3 Things You Should Never Tell Your Girlfriend

By Manisha Singh Sharma

The journey of love has always been full of ups and downs. Even your love horoscope never predicts a smooth sailing all along. Sometimes you get to sail through a smooth road and sometimes you hit a rough patch. Steering your car through that rough patch is a very tricky affair, and if you do not stay alert and take precautions, then it might prove fatal for the future of your relationship with your girlfriend.

And one of the best ways to steer your car of love to safety is by maintaining some anonymity within your relationship. You should never divulge everything out to your girlfriend just because you are looking for a serious relationship with her. While you might look at it as a sign of your honesty towards her, but it is not necessary that your girlfriend will also take it in the same sense.

So, then, how do you let your girlfriend enter into your inner world without making your relationship fall apart? Simple, tell her only what is required!
We give you access to three things you should never tell your girlfriend if you intend to have a longer relationship with her.

The Number of Times You Got Laid!
While you might love bragging about your sexual escapades to your friends, avoid doing the same to your girlfriend. Your girlfriend is not like your guy friends who will laugh it off with you or compliment you on your 'conquests'. In fact, it might rub her the wrong way, and if by any chance that has to happen, then you will be in a soup for sure. You can very well go ahead and tell her that you are not a virgin. However, make sure that you do it in such a way that she doesn't think you sleep with any girl that comes your way.

Talk About Your Ex-Girlfriend(s)
Discussing or talking about your ex-girlfriends or past affairs may not be a big deal for you, but it is for a girl. And trust us, your girlfriend is no different. While she might be the coolest girl you have ever met in your life, yet she would never be able to accept your ex-girlfriends as casually as you do. Worse still, she might just start comparing herself with your ex-girlfriends and start taunting you with the same every now and then.

The Salary You Draw in a Year
Some things in life need to remain personal to the extent that nobody but only you has access to it. Your annual salary is one of them. While you may be drawing a highly enviable figure over the course of a year, but using it as a medium to score a girl is a strict no-no. And if your girl is constantly trying to get into the details of your bank balance, then you better get alert as you might hooked yourself up with a potential gold digger.

As per astrology, the two of you might form the perfect couple. You ruling numbers may also have superb compatibility. Still, you should never lay bare your life like an open book to your girlfriend if you wish to spend your entire life with her. http://www.astroyogi.com/numerology/

How to Set Up a Romantic Valentine's Day Adventure

By John Rice and Siddhartha Bhattacharyya

Even a casual look at any gift store tells you Valentine's Day is knocking at the door. Greeting cards with Cherry Red Roses, Teddy Bear, or Heart Symbols emblazoned on them, or, traditional floral bouquets and plush teddy bears have already in the display. These all spread the message that love is in the air. These days you have eCards, which is a digital greeting card with animated graphics, library of Valentine's Day SMS, and much more to greet your sweetheart. You can also take her to dine out. You have, probably, more options than you would ever need. But you do not have the time to spend with your Valentine. You do not have the right mindset to say - "I love you."

How to Become a Better Valentine
Presumably, if you are reading this article, you are among many of them, who are confused to set priorities. And you might have been, presumably, tagged as 'boring' by your sweetheart already. I am not going to help you out to find your Valentine. This is your business. If you do not have anyone to spend some comforting moments, or, dine out, try to socialize more and try to find someone, who would be equally keen to spend the day and, hopefully, the rest of your life with you! But this article is meant for busy executives, who just do not have time.
They are forgetful about their personal business. They can remember thousands of price lists, most complicated engineering or tax calculations, or can even remember Mozart's symphonies like a maestro. But they cannot remember one of the most important dates - the Valentine's Day.

Remember the Date
So, my first suggestion is to ensure that you do not fail to remember the date. There are many options. You can write it at a prominent space in diary, or worktable, set an alarm in your mobile phone, inscribe on the calendar, fix a remember the date magnet preferably on your wardrobe, or, almirah - that is the place, which you will likely to look back often. It would be too old fashioned idea to write the date on a paper-strip and keep it inside your purse. Most likely, your reminder paper will never see daylight later on. Anyway, the best time to set your reminder is right now.

Plan Early, Plan Well & Set up a Romantic Valentine's Day Adventure
It is needless to say that you have to follow a busy schedule. And miserably, this is not a holiday. So, whatever you want to do, schedule your plan early. Book your movie ticket, if you have any plan to watch movies. Avoid standing in queues. Book your table space in your favorite restaurant early. Otherwise, you can order your greeting card, foods, flowers and other supplies online, schedule the delivery date and place to enjoy nice cozy moments at home. Do not forget to create a romantic ambiance. Spread some rose petals here and there. Light up the candles. Scented candles are great. Spray your favorite perfumes on the curtains and elsewhere. Play your favorite romantic music. And surely, you will have the best time of the year together.

Tips to Avoid being Boring
Buy her a gift well in advance. The beauty of online purchase is that you may be allowed to schedule a delivery date. I know a lot of websites selling flowers allow you to do so. So, you can order greeting card or floral bouquet online and schedule the delivery date just a day ahead of the Valentine's Day. You may also like to send them plush toys - teddy bears, cute puppy pictures or, cute kittens. Although I am against any livestock gift but if you stay together, and both of you love keeping pets, you might want to consider a real puppy, bunny, kitten or fish tank. Jewelries and watches also make great gift giving idea. But you should have enough budget provision and you should know their tastes. It is also a good idea to consult with them while choosing any design. Whatever is your idea, do not forget to buy them a gift. And please do not forget to deliver them in time.

Moreover, send them text messages early. If you are going to office, send greeting
messages on your way to office. Your busy schedule might just make it impossible for you to remember to greet them.

Make your plan early to spend the evening with them. And tell them to remind you about your evening plan. Presumably, if you have booked table space in advance, you are likely to get a call from restaurant. And do not forget to communicate them your love message at the end of the day. Your sweetheart will surely appreciate and remember the time you spent together.
Thanks for reading this article. Did you like it? For more information, please read How to become a better Valentine!

Flowers and Food for the 14th of February!

By Aisha A Rahman

The 14th of February is just around the corner and all the love birds out there are desperately in search of ideas of how to make this day special for their loved one. The 14th of February is a day where love is celebrated worldwide. Everyone has different ways of expressing their love to their significant other but some of us really can't think of anything different because we've simply done it all, or everything else is too common. But that really doesn't mean that there is absolutely nothing to do or to give.

Its tradition to give away sentimental greeting cards on this day, along with Valentine's Day flowers and a good meal at a restaurant. If you can't think of anything else to do, it's probably best to stick to tradition and settle for the traditional Valentine's Day roses, a romantic dinner at a restaurant, a box of chocolates and champagne.

Make your reservations for the dinner way in advance because most of the good restaurants are booked for the day for special dinners for all the couples out there. Get reservations for dinner. If you don't get dinner reservations, make it lunch instead. Or better yet, take out an entire day to spend with your loved one, showering them with your affection and appreciation.

Next comes the Valentine's Day flowers. Red roses; there is no other kind of flower that spells love out better than red roses do! Red roses are given out on Valentines Day and most florists claim that Valentine's Day is the time when roses are demanded the most by people. In fact, florists claim that they record some of their highest sales on Valentine's Day. If you want to shop for Valentine's Day roses online, that is possible too. You can have the Valentine's Day roses delivered as a surprise to your loved one at their work place, at home, or anywhere where they might not be expecting the flowers from you.

A box of chocolates and a bottle of champagne to accompany the flowers are an additional treat. Surprise tour valentine with these during the day, and treat them to an amazing, romantic dinner in a good restaurant. If you're good enough, you can probably prepare dinner (something special of course!) yourself and treat your valentine to that. If you're the kind of person who is usually busy at work and cannot take out time for your loved one, this would probably be one of the most meaningful gestures which I'm sure he/she is bound to appreciate.

Another thing you could do on Valentine's Day is probably go watch a movie, but most theaters will probably be house full and out of tickets if you wait last-minute. This would call for a movie at home instead. Make sure it's something that the both of you can watch and enjoy together, while relaxing in the company of one another

Flower Explosion can help you find some of the best roses for the day! To find out more about Flower Explosion's products and services and to book your order in advance, log onto their website.

Valentines Day - Make It Memorable

By Deborah K Jensen

In just over two weeks, Americans will once again be celebrating Valentines Day. It's one of those days where men fret and squirm over the thought of making sure they don't disappoint their true love on the most romantic day of the year. Just remember guys, Valentines Day is a big thing for women. The best advice, don't forget the day. Do something even if it's nothing major. You will notice what is listed below doesn't have to be costly, but can be very effective. Here are a few ideas for you to make it a memorable day for her and ultimately for you.

1. Reenact your first date. Take her to the place the two of you met, do the same things you did on that very special day.
2. 12 hours of chocolate - stock up on your (or hers) favorite chocolate and make sure she receives one or two every hour for the entire day. She'll love you.
3. Arrange for the two of you to get a couples massage -----------romantic!
4. Make a path from the door to the... bedroom... with beautiful red rose petals. Have a nightie laid out on the bed and a chilled bottle of champagne by the bedside.
5. Take her to an out of the way cozy bar for an after work cocktail. Before hand you have arranged a hotel room near by. Half way through the drinks, you slip her a card with a key in it. Of course you have arranged to have her things so she will be ready.
6. Give you a coupon book good for romantic gestures such as "Good for one free walk in the park, together" or "Good for a night off from the kitchen... no cooking, no dishes."
7. Go to her work and place a Valentines balloon on her car with a note that states: "Meet me at (her favorite place) after work for some romantic Valentines fun."
8. Make a treasure hunt for her. Plant a series of notes taking her from one place to another and at the end, is a romantic gift; jewerly, perfume, lotions... you decide what she would like.
9. Arrange for a babysitter for the kids, make reservations, get dressed up and go out for a fun and romantic dinner.
10. Just don't forget... remember it's a big deal!

If these ideas don't get you thinking... you may need a shot from cupid!
Happy Valentines Day!
http://www.deborahkjensen.com

Top Reasons to Plan Valentine's Day in Advance

By Stephen I Alexander

Valentine's Day is allegedly the most romantic day of the year, and an opportunity to show the special loved one in your life just how much they mean to you. However thousands of couples all over the world will face a disappointing Valentine's Day because the other half forgot about the date. Like it or not, Valentine's Day gifts need to be planned in advance, or else there is no chance of getting through the day without someone bursting into tears (or an argument). Take a look below at some of the best reasons why you should have been planning Valentine's Day well in advance - unless you want to rush to the petrol station for flowers and a card on the day!

Reason #1: Restaurants will not accept bookings on the day for Valentine's dinners
Whether it is because you can't decide where to go, you're too busy to call, or you think the prices will be exorbitant, there will come a point (usually the eve of Valentine's) when you finally have run out of excuses and call the restaurant, only to discover they have been fully booked for the past week. It's time to face the facts; the restaurant will have an overpriced set menu, and it will be busy. If you want to take your loved one out somewhere nice, then pick up the phone now, or otherwise make alternative plans. Put your kitchen skills to the test and cook your own three course menu or better yet, take your loved one out for a culinary excursion, or let her choose from a choice of culinary experiences. Go out for afternoon tea for two, partake in a cheese and wine tasting course, or even learn to cook a meal together under the guidance of a trained chef. Whatever you choose, they will appreciate the gesture better than an apology for forgetting.

Reason #2: Hotels and flights will be too expensive if booked last minute
Admittedly hotels and flight companies do take advantage of Valentine's Day and take a little extra from the purses and wallets of couples. However, take this as an opportunity to explore somewhere off the beaten track. With so many destinations competing against each other for business, many of the lesser-known destinations will cut prices to encourage people to choose them over the more popular destinations. Instead of looking at the Eiffel Tower, why not wander the romantic streets of Prague, or swap Venice for Treviso? In fact, why not explore more of the UK and have a staycation? Many gyms and health resorts offer spa breaks for couples, giving discounted prices for couples that normally don't visit on a regular basis. If you feel like exploring a new place, then take a unique excursion, like a 'glamping' holiday with a romantic break in a yurt in the countryside, or a stay in a boutique hotel in Jersey. You can still enjoy a trip away together, save money, and see another side of your country.

Reason #3: They will be away on Valentine's Day
It's a sad fact that many couples will be apart on Valentine's Day, whether it's due to long distance or work commitments. Just because you are not together on the big day doesn't mean you are off the hook. In fact, it is for this reason that you should plan in advance for Valentine's Day. Surprise them with gift days, so they can still enjoy the day without you. For example, let them test drive a sports car, or white water rafting.

Reason #4: Valentine's Day events are clich�d and boring - why bother?
Not all couples want to celebrate their love together through the conventional ways; dinners, film dates, etc. On the other hand coming up with original ideas to celebrate Valentine's Day can be challenging, if not impossible if you have been together for a while. If you're both adrenaline junkies, then spend the day getting the blood rushing with a bungee jump experience or countryside tour from the seat of an old fighter plane. Not everyone's idea of love is jumping off heights bound by rope, and that is understandable. If you still want a romantic excursion, but don't want to pick from the stereotypical options, there are still plenty of things to do. Go to the theatre and watch a play or musical together, get close and steamy with an intensive salsa workshop for two, or escape for a 'Bond-themed' break for two. In order to do any exciting activities for Valentine's Day however, forward planning is essential. Classes fill up quickly, and many recreation facilities need forward notice for scheduling employees and filing paperwork.

Reason #5: You don't want to leave anything to chance
If you have just begun a relationship with someone, chances are you want to pull out all the stops and impress them on the big day. In order for the day to run smoothly and romantically, forward planning is the key to success. Book a dinner cruise along the Seine, or Thames if you want somewhere closer to home, or impress your loved one with a table at a five star restaurant. Make sure it is a place he or she will enjoy, and take the time to remember his/her likes and dislikes. There is no point booking a table at a steak restaurant if he/she is a vegetarian! But whatever you choose, make sure you book it in advance. Not only do these romantic hotspots book quickly, but if booked far in advance some places offer early bird deals.

With just a little bit of planning, Valentine's Day can be an enjoyable day spent with the person you love, instead of a hassle. And remember, Mothering Sunday is on the 10th of March this year, so start buying your gifts for Mother's Day early too!

Stephen Alexander has been writing about how to plan your Valentine's Day in advance. Visit Red Letter Days for information on Valentine's Day gifts or click this link for a range of experience days. Great deals on spa days for two can also be found here.

7 Romantic Ideas for the Sleep Deprived on Valentine's Day

By Megan Walters

Are you looking for fun and unique Valentine's Day ideas for the insomniac in your life? Look no further! Here's an array of ideas for Valentine's Day ideas that will promote a better night's sleep for your Sweetheart, while also offering a romantic, dreamy, and enjoyable Valentine's Day experience!

Sleep deprivation can adversely impact your love life in an array of different ways. It can lower sex drive in both men and women -- a fact that has been evidenced by numerous researchers. A lack of sleep can also have a negative effect on your relationship, as sleep problems can leave you irritable and easily annoyed, which is never good for your relationship!
Insomnia and sleep problems can also cause a wide range of additional health problems, including:

• depression and anxiety;
• lowered immune system and greater susceptibility to colds;
• weight gain or weight loss;
• bags under your eyes and more prominent wrinkles;
• and forgetfulness -- so you can literally blame your sleep problems for forgetting your girlfriend's anniversary!

Problems sleeping can also increase your susceptibility to problems such as heart disease and heart attack, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke -- problems that can have a dramatically negative impact on every aspect of an insomniac's life, including their romantic relationships.
So these Valentine's Day ideas for a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife who suffers from sleep deprivation won't just leave them feeling special and pampered; it can also improve their health and your relationship as a whole!

Consider the following Valentine's Day ideas for the sleep deprived in your life!
1) Offer a full-body massage with lavender oil or a lotion containing lavender. Lavender is known to promote relaxation, as does massage. Both will leave your loved-one feeling refreshed, relaxed and more in love than ever!
2) Similarly, you can surprise your insomniac Sweetie with a romantic bath with lavender oil, rose petals and candles. It's a great Valentine's Day idea that will leave her feeling pampered, relaxed and in the mood!
3) Surprise your beloved with a brand-new set of soft Egyptian cotton sheets and other cozy bedding. It's a gift that will keep on giving, as a cozy bed will lull them to sleep with coziness and comfort night after night!
4) Another great Valentine's Day idea: Go on a date that involves something physical, like a hike to a romantic vista for a picnic lunch or a walk to a secluded spot on the beach for a picnic dinner by candlelight. Exercise is known to promote better sleep!
5) Cook a delicious homemade meal or take your significant other out to a restaurant for a great Valentine's Day dinner that includes fish (particularly salmon, tuna and halibut). These foods contain vitamin B6, which triggers the sleep hormone, melatonin. Other "sleep-promoting" foods include tart cherry juice, yogurt, jasmine rice, bananas and chickpeas.
6) And at the risk of stating the obvious, sex also promotes a better night's sleep due to the exertion and the feel-good hormones that are released during physical intimacy. So making love doesn't just enrich your relationship; it will also help you to overcome your sleep problems!
7) Seal it with a kiss goodnight, muaw!
These ideas are sure help anyone who has problems sleeping, on Valentine's Day or any other day of the year. Plus, they're romantic and fun! Happy Valentine's Day!

Looking for that extra thoughtful gift? To show how much you care about your Sweetheart and the importance of a restful night's sleep, check out http://www.apillowforyourthoughts.com and the beautiful collection of pillowcase Dream Kits that are sure to leave a lasting effect.

How to Have Your Hands-Down Best Valentine's Day Ever

By Deanna Brann, Ph.D.

Valentine's Day is almost here. Right after Christmas, the stores fill their shelves with cards, candy, and lots of other reminders that you better come up with something special for that special someone in your life. All the commercial hype creates a lot of unrealistic expectation, not to mention enormous amounts of pressure to buy the perfect present, find the exact right card, plan the most romantic dinner, and manage to look beautiful or handsome-and sexy-for the celebration itself. That's a tall order that typically sets us up for a big let down. After all, it's impossible to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience on demand every year!

Valentine's Day has always seemed like such an odd holiday to me. It's the one day when we are supposed to celebrate the love we have for a particular person. Hmmm, I always think, shouldn't we be doing this most days instead of just once a year? And what about the people who, for whatever reason, don't have a special someone? Isn't Valentine's Day just a cruel stab-in-the-heart reminder for them? (More on that in my next blog.) Ugh!

Of course,men and women typically view Valentine's Day quite differently. Let's be honest ladies, how many of you are playing the whole evening out in your head, imagining exactly what you'd like to have happen (including your gift)? But are you sharing this vision with your partner of what you would really, really in your heart of hearts like to have happen? Probably not! And how many of you men feel the pressure to buy something special and to do something special, but you don't have the foggiest idea what that might be? And what if it's not enough? What if it's not the exact right thing?

Some lucky people are able to lovingly and realistically embrace this day for how it makes them feel and for the love they give to their spouse or significant other. That's great. But the dark side of the holiday is that for many of us, like Jessica and John, it creates a lot of anxiety. Someone always seems to ask innocently, "What did you do for Valentine's Day?"The idea of saying you did nothing, or nothing special, is enough to make your stomach hurt. What does that say about my spouse or significant other? you end up wondering. And what does that say about our relationship?

Hang on! You can turn this holiday around. It really is possible to make Valentine's Day super special, without all the pressure, stress, and anxiety that you've gone through in the past. Here are some tips that will make your celebration a success-not to mention bring the sizzle back into your relationship.
1. Have realistic expectations. Don't expect this one day to be a magic fix for anything or to be the only day you need to focus on your partner and your passion for each other. Think of the holiday as an opportunity to renew your feelings, not the only day that you express them.
2. If you're a woman, actively participate! This is not "Queen for a Day," it's Valentine's Day. It important for you to be just as involved in celebrating your partner as he is about celebrating you. This is no time for sitting back and basking in his proclamations of love for you. Do a bit of proclaiming yourself! Your guy needs to feel loved, appreciated, and adored just as much as you do!
3. Share your feelings. Write your partner a heartfelt letter that really expresses how you feel about him or her and that outlines all the wonderful things your mate has brought into your life. Trust me, you don't have to sound like Shakespeare for this to go over big! And I guarantee that this is one present your special someone will never, ever forget.
4. If you're buying a gift, make it personal. Really spend some time thinking about the kinds of things your partner enjoys and cherishes. Taking the time to give a gift that is personal and special will help him or her really feel your love. It's not the gift itself or the money you spend on it that gives it meaning, it's the time and the thought that you put into it.
5. Plan something special together. Putting the pressure on one person to make the perfect plans can sacrifice a lot of sizzle. Figuring it out together instead can be fun, intimate, and rewarding because it's a win-win for you both.
6. Make the day about your partner. If you both make it about the other person, then you will both end up feeling great. You will feel loved and appreciated, but more importantly, you will know your partner feels the same way about you. What could be better than spending a day like that?

Deanna Brann, Ph.D. - Your In-Law Survival Guide - is the author of Reluctantly Related: Secrets to Getting Along With Your Mother-in-law or Daughter-in-Law and Mothers-in-Law and Daughters-in-Law Say the Darndest Things! She also has an interactive website - http://drdeannabrann.com/ - where you can ask questions, find answers, and get the help you need to change your in-law relationship!

How to Deal With Loneliness and Heartbreak on Valentine's Day

By Angela Zoile

Are you struggling with getting over a recent breakup and NOT sure how you are going to deal with Valentines Day? Do you worry about seeing your ex out... or even worse, do you already know he's got plans with someone else, while YOU stay home and mope? The truth is, while the holidays are often festive time for many who are in love, there is a dark and depressing side to many traditional celebratory days that is painful as well.

As an emotional intuitive and spiritual empath, one of the things that I often try to tell people who struggle with feeling alone on holidays is that there is something FAR bigger going on in your life, and the world around you than most of us recognize.
There is an order, a structure and a story that is unfolding for ALL of us, and a spiritual reason why what you are experiencing right now, no matter how painful... is actually something that will lead you to grow long term.

I believe that each of us comes into this life with a specific set of lessons we are here to learn. Every problem you face, every heartbreak you feel, every conflict and challenge and obstacle that is put in your way, is actually a karmic opportunity to leap frog your current level of enlightened awareness... and move into a more spiritually advanced state.
That person that may have just broken your heart MAY be giving you an incredible gift of growth that will open new doors to bigger and better things.
Or - that person who broke your heart may be learning something that THEY needed to learn themselves, and you are giving THEM the opportunity to experience an emotion that is critical to their own spiritual growth.

In my own life, a decade ago... EVEN as I was first starting a professional career as an empath and intuitive who had helped hundreds of women move forward in their own lives, the first Valentines day I found myself single again, after a bad breakup, I found myself sinking into a state of depression and despair.
When I learned my fiancee at the time had a new girlfriend... and they were actually having dinner at a local restaurant, I actually talked one of my friends into joining me there at the bar, and put on a show like I was having the time of my life.

In truth, it didn't make me feel better. It actually made me feel worse. And made me look small and silly and selfish (and others in the restaurant surely smiled to my face... but behind my back, must have thought I looked truly sad).
Here is the thing you MUST understand, and the life and love lesson I wish I had taught myself back then.
First, there is NO better way to overcome sadness and heartbreak than through helping other people.
 
Talking to others and sharing how you feel is VERY therapeutic.
Empower yourself by putting yourself in places where you can't help but be happy, have fun and enjoy the energy of others.
And stop being self critical - and blaming yourself, or wondering what you did wrong, or trying to replay past events to see how they might have turned out otherwise, if you chose different decisions.

The truth is, your life is unfolding EXACTLY as it's supposed to. Waking up to that fact is very empowering, and the easiest way to overcome any heartbreak or hurt there is. (It's all temporary, and in the end... where it matters most, you are a beautiful being of light and love).
Lastly, help others. Feel grateful for all of the GOOD things you have in your life - and allow yourself to feel immense gratitude for the good (and let the small sadness slip away). Seek out others who have things far worse than you do... and you'll find yourself awake and inspired to move ON with your life... and do the work you are HERE to do (including finding the one TRUE love you'll have forever)!

Want PROOF? Click HERE to find out if he REALLY Loves YOU... in 30 Minutes or Less, Without Having to BEG or embarrass yourself for answers EVER again! You Deserve to Be Happy. Your Future Begins Today.

A Valentine Treat

By Clariza V Inmenzo

It is exactly 7 o'clock in the evening. My phone rings and registers the call from my man... my very special someone. I hurriedly answer his call though I am a bit afraid that he might sense excitement in my voice. For a moment he did not answer so I was confounded about what he's up to. For quite some time all I can hear is his breathing and it brings curiosity out of me. Then he sighed and speaks of something, an invitation for Valentine's Day. Oh my! Isn't it wonderful?! I thought he would never ask me because we were not seeing each other for a month now. The only thing that binds us together is our cell phones and nothing else.

February fourteen. 6 o'clock in the evening, sitting in this cliquey restaurant. Yup, this is it. I am perfectly ready for our date. Honestly, our call time is 8 o'clock (haha) Am I obviously excited?! Well, one thing I believe in, it is better early than sorry. Of course my boy is not yet here since it's too early. Time passes by... one minute... two minutes... thirty... one hour... two hours... three... Oh my! People are starting to stare at me now. Do I look like a superstar or doing a scandal whatsoever?! Huh! The hell I care! I am a woman of determination! I will wait for my man... he will come... I know he will. I wonder what he's cooking. Three hours is long enough for cooking right? Calming down, I guess guys really used to surprise their woman when dating.

Heavy footsteps fill the restaurant. My heart beats faster and faster. I slowly hold my head up and look to its direction. There he is, still in a masculine frame... same face... same stand... same smell. Hmmm... well I guess nothing really changed. The jitters I feel lately has transformed into so much delight. I smiled at my sweetest, a smile that almost tear my face (could you imagine that kind of smile?!). He draws closer and closer until he reached my place. He pulled the chair and sits opposite to me. He faced me blankly (to my astonishment! Is this a man dating or what?! A blank face? He does not even hold single stem of flower. Is this a man dating or what?!) I begin asking what took him so long. He smiles and said he has just taken time to make up his mind. These words bombed my head. (Gosh! Is this an omen of proposal? Oh no! I'm not sure if I'm apt for marriage). He begins saying... "let's... let's... " (he stutters, and then he paused). Maybe he can't say it now. I do understand that it is difficult for a man to propose and get married. I saw him gasped. Then he swiftly moved his right hand into one of his pockets. (Now I'm sure he is proposing... there will come the ring. Funny... do I hear drum beats here?).
His hand comes out with a piece of paper. He handed it to me and I accept it with my hands shaking (I don't know why). While reading its contents I suddenly feel like drowning from water that I cannot see. I can hardly breathe... my heart seems to be whipped for hundreds of times (no, make it thousands).

A month without you gave me a weird feeling. The sky seems to be wide open. I can fill my lungs with air as much as I wanted. I've done things recklessly without even being bothered that someone might get hurt. I used to spend life with you before... but now I don't understand why this feeling keeps on dwelling in me. I tried to dodge from it but it hunts my soul. I found true happiness... but not in you. I know you have loved me and there's nothing I can repay you. All I can do is to treat you the way you deserved to be treated. For the past nine years I have given you what you wanted and what I think is best for you. I never asked for anything. Now for once, let me have this chance. Please give me my freedom. I 'm not asking... I'm my pleading, for this will mean my life. Let's put an end to this... because I will marry her after this.

Alas! Tears flow like a stream rushing down my face. I cannot say a single word. I faced him to see truth in his eyes. I was totally lost when I see ravenous eyes... hungry... thirsty. Now I know that he is sincere more than being serious. Without a sound, he stands up and leaves his seat. And there he goes... without looking back. He left and his shadow faded from the light. Seeing him walk away sucks my strength down to its bottom. Pain pinned me into my seat. I am in deep turmoil. Heavy cloud is above my head. But what I feel won't change anything. He won't comeback even if I cry at my hardest. My heart and my soul were set on him for nine years. For nine years he became my life. Then with just a snap of a finger everything between us is gone. The man that I loved for nine years has now bid goodbye... decided to end those nine years of us being together with just a month of being alone.

I guess this is the most memorable Valentine treat I've ever had. Our last day together has installed a good admonition in me. I'm grasping at the reality that happiness can never be tied by love, even how strong it is. It will never be enough to yield happiness out of it. Because it takes two hearts to feel love before it concedes happiness that will last... not just for nine years.
I'm grasping at the reality that happiness can never be tied by love, even how strong it is...

How to Bring the Romance Back This Valentine's Day

By Joshua Nyamache

Valentine's Day is here, but is this the only day that you should show romance to your partner? What of the other days? Love should be unconditional. There is no love without emotional connection. You have to be connected emotionally for you to say you're in love with someone. You'll be left hurt if you sincerely believe in the relationship while your partner doesn't. It will be a painful relationship if one of you lacks the strong emotional feelings of being in love.

It is true love that builds a strong bond between partners. And trust comes about when you have true love for your partner. Otherwise you'll be left hurt if you love your partner and your partner doesn't love you (unrequited love). When partners don't pay attention to things that express their love for one another they'll find it difficult to have a purposeful, meaningful, stable and fulfilling relationship.

There are things that women wished their men knew about. Women try to tell men what they really need using many ways, but are men paying attention to them? On top of the list what women need is to be loved, to be treated like a woman, to be listened to and well taken care of.

Saint Valentine's Day is the occasion that you and your partner should find time so as to be alone, the time to take a break from the normal routine that is boring so as to do something romantic with your partner. This is a special day to have a conversation with your partner as if you're dating for the first time. The kind of conversation that brings back all the romance, the chemistry that happened to both of you when you were first attracted to one another.

Saint Valentine's Day is the day your girlfriend or your wife will know how much you mean to her. It is the time that men get tested by their girlfriends and wives, they'll weigh how creative their boyfriends or husbands are when it comes to expressing their romance feelings. It is the day women have high expectations to be pampered by men they love. What if you don't have something lined up for your girlfriend or wife? I'm not sure if she will vent her feelings to you unless you give it a try by disappearing the whole day, not paying any attention to her and see what happens next when you return in the wee hours giving her a lame excuse! All in all you should not disappoint her, line up something special that she will talk about especially when her friends discuss how they were pampered like queens during Saint Valentine's Day by their boyfriends or husbands.

Saint Valentine's Day is the opportunity for singles to ask someone they're in love with to go out on date, the day to woo her with something special. And if you had issues in your relationship you should use this day to reconcile. Revive the romance you had before things fell apart with your girlfriend or wife.

How will you impress your partner on this special night? Some of the small things that men usually not pay attention to are the ones that impress women. You and your partner should bring your romance back by paying attention to small things that matter a lot. Do something different this time, something new that will awake your partner to realize the lost romance and bring it back.

How to Bring the Romance Back
1.) Psychological Preparedness: Start by connecting to one another in a romantic way through the little talk a day prior to Saint Valentine's Day. Raise the expectations that something special is lined up. Send romantic text messages to raise these expectations so as to prepare your partner. It is all about preparing one another psychologically in advance before you get together alone to celebrate the night during Valentine's Day.
2.) The Romantic Dress: Go through your wardrobe and find something very romantic to wear on this special night. The dress that will make you to look very attractive and skimpy but I'm not telling you to wear something that is leaving very little to imagination of the unseen things. Your common sense will tell you what dress is very romantic for this special night, go ahead and bring the romance back by wearing that sexy dress that will indulge him in his fantasies of romance.
3.) Have a Romantic Dinner: Whether you decide to have it at home or somewhere else, what matters is making it to be a romantic dinner. Remember your aim is to bring the romance back. You're already aware that lighting scented candles, soft romantic music playing (like Luther Ronzoni Vandross' songs) and bottle of wine or champagne will make dinner to be a romantic one.
4.) Conversation: This is the most powerful way of bringing the romance back during Saint Valentine's Day. When did you last find time to be together alone with your partner so that you discuss your relationship? You should discuss how far you have come from in your relationship, bring back those wonderful moments you had together. Do some dirty talking with your partner to bring the romance back. This is a special night for you to get naughty in your conversation with the aim of connecting emotionally with your spouse. Tell all to each other how much love you have for one another. Have a conversation that is flowing freely to lead you in having an intimacy relationship with your spouse.
5.) A Romantic Gift: There are some gifts that express romance, use such gifts to woo your partner. Bring the romance back during Valentine's Day by purchasing a romantic gift to surprise your partner with.

Saint Valentine's Day should not be a day to hurt the feelings of your partner. During this day find time to spend with your partner whether you're still dating or married. Be creative and you don't have to go expensive to express your romance during this day.
Get your secret sauce for romantic sms this Valentine's Day that works like magic to get back the romance you had with your partner.

The author of this article is Joshua Nyamache and together with other team members they are working to build Nikenya website, a website that you connect with friends, family and read articles about the contentious issues. If you really enjoy reading stories, true stories submitted by people from all walks of life then you will love Nikenya website.

Know Your Partner on Valentine's Day!

By Manisha Singh Sharma

The most 'loved' day of the year is here - Valentine's Day! It is a day to celebrate with your better halves and pamper them with your love, care and attention. But for that to happen, you must know your beloved well.

So, how well do you know your partner? If you aren't able to answer this question, then read on and find out about the inherent qualities of your partner to strengthen your bond with them on this Valentine's Day.

Aries: If your partner is an Arian, then sit back and relax. Being the active and aggressive kind, they love taking initiatives and assert themselves as they are quite capable of leading. However, you must be ready to cope with their impatient nature if you are seeking a longer union with them.
Taurus: A Taurean is someone that you can easily trust and depend upon as they are one of the most loyal in the Zodiac. You should be thanking your stars if your partner is a Taurean as they are quite persevering, down-to-earth and easy to satisfy as they find pleasure in the small things in life. But beware of their stubborn nature and do not get on their nerves because if you rub them off the wrong way then they tend to get pretty nasty.

Gemini: Talkative, responsive and sociable, a Gemini is always fun to be around. They possess the rare ability to keep you entertained round the clock. They are also quite flexible by nature and can adapt to situations and/or surrounding quite easily. They, however, seem to get superficial sometimes and tend to get lost in their own fantasy world.

Cancer: The gentle and conservative Cancer makes for quite a protective partner, someone that you would love to have. They not only understand your feelings in an appropriate manner but also nurture the relationship in a caring way. They are also quite defensive about their partner and are contemplative as well.

Leo: Be prepared to be carried for a joyride with the active and open Leo. They are the kind who likes to be in complete control of things and/or situations. While being with a Leo you need not worry about anything. They are also pretty caring and generous by nature and act as a great host to their partner on a homely date.

Virgo: You need to play your cards a little consciously around your Virgo partner as they are highly intelligent and reserved in nature. They are also quite capable of coming up with easy solutions to all your worries in life as they are pretty analytical and helpful. However, beware of their critical nature as they may criticize you upfront if they do not like something about you.
Libra: Libra is one partner that you would love to have if you are the tantrum-throwing kind as they are pretty accommodating and kind by nature. They are also very sociable and likeable, so rest assured you have a great company for any party. They also respect you a lot but sometimes get stuck in situations due to their indecisive nature.

Scorpio: Focused, resourceful and determined, a Scorpio is a great partner to have in a relationship. They are also quite possessive about their partner and care for them in an intense manner. Scorpios also make for some of the most passionate lovers in the Zodiac. They may get a little probing at times, though.

Sagittarius: If you love to travel and are a sucker for adrenaline rush, then Sagittarius is the perfect company to have for you as they are adventurous, enthusiastic and independent. They also make for very loyal partners and aren't afraid of speaking their mind. On the flip side, though, they sometimes get pretty restless and irresponsible.

Capricorn: Tenacious and conservative, the Capricorns aren't the most expressive or the wild kind. But never mistake them for unworthy partners as they are quite wise, disciplined and resourceful. They are also very ambitious by nature, although that quality remains subdued due to their prudent character.

Aquarius: Eccentric, original and opinionated, Aquarians are quite the unpredictable sort in a relationship. While they can be pretty fun to be around due to their independent, cool and friendly nature, they do tend to give you the impression of not being interested in you due to their detached and individualistic nature. They are also quite intellectual and have a humanitarian side to them.
Pisces: The Pisceans make for a very loving partner in a relationship as they are highly sympathetic, sensitive and compassionate. Their ability to understand you in a detailed manner can be matched by a very few signs in the zodiac. They are also very artistic and intuitive in nature, and act as a tender, caring partner in relationships.

Now that you know your partner, go out and have a very romantic Valentine's Day with your beloved. All The Best!
Know what awaits you in your love life in 2013 with our detailed astrological prediction with Horoscope. You can also speak to our expert astrologers over the phone and know about your love compatibility with your partner on this Valentine's Day, instantly! For more details visit http://www.astroyogi.com/

Make Valentine's Day Everyday In Two Simple Steps

By Stephanie Wellington, M.D.

Happy Valentine's Day
February 14 is the day set aside each year to celebrate love. It is a day to express feelings of love and appreciation to the ones we hold most dear. It is symbolized by the giving of gifts of chocolate, hearts, stuffed animals, and cards that express exactly how we feel about one another. On Valentine's Day we feel abundance flowing into our lives.

In the hectic lives of doctors, nurses, practitioners and providers, the spirit of Valentine's Day is one that we can harness throughout the year. As we struggle to achieve work-life balance, relationships may seem to take a back seat to the responsibility of providing medical care and treatment to our patients. At times we take for granted the people in our lives who love and support us as we pursue our careers.

Valentine's Day is that day to pause for a moment between seeing patients and remember all that we do have in our lives that make us feel complete. For just a moment we can forget about the current state of the healthcare system, the limited resources, the long hours, and the lack of staffing and just enjoy a day filled with love and joy and happiness.

The positive energy we feel on this day can be the foundation upon which we can design a life of our dreams. System wide change is often slow to occur. Changing our minds can happen at lightening speed once it becomes a priority. Our hours at the hospital or medical office will not miraculously get shorter because we will it to be. There are things we can do to connect to the ones we love and let them know how much they mean to us.

1.Begin each day telling someone you love them. It may be the very thing they need to hear, at that precise moment to make all the difference in their life. In medicine, doctors, nurses, and practitioners make a difference in the lives of our patients with each physical exam we perform, each diagnostic test we run, each result we share, and each treatment plan we prescribe. In our personal lives the impact we have on others may be less dramatic. Instead of starting each day with the typical morning routine of jumping out of bed at the sound of the alarm clock only to rush out the door to work, consider taking a moment to hug your family and wish them a day of joy and blessings. This one change sets an entirely different tone for yourself and your family.

2.Spend the time on your commute in positive thoughts and vibrations. Remember how good it felt the first time someone told you that you were special to them. Just thinking about it brings a smile to your face. Physicians tell patients to minimize stress in their lives, yet we are not doing it for ourselves. During our commute to work we fight traffic. We listen to radio news shows that offer negative viewpoints and opinions. We watch the clock as if we can impact it. The intensity of our commute sets us up for a day of stress and feeling rushed. Repeat this daily and it is a set up for stress related health problems. Physicians heal thyself. Begin with a mindset that focuses on loving yourself back to calm and peace and health.

February 14 is a day of memories. It is the memories you make today as you share this celebration with that special someone in your life and your family. It is a day to reflect on Valentine's Day from the past. And it is a day to learn lessons of love that can be cherished with every tomorrow.

Stephanie A. Wellington, MD, Medical Coach and Mentor is founder of Best Life for Medical Professionals. Best Life for Medical Professionals is created out of the increasing demand for expert coaching and mentoring for doctors, nurses, nurse practioners and other medical professionals in the face of an evolving medical field. Through coaching, professionals are guided to become top performers in their careers and in their lives. Learn more at http://www.BestLifeForMedicalProfessionals.com.

Why Some People Hate Valentine's Day

By Faye Bishop

Commonly known as Valentine's Day, Saint Valentine or Feast of Saint Valentine, is observed on February 14 each year. It is celebrated in many countries around the world and is known for being the only holiday of the year associated with romantic love. It is an occasion in which lovers express their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as "valentines") as a symbol of their affection. The question is how could anyone despise a holiday that encourages happiness, warmth, and appreciation? What is it about love that bring about feelings of anxiety, stress, and fear?

It appears that not only do single people loathe this holiday, but apparently some lovers hate it too. From what I've gathered, the biggest reason people dislike February 14th so much is due to the fact that a holiday that was initially established to bring couples closer together, has been transformed into a commercial spectacle peddled to us by florists, greeting card companies, jewelry stores and makers of stuffed animals. But wait a minute, that's not all. The ostentatious displays of public affection is another reason why people don't like it. People feel that they can do without seeing red hearts at every turn and they can definitely do without the annoying nauseating Facebook status updates.

Here's my question; why is it that nobody feels this way about Thanksgiving or Columbus Day? I could give a number of reasons why we shouldn't celebrate those holidays either. Many of us show appreciation to our parents all year long, however, Father's Day and Mother's Day are also holidays that encourage us to show appreciation in the form of flowers, gifts, candy, and yet, nobody complains. And if the issue with Valentine's Day is the ridiculous notion that you have to spend money to show someone you care, then why is it these same people who complain about spending money on such a stupid holiday, seem to take no issue with Black Friday and Christmas?

This leaves me wondering where does all of the loathing really come from. I'll admit that it's pretty funny to hear all the rage about a holiday symbolized by cute little cupids and fluffy things. It seems to bring out the worst in people as they go on protests and tirades about why Valentine's Day sucks. Maybe it's me, but I don't see the big deal. Sure you don't need one day out of the whole year to show someone how special they are to you. But this day could also be utilized to do something other than complain. Spending the day trying to convince people how much you don't care about something so 'stupid' or 'nonsensical' isn't very productive. Nobody hates something they don't care about. And to unleash such pent-up aggression over a single day would only make you question why anyone would get so emotional over something they claim means nothing to them. Why the upset? If you are one who urges people to seek out happiness in their daily lives on any other day, only to turn around and protest it by letting your disappointment bubble to the surface over a holiday is a bit contradictory to the message of love no?

Believe me, I'm not trying to tell anyone how they should feel about any day of the year, however, if people want to celebrate of all manifestations of love on a single day then let them. Sometimes we take our partners for granted. Sometimes we're not as nice to each other as we could be. Sometimes we just need a reason to be nice to each other and if Valentine's Day is the appointed day to do so, then let people do them. Lighten up. A single gesture of love and affection on any day of the year, even when we don't need it or want it can bring a smile to our face. A compliment can even make someone's day. Life can be very hard. Expressing to someone that you care with a card and/or trinket, should not be.
Check out more helpful tips and advice relating to dating, relationships, and sex at http://www.sexandrelationships101.com

My True Valentine

By Traci M Jones
My beloved husband is not my true Valentine.
Oh, I love him dearly alright. He and I complement each other nicely - He calms me when I get worked up about something; I'm better with cleaning, while he's Mr. Fix-It. I'm the one who quickly gets people out the door; he remembers the little things I forget when I'm rushed. Yes, I know for certain he's the only man for me. But there is One greater. And I was made to love Him more.

Contrary to what Tom Cruise says, my husband doesn't "complete me." That spot is reserved for the Lover of my soul.

As I watched men gather in the flower section of the grocery store last night, and saw even more this afternoon, I realized what a sad holiday this is (sad in a funny, sarcastic sense) - These poor men were getting last minute gifts because the loves of their lives would be sad, offended, angry [insert your emotion here] if they weren't "surprised" with a gift on this day of Cupid.

Now I'm not one of those feminist types who hates Valentines Day... I've been there. I'm a woman who, just like millions of others, has high hopes that her husband will do something romantic on this day -- or any day! I still look forward to special surprises and loving gestures, and I'll probably always hope for a nice Valentine's Day gift. But the best thing I ever did for our relationship was to realize that there will be plenty of times of disappointment because he is flawed.

[At this point, I imagine lovely classical musical playing in the background that is suddenly scratched to a halt on the record... ] Whoa, whoa, whoa... say what?! This is supposed to be an article about love and romance... now I'm doggin' my man?? What kind of wife am I?
The kind who has finally let her husband off the hook.

I've spent years with high expectations - elated when he met them, disappointed when he didn't. But recently, I've been reading a book with the lovely ladies in my Wednesday Bible study for college students. It's called "Do You Think I'm Beautiful?" and one chapter particularly touched my heart a couple of weeks ago. In this book, author Angela Thomas describes her take on how we were created to love and be loved by God, and I'd like to share an excerpt with you here. I only wish I could read it aloud as you close your eyes and listen because it is just a beautiful picture in my mind:

"When God looks into the eyes of a woman, He sees all the beauty He created there. He sees every potential and every gift. He sees what can be and redeems what has been. He loves the curly hair you wish you were straight. He is taken with your smile and the shape of your nose. He's crazy about big feet and knobby knees and every curve that is particular to you. He is the one who loves the inside and the outside of you. You were all His idea, and you are physically and emotionally beautiful to Him.
... captivated, smitten, fascinated, spellbound, and delighted. That's exactly how the prince feels about the princess in fairy tales. But this sentiment is not fiction. Enthralled is how God in Heaven feels about you. He is taken with you. Undistracted. Intensely interested. Emotionally connected. He enjoys your laughter and takes pleasure in the way you think. He is not bored with you and would never consider you ordinary. There is no way you will ever go unnoticed with God. You are beautiful to Him. Incredibly, breathtakingly beautiful...
You have heard that God loves you, but maybe you've been like me and misunderstood. His love for you is not just a 'whole world in His hands' kind of love. This love is individual. God and you. One-on-one. Intimate. Personal.
God's love for you is passionate and pure and without reservation. He never holds back or plays games with your heart. There are no riddles with God. This kind of love does not stand you up. He always shows up, always remembers, and always keeps His promises. God's love is unrelenting. He does not turn away even if you do. His excitement does not wane. God's love is not some namby-pamby kindergarten crush. He is not fickle. God has seen you across the room, and He cannot take His eyes off you."
- from "Do You Think I'm Beautiful?" by Angela Thomas
You see, those expectations we have of our Valentines are natural. We were made to be doted on and to be cherished. But our standards are way too high for mankind. That's why no man could ever be our true Valentine, no matter how romantic or handsome he is.
With this in mind, we can ALL celebrate Valentine's Day, regardless of our relationship status! Married, single, divorced, widowed... we can all have the most intimate relationship that will never fail or disappoint. The love we receive on earth can bless us and bring us joy, but it is limited. His love has no bounds.

I may not get the perfect gift on Valentines Day. He might forget to take the trash out. There will be times he isn't on time, lets his beard get longer than I like, or doesn't read my mind and take care of something I hoped he would. But that doesn't make him less of a man. It makes him human. And that's exactly what he is.
One of my loveliest friends inspired this post when she sent me a text earlier today that read, "Have a John 3:16 day! The best Valentine of all!" Amen! My one and only true Valentine.
Now you can close your eyes. Close them and feel His unrelenting love reaching out to you in fascination and delight... and enjoy your Valentines Day.

"I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine." - Song of Solomon 6:3
P.S. Honey, if you're reading this, don't be confused by the words "off the hook." That doesn't mean you don't ever have to go out of your way to do nice things for me. Please remember, after all, that I am also human.

The expectations we have of our Valentines are natural. We were made to be doted on and to be cherished. But our standards are way too high for mankind. That's why no man could ever be our true Valentine, no matter how romantic or handsome he is. That spot is reserved for our Heavenly Father.