Tips for a Successful Long-distance Relationship By Eva Márquez

In the world today nothing is difficult or entirely impossible; although some challenges may exist that require surmounting. This is the case for long-distance relationships (LDRs), which were initially thought to be short-lived romances not likely to succeed because of the challenges posed by distance. However, recent statistics indicate that there is a growing number of LDRs in the world with many people successfully dating for a long duration of time. Also, indicators show that many people are in long-distance marriages that are entirely successful. Although not easy, LDRs are 100% possible in today’s communicated world (I should know, I’m in one!).

The following are a few tips for people in LDRs that might help to maintain a strong bond between partners:

1. One thing about LDRs is that you should never assume that the other partner knows a thing about your expectations. It is important that you take some time with your partner to formalize some things in your relationship. You need to be clear from the very beginning. For example, you should let your partner know if the relationship is monogamous or if is an open one (talk about exclusivity!). This enables both of you to successfully address any potential challenges and also lets both of you know where you stand in the relationship.

2. LDRs require a great deal of trust. Trusting your partner is the cornerstone of a successful LDR. It doesn’t matter if you met them today or two years ago, if you are committed to an LDR with this person, you will need to develop trust in this person. Accord your partner trust, and only allow that trust to waiver if and when your partner’s behavior indicates a good reason for doing so. Try you best not to become unreasonably jealous. The fact that your mind may wonder off to a whole array of possibilities and scenarios doesn’t mean you have to let it. Be in control of your worries.

3. Honesty is paramount in an LDR just like in any relationship. The think about lying is that once a lie surfaces, trust begins to erode…fast. When you are honest with your partner, you are building a sense of confidence in yourself and in your relationship. Nothing’s most satisfying than being in a happy and confident relationship.

4. Despite having romantic encounters during scheduled visits, you can also maintain (or even ignite) the flame when distance separates you from your partner. Sending each other romantic and/or sexy messages, e-mails and having some fun over Skype or Google Chat conversations can do a world of good and keep both of you intimately engaged.

Among many other things, you should try to schedule frequent communication and express yourselves openly and honestly to each other.  A key advantage of LDRs is that partners are, in a way, forced to communicate with each other (perhaps more so than in a traditional, day-to-day relationship). Keeping the communication flowing is critical in maintaining a loving, committed and healthy LDR.

~*~

Ms. Eva Marquez is also the author of Sweetest Taboo. Following is a blurb and excerpt from her book.

BLURB:

Isabel Cruz was fifteen years old when she met Tom Stevens. She was 15 when they started dating, and 16 when she lost her virginity to him. By the time she turned 18 and went to college, everything had fallen apart. This hadn’t been an ordinary love, though. Not a love between two dear friends, or even high school sweethearts. This had been the most taboo sort of love there was: a relationship between a student and her teacher. Isabel started her high school career as a normal student, but set her sights on Tom Stevens as soon as she met him, and pursued him with an intense – and sometimes reckless – fascination. When he finally approached her after swim practice and told her that he shared her feelings, it was the start of a forbidden and dangerous relationship.

EXCERPTS: From Chapter 7:

I realized suddenly that I had gone from one extreme to the other in a few weeks. That was a mistake, and people were bound to notice. I couldn’t backtrack now, though – the damage was done. What was I supposed to say? “Yeah, I'm staying away from Mr. Stevens because I don’t want anyone to know I’m making out with him after practice” would never do.

“You know, he was pretty cool at first," I replied as nonchalantly as possible. “But one day I was late for practice and he made me go to the diving pool to swim laps. I’m not going to hang around with him if he’s going to be such a jerk, you know?”

That answer must have been good enough for Vicky, because she lightly tapped my shoulder and then jumped into the water to swim off. I laughed as I watched her swim away; she was doing the butterfly – badly – and bumping into other swimmers as she shimmied from side to side down the crowded lane. My smile faded, though, when I realized that she was probably voicing what everyone else had noticed as well. My sudden change of attitude had been just that – sudden and unexpected – and people were going to wonder why. I had to come up with a better story, and quick, or change my behavior again and hope that no one else said anything.

I wasn’t sure which option was best, or which would cause me more pain. Our late- afternoon rendezvous were becoming more and more intense, and my senses were becoming fragile. When I walked toward his classroom, now, I knew that there would be more physical contact, with less clothing. We hadn’t gone all the way yet, and Mr. Stevens was always very careful about my feelings – he asked me if I was okay with what we were doing every five minutes, it seemed – but we were both getting braver, and closer. I didn’t know if I could be close to him without really wanting him, but I was afraid of getting hurt.

I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was also starting to fall in love with him.

~*~

**Eva will award a Kindle touch to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour, and a swag pack of goodies to one commenter at each stop. She'll award a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn host.

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, daughter of European immigrants, Eva Márquez has spent most of her life outside of her home country. At the age of five, Eva accompanied her parents to the United States, where the family settled permanently. After graduating from university, she went on to complete graduate studies in International Relations in Spain. Eva received her Master of International Studies degree from the University of Sydney and went on to work in the global health field in Sub Saharan Africa and South East Asia. Eva currently resides in Southern Africa.

Links:

Website and Blog

Facebook Book Page

Twitter

GoodReads

Official Book Trailer on YouTube

Money Saving Travel Tips

With the holidays approaching, many of us will be traveling either domestically or internationally. With money being tight and the economy in the pits, you will want to get the most from your trip without breaking the bank.

Following are some money saving tips to consider when planning your next trip:

Pick a good travel agent.

Take shorter trips.

Consider a package deal, which charges one price.

Know your budget and make it clear what you want to fit into your budget.

Using a net sales agent may save you up to fifty percent on airline seats.

Join a travel club.

Do not pay the bill until service has been rendered. Use a credit card; do not use cash or check.

If you are taking a cruise, consider a cruise with no tipping policy. You will save money.

Check generic air travel.

Inquire about last minute deals. Someone may cancel at the last minute.

Study airline promotional fares, and avoid traveling during peak periods such as July, August and December.

Select budget hotels.

Eat where locals eat.

Read packaged tours carefully and know what you are receiving.

Comparison shop.

How to Know You Will Never Get That Loan Back by Miss Know It All

There is a saying, “Neither a borrower nor a lender be.” Most of us have lent money to our lovers, friends, acquaintances and family members. If we got that money back, we were fortunate. However, in most cases, this is not the norm but the exception, and many lenders will never see their money.

Even if you have the borrower sign a promissory note, chances are you will have to fight tooth and nail or take that person to small claims court to receive your hard-earned dollars.

To avoid drama and anguish, look for the following clues that will articulate, “You can kiss your money goodbye.”

-I will pay you back when I get my tax refund.

-I will pay you back when my school loan comes through.

-You will get your money when I receive my workmen’s compensation.

-I was laid-off, so I will not be able to pay you right now.

-Here is a post-dated check; do not cash it until next week. Most likely, the check will bounce.

You get the picture. So, the next time someone ask you for a loan, either give them money and write it off as a gift or just say,” No!”

7 Don’ts For The First Date

There are always lists of what to do on your first date but never what not to do. There are many things to cover on your first date and you want to make sure that it goes well for both parties. For a successful and fun first date be sure that you avoid these 7 don’ts:

Don’t go to the movies: Planning the first date to contain dinner and movie may be the easiest planning option but don’t do it. Not only is it cliché to head to the movies but it’s uncomfortable. The purpose of a first date is to talk, have fun and get to know each other; you can’t do that in a dark and quiet movie theater.

Don’t pick up: Always offer to meet your date at the date location. Sharing one’s home address before getting to know each other isn’t always the wisest thing. Once both parties are comfortable with each other and sharing personal information, offer to pick up or get picked up on the second date.

Don’t drink too much: Depending on your alcohol tolerance and duration time of your date, limit yourself to two or three drinks. Getting tipsy or drunk on the first date is a great way not to land a second date. Plus your inhibitions are lowered and you may make decisions you don’t want too.

Don’t mention your ex: There are some things your date doesn’t need to know on your first date like your ex or your last tragic date. Keep these kinds of conversations for later dates when both parties are headed towards commitment.

Don’t touch: Some people tend to be over touchy when they are nervous or excited. For example, lots of touching of the shoulders, hands and arms. Keep your hands to yourself to prevent the other person feeling violated.

Don’t chew with your mouth open: Table manners are best when used on the first date. Watch your elbows, use your napkin, say thank you and chew with your mouth closed. One of the top reasons second dates never get planned is because the other party had bad table manners. Now sit up straight.

Don’t overdress/underdress: Men sometimes underdress and women tend to overdress. To help you prepare your wardrobe for the date, do your research. Find out where you are going before hand and either call to find the dress code or visit their website to get an idea what is appropriate.

Author Bio:

Paul and his wife Julie both spend quite a bit of time coming up with ideas, blogging, and researching all things related to childcare. They take care of all the necessary information related to “babysittingjobs.com/”. He personally thinks his blog will help finding information on all things related to a babysitter. 

How to Know When a Relationship is Heading for Trouble by Miss Know It All

Searching for romance is challenging, but maintaining a healthy, honest and loving relationship can be problematic. How often do you hear people say, “If only I had been more astute to the warning signs, or “I can’t believe how foolish I was to remain in such a toxic relationship for so long.”

If a relationship is not working, eventually a person will have to come to terms and move on. Many men and women make missteps while searching for love. If a person begins to date an individual, this is the time to listen to that inner voice and make notes of certain situations. The idea is to recognize these blunders and nip them in the bud before the union becomes a disastrous or dangerous state of affairs.

For your own peace of mind, follow these in-your-face warning signs:

If you meet someone on the internet, never invite that individual to your home until you have done a thorough background check, and never give out personal or financial information. That man or woman may end up being a con artist or one of the FBI’s Most Wanted.

Never be so needy that you would go after someone who does not give a damn about you or anyone else.

If a person refuses to talk about himself, walk away. Do not assume that the individual is an introvert or the strong and silent type.

If your dinner date forgets his wallet or is always short on cash, he is probably flat broke and busted, and you will most likely become his financier.

When your significant other receives phone calls from strange women in the middle of the night and tells you, they are his cousins and you believe him, then anyone could probably sell you a mansion in Beverly Hills for one dollar.

If you catch your significant other, in the middle of the night, kissing another woman in your home, and he says, “Honey, go back to sleep, it’s a dream” and you go back to bed without questioning him, than someone could probably sell you an island for two dollars.

~*~

Miss Know It All Is Here To Help...

Have a question about dating, romance or relationships?

Need advice on finding your soul mate, a lost love?

Wish to know how to add more passion to your love life?

We will try to provide you with the answers in a fun and humorous way. 

When sending in questions or inquiries, please include your name, age, and the country where you reside. To participate, you must be over 18 years of age or of legal age where the country you reside.

Miss Know It All is an affiliate of HMCS and is for entertainment purposes only. The advice or answer(s) given is not a substitute for professional advice and assumes no liability for any damages from the use of the information published on this blog or the reply to any questions submitted. You agree to hold Miss Know It All, its affiliate HMCS and its staff harmless from all costs, including attorney's fees, liabilities and damages resulting from the information published or any reply to such questions or answers.

All questions and inquiries submitted become the exclusive property of HMCS and can be used in any matter and republished in any media without any compensation.

Email questions to us and in the subject line, type Question for Miss Know It All.

How To Online Date For Beginners

Your friends and family have finally convinced you to log on, sign up and create a dating profile. It’s okay we have all been there before. Online dating is simple and fun once you master a few of the do’s and don’ts.

Use a legit site: There are many different online dating sites that offer ‘free services’ for their members. Be wary of these kind of sites because of hidden fees and the kind of ‘love’ people are looking for on these sites. Using a well-known site that requires a fee weeds out those who are not serious about finding a relationship via online.

Be honest: When it comes to creating your online dating profile and answering questions that will help match you to your potential mate, be honest. Don’t kid yourself and answer truthfully, don’t hold back. Also when it comes to things like your body measurements and dislikes/likes are honest. No one wants a surprise when meeting for the first. Skip using dated photos and use current pictures.

Talk beforehand: Once you are matched, try emailing a few times and talking on the phone before setting a date. You want to make sure that your chemistry is there once you meet face to face. Some people can read differently online, so be sure to pick up that phone and talk. With that said don’t discount someone because it was an awkward first phone call, give it a time or two. Everyone is nervous in this process.

Frist date: When planning a first date, keep it fun and short. Plan to drive separately and meet at the location of your choice. A fun first date would be something like a wine tasting, one on two cooking class, miniature golf or just for drinks. Allowing for a shorter first date will come in handy if either of you are feeling uncomfortable. Avoid dates that are too serious or don’t allow you to be yourself.

Safety first: Never give out your home or work address (or any personal information) before or on the first date. Opt to meet your date for the first date or two until you get comfortable. Plan first dates in public places and always tell friends and family where and when your date is and who are with.

Online dating can be fun if you are prepared for what happens next. Chances of you meeting someone pretty special are high. Be patient and don’t get discouraged if you keep finding yourself on first dates only. Be yourself and have fun, happy dating!

~*~

Author Byline:

Kelsey is the editor in chief for http://www.findananny.net/. She loves to write article and ideas that parents & nannies would be interested in hearing. She helps society on giving information about nannies through nanny services. She is a professional writer & loves writing on anything.

Sugar Walls by Mysti Holiday

BLURB:

When Emilie is dumped by her boyfriend, best friend Jack Voss offers a shoulder and a place to live--the other side of his duplex. He’s always there, fixing her problems, her car, her sink. Emilie doesn’t know what she’d do without him, or with the feelings she’s having for him. His shoulder doesn’t just offer comfort anymore; his touch is a turn-on. Their shared wall is the only thing keeping them from sharing a bedroom—and fanning the flames might risk breaking something that Jack can’t fix.

EXCERPT:

Emilie hadn’t lied about the leak in her pipes.  Just like she hadn’t broken her dishwasher, or the leg off her couch, or the alternator in her car on purpose. But, to be honest, it was almost a relief when those things happened, because they gave her an excuse to see Jack.

She’d called him first thing this morning when running water for her coffee had resulted in puddles beneath the sink. He’d come over the first chance he’d had and now he was on his hands and knees on the linoleum looking at the pipe that oozed moisture, oblivious to the woman behind him who was also soaking wet, albeit for an entirely different reason.

His ass looked good enough to take a big bite out of. Emilie couldn’t help herself; it was right there, sticking out from under her kitchen sink, and she had to clench her hands into tight fists to keep from grabbing it. Still, that didn’t keep her mind from wandering, and when one of his hands reached out for a wrench, she pictured it on her, cupping her breasts, thumbs circling the rosy buds. Instantly her nipples puckered, as tightly clenched as her hands, and her crotch dampened even more.

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Mysti Holiday is the pseudonym of a very busy SAHM who dreams of warm climes and hot bodies.  Most people know she writes, but not what she writes about:  sexy men and the wanton women who love them. She's married to a wonderful man who happily sacrifices himself for research, and she spends most of her days dreaming of interesting and unusual situations in which to place her characters.  But most of all, she's a sucker for a happy ending.

Wild Roses

Website

Blog

Special Announcement - The author will be giving away a $10 Amazon gift card to one random comment.

Does True Love Mean Romance? By Sharon Evans

Sharon and her husband Rick

Being a year and a few months into my second marriage, I must say that living with true love isn’t necessarily romantic. While I have a one-woman man devoted to me, one with whom I have lots in common and care deeply for, there is little about our relationship that is typically romantic.  This is the one thing that people in our day and age, and for perhaps two or three generations, have stumbled over on the road to happiness. The excitement, flight of fancy and hormonal rush of dating is what we imagine will continue in marriage but fades as the routine of daily life kicks in.  But if we have chosen well, what remains is what matters most: a relationship where we have the willingness to give, to serve, and to share what is precious to us with a mate who feels the same.  We’ll also have enough of the important things in common to make daily life enjoyable.

But most important is the willingness to give--a must in every relationship, but especially marriage.  Out of desperation for companionship, even the most selfish person can show generosity to the point that it resembles love. This is why the old fashioned courtship rules were put in place.  Heard of them?  Meet the parents (they’ll spot a phony a mile away), the long courtship (you can only fake it for so long), intimacy stays in check (sex–especially if there’s a child, bonds you to a jerk forever).  Having family and friends acquainted with the prospective mate, the person whose head is in a romantic haze might avoid countless years of misery just by listening to their counsel. If the family isn’t too dysfunctional or the friends too weird, it can actually work!

Speaking of romantic haze, it’s important to keep the candlelight and thrills on hand, even if only on occasion.  We need it to keep ourselves from finding it elsewhere.  But when life seems naught but drudgery, we should learn (as I am doing) to see what kind or what level of romance we do have and appreciate it.  Mine leans toward the broader sense.  My husband and I are in show business.  That alone is romantic.  We met on stage and together we have more than we ever had working solo.  It’s rough going at times, and though our life generally lacks flowers and candlelight, where we’re going we’re going together.  I guess that’s pretty romantic.  Yeah.  That’s not bad at all.

Bio:

Sharon Evans is the author of The War This Side of Heaven trilogy and ongoing series.  Connect with her at

www.sharonevansauthor.com 

www.evansandrogers.com 

http://sharonevansauthor.blogspot.com  

www.facebook.com/thewarthissideofheaven

Copyright 2012 Sharon Evans.  All rights reserved.

Meet Tori Tolbert: A Love High

Tori Tolbert, Founder of Three Words Video Matchmaking Agency

As founder and CEO of Three Words Video Matchmaking, Tori Tolbert brings flare and chemistry to the world of video matchmaking.  Love is always a requirement.

Tori Tolbert was playing matchmaker for many years.  Her initial experience with matchmaking came with her very close friends.  After much support and encouragement, Tori launched the Three Words Video Matchmaking Agency in 2011, an upscale video matchmaking service located in Austin, Texas.   However, what makes this service unique is that all members must have a video profile and updated photos on file at all times. 

Having worked as an executive and in sports management, Tori found it convenient to have a video and photo profile of all members.  This style of matchmaking provides a pre-selection process for her members.  Due to the strict confidentiality policy, videos and photos are never posted on the website.

 “While many people settle and hope they fall in love, that is not acceptable and we discourage it.”  “Our winning strategy is: knowing its love, feeling its love and accepting its love.” 

The Three Works Video Matchmaking Agency is structured much like an executive recruiting agency.   From the application process to the one on one interview, they decide if the individual fits their membership profile before being invited to join.  Unlike other matchmaking companies, their clients are professional men and women from all walks of life.  Clients retain the Three Words Video Matchmaking Agency to assist them in finding the perfect match. This is accomplished through an extensive telephone interview, a membership application and a one on one interview.  The interview requires the potential member to discuss their personal lives, goals, values, lifestyles and their idea of a perfect mate and of course love.  There is no substitute for the classic face-to-face meeting.

Contact Information:

Tori Tolbert, CEO/Founder

Three Words Video Matchmaking

(512) 763-7434 office

(512) 983-8685 cell

Three Words Video Dating

Body Language

FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Sometimes what people say and what they do are two different things. I find this especially true with men. I think of myself as a pretty good body language reader. I may not always be able to tell you what, exactly, they are doing, but I can tell you what they are thinking. Their eyes, their hand motions, even the way they are standing tell me what they are thinking.

Now, there are some extreme examples. One man I dated had a huge disconnect between his body language and his higher thinking. He was very smart, but very unaware of what his body was saying. Take, for example, his flirting. The man flirted unconsciously! He leaned forward as he spoke, touched my hand or my arm, and brushed my knee with his, all while talking about something completely unrelated. Then, when I laughed and brought it up, he looked shocked.

“I did?” he asked, looking down to find his hand on mine. 

Of course, neither of us protested, but I found it amusing. Eventually, however, I had to confront him about it. It caused him a lot of problems, in his dating and his business life. After all, if you can’t control your body broadcasting what you are thinking, you are going to end up offending or aggravating a lot of people. Everyone could tell when he was annoyed, thought you were dumb, or just plain impatient. He came off rude, not matter what he said, because of his body language.

You wouldn’t think something so simple would be so hard, but it can be. Be aware of what signals your body is sending, especially when you date.

Author  Byline:

Monta, the mother of three children serves as an Expert Advisor on multiple household help issues to many Organizations and groups, and is a mentor for other “Mom-preneurs” seeking guidance.  She is a regular contributor of “gonannies.com”. You can get in touch with her at montafleming6@gmail.com.

The Changing Face of Romance by Deneice Tarbox

  Flowers?  Candy? Candlelight Dinners perhaps.  These things are nice and every girl or guy who wants them should have them.  However, after nearly twenty years with the same person, I have come to value a whole different kind of romance.  For me it’s the ability to joke about technically not being legally married—South Carolina didn’t rescind the law against interracial marriage until 1996.  We wed there in 1993.  That might be why the Justice of the Peace was smiling so broadly.  It’s acknowledging the fact that we have little in common, yet use our differences to explore and grow together.  Most of all, it’s the ability that this one person has to bring me back to sanity when I start to drift off in the wrong direction.

   One of my most romantic moments with my spouse took place over the phone.  No, there was no heavy breathing involved, although that might have been nice.  Being the work-a-holic that I am, I was wrapped up in work when my cell phone rang.  It was hubby calling to tell me that he had just spotted a bald eagle.  My first thought was to get after him for driving and talking on his cell phone.  My second thought was to give him hell for interrupting me at work.  But then something occurred to me, halting all prior thoughts.  Out of all the people in the world, he had chosen me to share that moment with.

   So keep in mind, anyone can give you flowers, candy, or a candlelight dinner.  But developing and maintaining a deep bond that only the two of you can comprehend is truly the epiphany of romance.

* * * * * *

About the Author:

Deneice Tarbox, the author of Healing Inc., resides in Maine with her husband and adult son. She currently works in healthcare but decided it was time to delve back into her passion for writing. Her mottos: Normal is boring and Laugh or wear a straightjacket.  Visit her on Facebook.

How Not to be “That Guy” on an Online Dating Site

Online dating’s great…with so many different sites and so many available singles it’s nearly impossible not to make a connection. Well, impossible if you’re not That Guy. Ladies, you know who we’re talking about (and gentlemen, take notes.) There’s always one suitor on every dating site who gets avoided like the plague and the sad thing is most of them don’t even seem to realize it! Do yourself and everyone else a favor and follow these simple rules.

Don’t Be Creepy:

Yeah, it’s open ended and sure, creepiness is “subjective” and all but you know what we mean. DON’T use cheesy pickup lines and DON’T comment on a woman’s physique right off the bat…it’s all common sense. When starting a conversation with a potential mate try to imagine she’s standing next to her mother. Does your opening line sound creepy? Then don’t use it.

Don’t Be Desperate:

It’s something every That Guy has in common: they’re desperate for love and companionship. That desperation reeks of insecurity and if we’ve learned anything from “He’s Just Not That Into You,” it’s that insecurity is the polar opposite of sexy. Be confident online – it’s cool if you cry yourself to sleep in the fetal position every night, just don’t let everyone know.

Don’t Be Pushy:

Some guys seem to think borderline harassment is not only acceptable but, we don’t know, hot? They’re wrong. It’s fine to contact a lovely lady then try once more if you don’t get a response but in the online world being ignored more than one time usually means you should move on. Remember though, there’s a difference between pushiness and persistence: if you’re getting any kind of positive feedback from your online crush feel free to try and see it through.

Don’t Be Ridiculous:

The internet is a weird place so try not to make it weirder with your online dating profile. The goal is to be the best version of yourself while giving your online dating persona broad appeal – if you take pictures of yourself covered in your pet pigeons you’re only going to attract…yeah you’re not going to attract anyone with that kind of stuff. Keep your out-there quirks off your profile but feel free to let your freak flag fly after you’ve really made a connection. Being yourself is great, just ease into it.

There’s nothing wrong with being different – your uniqueness is part of your draw! Just remember to play it cool initially and don’t overstep your bounds; sometime the Internet can feel so anonymous you don’t act like yourself. Dating websites come with its own set of rules and boundaries and every situation has some new hurdle to manage…use your best judgment and try your hardest not to be That Guy.

~*~

This post was written by Lior who is an expert in dating websites and online manners.

The Break Up Test: How to Know When to Call it a Day

All relationships have their ups and downs, but sometimes the downs become too frequent and the best answer for both parties is to cut their losses and end the relationship. This can be a difficult decision but when there is a trouble in the air there are certainly signs you can look out for to determine whether or not the relationship has run its course:

Desiring Independence

When the relationship is new, your independence takes a back seat and you genuinely want to spend every waking minute with your other half. If you find yourself wanting to be alone, fantasising about a time when your other half wasn’t around or subconsciously planning a future that doesn’t involve them, then the relationship is doomed.

Arguing

Everyone has rows, but if your disagreements are becoming nastier or more regular then it could be a sign of trouble looming. Similarly if you find yourself picking a fight for no reason or arguing in public, it is a clear sign that you’ve lost respect for each other.

Lack of Effort

Remember back in the early days how you’d go on dates or arrange romantic surprises? If those feelings have gone and you no longer feel the need to make an effort in the relationship then it’s probably time to call it a day. Indifference and apathy are clear signs that your heart's not in it anymore and the relationship has run its course.

Having Feelings for Someone Else

We’re all entitled to appreciate the beauty of the opposite sex, but if being with someone else becomes a real desire then there are clearly problems in the existing relationship. Some relationships can recover from affairs but be aware that it will require a lot of time, effort and genuine remorse.

No More Sex

Physical intimacy is a huge part of a relationship and if you find that there is no longer any enjoyment in your sex life then it can be a sign that the intimacy and love between you has gone. If everything else in the relationship is OK then this can be worked upon, but if it is the latest in a long list of problems then it’s probably time to cut your losses.

****

Francine Westbrook is a freelance writer from England who covers literature and textbooks for a number of student blogs and education websites.

Mark Your Calendar for the Upcoming Events

Black Writers and Book Clubs Literacy Festival, Hosted by Author Shelia Lipsey will take place from September 14-15, 2012 at LeMoyne-Owen College in Memphis, Tennessee. For information, click here.

The Atlanta Black Theater Festival has accepted “Secrets of a Kept Woman.” This huge theater event is popular in Maryland and Carolina and is now coming to Atlanta.  Join them and make history, from October 4-7, 2012. The 40 Plays in 4 Days is A Theatre Lover's Paradise. For more information, click here.

The 10th Annual Collingswood Book Festival will take place on Saturday, October 6, 2012, from 8:30 AM until 5 PM. This award-winning, all-volunteer book festival is a big literary event with a small-town, and friendly ambience.

Festival attendees will have an opportunity to stroll more than six blocks of the main street filled with nationally recognized authors/speakers for adults and children, as well as booksellers, storytellers, poetry readings, workshops, exhibitors, kid-friendly activities, and entertainment for all ages. All events are free.

The location of the festival will be on 771 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, New Jersey. For more details, please click here.

~*~

To have your events posted on our Blog, email information at least six months prior to the date of event and in the subject area, type Upcoming Events. 

One Day by David Nicholls: A Modern Day Love Story

If you haven’t heard of David Nicholls’ award winning One Day, the chances are you may have been living under a rock for the last three years. Not only has it been made into a motion picture but it has been translated into 31 languages, appearing on best seller lists throughout the world and becoming the highest selling novel of 2010.

The beauty of the novel is its unique format. The story opens on July 15^th 1988 as two students, Emma and Dexter, wake up together on their last day of university. This encounter marks the beginning of a special friendship which the reader revisits on this date for the next twenty years. Amidst births, deaths, relationships, careers and the various other twists and turns their respective lives take, Em and Dex maintain a ‘will-they-won’t-they’ relationship that keeps the reader guessing throughout.

But aside from the clever structure, Nicholls presents us with two characters that are intrinsically loveable, relatable and impossible not to care about. Dexter is good looking and charismatic but arrogant and lazy whereas Emma is ambitious and hardworking but stroppy and full of self doubt. Nicholls achieves the difficult task of making them feel real to us and many readers will probably find they know an Emma or a Dexter in their lives.

Their bumbling romance is as flawed and complex as their personalities and Nicholls plays on this in order to present the reader with a realistic, complicated love story. Comedy and honesty replaces over-the-top, gushy sentiment but this somehow makes their romance all the more touching and has enabled Nicholls to write a novel that appeals to the masses.

Both men and women love this novel because ultimately it is a believable account of a modern day love story that is told in heart-warming yet funny way. Nicholls, therefore, has succeeded in creating a romantic novel that has hit the mainstream market without abandoning creditability or intelligence.

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Francine Westbrook is a freelance writer from England who covers literature and textbooks for a number of student blogs and education websites.