Love Sick: A Memoir of Searching for Mr. Good Enough is a sharp and irreverent memoir recalling Frances Kuffel’s quest to replace her on-again, off-again lover with someone new and preferably less unstable. As Shakespeare said, the course of true love never did run smooth, but for Kuffel, it seemed like one pothole after another. Fifty-three and never married, she opens her mind to all possibilities: She goes out with an Orthodox Jew, is almost the victim of a scammer, stays out all night with a man twenty years her junior, encounters food fixations and shoe fetishes, and generally reads a lot of strange emails. Brazenly honest and insightful, the author comes through the experience with a new understanding of love and, most importantly, herself.
According to UsMagazine.com, Elisabetta Canalis revealed via WhoSay on June 13 that she recently suffered a miscarriage. The actress spoke about her miscarriage to followers by composing an extensive message regarding the incident. The 35-year-old wrote, “Unfortunately, life gives you…a reality that you do not expect.” A miscarriage is something a woman should never have to suffer through.
How do you support your partner during pregnancy issues?
There’s nothing wrong with knowing what you want in a future boyfriend or girlfriend; in fact you shouldn’t settle for just anybody. But there comes a point when unrealistic standards may actually be what’s keeping you from finding Mr. or Mrs. Right. If you are turning down a potentially great relationship because he has a funny hairstyle or she has “man hands” a la Jerry Seinfield, then it’s time to reevaluate your priorities and loosen up a little instead of spending every Friday night alone in your room. Here are some signs that your standards are too high when it comes to dating:
Couple eating ice cream at the park. Photo: evren_photos / Bigstock.com
By Shannon Seibert
Women are constantly consumed by the search for the elusive Ideal Man. But who is he, really? For some, he’s tall, dark, and handsome. For others, he’s a sensitive blonde who is passionate about nature. But how far will these characteristics really take your relationship? We’ve pulled these five articles from our partners to reveal what qualities your dream man should possess, no matter what:
1. He’s someone worth bragging about: Okay, so your mother isn’t exactly impressed by your latest prospects. Chances are, if they aren’t measuring up to Mom’s standards, they aren’t worth your time. The Ideal Man is someone who you’ll be proud to bring home and show off to your friends and family. For example, Kendra Wilkinson-Baskett brags about her man Hank Baskett and his amazing parenting skills for their two children. (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
2. He’ll leave the past in the past: Jealousy is a monster that we all wish to keep at bay. The Ideal Man will not talk poorly of his past, nor of yours, but use it as a learning experience. Not speaking ill of an ex reflects wonderfully on his personality and character. He will be comfortable in his own skin and will reassure you that his past will not become his present.(YourTango.com)
3. He’ll make you feel comfortably uncomfortable: You’ll not only feel right, but you’ll feel protected. The Ideal Man will allow you to be fully yourself, and he’ll also push you into uncharted territories. He won’t be afraid to challenge you or disagree with you. After all, in a strong relationship, you need that type of mental stimulation. (GalTime.com)
4. He’ll be the most intoxicating drug: Passionate, all-consuming love is something that every woman wants. And if you look hard enough, it’s not a lofty goal. The Ideal Man should not only be compatible with you physically but emotionally as well. Don’t underestimate the power of love and what it can do to a person, for your perfect love is like your own brand of heroin. (GalTime.com)
5. He’ll affirm why it didn’t work out with anyone else: Past heartbreaks may have hurt, but they also served as guidance to get you where you are today. The Ideal Man will have the arms that will feel like home. He’ll be the answer to any question you ever had, and you’ll be the solution to all of his problems. It will click, just like that. (YourTango.com)
What is your Ideal Man like? Tell us in the comments below!
Scared couple in bed. Photo: Maridav / Bigstock.com
By Leslie Chavez
Friday the thirteenth doesn’t have to be unlucky when it comes to love. In fact, you can turn the unlucky into a few unique date ideas. What are some superstitions you fear? Face your fears and spend the day together seeing how many superstitions you can prove wrong.
Rumor has it that Jake Gyllenhaal is dating Rachel McAdams. Photo: Solarpix / PR Photos; Sylvain Gaboury / PR Photos
By Laura Seaman
Rumor has it that Jake Gyllenhaal dating Rachel McAdams. They have been spotted together once again as they left the Miguel Cotto vs. Sergio Martinez fight on June 9. Rumors have been flying about whether or not these outings means that they are actually dating, but sources tell UsMagazine.com that the two are just friends, and that the reason they’re spending so much time together is to prepare for their upcoming movie Southpaw. Not only that, but McAdams is still with Patrick Sambrook, the couple showing some PDA back in May.
How do you know if you should risk your friendship for love?
Summer has finally arrived, and we are diving right into the month of June! This season brings with it lots of sunscreen, bikini bods, and the exciting — albeit sometimes dreaded — family vacation. Let’s say that you’ve finally met someone special, and you are contemplating whether or not to bring them to your family’s beach house. If you do take the plunge and invite your partner along, here are a few simple rules to consider:
On this week’s Single in Stilettos show, founder Suzanne Oshima talks to dating coach Mr. Locario about the reasons you may still be single. There are five things you should do if you’re ready to find love: You need to take responsibility for your love life; you need to stop being too picky; you need to give him a second chance; you need to be careful about interpreting his actions and words; and you need to take initiative to meet the right man.
On this week’s Single in Stilettos show, founder Suzanne Oshima talks to writer, speaker, and romance artist Zan Perrion about having the “exclusive relationship” talk with your guy. His best tips include: keep it light; be curious about your relationship; make sure your tone isn’t demanding; and never say “we need to talk.” The most important thing to remember, though, is that it’s not only about what you want; it’s about what you both want for your future.
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West plan to make their wedding extra special and educational. According to People, Kardashian and West will let quests experience the wonders of Château of Versailles during a private surprise tour on Friday, May 23, on the verve of their wedding. The couple made this decision together in hopes their quest will grasp a better understanding of the exceptional heritage of the castle of Versailles, which is a World Heritage site. The gorgeous duo first checked out the place in January, which was rumored to be where the wedding itself would take place, but palace official denied the rumors.
What are some ways to spice up your wedding rehearsal?
Cupid’s Advice:
Weddings rehearsals can be much the same. You go through the steps of the wedding and then eat some dinner with family/friends. Cupid has some ways to spice it up a little:
1. Make it themed: A fun idea would to be make your wedding rehearsals themed. Have everyone dress up in the same style or era and make the festivities match what you want. You could make it themed by year such 50′s style or 60′s or you can do something else like make it western style, or mexican style or Italian it doesn’t matter just pick something you both love.
2. Go some place fun: Have your wedding rehearsal at a cool spot, that’s fun, unique and interesting. You can rent a movie theater or have a movie screening and make it a film themed bash. Another thing you can do is travel to a destination, if it’s exotic have the rehearsal on the beach or if it’s a romantic place have it in a historical place or museum. There are many possibilities of wonderous place you can go, just make sure it’s some place you both and your quests will enjoy. Celebrity Couples, Engagements, Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, Love, Marriage, Relationship Advice, Slider
3. Have some games: Make your wedding rehearsals really fun by having and creating some fun games for guests to play. To make it even better for the guests get cool prizes for them to win, noting makes games more exciting than adding the chance of winning awesome prizes. Playing fun games doesn’t have to be strictly raffle or guessing games, you can also have a paintball fight or a sports game, just make whatever you do fun for all.
What do you think are good ways to spice up your wedding rehearsal? Share you tips below.
Once upon a time, in a land far away, there was a place where chivalry prevailed, where it was acceptable for fair ladies to wear flower garlands, and where a princess could always count on being rescued by her Prince Charming. But fear not, dear maidens, for this enchanted image need not remain only fantasy. This weekend, let whimsical romance take over and live a few days in make-believe.
A new couple has made their debut! That’s right, Jason Aldean and Brittany Kerr are out of hiding and ready to show off their relationship. According to UsMagazine.com, after filing for divorce from his wife, Jessica Ussery, over year ago, the country star walked the CMT Music Awards red carpet with his new girlfriend Brittany Kerr on June 4th. After admitting to inappropriate behavior with Kerr in September 2012, Aldean called it quits on his 12-year marriage and later filed for divorce in April 2013. It was confirmed him and his former mistress were officially dating in March 2014. The couple was also spotted meeting up for dinner after April’s ACM Awards.
How do you know when to go public with your new relationship?
A growing misconception about relationships is that the partnership defines who you are as a person. First and foremost, you have to do what is best for you and be your own person. This doesn’t mean you love your sweetheart any less; it just means that you know who you are individually. It takes two strong halves to equal a united whole, so we have pulled together these five articles from our partners to make your relationship stronger than ever:
1. Don’t marry your self-esteem to your man: Basing your happiness off of the circumstances of your relationship is just a ticking time bomb heading for the inevitable explosion. If you’re in a foul mood the entire day because you and your man are disagreeing over where to put the new couch, there may be a deeper problem. A woman who creates her own happiness is beautiful, and a woman who shares her happiness with someone she loves is even more beautiful. (YourTango.com)
2. Establish your independence: Much like our favorite independent woman Kourtney Kardashian, you can be in a strong, loving relationship while holding your own. Kardashian is a spokesperson, model, and partner in numerous businesses apart from her man, but she still has the utmost love and respect for him. They are even expecting baby number three! (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
3. Focus on yourself: Sure, we all know that inner beauty is just as important as outer beauty…but sometimes, we just want to feel pretty. Take some time to focus on your skincare and haircare rituals with these beauty tips from actress Amanda Seyfried. (GalTime.com)
4. Have outside interests: What is the point in coming home to tell your honey about your day when you spent the entire day doing everything together? Having separate interests is actually liberating in a relationship. It gives you an outlet to be your own person without having to take someone else’s opinions into consideration. So embrace your passion! (YourTango.com)
5. Don’t wait on the approval from your loved ones: Your friends and family are important to the decisions you make, but you can’t give them the reigns and just ride their opinion wave. If you’re happy in your relationship, don’t let your pals and relatives make you feel otherwise. Be confident in your feelings and learn to trust yourself. (GalTime.com)
How do you stay true to yourself when you’re in a relationship? Share with us in the comments below.
Congratulations! You’re now in a relationship with a mama’s boy. Mama’s boys are tough to date. Mommy took such good care of them over the years, and while she’s still in their lives, you might always play second fiddle to her.
I know all about mama’s boys because my dad was one. I remember when we used to go out to the Hampton’s during the summer. My dad would have his own special blueberries and sugar on top. His mom, my grandmother, would always reserve the coffee ice cream for him, her king. She catered everything to him. He’d call her at least three or four times a day. It was like he couldn’t stand not having contact with her for even a couple of hours.
Weddings come in as many varieties as there are brides and grooms, and with them come some great receptions and some equally terrible ones. With each ceremony, you play a different role, and at a time where people are getting married later in life, weddings give us a little peek at what we want and don’t want in our relationships. And when you’ve gone to as many weddings as author Jen Doll, you get a pretty good handle on wedding guest culture. In her memoir Save the Date: The Occasional Mortifications of a Serial Wedding Guest, she recounts many of the different weddings she’s been to in her life (which is nearly 30 at this point!) and what they have taught her about herself and love. …Don’t miss the rest! Click here to continue.
Kissing was once the bane of my dating life. Like many of you, I was shy and worried about offending girls or making them feel uncomfortable. It took nine months of dating before I had my first kiss. Watch any romantic movie, and you’ll notice that there is so much emphasis on the kiss. The kiss is the catalyst for getting physical. But, kissing is just one step in physical escalation, and it probably shouldn’t be the first. A kiss can happen spontaneously—like on a dance floor—but typically you need to get physical in other ways first. One way is to make a move that doesn’t involve kissing. If it’s well received, continue. If not, back off and try again. When a woman says, “no,” sometimes this really means, “not yet.” Girls can be reluctant to make a move for fear of being labeled slutty, so it’s your responsibility to make the interaction physical. Okay, so how do you actually make out with a girl? Below are four techniques that work for me:
1.Triangular Gazing
Look from her eyes, to lips, to eyes, to lips, and so on. This should be done slowly, and ideally, in silence. It conveys that you want to kiss, and it won’t get you in trouble. If she goes silent too, or leans in, kiss her. If not? Try another technique.
The Eskimo Kiss is another move that builds arousal. Rub your nose against hers and say, “Come here—but no lips!” If she’s into it, kiss her, but I would suggest pulling away. You can kiss next time. With the Neck Bite, you’re getting physical, but the girl isn’t technically a participant, so she won’t feel slutty. Plus, a bite often arouses a girl more than a kiss. Lead with, “I need to tell you a secret,” then go for a nibble.
“Close your eyes. I want to show you something.” She closes her eyes, you kiss her. Again, this releases the girl from feeling “slutty.” Use this technique if other signals are there but she keeps shying away from kissing. The girl usually knows what you’re up to but will often be glad you relieved her of the responsibility.
4.The Gangster
This is one of my favorites, but it requires courage. It works when you’re not close enough to a girl to kiss her (maybe there’s a table between you). Say, “sh,” go silent, put down your drink, walk around the table, set down her drink, and kiss her. The move itself is so ballsy, and it will be less awkward to go for the kiss than to stop in the middle.
My overall advice is: Go for it. Girls want you to take charge. Get into a sexual vibe so she does too. Slow down, look into her eyes, think sexual thoughts, and use these four techniques. If she responds well, great. If she doesn’t, try again. Even if she doesn’t kiss you, I promise she’ll respect you for the attempt.
Todd Valentine is a global authority on attraction and seduction. For more insights on kissing and dating, check out his blog valentinelife.com and his channel youtube.com/rsdtodd.
Moving in together. Photo: monkeybusinessimages / Bigstock.com
By Laura Seaman
Moving in with your partner is a big step. Sure, maybe you’ve spent the night at each other’s apartments before, or gone on a trip where you shared a hotel room or lake house, but this is something else entirely. Living together means more than just sharing a house (which is a big responsibility on its own), it means sharing bills, personal space, and secrets that may have been hidden before. Despite the intimidation that comes with this decision, there are a few good reasons to take the plunge and move in with your mate:
Share the Cost
Living together gives you half the rent and none of the transportation costs that came with two separate living spaces and the drive it took to visit one another. That’s one utility bill, one water bill, and one gas bill. You’ll also only be using one set of furniture. Just be sure that splitting these costs doesn’t lead to conflict. Establish ahead of time who will pay which bills and how much each of you will pay. With another living companion, paying the bills might be a bit more complicated, but they will be much less expensive.
See Their Habits (and Vice Versa)
There are plenty of habits you may not get to see while you’re dating someone. People tend to hide their bad habits when they’re trying to impress, so you might have a pet peeve they haven’t revealed. When someone is at home, they’re much more comfortable with themselves and they can’t help but show their little quirks. It may be something as little as biting their nails, or something difficult to ignore, such as counting having to walk through a doorway three times. It’s important to see these habits before taking your relationship too much further, because there might be one habit that pushes you over the edge, and the sooner you find this out the better.
When you’re dating, situations rarely arise that will bring out a person’s temper. While living together, you have the chance to see their tempers flare. This may not seem like a pro, but you will be thankful for it in the future. Moving in with your partner is taking your relationship to the next step and seeing a side of them that they wouldn’t normally show you. This step may not be pleasant, but it’s very important and cannot be overlooked if you hope to maintain a stable relationship.
Learning to Share
With one place to live, one set of furniture, and maybe even a pet, sharing is essential to staying in a happy relationship. It may be something we learned as children, but it seems to get harder as we get older. It’s difficult to share a home; that’s why so many people argue with their families growing up. Once you learn to share more of your home with your partner, you can then learn to unwind and share more of yourself. It will be the most open and honest that you’ve ever been with each-other, and that is something you might not get when being apart.
Living together is a big step in a relationship. For many, it means further commitment; it’s a trial-run before marriage. However, what if not everyone involved feels that way? When going on a date, the subject of children and marriage isn’t likely to come up. But when you’re living together, you and your partner are bound to talk more, and these serious subjects will likely come up. This is the perfect way to find out if your mate made the move to become something more, or if maybe you both have something more to talk about.
Living together can be tough, and many people advise against it. However, it’s these hardships that truly make it worth the risk. If your relationship can’t make it through the step of living together, how can it make it through marriage? The pros might not be as happy or pleasant as expected, but as with all learning experiences, it is necessary.
Do you think it’s a good idea to move in with your mate? What’s your experience? Let us know in the comments!
Bill Rancic and Giuliana Rancic support each other during surrogate's miscarriage. Photo: David Gabber / PR Photos
By Shannon Seibert
In devastating news, E! stars Bill and Giuliana Rancic face a surrogate miscarriage. The couple has been struggling to have another child, who would be a sibling to their son Duke, born by surrogate in August of 2012. The Rancics have a loving, supportive relationship with their surrogate, Delphine, who had an unexpected miscarriage at about nine weeks along. Giulianna herself had undergone a miscarriage years before, which only aided the heartbreak of the circumstances, according to UsMagazine.com.
How do you support your partner through pregnancy troubles?
Cupid’s Advice:
1. Don’t ask questions you already know the answer to: Questions such as “Are you okay?” may seem supportive, but in reality are just plain aggravating. Asking is just trivial, especially when the circumstances are clearly not okay. Listening goes hand in hand with this idea, meaning that you have to look for the meaning underneath the words and tune into what they may not be saying. Something a gesture as simple holding your love’s hand at the right moment can make all of the difference.
2. Support with more than just words: Saying you’ll be there for your partner, and actually being there for your partner are two different animals. Being at doctors appointments, making crazy food runs, and supplying the foot rubs will go miles beyond any words you speak. What people forget is pregnancy does involve two parties, although only one of them carries the child. Pregnancy still takes an emotional toll on both partners, which is why it takes a strong partnership to maintain a foundation of support.
3. Therapy is not just for the crazies: Point blank, we all need someone to talk to, and therapy is a great place to get an impartial third party opinion. Couples’ therapy has proven beneficial over recent years, allowing a safe place for the couple to open up and talk about issues at home. Even if there is just an aura of stress going around, therapy is a great place to dive into the root of the problem, and fix it under a united front.
How have you gone about pregnancy struggles with your partner? Share with us in the comments below!
Another proposal, another love story! According to People, Jason Kennedy has asked for his girlfriend’s, Lauren Scruggs, hand in marriage. The E! Newscorrespondent professed his love for the fashion blogger and Still LoLo author about eight months ago and still has no shame in letting the world know. “She’s amazing,” Kennedy told PEOPLE. “It’s a blur but I can’t stop smiling,” the host tells E! “She told me I couldn’t surprise her, but I got her good. This is the best night of my life.” In addition, the 32-year-old tweeted, “I flew to Dallas and asked her if she would spend the rest of her life with me. I love you @laurenscruggs.” The proposal was held in Scrugg’s hometown in Texas. A small number of relatives and friends were in attendance. As she stood on the balcony, Scruggs could see where Kennedy prepared a candle-filled message “Will you marry me?” Moments later, she met him downstairs where a Jennifer Meyer diamond ring was awaiting.
What are some ways to show your excitement about your engagement?
Cupid’s Advice:
You are more than happy at the idea of spending the rest of your life with that special person and want to shout it at the top of your lungs. In the meantime, you would rather show your enthusiasm in other ways, but not exactly sure how to. Here are a few of Cupid’s tips:
1. Speak highly of your partner: This will become second nature if you are completely over the moon with your significant other. You will find yourself talking about their greatest traits that make you blush or have butterflies. For example, if they are selfless, you may find yourself telling others about this characteristic.
2. Inform others: Share with everyone that you are soon to be happily married. Tell family, friends, whoever is in sight! Broadcast it if you feel the need, unless you both have agreed to keep it a secret). If the highest mountain top were accessible, you would do it.
3. Wear your engagement jewelry: Whether that be a ring, necklace, what ever symbolizes the engagement, be sure to rock it every chance you get. This let’s everyone know, including your partner, that you are looking forward to the day when you exchange vows.
How do you show your excitement about your engagement? Share below.
The act of writing can be so romantic. It’s a creative way to reflect on an experience and express your feelings on a special moment in sweet, expressive language. Just think of John Keats, Lord Byron, or William Wordsworth penning their observant and emotional poetry. They’ll be sure to inspire you to create a written keepsake with your love.
The wedding bands are off for! According to UsMagazine.com, Evan Rachel Wood and Jamie Bell have decided to go their separate ways after two years of marriage. In an exclusive statement, a rep told Us, “Evan Rachel Wood and Jamie Bell have decided to separate. They both love and respect one another and will of course remain committed to co-parenting their son. This is a mutual decision and the two remain close friends.” A source also added, “They love each other so much but it just wasn’t right.” The pair met back in 2004 on the video set of Green Day’s “Wake Me Up When September Ends” and walked down the aisle eight years later in 2012. The 26 and 28-year-old also welcomed a new addition to their family last July. The new mom shared with Us in November what motherhood was like and her busy schedule: “I’ve been having separation anxiety because I’m so used to him being right here all the time. They kind of become a part of you, you know?” said Wood as she blushed about their baby boy. “It was my dream to be a mom, so I’m loving it. I love it.” “He’s smiling and laughing. He started rolling over,” she went onto add about his steps through babyhood. “He’s grabbing things. You know, he’s making oohs and aahs.” The couple’s last red carpet appearance was also back in November for the LACMA 2013 Art + Film Gala held in Los Angeles.
How do you know when it’s time to call it quits on your marriage?
Cupid’s Advice:
Unfortunately, every marriage cannot be salvaged, and it’s best to know when you should part ways before letting time pass you by. Here are a few things Cupid thinks will help you come to the realization:
1. Everyday bickering: The time you spend together is consumed by arguments, whether petty or major. And at the end of the day, you and your partner cannot come to an agreement on anything. Compromise definitely does not exist in your household! Pay attention to the disputes revolving around some of the smallest issues and if there is constant finger pointing. Although proper communication can repair a relationship, there is not a 100% guarantee.
2. Future? More like past: Your significant other starts off as a good time – you can see planning and building your entire life with him/her . . . but then you begin to realize that you do not see them in your future. The dream of making a home, starting a family, etc., slowly vanishes. The nitpicking and dislikes become greater than ever – and so does calling it quits.
3. Attraction fizzles: No more wild and spontaneous dates, or romance, period. You no longer desire to have your partner around. Do not ignore the warning signs! Keep in mind, they are always there before the storm approaches.
What are the signs that your marriage is in its last days? Share your thoughts below.
Drinking hot chocolate. Photo: dolgachov / Bigstock.com
By Shannon Seibert
Lately, it is becoming seemingly more difficult to define a relationship than it is to find one. The two of you have been hanging out for a couple of weeks, and you send each other flirty “I want to see you” text messages when you’re apart, but you don’t want to seem too pushy for a commitment. We’ve pulled together these five articles from our partners to help you figure out your next step:
1. Talking about it can help: Opening up a can of worms can be scary at first, but it’s always better than wondering about those “what if?” scenarios. If you’re really starting to develop feelings for him, you need to let him know. Look him in the eyes, remain calm, and be confident with each word you speak. A stimulating conversation could be just what the two of you need in order to progress in the right direction. (GalTime.com)
2. A strong friendship is a great foundation: One of our biggest fears when we start to have feelings for someone is that we’ll be trapped being “just friends.” For some couples, the unforeseen future stemmed from this stage. For example, newlyweds Kim Kardashian and Kanye West began a slow and steady friendship, and now, they are happily married with a beautiful daughter. (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
3. ”Hooking up” is not an exact science: Casual relationships have become increasingly popular in recent years, therefore changing the rules of the dating game. We start out thinking that the idea of a no-strings-attached encounter is the perfect temporary solution until we figure things out, but eventually, it becomes one powerfully-enticing cocktail that will leave you with a nasty love hangover. (YourTango.com)
4. Sometimes, the wait is worth it: When it comes to mixing the mental and physical elements of relationships, things can get a little hairy. How far is too far? The answer to that, of course, is wherever you’re comfortable. Never let a man dictate the happiness of your relationship or allow him to make you feel like you have to measure up to his expectations. (GalTime.com)
5.Don’t rely on subtle hints: Men aren’t exactly rocket scientists. We want to believe in the fairy tale we read about in Nicholas Sparks novels, but this is the real world, and sometimes, in the real world, women need to be their own heroes. Here are 50 ways to say what is weighing on your heart — without even opening your mouth. (YourTango.com)
How do you know how to define your relationship? Tell us in the comments below!
On this week’s Single in Stilettos show, founder Suzanne Oshima talks to New York dating coach Hunt Ethridge about what makes a man disappear. According to Ethridge, there are three things that you should avoid doing if you want your guy to stick around: being too needy or desperate, thinking about the future too soon, and saying “we need to talk” (the absolute worst thing you can say to your beau!).
