that hugs your curves and reveals some skin. Don’t worry about your perceived “flaws” or flab. Every inch of you is fabulous, and flaunting it will kick things into motion the moment you look in the mirror. If you don’t have anything in your dresser that suits you, it is the perfect chance to peruse online to shop for something a bit risqué. When you are dressed to impress, expect to get noticed.   All-Day Foreplay             There is no need to wait until you’re together to “get it on.” Tease and tempt one another throughout the day to prepare for what’s to come later that night. This can involve suggestive text messages, saucy mid-day phone calls, or little love letters left in secret places. Spritz some of your perfume on your partners clothing or leave a pair of your panties in their bag or briefcase. The element of surprise is remarkably stimulating. When the promise of romance is awaiting their arrival, the hours-long build-up will be worth the wait.   Reminisce and Recapture             Go back in time to when your love life was at its peak. The memories will ignite a renewed interest in getting back to the place when you couldn’t keep your hands off one another. Never feel embarrassed to bring it up, and don’t make your partner feel badly that your love life has fizzled out ever since. They’ve surely noticed it too, so be delicate, but determined. It is common among couples, but you don’t have to be another statistic. Speak in positive terms about these hot and heavy times, and how much you enjoyed the excitement. You can pretend you’ve just met and relive the interactions and intimacy all over again. And this time, you can do it even better! [...]

It sometimes seems like the only path to happiness is with a partner. Just look at TV commercials, rom-coms, and Hallmark cards. Sure, being with someone is special, but single life is just as satisfying. You don’t need to be part of a couple to be complete, and it’s about time that the world wakes up and realizes that happiness comes from within, with or without a significant other to share it with. Whether you are single by choice or due to circumstance, embracing your freedom and all the fun you can have solo is exciting. Being partner-free doesn’t mean loneliness. It gives you opportunity to explore and engage, all on your own terms and in your own time. I’m in a relationship, and it gives me great joy. That said, when I was single, I felt just as fulfilled, just in a different way. Life has its steps and stages. It’s important to take in every moment, appreciate the present, and free your mind of the “What ifs?” and focus on the “What now?” Perhaps “The One” is somewhere out there (if that’s what you want), but for now, it’s all about self-acceptance, a zest for life, and the understanding that your peace and prosperity comes from personal experience and positive energy. Here are three ways single people can stay happy and fulfilled. You deserve the best, so dig in and do it.   Form Friendships             You may have a large circle of friends or just one or two you can count on, but there’s always room for new platonic relationships. It can be tricky to make new friends as an adult, but when you’re open to stepping outside your comfort zone, you’ll give off a vibe that’s welcoming and accepting. Seek out like-minded individuals by volunteering, taking classes, or just being extra-friendly when you’re going about your errands and daily to-dos. You can meet new people at the gym, in line at the grocery store, or while you’re walking your dog. All too often, we keep to ourselves and lose the opportunity to find a friend. Smile at a stranger and you may just find a connection.   Be Healthy           Make yourself your number one priority by eating well, exercising, meditating, and treating yourself to the extras that give you a good feeling. When you’re at your best, you feel awake and alive. If we don’t tend to our mind, body, and spirit, we can fall into a slump. We think the answer comes from the outside – perhaps in a mate – but the real solution is self-care and mind-body management. Go for whole foods, lots of hydration, regular workouts, and plenty of sleep. Erase negative thoughts and give yourself the go-ahead to reach new goals and greater self-awareness. It’s not about looking a certain way or pleasing anyone else. Good health is personal and productive. Put your all into it, [...]

Thanksgiving this year may be a little different than usual. With less travel and smaller gatherings, you may find yourself having a cozy couple’s celebration rather than an all-out family/friends affair. While you may miss the catching up and carefree chaos, there’s something nice about giving a low-key thanks with the special someone in your life. A table for two is far simpler to set up, and you won’t have to worry about your “crazy uncle” going off the rails or everyone asking about the status of your relationship. When you have a Thanksgiving for two, you can bring on the romance while being grateful for your blessings, as you carve the turkey and share the side dishes. Pop open a nice bottle of wine, toast to your good fortune, and settle in with a smile. Be sure to leave room for extra dessert…wink, wink.   Eat What You Want             The typical Thanksgiving fare is delicious, but you don’t have to do the same old thing when it’s just the two of you. If you’re in the mood for something different, serve what you like. Perhaps you’d prefer fish or steak instead of turkey, or want to lighten up the side dishes with fresh salads instead of sweet potatoes and stuffing. You can even order in rather than cooking, saving time and energy so you can relax on your day off. You’re sure to still have leftovers, so store them for the next day’s lunch, when you and your partner can enjoy another meal together.   Make It Festive             Just because it’s only the two of you doesn’t mean the holiday isn’t as important. Give yourselves the full Thanksgiving treatment by bringing out the good dinnerware, using cloth napkins, and getting dressed up nicely for your meal. Play some ambiance music, light a few candles, and sit down at the dining room table rather than plopping down on the couch in front of the TV. Take your time with your meal – savor every bite as well as the precious moments with your partner.   Pay It Forward             You’re fortunate to have a hot meal to eat and someone to share it with. Before sitting down to supper, take some time to help those less fortunate. You can spend a few hours volunteering at a soup kitchen, collect canned goods for donation, or give money to a charitable organization. A little goes a long way, and any effort you can put forth will be appreciated. Doing something like this with your loved one makes the experience even more meaningful, and hopefully you’ll continue doing so moving forward.   Follow Up with Family             Your laid-back Thanksgiving is something you’ll cherish, but find a few minutes to wish your family a happy holiday. Zoom or FaceTime to check in on your loved ones [...]

With holiday season fast approaching, making plans with friends and family is at the forefront. While gatherings and get-togethers may be a bit different this year due to the current state of affairs, there are still sure to be celebrations as 2020 wraps. If you are in a relationship and it’s now reaching the next level, the holiday season becomes a bit more involved. With a partner to share the experiences with, there will have to be compromise and consideration. There are two sets of families and friends to manage, introductions to be made, and traditions to formulate and follow. Before you stress out, remember the season is all about love, laughter, and life. There is no need to get too structured when food, fun, and feeling good are first and foremost. These tips below will help you and your significant other navigate the holidays as a couple. Before long, you will be ringing in the New Year with more memories to make.   Give A “Heads Up”         Before accepting invitations and showing up, alert your loved ones that your relationship is getting serious. You don’t want there to be awkward conversations or any big surprises. Those who support your decisions will be happy that you’ve found that “special someone,” and the fact that you’re celebrating these milestones as a couple is a big deal. This will be your first “introduction” as a serious couple, so expect some questions…perhaps a little prying. Hopefully, nothing gets too personal or uncomfortable, and everyone just wants to get to know your partner better.   Divide and Conquer             Unless you can somehow manage to get both sets of family and friends all together for one big gathering, you’re going to have to decide who you’re going to spend the holidays with. This issue often causes tension between partners, so plan wisely well before the holidays approach. You can do Thanksgiving with your family and Christmas or Hannukah with your partner’s. Perhaps you split the day and head over for supper with one set and dessert with another. And who says you must celebrate a holiday on a specific day? Make it a double and celebrate twice! There are plenty of ways to be sure you cover all the bases and see all the faces you look forward to seeing this time of year. With a little arranging and adjusting, everyone will be on board. Better yet, host the holidays yourselves and invite the whole group to your place. Problem solved.   Release the Pressure             Holiday season can cause anxiety. There’s a lot to do, and the expectations are extraordinary. Don’t let the “musts” of the season cause you to lose your cool. Take a deep breath and give thanks for what you have, including your relationship.   Don’t worry about what your friends and family will think. Be yourselves and everything will fall [...]

Relationships take work, and any couple that claims theirs is easy breezy 100% of the time must be either sugarcoating the truth or the luckiest people on the planet. Most couples have ups and downs, good times and bad, highs, lows, and everything in between. From the thrills to the troubles, those who intend to stick with it will do all in their power to persist. Throwing in the towel isn’t an option, and fighting for love is what they believe in. It takes strength and support to make it through the trying times and staying on track can be tricky. Sometimes, this requires professional guidance to get to a place of positivity, especially when the couple feels stuck in a rut or at their wit’s end. Should you consider couples therapy? If you’re already thinking about it, the answer is probably yes. First and foremost, erase any shame or stigma you may feel about this option. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about and nothing to hide. Taking steps to improve your relationship is a meaningful approach towards a brighter future and a closer connection.   You’re Constantly Bickering             If you can’t go a day without back-and-forth bickering, nitpicking, and feeling annoyed, there’s surely an underlying issue at play. Rather than delving deep into the root of the problem, you find fault in nearly everything else. It’s exasperating. This dreadful dynamic leads to tension and aggravation. You’ll focus on trivial things that otherwise wouldn’t have bothered you. Your relationship will suffer as you throw verbal jabs and criticize. Couples therapy can help you open up to share what’s really bothering you. Once that’s out in the open and you can heal that pain, the bickering will become a thing of the past. You’ll be able to address one another directly with the tools your therapist teaches you.   Lack of Trust             Trust is the cornerstone of a good relationship. When it’s broken, everything can fall apart. When one or both partners lose trust, it affects nearly everything, and this can lead to arguments, lack of affection, and even a breakup. One may lose trust due to infidelity, lies, secrets, or something else that compromises the confidence and faith in the relationship. Constant questioning and ongoing doubt is stressful and scary. Couples therapy can address this concern and help the couple reestablish a level of certainty and stability, so they can regain the trust that was lost along the way.   You’ve Hit A Dry Spell             The “honeymoon phase” is over and now you feel more like friends. There’s little (if any) romance and your relationship is pretty much platonic. While it’s nice to have a best friend by your side, you want more out of your relationship for the long run. A therapist can help you reignite the spark you once shared, prompting you to fall in [...]

The words are nearly falling from your lips, but saying “l love you” for the very first time is tricky. You may be unsure if the feeling is mutual, if it’s too soon to share such an important message, or whether or not it is truly love that you’re experiencing. Only you know what’s in your heart, but expressing it can lead to anything from embarrassment to exhilaration. You feel the butterflies batting away in your belly, your mind is always preoccupied, and when you are with your significant other, you’re in a state of bliss. It’s a beautiful thing, but is it love? Could be. The right time to say “I love you” is different for everyone, but certain principles apply universally. Before you blurt it out, be sure you’re ready, and prepared for whatever reaction will follow. You’re taking a chance, but it’s worth it, especially if the person you’re in love with loves you just the same.   Infatuation or The Real Deal?             Is your attraction more than skin deep? And even if you adore your significant other’s personality, are you simply smitten or struck by Cupid? Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if you’re head over heels or if your heart is really in it. If you think you’re at the love stage, consider all facets of the relationship, your significant other’s attributes and attitude, and where you see the relationship going. If it’s just a fling, forget about saying, “I love you.” It’s premature, and probably a surefire way to end the relationship abruptly. However, if you have deep feelings that hit at all your emotions and engage your soul with happiness, love may be where you’re at.   A Private Moment             The very first time you say, “I love you” will be meaningful and memorable. Make the moment special by being alone and intimate. The last thing you want to do is shout it out at a crowded bar or in front of others, which can be awkward, to say the least. Find a place that’s private, look into their eyes, and reveal your truth. Your heart will pour out honesty, as they take it in and process your profession. You may get an “I love you too!” in return, which would be the ultimate response, but don’t go in expecting to hear those words. Some people need some time to take it in and figure out how they feel. Don’t be discouraged or regretful, as your sentiment will mark a serious step in your relationship.   On the Other Hand…             Sometimes, overthinking can drive you nuts. If you think you’re in love, shout it out from the rooftops. Life is short, and if you think you’ve found “the one,” they ought to know it. While this approach may be risky, if you’re the impulsive type, you’re willing to lay [...]

Being single is nothing to sneeze at. You have your freedom and plenty of time to focus on yourself. That said, there’s something special about being part of a pair. You go out on dinner dates, watch movies together, stay up all night talking, and naturally, there’s the romantic side of things. You have someone to turn to and lean on, and you don’t worry about being alone. It’s a comforting feeling that’s easy to get used to. As for the singles, the “me time” is immeasurable, but there can be a sense of loneliness that casts a shadow over the whole independence thing. This feeling of isolation becomes even greater when friends are coupled up and canoodling while you’re the third wheel that would rather stay home than deal with an awkward dynamic. A feeling of emptiness may overwhelm you as you become an outcast among your group. They may still love you all the same, but they’ve got their own priorities, part of which is keeping the magic alive in their own relationship. Before you brand yourself a future “cat lady,” realize although you may feel lonely, you’re not alone…unless you want to be. You can combat loneliness by living your life to the fullest, even if you’re not in a relationship at the moment. These three ways to combat loneliness will get you in touch with your soul and spirit. Cherish yourself and the many charms that make you unique. Quit feeling sorry for yourself and say “Yes!” to being single. You’ve got so much going for you, so don’t give up or give in.   A Family Affair             Family members share a special bond that can’t be broken. Connect with those family members you especially enjoy being around, even if you can’t meet in person right now. Text, call, FaceTime, or Zoom. Chat about everyday happenings as well as the big picture. Whether it has been a while or you’re quite close, it’s always nice to know that your family is there for you. Perhaps there’s no one in your family you’d care to communicate with. Instead, reach out to old friends and classmates, co-workers, and neighbors. Just like you, they’d love to have someone to talk to or meet up with to socialize, single or not.   Pet Project             There’s no time like the present to adopt a pet. Loving companions need a good home, and you can provide a safe space for a new furry friend. Having a pet is a great responsibility, but the rewards pay back by the billions. You can focus your energy on playing and petting, lots of snuggles, and perhaps some slobber. Long walks, unconditional love, and a best friend by your side will make you feel less alone.   Dive into Work, Hobbies, School, Etc.             Use your single status to your advantage by becoming extra-productive. [...]

There are some happy couples who stay together for 20 years and more. Then there are couples who last only 5 minutes together because of a Facebook post. Makes you wonder why can’t a couple in a relationship stay together for years nowadays. I'm sure you're not the only one who questions  the secrets of happy couples who stay married for years? This post will give you the insight of many healthy and happy relationships lasting 20 years!   Happy Couples Secret 1: Trust             Sure there's a temptation to go through your partner’s phone as they sleep next to you. Before you put your detective hat on, stop yourself. It’s not worth fighting over what’s on their phone. Remember, curiosity killed the cat. Every time you want to snoop around, think of this old saying. Besides you have to trust your partner. You can’t build a relationship if there’s no trust.   Happy Couples Secret 2: Communication             When you and your partner get into a fight what happens? Do you both runoff and swear to never talk to each other ever again? If you want to make your relationship work, then you have to learn how to communicate. Let’s not forget that active listening skills are a part of communication too. Take the time to listen to what your partner is saying to you. Don’t wait until an argument to use your active listening skills. Your partner will tell you what they want from you if you take the time to listen through everyday conversation.   Happy Couples Secret 3: Affection             Showing affection to your partner is as important as communicating. How else do you think happy couples stay in love? Affection doesn’t have to be sexual. Unhappy couples think all physical touches have to lend to sex and when there’s no they avoid it. Happy couples know affection is a must! Snuggle Kiss on the check Rub on the shoulders Communicate and listen Let them know they were on your mind Holding hands Simple actions like these are a great way to show affection if you don't know-how. Happy couples know showing affection creates a sense of harmony. It’s the little things that matter the most.   Happy Couples Secret 4: Respect             Happy couples respect their partner’s space and them as a person. Treat your partner how you would like to be. Think about it, don’t you want someone who: Listen to your needs and wants Communicate openly to you Speak kindly of you Help build your self-esteem up This is how respect looks like in a healthy relationship. Respect your partner and don’t take them for granted.   Happy Couples Secret 5: Own Identity             Spending 24/ 7  with your loved one is a bad idea. You need some time apart and your separate [...]

Being in a relationship means you always have a special someone to spend time with. Whether it’s a weekend date night or just vegging out on the couch cuddling, the together time is important for bonding and keeping the romance alive. That said, too much togetherness is not always ideal. You do not have to be joined at the hip to have a good relationship; in fact, time apart can strengthen a couple. Solo time gives each person some personal space to do their own thing, focus on themselves, and embrace their independence. When a relationship has a good foundation and there is two-way trust, away time won’t compromise their “couplehood,” and when they reconnect, things fall right back into place.   Time to Myself             I adore my significant other, but I also look forward to time alone. It has nothing to do with my adoration for this amazing person, and the feeling is mutual. I covet the time when I do not have to compromise, so I can get some extra work done, exercise, read a good book, binge-watch one of my guilty pleasures, run errands, or just flop on my favorite chair with a cup of hot tea. I know my partner isn’t particularly interested in doing these things anyhow, so it works in both our favors.   Getting to Know Me             By now, I have a pretty strong sense of the woman I am and what I want to achieve, both personally and professionally. I am confident, creative, and caring, but my curiosity is always creeping in. When I am alone, I have quiet time to reach inside and learn more about myself, helping me become a better person – not only for myself, but for my partner as well. When we are constantly with someone else, our identities can become blended. That’s great as far as who we are as a couple, but we are also individuals with unique attributes and personality traits. Keeping these identities separate makes us more interesting as people and as a pair.   Decompress             Although I feel completely at ease with my partner, there is a sense of being “on” when we are together. It is far from stressful, but sometimes I just want to “be.” When I spend time solo, I can simply sit there and do absolutely nothing. I do not have to say a word or move a muscle. This helps me tremendously with releasing the day’s built-up tension and helps me relax and recharge. I often meditate and get my mind off things. It gives me clarity and contentment. Once I am back together with my partner, I am in a much better place.   Go solo and see how it impacts your relationship. Whether it’s just a few hours or even a couple of days, do what benefits your relationship without worrying about [...]