Dear Red Hot Mamas- February 2019

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: February 13, 2019

“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams”

–       Dr. Seuss

Well, it’s February and that is the most romantic of all the months of the year. But it does not just have to be just for lovers. It should be a day which is celebrated for love, friendship and affection between relatives and friends as well.

I do admit to being a mushy romanticist at heart. It has always been my belief that romance should be with us until our last twinkles are in our wrinkles. Valentine’s Day gives us the opportunity to restart our sexual energy. Gives us permission to appreciate the one you’re with, rekindle passion and have fun.

Giving or receiving flowers, candies and cards are fun, but can be overwhelming sometimes. For example, my spouse is not a romantic at all. He would rather give me a new vacuum cleaner than a box of Godiva chocolates. That sometimes is a problem in our household. He probably wishes this holiday did not exist. However, our solution is to openly communicate our expectations for the day. That won’t set us up for disappointment.

Here are some survival tips for couples on Valentine’s Day:

• Talk about your expectations. You and your partner will be happier if you know what each other want. It could be something as simple as a handwritten note, or a romantic dinner outside of the house. But communication is a key element in not setting you up for disappointment.
• It’s a misconception that expensive gifts must be exchanged. Whatever, you give one another, make it personal and very thoughtful. Just anything that will bring a smile on your partners face. Some ideas: music CDs, a great book, a fancy bottle of wine; a travel guidebook, etc.
• Go on a thoughtful date; cook your love a favorite meal; listen to music at a café and enjoy a glass of wine and dessert.
• Give physical affection – cuddle, hold hands and don’t let the day go by without kissing and hugging as often as you can.
• Keep things fresh by noticing things and giving compliments. It could be a physical trait or personality trait just some aspect you appreciate.
• Pay attention to how you look. Don’t get lazy wearing the same thing every day. Try a new haircut, new makeup, and just keep things fun and different.
• Be spontaneous and fun. Don’t settle into a boring routine
• Be romantic. Look into your loved ones eyes and tell him/her how much she means to you.
• Continue to grow together. No matter how stressed you are feeling, don’t let the day go by without acknowledging how much your partner means to you.

In our household, after many years of marriage, we know the importance of talking. Not talking about work, or our grown children’s problems, but talking about things that will increase our happiness. We do this daily, and not only on Valentine’s Day.

In closing, you don’t have to wait for February 14^th to do these things. Make these behaviors a daily happening to keep your relationship strong.

And, always remember, I love having you as a friend!

Good Health to You All,

Karen Giblin