5 tips to Get Your Ex Back

Breaking up with a boyfriend/girlfriend is kind of like ripping off a band-aid. You know it's going to hurt like hell, and you just want to get it over with as soon as possible. And, the longer you wait, the more painful it's going to be. It's time to stop procrastinating. Don't waste another second trapped in a dead end relationship, because every second wasted is time that could have been spent finding your real true love. While you will probably never make it through a break up completely unscathed, there are a few things you can do to make the situation a little less painful. These 5 break up tips will help you break the news to your future ex, and get you both on the road to recovery.

1. Always be honest, but don't be brutal.

Do not start off by saying, "It's not you, it's me" or "I really need to focus on my work right now". We've all heard those lines before, and we know it couldn't be further from the truth. Instead, just sit down and have a nice mature conversation with him/her. Give them clear, well thought out reasons as to why you can no longer be together, and listen to what they have to say. Don't lay all the blame on him/her, or yourself. Relationships are a two way street, and you've probably both made some mistakes, so just be honest. Now, of course they are going to be understandably upset by receiving this news, and when someone is upset or angry, they often say or do things that they later regret. This is why it's very important for you to stay calm, and don't take everything your ex says to heart. Yes, it may be tough to hear some of the things they have to say, but it's better to stay calm, than say something that you will soon regret.

2. Refrain from using phrases that send mixed signals.

Using phrases such as, "Let's take a break" or "I just need some time to myself", tells your ex that you two may possibly get back together one day. Therefore your ex may find it hard to move on, and start new relationships. So unless you are seriously thinking about getting back together at some point, it's just best to flat out tell him/her it's over. It may not be easy for them to hear, but they will respect you for being honest. Laying everything right out on the table, allows you both to know where you stand, and there will be no confusion. Another common mistake people make is insisting on being friends immediately after the breakup. Yes, being friends at some point may be great for the both of you, but right now you both need some space. Taking a little time away from each other will allow you both to heal, and may ultimately strengthen your relationship down the road.

3. Never break up with someone over the phone.

The same goes for texting, email, and social media. This is definitely a big no-no, and despite what some may think, it is not okay under any circumstances. Breaking up with someone this way, not only makes your partner feel like they didn't mean anything to you, but also makes you look like a coward. Yes, no one likes a confrontation, but sometimes it has to be done. You owe it to yourself and your partner to be able to handle this situation as mature adults, and the only way to do that is with a face to face confrontation. It's not the easiest way, but it is the right way.

4. Don't break up with someone in public.

Breaking up with someone in public means he/she can't make a scene, right? Wrong! If your partner is naturally an emotional or short tempered person, he/she will probably make a scene whether you're in public or not. Which will not only create an embarrassing situation for them, but even more so, for yourself. Even if your partner does not make a scene, it still has the potential of being very awkward and humiliating for them. I mean, who wants to get dumped in a room full of strangers? So, to prevent a potentially devastating situation, stay away from public places. If this is not possible, try finding a private or less crowded area to break the news.

5. Let him/her be the first to know.

You know what they say,"News travels fast". People love to gossip, and the juicier the secret, the faster it spreads. Nothing can be more embarrassing for you and your ex, than to have one of your friends blab the news, before you do. It's natural to want to discuss these things with close friends, but sometimes even your closest friends have a hard time keeping a secret. So unless you are absolutely sure you can trust that person with this secret, it's best to just keep it to yourself. After all, you and your partner's relationship is really nobody's business, but your own.

5-things-don't-do-on-first-date

So you've taken his call or replied to his message. Yeah, you'll go out with him--why not? Maybe your friends know him and assure you he's a nice guy. Maybe the Private Detective found no outstanding warrants, or maybe you just have a good feeling. Either way, you're ready to get out there and have some fun.

Here are a few things an eligible, elegant lady like you should not do on that first date (unless you don't want a second one.). Forgive me if they sound obvious, but as we so often learn: "Common sense is not common."

Rule #1 - Don't curse. 

Would you pick your nose, talk with your mouth full of food or make noticeable body noises on a first date? Probably not. So then why would you show off a potty mouth to a guy you've just met?

I don't mean to sound like a prude--I'm not. But I've heard some trashy things the first time I met some girls. Maybe they were attempting to sound tough and impressive. I don't know. It just didn't work with me.

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• What's that you say: it's a free country and don't men curse all the time? I think it's a shame we've gotten so coarse. The English language has over half a million words, and yet so many resort to the same few expletives. I never said never curse. Just get to know the guy first.

Exceptions to Rule #1

* The guy's a beer-swilling, unpretentious schlub, who likes it raw.

*The guy finds you amazingly hot (That's a no brainer).


Rule #2 - Don't be self absorbed.

Once I was at a gathering and this young woman started talking to me. And then she kept talking for over fifteen minutes. I learned that she was an attorney in a law firm who despised the lawyer assigned to supervise her. She really did not like this man, but why was she compelled to spill out her woes to me? I admit she was good looking, but it was too much.

Luckily I was not on a date with her, so I was able to excuse myself. Needless to say, I never spoke to that attorney again.

Exceptions to Rule #2

*You are really charming. I knew a girl who wasn't good looking and talked a lot about herself. But her stories were humorous, she flirted constantly and she knew how to interact. If you can do all of the above, you can transgress the rule.

* The guy finds you exceedingly hot.


Rule #3 - Don't talk about sex--unless you really want it now.

We know that guys are on the lookout for the easy score. And while I'm not here to praise or condemn, I recommend to be careful what you say to a guy (unless you're just a natural-born tease). Just as you wouldn't wear a barely-there outfit if you don't want the hassle, watch the hot talk.

This also involves a current event as well. Be careful when discussing the latest celebrity sexcapades and rumors. He might think it's more than idle curiosity on your part (is it?).


Exceptions to Rule #3

* If you laugh it off, he may not know what to make of you. He won't know if you want it or not.

* The guy finds you stunningly hot.


Rule #4 - Don't be too honest too fast.

Once I met a lass in a bookstore who flirted with me right off the bat. We got into a conversation rhythm very quickly. I was going to ask her out on a date, until she got too comfortable. At some point she said "life is bull sh**" (which broke Rule #1 for me). I let that slide until she let out an observation that everybody was "walking wounded." I asked another girl out instead.

While I was impressed with her frank assessments, I got spooked by her negativity. On some level, she felt she could share anything with me. On another, I thought this was all too fast to take. Keep the banter pleasant; let things come out when they should.


Exceptions to Rule #4

*You've both met because of a dramatic/traumatic event. Sometimes an extreme situation can bond people like nothing else could. However, that's not a normal dating experience, and even accident survivors like a good joke.

* The guy finds you unbelievably hot.

Rule #5 - Don't sell yourself short--ever!

This is the polar opposite of Rule #2. For your date you went out and got a new dress, maybe some new high heels. You prepared and primped and did all those lovely things women do to make themselves alluring. You show up and he compliments your looks. Then you turn around or say something like, "I'm really not that pretty."

You are! Just as annoying as a stuck-up person is someone who plays the perennial sad sack. A guy wants a girl he can admire. Why do you think a man refers to his lady as, "my better half?"

Instead thank the man for the compliment and smile. A mild self-deprecating remark can be a welcome sign of humility, but keep it in moderation.

Exceptions to Rule #5

*There are no exceptions. You are worth it.

In the end, a little common sense (and self control) goes a long way. True, there is no substitute for being yourself, but sometimes it's worth going on that second date. Once the pressure of the "interview" is over, people can be more like themselves. Happy dating!

5-telltale-signs-of-unhealthy-relationship

Being in love is a beautiful thing. Romance is in the air. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining and all is right with the world. Then reality sets in. This is not what you signed up for. What began as a wonderful love story is slowly turning into a walk in the twilight zone. When did things change? How did you not notice?

Often when we think we're in love, we're really in the land of delusion. I know it's hard to admit, but it's where most of us live in the beginning stages of any romance. We're so enchanted with love stories and romanticized fairytales, that we forget to keep our feet firmly planted in reality. The truth is that your wonderful love interest does have flaws.

No matter how great he or she is, they are not perfect. No one is nor should we expect them to be. Though they are not perfect, they could have the wonderful combination of imperfections that suits us wonderfully.
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But how do you know if those imperfections are flaws you can live with or simply the warning signals of danger ahead. Should you stay and accept those imperfections as a part of life or should you pack your bags and decide to move on. While everyone has their own litmus test, I'd like to offer five sure signs that let you know your relationship may not survive.

1. There is no defined commitment - I know you're saying, duh??? But I'm always surprised when I talk to some heartbroken person who finds out their "one-and-only" has another love interest. Really? If he or she hasn't defined the relationship, you're not in one. Know this and never give your heart to someone who hans't even taken the time to commit to you exclusively.

2. You can't be yourself - When you find yourself always trying to "become" what you think your mate desires, you're headed for trouble. You will never be happy living out a role you're playing to please someone else. You are wonderful and the BEST you on the earth. Flaunt it! If someone can't love the real you, they don't deserve you.

3. You can't voice your opinion - You are not a robot. You do have a brain, so use it! No one has to follow your advice, but if he or she doesn't at least acknowledge it, move on.

4. You can't have a life outside of your mate - No one wants to be smothered. While you may enjoy your mate's company, having friendships and camaraderie with others is healthy. If your mate denies you that privilege, they are telling you they don't trust you. The person you are connecting with should trust your judgement in people. Afterall, if you had enough sense to select them, perhaps you do know how to select good friends.

5. You have to compete for your date's attention - While you don't want to monopolize all of your date's time, you do want to be seen as a priority in his or her life. If you are always begging them to spend time with you, they are silently telling you what is really important to them. Always believe what a person does.

While these few signs may not necessarily mean there is no hope for the survival of the relationship, they are things that should give you pause. The decisions you make now will affect your future. Proceed with caution.

5-simple-romantic-valentines-day-centerpieces

Looking for affordable and romantic Valentine's Day centerpieces you can make yourself. Here are five simple projects that make beautiful Valentine's Day centerpieces! All of the materials are super cheap and should allow you to make a nice large Valentine's Day centerpiece. These are all great for a long dinner table that needs quite a bit of decoration in the middle to fill it up.

You can make a beautiful and simple affordable centerpiece put pf some simple: 

Large Silk Leaves, Chocolates, Candles and a Platter. Simply look buy some large green laves from the local arts and craft store. Lay them out in a border on you large platter. Place you candles in the middle of the platter and surround them with some pre wrapped Valentine's Day chocolates. Hershey Kisses are perfect for this! You have a romantic centerpiece that you can nibble on.
For a more formal and colorful affordable Valentine's Day centerpiece you will need: Glass Jars, Candles, Hershey's Kisses, and some Ribbon (Optional). Place your pillar candles in the glass jars. Pour in some whole red or silver wrapped Hershey's Kisses around ht candles. You can add more detail with some Valentine's Day ribbon. I like to make this centerpiece with some leftover drinking glasses that are big enough to hold some pillar candles. This is a great way to use glasses that may spend most of their life on the shelf in the kitchen cabinet.
Do you have some beautiful and simple dinnerware or even some fancy china? For this simple centerpiece you will need: dinner plates, candles, and red and white carnations. Well, try busting out one of those extra plates and placing some pillar candles in the middle of it. You can make it more formal by placing a simple ring of red white carnations around the plate as well. This is a great way to carry on a uniform look on your romantic Valentine's Day dinner table if you are already using a special china pattern.
For a very natural and earthy inspired Valentine's Day centerpiece you will need: sticks or twigs, red ribbon, glass jar, and a candle. Simply collect a variety of twigs and sticks from the yard. Snap them off to the same height as your jar. You can use some hot glue to glue them to the jar vertically. Next, slip your candle into the jar and tie a beautiful Valentine's Day ribbon around the jar covered in twigs. This is a great centerpiece to make for your romantic dinner table on a small scale as well. You can use short rocks glass or even juice glasses in place for the jar. Snap your twigs off at the short height. Drop in a tea candle and tie a thin Valentine's Day ribbon around the centerpiece. You could still use hot glue for this because it easily pops off when cooled. This way you do not ruin your drinking glasses.
Finally, for a simple and affordable centerpiece on your Valentine's Day dinner tables your will need: teacups and saucers, tea candles or floating candle, and single flowers or mini roses. This is another great Valentine's Day centerpiece if you have some simple china or tableware. We rarely use those teacups, so break them out here. Make a row of ten teacups and saucers down the center of your Valentine's Day dinner table. Fill each one with water. Add a floating candle or a tea candle. Next, you can fill the teacups with those great mini roses that are at the grocery store. You could also ad s a little water to these teacups and put in a single stemmed flower. This is an elegant way to light up your entire dinner table. This would also be great if you wanted to place a teacup at every seat. This way you can have all of your china out whether you are serving coffee or not!

5-signs-upcoming-breakup

Relationships are chancy, complicated, and at times confusing. However, despite the hassle and frustration, many people wish to bond with someone. If your relationship is good, you likely do not fear a breakup. Still, breakups do happen when some least expect and seemingly without warning. Unsurprisingly, couples will fight. Some people realize that bickering and disagreements are unavoidable, and work to improve the relationship. On the other hand, there are individuals who expect a perfect relationship.

Hence, they cannot handle the ups and downs of courting. To avoid being caught off guard, it is essential to recognize the signs that precede a breakup. There are situations in which a breakup can be easily predicted. For example, a partner that repeatedly cheats, enduring verbal or physical abuse, or simply growing apart. There are many signs of a forthcoming breakup. The trouble lies when people choose to overlook the facts. Breakups are painful. Nonetheless, the breakup is less traumatic if you recognize a partner's lost interest beforehand. Here are five signs to help you discern when a relationship is reaching its end.

Partner Seems Reserved and Detached. Being unable to connect with your partner is a key sign that he or she is losing interest.

 Talking less, disappearing acts, and avoiding any type of affection should raise red flags. Of course, some people are not as vocal as others. Furthermore, some people are less affectionate. However, if the relationship began with your partner spending a lot of time with you, calling you throughout the day, and constant cuddling, it's only naturally to be a little suspicious if the behavior ends completely. As relationships mature, couples tend to cuddle less and have shorter conversations. Still, partners that go from one extreme to the other without reasonable cause are likely losing interest.

Never Available to Take Your Phone Call. An unreachable partner is reason for concern. While some people have insecurities, and a tendency to bug their partner's throughout the day, never being able to catch a partner at home or work may indicate an upcoming breakup. If you call your boyfriend at work, and the secretary places you on hold, only to return a few seconds later and announce that he is busy or out to lunch - be suspicious. Moreover, if you girlfriend's roommate is quick to take a message every single time you call, regardless of the time of day - wake up. Because of caller ID, it is easier for people to avoid phone calls. Likewise, if your partner's cell phone always goes into voicemail, he or she is probably trying to send you a subtle message.

Fighting about Little Insignificant Matters. Couples will bicker. Some will bicker a lot. However, if you and your partner begin to fight constantly about every stupid matter, the relationship may be nearing the end. Unhappy couples have a habit of exploding over little issues like 'what restaurant to eat at', or 'who drank the last Coke.' Fear of a breakup keeps them together, yet they use every excuse as a reason to argue. It's their way of masking the real issue, and facing the fact that they no longer want to be together. Similarly, if your partner is constantly picking fights and blowing small matters out of proportion, maybe he or she is attempting to push you toward a breakup.

Partner Constantly Criticizes and Complains. If your partner is becoming bored with your looks, personality, and so forth - he or she may try and change you. For the most part, your partner is not happy in the relationship. Sadly, little can be done to change their mind. Perhaps he or she complains about your weight, clothes, hair, style, make-up, etc. In a nutshell, nothing you do will ever be right. You partner will likely establish a high standard. When you do not measure up to their level of perfection, they will likely end the relationship, and place the blame on you. Don't be fooled by this tactic. Blaming you for the breakup is a lot of easier than acknowledging the real issues.

Partner Has a Habit of Streching the Truth. When it comes to relationships, lying is big no-no. It breaks down the trust, and puts a huge wall between the couple. If a partner has a habit of continually lying about their whereabouts, chances are they are dating or getting close to another person. Perhaps you call during lunch and he or she says they are out to lunch with co-workers. However, you later discover that they were seen at a different location. Obviously, miscommunications arise. Still, if you partner is missing in action a lot, and cannot quickly or convincingly explain their whereabouts, you may be sharing the limelight with another person.

5 signs that it time to move on from your relationship

Romantic relationships can be tough whether they are new or old. In the long run, relationships can be a blessing. At the same time, there are some relationships we find ourselves in that are unhealthy. Here are just a few signs that it may be time to move on from your romantic relationship.

Sign #1 - He/She NEVER calls you by your name. 

Pet names can be sweet and endearing but there may just be a problem if your romantic partner ONLY calls you babe, baby, sweetie, or some other nick name. We all like to be called be these titles because they sound good but if you are in a newer relationships and the person never uses your name it could be a possible sign that they are trying not to mix your name up with someone else's.

Sign #2 - He/She ONLY calls you when something is needed. This can go for all types of relationships. When it comes to a romantic relationship there should be a fair amount of give and take. If you are ALWAYS on the giving end then this may not be the relationship for you. Giving is not always about money. It could be about time or other resources. However, money is often a factor.

Sign #3 - You have the urge to search through his/her things. If you find yourself becoming suspicious of the person you are with, you will need to sit down and gather your thoughts as to why. My mother always told me to NEVER go through a man's things behind his back. She always told me if I ever feel the need to start checking up on him then it is time to move on. In this situation, there is a hang up with either you or the other person. Either way, the relationship is not healthy if you are searching your significant other's phone, emails, and social media accounts.

Sign #4 - He/She is consistently condescending or puts you down. If you are with someone who is not supportive of your goals, have a conversation with them to try and find the root of the issue. If this is the type of person they are from the beginning then do yourself a favor and move on. Unfortunately, there are many people with low self-esteem that don't feel good about themselves unless they make you feel inferior.

Sign #5 - This is VERY SERIOUS - He/She has violent tendencies. Whether male, or female, if the person shows signs of being violent you may need to quickly pack your bag and move on. If your significant other has either broken things, struck you when upset, grabbed you roughly, or is violent sexually, this could have grave consequences for your life. Violence is not something that should be taken lightly. If your significant other has a tendency to get highly upset, yell in your face, or make you feel threatened in any way, you need to move one. Even if you are unsure if the behavior is a violent tendency, it is better to be paranoid and move on, than to end up in the hospital or to lose your life.

The bottom line is: Don't be in a such a rush to find the perfect person that you ignore early signs that the relationship is not healthy. No one is perfect and everyone has faults. Decide what you will or will not tolerate from the beginning. If the differences are something that can be managed then talk them out and make it work. However, if you are in a situation that endangers your mental or physical well being, remove yourself from the situation and patiently wait for the right person to come into your life.

5-reasons-clean-house

My husband and half my friends think I'm crazy. One morning a week I run around like a crazy woman cleaning my house. Why? Because the housekeeper could be there any minute!

Here are five reasons I clean my house before my housekeeper comes: 

1. Access. Most housekeepers won't move a whole lot of stuff so they can dust or clean. Picking up all that clutter from my flat surfaces like countertops, tables and floors actually allows her to do a more thorough job of cleaning.
2. Expectations. I believe that if a housekeeper walks into a house that is a mess, his or her efforts in cleaning that house will be marginal. But if the housekeeper always sees a house that's in tip top shape, they know your expectations are high and will react accordingly.

3. Courtesy. No one should have to clean up someone else's nastiness. I wouldn't want my worst enemy to have to clean someone else's nasty toilet rim. For that reason, I wipe mine down before my housekeeper comes.

4. Embarrassment. I believe the condition of a person's home speaks volumes about them and their lives. I would be embarrassed to have anyone see my home a mess - even my housekeeper. I even make my bed before she comes, despite the fact that she will be changing all the bed linens.

5. Respect. Straightening my house before the housekeeper comes shows respect for her and her vocation. It lets her know I respect her as a person as well as what she does for a living.

Here are a few additional tips to help keep your housekeeper happy:

* Leave her a thank you note or call her every once in a while to tell her you appreciate the job she's doing.

* Give her a little gift from time to time. (We have chickens, so I always give my housekeeper some fresh eggs.)

* Send her a card on her birthday and always include her on your holiday card list.

* Give her a holiday bonus.

* If your housekeeper works for an agency, call them occasionally to let them know how good of a job she's doing.

* If she does a stellar job, recommend her to your friends.

* If your housekeeper works for an agency, be sure to tip for a job well done. Agency workers make a minimal hourly wage. They depend on tips for their livelihood.

5-nonverbal-sexual-cues

Ultimately, the nonverbal cues we present to our dates or significant others add to the overall seduction lure of a woman. Dating is a direct understanding of one's sexual feelings and desires, and using that attraction to successfully 'execute' those desires leading to pleasure and satisfaction.

Most importantly, finding an effective way to use those desires to your own advantage will ultimately lead to continued satisfaction. So work those nonverbal sexual cues and get on with it….

• The key to any relationship is communication. With communication, thoughts and ideas are aimed toward a person's mind. This intimate delivery can lead to immediate attraction. By taking account of what she responds to in the immediate solution, you can better prepare for continued attraction communication techniques.

• Another important aspect is how the words are conveyed with vocal inflictions. Whether with a warm, soothing voice or even in writing, presentation of words to a woman can hook them from the beginning. Women respond to different variations, try them all out and see which has the greatest positive reaction from her face, eyes, perhaps feet?!

• When communicating, facial expressions can also be used to correctly convey the hidden sexual messages you are attempting to transmit. Soft gazes will have any woman interested into what you are saying. Studies have concluded that words can be understood just with one's eyes. The way you look at a person is directly aligned with their mood, whether you make her intrigued, nervous or even interested. Most women appreciate straight stares. If you look someone in the eye, they want to believe what you are telling them, which leads to trust and ultimately, further attraction.

• Another important aspect of communication includes the use of gestures. Whether you motion with your hands to various parts of your body, gestures have meaning of their own. They can be use to reinforce the words you are communicating or even to emphasize your attraction and interest to her. This immediate interest will add to the intrigue and excitement of attraction developing.

• Lastly, it may be old-fashioned, but a simple smile goes far with most women. Smiles give off positive vibes about one's personality, whether they are a friendly, open, or positive individual. These positive attributes will lead her to her contined intrigue and maybe future and/or continued attraction. The art of smiling is a successful endeavor, try it!

5-commonly-asked-wedding-planning-questions

Two people fall in love, wed, and live happily ever after. Sounds ideal. However, in the real world, planning the wedding to involve both sides of the family, including the "steps" and "exes" can be difficult, if not nearly impossible. Excluding some might be hurtful, especially when children are involved. As an etiquette professional, I answer wedding etiquette and planning questions like these every day. Here, I answer the top five most asked wedding questions.

Who is seated where and when?

Steps, exes, and mothers oh my! Encore weddings are increasingly more common. This leads to even more exes and stepfamily on our guest list. Add this into the planning blender and sometimes we get a toxic mix. To avoid a mess, it's best to know where and when to seat "honored guests" like our parents.

If parents are on friendly terms, all may sit in front row. However, how often does that happen? To keep everybody happy, separate and seat them in the proper order.

1. First: Groom's father and stepmother (third row)
2. Second: Bride's father and stepmother (third row)
3. Third: Groom's mother and stepfather (first row)
4. Fourth: Bride's mother and stepfather (first row)

Who foots the bill?

Wallets are a bit thinner these days, which can add even more stress to the wedding planning process. However, the real deal is this: the days of the bride's parents footing the wedding bill are over. Yes, it has been traditional for many years, but things change. Young people have more choices than in the past. If they decide to marry, they should expect to pay for it.

That is not to say that it is wrong to ask if parents might want to contribute. Nevertheless, parents shouldn't be pressured to do so. If they contribute, it is considered a gift with no planning rights attached. Conversely, it is polite to allow parents to plan and invite guests if they have contributed. It is a slippery slope. So, consider this before asking for wedding cash from parents.

How to invite guests to wedding and not the reception?

Since the wedding is the gift-giving event, this would not be polite or fair. To invite some and not all is classifying one group as "good enough" to entertain and others only good enough to give the couple a gift. The set-in-stone rule is that we invite all wedding guests to the entire reception.

How to determine the formality of the wedding?

We begin with time of day and venue. Evening weddings tend to be more formal and if the site is formal, the wedding should be too. Religion plays a part as well. Catholic and Jewish weddings tend to be very formal, although civil ceremonies could also be formal.

• Formal wedding invitations convey formality with heavyweight ivory, cream, or white paper, engraved and written in third person style using classic fonts. For informal weddings, there is more freedom to customize invitations using informal language and style.

Nevertheless, the bride decides formality through her dress choice. If she wants a long beaded embroidered formal gown with veil and cathedral train, she wants and plans a formal wedding.

Bottom line, the couple decides formality by the gown/bridal attire, time of day, and venue. Guests guess formality by the invitation, time of day, and location.

How to inform guests mine is a childfree event?

To exclude children, it is best to include an inner envelope with the wedding invitations and listing only those invited. Unfortunately, guests often ignore this and tend to "invite" their own guests, especially their own children. So, use word of mouth to spread the word as well.

Be prepared for some to abide by these wishes and some not. Those who do just may feel as if you purposely excluded their children, resulting in hurt feelings.

5-exciting-summer-dates

When the temperature begins to peak, you may be tempted to stay in areas that have the ACs cranked up, but you'll find your days to be predictable and dull. Instead, dress lightly- very lightly- and be adventurous with your significant other.

Stay cool at a water park

Toss on your bathing suit and head for the waves! Find the nearest water park and take a mini vacation with your lover. After going down water slides, lounging on tubes and playfully splashing in the water, you two will be experiencing another type of heat not caused by the sunlight.

Let loose at a concert

Swaying to the music together will take you away from reality for a while and give you a chance to see one another in a different and exciting setting. If you can't seem to find a concert you're interested in, head to your local jazz club or find a restaurant with a nice patio and live music.

Watch a movie under the stars

Many cities have outdoor movies during the summer. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite sandwiches, or maybe just a bottle of wine, and unwind under a tree while being entertained.

Camp out for a night

There's nothing like a spontaneous vacation. If you two happen to have a couple free days together, pack up for the woods. Spend the night talking by the fire and sleeping beneath the moonlight. Look for campsites that have rivers running through so you can cool down during the day. Not into camping? Pitch a tent in the backyard and jump in your cozy bed when you've had enough of the wilderness.

Travel to a nearby town

You know your city, now it's time to explore the smaller towns surrounding you. Don't make a plan before you go, instead spend the day wandering the streets, discovering unique boutiques and eating at quaint eateries.

Engaging in new and exciting activities brings couples closer together. Dinner and a movie will still be waiting for you when winter rolls in.

5-beach-themed-diy-wedding-decoration-ideas-budget

Beach themes are a fun and casual way to celebrate your wedding. There are plenty of decorations that can be made to show your personality and match your style.
This article will provide you with detailed instructions on creating five DIY beach themed wedding decorations on a budget.

1. Beachscape Terrarium

For this DIY wedding decoration you will need shells, sand, small pieces of driftwood or stones, and other small beach themed items. You will also need a glass bowl, jar, dish, or candle holder. Fill the dish with the sand to assemble, and add the other beach themed items randomly in the sand. You can also write the bride and grooms initials in the sand as well once it is placed on the table.

2. Shell Candle Centerpieces

Another fun and easy handmade wedding project is shell candles. For this you will need deep shells, wax, and wicks. Simply add the wicks to the inside of the shells and pour melted wax into the candles to create this unique decoration. You will also need a plate, dish, or bowl filled with pebbles, shell pieces, or sand to display your candles in. This wonderful beach themed decoration will amaze your guests.

3. Tin Pail Table Numbers

A whimsical and fun beach themed tin pail place marker is inexpensive to make and simple. You will need mini tin pails and number stickers or paint pens. You can also use sand, pebbles, shells, or candles to fill the pales and use them as favors or centerpieces as well as table numbers. Simply attach the stickers to the pails or handwrite the number on the front of them. You can also add ribbon or little flowers to the handles or brim of the pales for a more DIY touch.

4. Messages in a Bottle Guestbook

This guestbook idea is perfect for a beach themed wedding and will add a magic touch that will be unforgettable. For this decoration you will need a large glass jug or bottle, several pieces of paper, tea bags, twine, scissors, water, and a pen. Start by brewing a few teabags and letting the water cool.

Then rip the paper into smaller note size pieces. Dip them in the tea to age the paper and make it look weathered. Then cut the twine into pieces about six inches long. When the paper is dry, roll it up into a scroll shape and tie with the twine. Remember to tie it into a bow so your guests can open it and write you a note on your big day!

5. Shell Garland

Another budget-friendly idea for your beach wedding is a shell garland. This can be made easily using cord, ribbon, or twine, jewel glue, and shells. Simply cut the garland the appropriate length and use the jewel glue to attach the shells along the length of it. You can also add bows or streamers to the garland from the cord or ribbon used for the length of it.

Making beach themed wedding decorations is an inexpensive way to add your own personal touch to your big day. These ideas are fun for beginners and advanced crafters, and they will help you add style to your wedding while saving money!

3-tips-dating-food-allergies

Children with food allergies are taught avoidance as the best means of preventing a reaction, including life-threatening anaphylaxis, but as children grow into teens dating comes into the picture bringing a whole new threat - intimate touch. Hand-holding, hugging and kissing can pass food allergens from one person to another increasing the risk of reaction, but there are ways to prevent contact with food allergens when dating if teens recognize the importance of communication early on in the relationship.

Talk About Your Food Allergies Before You Start Dating

Tell everyone you know about your food allergies and talk about your allergies often. Making food allergies a common talking point in every day relationships means everyone knows what you're allergic to, how to react if you have a reaction and what foods they need to avoid if they want to spend time with you. Teach your friends about epinephrine auto-injectors and teach them how to properly inject epinephrine if you have a reaction. You are more likely to date someone in your close circle of friends, so if everyone knows then there are no surprises when friendships blossom into relationships. Why Risk It, a website for youth with anaphylactic allergies, offers helpful tips on talking with friends and family about food allergies.

The Inevitable First Kiss

That first kiss is the one that's supposed to seal the deal. You're in love and everything you've learned about food allergies suddenly disappears from your mind when your date leans forward for that first time, but when you have food allergies even the smallest amount of residue can lead to anaphylaxis and death. Avoidance is the best choice, but your date may not be trained in reading nutrition labels so until you know that kiss is food allergen free you need to be extremely cautious - just remember BRFW from The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network. B - Brush Teeth, R - Rinse Out the Mouth, F - Floss Between Teeth and W - Wait 4 Hours Before Kissing. While this might not seem like the most romantic way of experiencing a first kiss it is the safest way if you're not certain your date's mouth is allergen free.

Remember You're Not Alone

There are thousands of teens and adults out there who face the threat of accidental exposure to food allergens from intimate situations every day, but amid what seems like a constant battle between normal life and living with a food allergy there are couples who make it through and develop intimate, lasting relationships. Anaphylaxis Canada offers a teen series with videos on dating with food allergies that give teens a look inside the world of dating. The videos cover topics like new relationships and kissing, two of the most dangerous times in dating.

Dating is a rite of passage in middle school and high school and a means of establishing long-lasting relationships and starting a family in adulthood, but it can also be a crazy game of Russian roulette if teens aren't prepared for intimate touch and kissing. Teens need to remember to communicate food allergens, teach epinephrine injection and prepare ahead of time for that moment when friendships turn into relationships.

3-places-condoms-readily-available

Are you sexually active? If so, it's good to know where you can easily buy condoms to help you engage in safe sex. Your health and your partner's health could be at risk if you fail to engage in safe sex, so let condoms help you engage in the act of safe sex to help reduce the risk of various types of infections. Here are 3 places that condoms are readily available in the Oaklawn District of Dallas, Texas:
Dallas County Health Department. According to the Dallas News, the Dallas County Health Department now distributes condoms to help sexually active people engage in safe sex. The Dallas County Health Department, located at 5201 Harry Hines Boulevard in Dallas, Texas is a free clinic, so this is a good place to go for condoms. According to East Coast Health Insurance, you don't even need an appointment when you visit a free clinic in Texas.

Condom Sense. If you're in need of a quick box of condoms, you can easily walk on over to the Condom Sense store, located at 4038 Cedar Springs Road, right on the gay strip in the Oaklawn District of Dallas, Texas. This store sells much more than condoms, but the store can surely provide you with the very product that it claims in its name. The store is literally within walking distance of many of the bars on the Dallas Oaklawn Strip, so take advantage of the store's convenience.

Walgreens. If you cannot plan ahead enough to visit the free Dallas County Health Department, and you don't feel comfortable visiting the Condom Sense store, you can always visit Walgreens, located at 3802 Cedar Springs Road in Oaklawn Dallas. This store is located on the corner, right across from The Melrose, so you can still enjoy the convenience of location with the privacy you may desire when you go to buy condoms for your sexual activity. This Walgreens is a 24-hour store, so this makes it even more convenient, but you may end up paying a good penny for the product.

Now that you have three convenient locations at which to get condoms for sexual protection, you can now enjoy safe sex. Don't risk your health or your partner's health by neglecting to practice safe sex. Take advantage of the 3 locations in the Dallas area that can provide you with the protection for safe sex.

Resources

Dallas News

East Coast Health Insurance