Dating & Relationships: Tips for Summer Dating

By Geanice Gee, M.A. 

Spring has past and now summer is here, but will also fade away into fall. But for now, the weather is hot, and you're most likely one of the many singles looking for a new summer romance. Things may not have worked out for you in the previous seasons. Your winter romance may have been bitter and frigid, while your spring romance may have been irritating. 

So now that you're single, you're looking for someone that fits you to a tee.  During the summer, couples can participant in outdoor activities as their relationship heats up. In this post, you'll find some tips for dating in the summer. Some great dating summer tips include: 

1.      Engaging in outdoor activities. For example, you could take your date to a yard sale, which typically takes place in the morning; as you and your date go through someone else's belongings, you could use this time to get to know one another better while also finding items at a discounted price.

2.      Who doesn't like a nice summer picnic? Indeed, a picnic could be romantic and inexpensive compared to a restaurant. Again, this type of date gives you time to get to know your date better while also sharing a good meal in great weather. Remember to be creative when planning the picnic. 

3.      Other outdoor activities that could be fun include: boating; taking a trip to the beach and relaxing on the hot sand while also swimming or surfing in the water. Indeed, these types of outdoor activities could be adventurous.

4.      Going to the movies could be a good date. For instance, if a new film just came out that the two of you have been talking about, this would be a great time to go and see it. You could also try something different by going to outdoor screenings, or catching a classic flick.

5.      Food festivals, sporting events, state fairs, and wine tasting events at vineyards are all great places for summer dates. 

Furthermore, as long as you're happy with the person you're with, any place that you decide to spend time together will be worthwhile. These tips are provided to help you make the best of your summer dating experience.

Dating and Relationships: Tips for Memorial Day Dating

By Geanice Gee, M.A. 

It's almost that time of year again when you're ready to pack up your spring clothing and unpack your summer wear. The birds are chirping louder than ever, and the insects are swarming all around you. Yes, summer is in the air, but it won't touch ground until June 20^th.  

As a result, you're in a between state. You've just sprung into a new romance and now you're either content with that relationship or ready to find someone new as the new season approaches. However, it's very possible, that you're in a long-term relationship, and looking for ways to enhance that romance.

Whatever the case, try to enjoy the nice weather while incorporating some of the tips below to make the most of your Memorial Day date: 

1.      As it was previously stated, try to enjoy the weather. Hopefully, the weather is bright and sunny instead of dark, gloomy and full of rain. If it's a sunny day, take advantage of the weather by doing some type of outdoor activity such as going to the beach or having a picnic at the park.

2.      Attend a cookout or gathering with family and friends. At this type of event, you'll be able to see how your date interacts with your circle of friends. 

3.      During this time, you'll have to find balance being that a lot of things usually take place during Memorial Day weekend. 

4.      Take this time to do some traveling. If you're single, you can travel alone, explore a new environment, and maybe even meet someone new. 

5.      Last, but not least, have fun. 

http://www.eflirtexpert.com/blog/2013/5/27/5-tips-for-memorial-day-dating.html

Dating and Relationships: Dating Your Polar Opposite

By Geanice Gee, B.A., M.A.

Throughout your life, you’ll probably have the opportunity to date a variety of people with various personalities. If you’re fortunate, you’ll be able to build great memorable relationships in which you’ll learn from and grow. In case you’re unaware, dating someone who is the complete opposite can present a challenge.

In fact, someone who is your polar opposite most likely holds different values, and may like to indulge in activities that you’re not too fond of. It could be possible that this person is interested in things that you’ve never thought about doing because you’re simply not in to those sorts of things.

However, it could be a great experience to step out of your comfort zone while also becoming more open minded to different points of views and dating possibilities. In this post, some insights on what you can gain from dating your polar opposite will be shared. When dating your polar opposite:

• You’ll be able to gain a new perspective as you’ll be in the presence of someone who will challenge your views, and won’t always agree with you; this person may have you questioning your beliefs, and the way you operate; this person will challenge you mentally, and give you a lot to think about; with this type of relationship, you’ll have to learn to agree to disagree  
• You’ll develop better communication skills as you both have to make sure that there’s no misunderstandings being that you both view the world differently from one another; making sure you have a clear understanding of what is being said or has been said is very important to the development and the continuation of the relationship; it’s best to take some time to learn how your partner communicates
• You’ll become a more sympathetic person; you’ll be more understanding, and be able to form better relationships as you become exposed to a different perspective
• You’ll be introduced to new things such as different types of movies and music; this person will help you change your routine 

Dating & Relationships: Spring into Romance

By Geanice Gee, M.A.

It's that time of year again, when flowers begin to bloom and the weather feels just right. Yes, it's finally springtime, and you're aware of this as you pack your winter gear and unpack your spring clothing. 

Perhaps, you've just ended a cold winter relationship, and are finally ready to spring into a cool new romance with the person of your dreams. But, how do you plan to accomplish this? Do you have any ideas? No worries! Below are some tips that will help you with your search for romance during this new season. 

1.      With this new dating search; it's best to stay positive. Try not to think the worst of this new experience. For example, don't go into this search thinking that it's going to end with you being hurt or being disappointed. Try your very best to be open-minded. 

2.      Try not to prejudge your date based on things that your ex did that you disliked. For example, if your date comes to dinner, and has his or her hair in a similar style as your ex, please don't count your date out because of this; get to know the person , and judge him or her based on what transpires between the two of you.

3.      Never start a new relationship with baggage from the old one; leave all of your luggage, and carry-on bags at home. Give yourself and your date a chance at romance. 

4.      When they say that the "first impression is the last impression" this is true, so be on your best behavior. 

5.      As always, try to plan ahead; know the date location, the time the two of you are supposed to meet...

6.      And remember that effective communication is the key to a successful relationship.

Dating and Relationship: Tips for Valentine's Day

By Geanice Gee,  M.A. 

It's officially Valentine's Day. You know, the day when most people make love instead of war; cuddle instead of bickering and fighting, bleaching clothing, damaging personal property or creeping around with the next door neighbor. Simply put, Valentine's Day is meant to be full of love, peace and harmony. 

In fact, it's often said that Cupid, the Roman God of desire, erotic love, affection and attraction, shoots a bow and arrow wounding his victim's heart, which causes them to fall in love. Do you think you've been victimized by Cupid? Has he pierced your heart and blurred your vision? If so, I guess you have no other choice, but to deal with it because there's no cure for love; but remember that all wounds heal in due time.

In many cultures, it's a tradition for people (especially school-age children) to send a card anonymously to someone that they're attracted to or want to be involved with. However, in American society, this tradition has transformed into a commercial celebration, and is viewed as a time when a lot gifts and cards are exchanged not only among people in a relationship, but between friends and family members as well. 

As it has been said before, Valentine's Day  is meant to be full of love, peace and harmony in addition to flowers, greeting cards, lots of chocolate covered kisses and of course that special person that you've deemed as your valentine. Therefore, it's important to know how not to ruin this day for both yourself and your valentine. Below are some tips to help you cope with your wound of love. 

1.      Make plans early; if you're reading this and it's Valentine's Day, you still have time to make plans, but for future reference, planning ahead could help to avoid a disaster

2.      Try your best to be romantic and surprise your valentine with something out of the  ordinary ; you want this to be a day that you both remember

3.      Spend time alone; this day is for the two of you to appreciate one another

4.      Turn off your phone and give your mate or date your full attention

5.      Whatever you do, don't get upset if you don't get a marriage proposal; this is so cliché