Online Dating

Barry Cooke
534
25 7

Well isn’t that the $64,000 question? The answer really is a personal thing. There is no right or wrong answer, as long as both parties are over the age of consent. If you were to research the subject you would probably find that it is not uncommon for people to be in a relationship where there is an age gap. Sometimes there is quite a difference in the ages.
In some parts of the world it is not uncommon for young women to marry older men. Everyone has their own opinions as to why a young girl would marry an older man, especially one that is much older than she is. You know the sort of thing, ‘the girls are gold diggers, trophy brides or mail order brides, etc. It is also becoming more popular these days for older women to marry younger men. Again some of these young men may be gold diggers, but most people seem to think it is because the older woman wants a toy boy. Whether like the older men they want to have a trophy on their arm to show off to their friends or whether they prefer younger men for their sex drive, these couples often find their families and friends can’t cope with their relationship and often turn against them.
If you were to ask these young women why they would rather be in a relationship with an older man, they are likely to tell you that they are looking for someone who is serious about their relationship. They think that young men don’t want to settle down and really don’t know what they want. Younger men may also not be thinking about a relationship leading to marriage, whereas an older man has sown his wild oats already and will more probably be looking for a serious relationship. Most women also think that an older man will more likely have a better job than a younger man (although we all know in this day and age that this is not always the case!), therefore the older man will be the better catch. Some women believe that older men wont break their hearts the way younger men have done, they believe that an older man will have the staying power for a long term relationship.
In the case of mail order brides, the young women are looking for an older man to be involved in a long distance relationship. In this instance they are looking for a man with a good job, hence being able to afford to fly to the young woman’s country to meet her. They hope that this long distance relationship will lead to marriage. But what about love, after all that is usually why couples marry, isn’t it? It would appear not for the mail order brides, they say that they want to be attracted to the man they choose, but behaviour is more important. If a man acts like a gentleman, they may in time find him attractive and eventually fall in love with him.
Some women believe that older men know how to treat a lady and believe that a younger man wont be as patient and is more likely to stray. They also believe that an older man won’t want to bed everything with a pulse in a skirt. (Yeah I know most guys aren’t worried about the skirt part these days!)
Personally, I don’t think there is a problem with a big age gap in a relationship. However having said that, I have to wonder what on earth a 16-year-old girl and a 50-year-old man have in common. Apart from an ageing man having a dolly bird on his arm, I cannot conceive what she sees in him. Am I being harsh? He may be a stud, the best lover ever, but how would a young girl know that. She wouldn’t have had so many sexual partners that she would be able to assess him like that. Would she? Well I hope my 16-year-old daughters haven’t!!!
We all have different ideas as to what is acceptable to us. We don’t choose who we fall in love with, it just happens. So how can we choose what age the person we fall in love with should be? What is acceptable to me might be totally unacceptable to my sister and most certainly would not be acceptable to my parents. However, before we pass comment on anyone else, we should take a close look at our family and friends around us. I know a young girl who is 17 who is courting a 26 year old, now when her parents found out they went ballistic. Well we all want what is best for our kids, but hang on don’t go throwing those stones just yet. Her parents for example, what is the age difference there? Well it’s about 3 or 4 years. What about grandparents? 5 years. Great grandparents? 7 years. Now no one told any of those couples that they couldn’t see each other because of the age difference, they all married and were together all their lives.
Of course if my 16 year old daughter came home and told me that she was courting a 50 year old man I would flip out, but at 16 they are classed as adults and there is little or nothing that you can do. If you lay down the law and tell them that they cannot see the older person, then all you will do is push them closer together. If you tell a teenager they aren’t allowed to do something then that is exactly what they are going to do. Perhaps if you leave it be and don’t make a big thing out of it, it might just all fizzle out. To a 16 year old, an older man might seem like a good idea. After all he’s experienced, he knows how to treat a girl and when you go out he doesn’t expect you to hang around on street corners. But, these young girls will realise that the kick or thrill they get with this older man soon wears off. He wont be able to keep up with a young girl for long. He won’t want to go clubbing and partying all night.
As I’ve said before there is no right or wrong answer to this question, but I think that this debate will go on for a long time. Does age matter? Surely the answer has to be that it should only matter to the couple concerned. If they are happy with the age gap then everyone else should respect their feelings and wishes and leave them to get on with it. As parents we can only be there to pick up the pieces.

Amy Spade
491
25 7

Favors are traditionally given to wedding guests as a sign of appreciation for their coming to the wedding. Many times they have driven or flown from other parts of the country to see the couple, so sending them home with a little something is a good idea.
Do it yourself
When you’re on a budget, or just have a crafty side, then you may want to create your own wedding favors. Even if you’re not domestically inspired, these are really very easy.
You will first need an idea. For this example, we will be describing how to make little sachets. The great part about these instructions is that you can adapt them to include any sort of filling (chocolates, candles, etc.) into the bag.
You can find great prices on craft items at your local craft store, but online is always a good resource too. Many times, you can buy in bulk when you’re online, so that saves you money in the end. Determine how many small bags that you need and what color you would like them to be. Something to realize: if you’re getting bags of a finer material, the picture on the Internet will look darker than it is in real life.
Also online or at your local health food store, you can go and buy herbs and flowers by the ounce. Realize too that one ounce is A LOT when the item is dried. This is why it’s best to go to a store in person for your ingredients-lavender, dried roses, and other flowers are best. This way you can see and smell off of the things that you have chosen. Find something fragrant.
If you have smaller bags, you won’t need as much, but the larger the bag, the more filling you need.
Easy as can be
All you really have to do is mix up your ingredients and put some into each bag. Many bags will even have drawstring closures so that you can tie them up to look very pretty.
If you’re inspired, you can include a small card about the significance of the herbs that you included-perhaps there’s an old wives’ tale about weddings that is related.
And like it was said before, you can always change the ingredients to be something that suits you. Enlist the help of the bridal party if you have a lot to make!
Z

Amy Lee Johnson
327
25 7

When you’ve found the one you want to spend the rest of your life with, selecting an engagement ring can seem a daunting, yet necessary, task. Diamonds are a classic and traditional choice for such rings. However, with numerous color, size and appearance options available, how does a hopeful groom select the perfect diamond engagement ring for his bride-to-be?
Style
Men should be conscious of his significant other’s taste and lifestyle when choosing an engagement ring. Is she formal or casual? Does she prefer large accessories or dainty pieces? Is she active or sedentary? Does she own mostly gold or silver-colored jewelry? All of these factors should be evaluated before selecting an engagement ring.
An engagement ring should match the personality of its owner. A woman who throws on jeans and a t-shirt every day may want an attractive yet simple ring to go with her easy lifestyle, whereas a formal dresser would likely prefer a more dramatic ring with a larger diamond. Active brides-to-be may value comfort over a cumbersome stone that may be easily damaged. A woman who wears mostly silver jewelry might prefer a platinum or white gold setting to coordinate with her existing accessories.
Diamond Rating System
In considering the purchase of a diamond engagement ring, men should be familiar with the “Four C’s” of diamond grading: Caret (weight of the diamond), Clarity (presence of flaws), Color (the slight tint of the diamond) and Cut (exact cut within the shape of the diamond). The rating of the diamond can raise or lower the ring’s overall cost.
Metals
The type of metal used in the band can also significantly affect the appearance and price of the ring. Platinum rings are currently a popular selection due to their strength, beauty and light color. Because platinum is over 90 percent pure, it is hypoallergenic for most people. Platinum is the most expensive metal. Gold is a considerably less expensive metal for wedding rings. While yellow gold is a traditional choice that compliments many settings, white gold is an option for those who want the light color without the sticker shock.
Customization
Men may wish to consider a customized diamond engagement ring for their intended. A custom ring serves as a personalized representation of the couple’s love for each other. A man does not have to be a designer to create a unique ring – many jewelers can help translate his rough ideas into a beautiful reality. ZZ

Margaret Paul, Ph.D.
592
25 7

Katie had not been in a relationship in ten years, and she was scared to death. In her last relationship, she had lost herself completely and then felt devastated when her boyfriend of three years left her for another woman.
After working on herself emotionally and spiritually for a number of years, Katie, now 48, felt she was ready for a new relationship. So she joined an online dating service and promptly met Sean, who seemed too good to be true. Warm, compassionate, intelligent, and also on a personal and spiritual growth path, Sean, 55, was an available man! Now Katie’s fears that she would not meet someone turned to fears of being in a relationship again.
Katie had learned how to take loving care of herself when she was alone or with friends, but doing this with a man was another matter. She had never actually taken care of herself in any of her relationships, and she was very worried that she would let herself down again.
Katie wanted some guidelines regarding loving actions she could take for herself as she started to explore the relationship with Sean, and she wrote to me asking me for these loving actions. So here they are – some loving actions to take when first exploring a new relationship:
1. Stay focused inside your own body, noticing your own feelings rather than just being tuned into the other person’s feelings. Stay conscious of NOT taking responsibility for the others person’s feelings of worth or security, and NOT making the other person responsible for your feelings of worth or security.
2. Make a solid decision before getting together with the other person that you are willing to lose the other person rather than lose yourself. Make a conscious decision to NOT make the other person’s wants, needs and feelings more important than your own.
3. Stay clear on your own truth, NOT letting the other person talk you in or out of what feels good and right for you.
4. Be willing to take full, 100% responsibility for behaving in a way that makes you feel worthy, safe and powerful. Be willing to be who you really are rather than trying to impress. Make a conscious decision that being in integrity with who you really are, is more important than getting the other person’s approval.
5. Do NOT disregard the big or small things that you find difficult, intolerable or unacceptable. If something is unacceptable or intolerable to you early in the relationship, the chances are that it is not going to get better. Do NOT convince yourself that, because there are so many good things about this person, you can overlook the problems or get the other person to change. This NEVER works!
Fears of rejection can emerge very early in a relationship. Some people are terrified of doing something wrong and being rejected, because they make they other person responsible for their feelings of worth and lovability. The fear of rejection can lead a person to give him/herself up to the other person, thereby touching off fears of engulfment – of loving oneself and being controlled or consumed by the other person. Thus, fears of loss – loss of self or loss of other – often surface quickly and people find themselves either giving in or pulling away in their efforts to protect themselves from their fears.
If you allow fear to guide you, you will likely either pull away or end up in an unsatisfying relationship. The most important thing to remember as you move into exploring a new relationship is: LET LOVE BE YOUR GUIDE, NOT FEAR. This means that you need to be open to learning about what is most loving to YOU – what is really in your highest good – rather than trying to have control over not being rejected or controlled by the other person. So, number six is:
6. Keep asking your inner wisdom, “What is the loving action toward myself right now? What is in my highest good right now?”
If you keep asking this vital question, you will find your way through exploring a new relationship without losing yourself and without getting hurt by the other per

Julia Tanner
262
25 7

When you first start out in swinging, then you may find that you become jealous of your partner during or after the experience. Is this normal to feel like this? Or to not feel jealous at all?
If you’ve taken your time to discuss your swinging desires, then you may never have to deal with this. But it’s best you know a little either way.
Talking it out
The easiest rule to jealousy in swinging is to talk about it. As soon as you begin to feel the jealousy, you want to sit down with your partner and talk about what concerns you. Many times, one person in the relationship feels jealous because the other ‘did more’ than they did. And it’s not a competition, but you might feel that your partner and whomever they were swinging with suddenly have a deeper connection.
A lot of times, jealousy also happens because the relationship was shaky to begin with. If you and your partner are having a lot of fights, or just aren’t communicating well, then you have to be careful. If you have a moment of feeling jealous, sit down with your partner and discuss EXACTLY what made you uncomfortable. Maybe it will just take changing your personal rules for each other to help with the feelings of jealousy.
Some couple save kissing for just each other and won’t allow it between their partner and someone else. This is just one of many ideas to show commitment to each other. But when you stop to think about it, you and your partner are always leaving to go home with each other, even after a wild and exciting sexual experience with someone else. Some couples find that they become even more confident in their relationship.
Of course, it should go without saying that agreeing completely into trying swinging is a prerequisite to swinging. If one partner wasn’t too keen in the first place, then you may find that accusations and jealousy pop up a lot more.
Talk the possibility of this out before you even start swinging.
Why you might not feel jealous
Swinging is just so amazing that you may not even feel jealous. And that’s okay too. Some experienced swingers feel that their relationship is enhanced by the swinging extras. Knowing that they can share something sexual with another person or another couple can lead to greater intimacy and communication in other areas as well.
So a lot of couples just don’t feel jealous. It’s actually quite erotic to watch your partner be pleased by someone else or pleasure someone other than yourself. Trust me.
You may also have such a strong relationship already that swinging is just another adventure that you’re going on. And there’s not a smidge of jealousy because you both wanted to try swinging out anyways.
Swinging is an eye-opening (amongst other things) experience that can show you the strengths as well as the flaws in your current relationship. In most cases, however, swinging is a positive experience that will enrich a relationship as well as your sexual experience.
Z

Kelly Wolf
55
25 7

Speed dating is one of the freshest dating movements in the United States and United Kingdom and continues to spread quickly to the rest of the world. It draws so many people because of its exciting, fast and no pressure way to meet other singles. At one event, you will come into contact with a number of people and participate in quick one-on-one conversations. This process eliminates the stress of going out, finding someone attractive and working up the courage to break the ice. There are no long, expensive dinners or blind dates without chemistry. The people at these events are there simply because they are serious about finding the right person to date.
Speed dating can vary at each individual event as far as the number of participants and the amount of time you are allowed to ‘date’, but the general idea is the same for all of them. You need to find an upcoming meeting in your area and register in advance. The registration helps the coordinators assure the ratio of men to women attending are the same.
First, an equal group of single men and women gather together at a predestined location. Most of the time the gathering room is filled with ‘tables for two’ and each table is marked with a letter or number. You are then paired up with your first ‘date’ and normally allowed between 3 to 8 minutes to get to ask each other questions. At the end of this time, you move on to your next ‘date’ and begin again.
If you would like to see more of one of your ‘dates’, you have a dating card to either check a box or write down a name of the person that you would like to see again. Sometimes you can even log onto a web site after the event and enter the names of those you wish to have a second date with. Whenever two individuals ‘match up’ after submitting this information, contact information is provided to both so that a second meeting can be set up.
While this process might sound intimidating, most people who have braved one event find that it is not that bad and can even be an efficient way of meeting new people. The trick is to try to connect or relate to each other as speedily as possible.
The concept is very simple with speed dating. Showing up with a prepared list of original questions that mean something to you is probably a good idea and can help as an indicator as to whom you might want to see again. You’ve got nothing to loose by registering, preparing some questions and showing up with an open mind. Try to enjoy yourself and have fun with your speed daZZZZZZ

Caterina Christakos
24
25 7

The key to being irresistable to men is more about you and less about them.
It is about accentuating every one of your strengths both internally and externally and reveling in them. So before we show you how to flirt, tease and seduce, we are going to teach you how to pamper, indulge and revel in the delicious power of being a woman.
1) Before going out to socialize or even see the one that you are currently dating, take a few minutes to visualize what you want to happen. Picture in detail exactly who you want and what you want to happen between you. What qualities will your perfect lover have?
How will he look at you? How will he touch you? Add in as much detail as possible. Knowing what you want is the first step to having it.
2) Before seeing the man you are dating or stepping foot outside the door, take care with your appearance. Look in the mirror and identify all the things that you like about yourself. If you focus on the qualities that you like about yourself, you will have far more confidence in yourself than most women out there. That will show and give you an edge.
3) Accentuate those positive qualities.
For example: If you have full shiny hair make the most of it. Let it flow down your shoulders. Play with it in front of the one you desire. Men have a fascination with hair.
If you have full pouty lips, apply liner around the edges then fill in with a deep gloss that accentuates your skin tone, then apply a lighter coat just in the center of your lips. This will give them even more sex appeal.
4) Play up your eyes. A lot of flirting is done with eye play. Look at him then look away. Use your eyes to tell him everything that you are feeling, everything that you would like to do to him.
5)Wear clothes that accentuate your assets. Hint at your curves without exposing them. Remember less is more. Incite his curiosity. Make him want to see more.
6) Wear a delicate scent. Apply your perfume twenty minutes before you go out the door. A woman’s scent is enticing. Overpowering perfume, on the other hand, is a major turn off.
7) Take care of your whole body, not just your face. Most women wash their face daily and moisturize but what about the rest of you? Take care of your skin. Use a good sugar scrub on your body and follow with a rich moisturizer. If your body feels silky smooth, you will feel and act sexier. Plus the man of your dreams won’t be able to resist caressing your smooth, silky soft skin.

Steve W Barrett
290
25 7

Come just as you are to the online dating table. Placing an ad is easy. But, placing a dynamite ad is an art. You only have one chance to make a good first impression. Ahead you will learn to outshine nearly all others.
The importance of photos and profile narratives and their quality is paramount. Logically it follows that you will want to place an ad about yourself which will excite the greatest interest in your potential viewers. You must know your audience. Important – Photo should have an easily visible (large view) of you. Most personals photos are dark and look like they were taken from far away. Closeness, that’s the mood you want to create in your audience.
Some of the key elements in your personals ad which you may not have thought of, but will be judged by are;
Is he articulate?
Is she original?
Is she educated?
Is he charming?
Is he interesting?
Is she witty?
Is she courteous?
Is he outgoing?
Finally – Is he willing to put forth some effort in his ad to win me?
What you write will tell who you are! As we have just seen it’s not just what you say about yourself and your desires that will tell her about you. The composition itself will spell out who you are. Better to put your best literary foot forward to make a positive statement about just exactly who you are.
At this point let us address the men and then a little alteration for the women will be in order. Ad techniques are different for both genders. Men are not especially looking for funny or good listeners, whereas women generally are.
For the Men
Let’s begin by discussing structure. Structure will give a logical flow to your audience. There is nothing worse than a scatter-brained personal that is too busy, it turns women off.
1. Let us begin with the picture. Women are not visually stimulated in the way men are, so seductive is not the key. You must be well groomed and approachable. Look into the camera. Looking away will make you seem aloof. Use inviting body language. Smile, and bear your neck dimple. (Where the collar bone meets the neck) Military uniforms and business suits (ties) cover this area for a reason. We cover this vulnerable area so as not to portray vulnerability. In your personal ad you want vulnerability. Remember you are targeting women.
2. Salutations – According to Parade magazine a simple Hi! is a great opener. This is just the ice breaker.
3. Personal introduction – Give your name or nickname if you wish.
4. Biographical information – Start out with an opener which will grab her attention and reach into her heart. Appeal to her emotionally. Women are emotionally centered. Make it so that she must read your ad! After this stage give her just the facts. This directness shows strength and confidence. Both are qualities which women value. Be honest and avoid the heartbreak of separation caused by dishonesty. Maybe she would rather have a plumber than the CEO of Microsoft after all.
This is your online dating bio, so include what you wish. Items usually mentioned are; age, occupation, and children, race, place of birth, where you live, favorite foods, entertainment preferences, hobbies, music tastes, and education.
Finally, give them some tangible asset about yourself to make her want you. No boasting. Put it in such a way that you do not seem arrogant. Put it something like – I’ve been told that I have a great sense of humor or that I’m a great cook.
5. Now that you have told them you know who you are, tell them you know what you want. Do you want a down to earth gal? Say so. The divas will be repelled and the woman who appreciates it most will answer your call. Be descriptive and to the point!
6. Conclusion – Paint a mental image of what your lives would be like together. Something romantically appealing works wonders. In case you haven’t noticed women love romance. Woo her. Be careful in your invitation not to use negative or conditional words like – if you are the one. Instead of this use – you are the one I would love to warm up by the fire with. She will know when you are speaking to her, if she is the one. Use these final words to make her feel like a kindred soul.
Once your ad is structured coherently we must now ensure that the following elements have been included.
1. Salutation – Short, polite. Hi! or Howdy, whatever best suits who you are.
2. Descriptive adjectives – Positive and powerful superlatives which will enhance her imagery experience and build curiosity. Infect her with your zest for life
3. Spelling and grammar – Look intelligent, educated, and thoughtful.! Consult a spell check or dictionary and correct errors. We are not all English professors, Have someone critique your writing.
4. Warm text – Use key words that stimulate emotion. Words such as fun, romance, love, happiness, and feel give a warmth to your writing and will give her a positive reading experience. Again, this will give her a little insight as to what life with you might be like.
5. Courtesy – Don’t use harsh language or slang. Best to come across in a serious dating forum as polite.
We realize that there is a trend of extremism out there that feels the need to shock. She will appreciate you even more for being a gentleman online.
6. Spur her to action – At the end of your ad be sure to urge them to reply now. Make it a suggestion. Say something like – Why not email me now and seize the day with me? I’ll be right here waiting for you !
We have an example of a dynamite personal ad at http://www.christiandatemate.com/christian_dating_pers-ad-sample.htm
For the ladies
Fortunately for women the online dating scene is predominantly male in terms of numbers. This works to your advantage – more fish to choose from. However you cannot rest on your laurels though. You still need at least a cursory knowledge of what motivates men, blended with your own original creative touch.
Hopefully you took the time to read the men’s section. All of the above applies to women as well with a few exceptions. Make them want to read your ad using compelling imagery. Remember men are more visually stimulated than you are.
Use a complimentary photo of yourself. Alluring is good, but be careful not to send the wrong message. Be sure to project yourself as warm and inviting. Smile and look into the camera. Use body language that says come a little bit closer.
Best wishes in your quest!

Gary Mosher
628
25 7

We all know that relationships can be difficult. One of the best methods we have for making every relationship less stressful and more enjoyable is to show a little patience. Patience has been defined as what we lack for the driver in front of us and demand from the driver behind us.
In truth, patience is nothing more than time.
Time before we say something: Think of a time when someone was not patient with you when you needed them to be. Think of how you felt. Think of how deeply you might have been hurt. The next time you find yourself losing patience with another, take a moment to remind yourself of how you felt when someone had no patience with you.
Time before moaning and groaning: Patience takes time, but no more time than the showing of anger; of stomping or yelling or whining or complaining. A little patience can often resolve a conflict that a loss of patience will only escalate.
Time to just let things run their course: Arnold H. Glasow said, “The key to everything is patience. You get a chicken by hatching an egg, not by smashing it.” Some things require a certain amount of time. Losing patience only hurts ourselves and won’t speed up the process.
So take the time to smile instead of frown; the time to wink instead of snarl. How much time does it really take to give someone a small nod or a pat on the back? We never stop to think about how a little of our time can make such a big difference in how we make another feel.
Benjamin Franklin said, “He that can have patience can have what he will.”
The lack of patience is the key to so much unhappiness and grief in this world, when all it requires is a little time on our part. One of the simplest ways to build stronger relationships and bring more happiness into our lives is by becoming a little more patient. Showing someone patience is really giving to another that which we wish to receive, while a lack of patience is nothing more than a reflection of ourselves.ZZ

Enid Steiner
488
25 7

If you have looked high and low, left and right and even peaked around the corner and are starting to think that finding your perfect roommates is just not possible, think again. You can find the roommates you have been looking for by following the old saying “ask and you shall receive”. Simply by asking the right questions, you can find the roommates that are right for you.
To be successful you will have to ask questions that help you to find out more about the people you are talking to about becoming a roommate – information that they may not tell you otherwise. This may involve asking some tough questions but its better to do it now rather than regret it later. Remember, you will need to live with your new roommates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
By now you must be wondering what questions should I ask to find the perfect roommate. The questions you will need to ask will depend on whether you are looking for a room in an established household or are the one offering the room.
When you are offering a room, your questions will have to focus on whether the new roommate would fit in with you and other existing roommates. Here are some questions that you could ask that looks at the suitability of a person as a roommate.
1. Why are you looking for an apartment/house to share?
2. Have you lived with roommates before?
3. Do you like to entertain and have friends over?
4. Do you like to spend a lot of time at home or do you prefer to go out?
5. What kind of music do you like? Do have any hobbies or play sport?
6. What are your preferred food arrangements?
7. What would your ideal living arrangements be?
8. How would you contribute to the household?
9. What would you say would be your 3 worst habits?
10. What furniture would you be bringing?
11. How long would you intend to live here?
12. What are your future plans?
13. How much notice would you need to give before you could move in?
14. Would you be able to provide references, if needed?
When the tables are turned and you are looking for a room for yourself, the focal point of your questions will have to change. The questions you ask will help you decide whether or not you could live with existing habits and living patterns. Asking questions like the ones below will assist you when unlocking the real story to what lies behind closed doors.
1. How many people live here on a permanent and casual basis?
2. Do the people who live here like to do a lot of entertaining?
3. What are the arrangements when roommates want to entertain or have friends over?
4. Do the people living here, prefer to stay at home or go out?
5. What are the food and shopping arrangements?
6. How are decisions that affect everyone in the household made?
7. What are the responsibilities of each person living in the household?
8. What expenses make up the rent? Does it include electricity and water?
9. Are there any other expenses and if so, what are they and how much do they cost?
10. How often does the rent increase? Why has it increased in the past?
11. What happens to the bond that gets paid?
12. Who is responsible for the lease?
13. Is there any furniture in the room?
14. When would the room be available?
No matter what your current situation, remember the way to find your perfect roommates, is to ask the right questions at the right time. By preparing relevant questions before meeting potential roommates, you will find success and realize it is as easy as that saying “ask and you shall receive”.
Good luck and happy roommate hunting!

Jonathan White
213
25 7

Did you know that two out of five single people in the UK now use
some kind of on line dating service? That’s 40% of all singles!
Unfortunately, the percentage of these people who actually find
a real romance as a direct result of their site memberships is
very low – probably less than 10%.

Why is this? Well, it’s true that some sites are better than
others; they have more traffic, they are better to navigate;
they just ‘work’ whilst others just don’t. But what really
matters is how you use a site when you actually sign-up to one.
Take my word for it, unless you take the five simple steps that
I’m about to outline, you may as well do something more
productive with your time than join a singles site. What I’m
about to say may sound obvious and rather simplistic, but you’d
be surprised at how many people don’t bother doing the
‘obvious’. So here goes…

1. Create A Great Profile. This is the most important aspect of
your dating site experience. Don’t just say ‘Nice guy seeks
nice girl for trips to the cinema’ – how boring does that
sound? Take the time to say something about yourself, your
lifestyle, your interests and the type of person you’re hoping
to meet. And remember to sound happy, upbeat, fun and confident;
if you’re miserable about your recent breakup, then keep it to
yourself! This isn’t the time for modesty; if you think you’re
pretty darn attractive, then be sure to say so. And humour is a
real ice-breaker – if you can make someone laugh, they’ll be
more likely to want to contact you.

2. Always Upload A Photo. Even if you don’t have a very
flattering one to hand, you should always post a pic with your
profile. Remember, 95% of people on dating sites only search for
other members who have bothered to provide a picture of
themselves. You want to see what other potential partners look
like so it stands to reason that other people will want to know
what you look like too. If your photo isn’t recent or isn’t a
great likeness of you, you can always say so in your profile.

3. Be Proactive. Don’t just join a site and expect other people
to contact you. Make sure you regularly search the database for
people with whom you might be compatible and when you find
someone you like the look or sound of, write to them immediately
and tell them why you think you might be a good fit.

4. Write Great Emails. OK, you’ve joined a dating site, you’ve
searched for other members who fall within your specified
categories, and you’ve been presented with a page of matching
profiles. You’re eager to fire off a few emails…but what on
earth do you say in them? Re-read the paragraph above about
creating a great profile and apply the same rules to the first
email that you send to another member. If it looks like you
can’t be bothered to say much or that you’re sending the same
one line message to several people, then they probably wont
bother to reply. Tell that person a little about who you are and
why you think you might both be compatible – respond directly to
what you’ve read in that person’s profile – sound interested
and interesting and you’ll get an email by return – sound
boring and downbeat and you’ll just be ignored.

5. Check Back With The Site. There are two reasons why you
should do this as often as possible. The most obvious one is to
keep up to speed with who has joined since you last logged-on;
that special someone might have signed-up since you last visited
the site so don’t miss out. However, what most people don’t
realise is that when you log-in to a dating site, your profile
moves up the listings on the internal search engine which means
that you are more likely to be spotted and subsequently
contacted by other people. Don’t be a stranger to the site
you’ve joined and I recommend that you visit the site at least
once a day during the lifetime of your membership.

So there you have it – 5 easy ways to make your chosen dating
site work for YOU. Have fun and happy hunting!

Alan R. Stafford
450
25 7

Millions of men and women have signed up at online dating sites. The research indicates that there are few dates and even fewer marriages that take place as a result of meeting people online. Some of the responsibility for the poor results lies with the customers themselves. Too many men and women fill out their profiles and then sit back and wait. They expect the computers to match them with their perfect mates. And they really don’t want to actually work at finding their life partners.
Are you living in a fairy tale?
Some of the reluctance to take charge of your love life is the result of what I call the Fairy Tale Trap. This dating trap is an entrenched part of our culture. The Fairy Tale part of the trap says that we don’t have to take responsibility for finding our soul mates. Indeed, our soul mate will just appear because…it’s fate. Someday, our prince will come, if we just wait long enough.
Well, it doesn’t work that way. The perfect employer doesn’t call you with a job. The perfect car doesn’t drive itself into your garage. And, your perfect partner won’t magically appear someday to take you away from all of this. You have to get out there and look. Online dating services can help you look. They help you screen more prospects more quickly. But they won’t find a mate for you. You have to still put in the effort. If you want the best results from your online search, try these proven tips:
Secrets to online dating success
1. Know yourself; be yourself. No phoniness. Be honest and demand honesty from dates. Or else. First email, first date, doesn’t matter. At the first sign of untruthfulness, walk away.
2. Post several photos – with your clothes on. You catch fish according to the type of bait you use. What do you think you are attracting with racy photos of your T&A? If you want someone to love you for yourself, post photos of yourself, not your body parts.
3. Write a paragraph or two about yourself that no one else could write. Be unique. Most women fall within a fairly narrow range for height, weight, hair color, eye color. They are all “nice”, “attractive”, fun, good sense of humor. Tell the world something it doesn’t know and can’t get from a standard fill-in-the-blank profile.
4. Contact lots of people and answer lots of contacts. It’s a numbers game. Besides, if you corresponded with only one man how would you know he’s the best one for you? You never had a choice, did you?
5. Online dating safety tips 1) No personal email addresses. Get a new free one from hotmail, yahoo, or gmail. 2) Do not give out your personal phone or cell phone numbers. Instead, visit http://www.freeaudioconferencing.com and get a free bridgeline. This is a private telephone number that exists in a computer far away. You give this number to a possible date, and tell him to call that number at a specific time. Then, both of you call that number at the agreed time to connect over the phone. It’s anonymous and untraceable.
6. Most of your contacts and replies won’t result in a match or a date, let alone a relationship. So what? Do you always watch the TV channel that comes up when you turn on the TV? You browse the channels, so browse your prospects. The more you do this, the better you will get at it. When you finally meet Mr. Wonderful you’ll be very good at screening and evaluating possible dates.
6a. On a scale of 1-10, you’ll want to date 10′s of course. You’d be smart not to waste your time on 1′s. But, how about those 4-5-6′s? Personality can make up for a less than perfect face or body. Besides, the way to get good at something is practice, practice, practice. If you want to be comfortable at dating, conversation, and screening your dates, date a lot of people. Consider it good practice. Whenever Mr. Right does come along, you’ll be practiced, you’ll be polished, and you’ll be ready.
7. Don’t think an online dating site will have your perfect date today, this month, even this year. People come and go a lot at these dating sites. Expecting to meet someone good on the first search is like expecting to meet your mate the first time you visit the grocery, the video store, or the coffee shop. The most useful tip is: be patient. You may spend months before someone compatible logs in and sees your profile.
8. Don’t expect only one online dating site to have your perfect mate. Mr. Wonderful may have joined another dating site instead. If you’re serious about finding a life partner, join the top 3-4 dating sites and visit them at least weekly to see if Mr. W has signed up yet.
9. And the most important of all online dating tips: Don’t expect ANY dating site to find you a man. Dating sites can be helpful, but they are just one venue for meeting possible dates and mates. If you were looking for that perfect outfit you wouldn’t keep shopping in just one store. Use all the resources available to you to find your perfect partner.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dr. Alan Stafford, Relationship Results Coach
I help Singles and Couples build relationships that work
www.relationshipsuccessexperts.com

Click here to ask Alan a question about your biggest relationship issue
http://relationshipsuccessexperts.com/askalan.htm

Get our free newsletter for relationship tips and advice
http://relationshipsuccessexperts.com/subscribe.html

© 2006 Alan Stafford/Relationship Success Experts

John Michael
222
25 7

Getting married is still very much in vogue and with so much choice available for when where and how to get married, with careful planning you should be able to guarantee that your wedding day will indeed be a very special day.
Budgeting for that special wedding day is important as you could run up bills amounting to many thousands of pounds. Decide what you budget is at the outset, stick to it and don’t be swayed and end up spending more than you can afford.
Some of the biggest expenses will arise from the cost of the wedding attire with the bridal outfit accounting for a substantial sum of money. On top of that will be the costs of bridesmaid dresses, flowers, corsages and suit hire or purchase for the groom and best man. The wedding rings for the bride and groom will also be costly purchases as will the gifts for the bridesmaids and mums. The gifts given to the bridesmaid are usually pieces of jewellery and mums usually get lovely big bouquets of flowers.
Decide on how many people you are going to invite and then look at potential venues and catering costs and explore the alternatives. You don’t have to have a costly formal sit down meal when a more relaxed buffet style function may better suit your needs. If you do opt for formal you may choose to limit the number of people at the formal sit down meal to limit costs and then invite more guests to an evening buffet disco.
If you are getting married in church you will need to arrange some form of transport and there are many options such as Rolls Royces or maybe a horse drawn carriage.
The time of year that you are getting married may dictate many of the above, for instance you may not want arrive at a marquee in the middle of winter with the real likelihood of bad weather affecting your arrangements.
These days you can just about get married anywhere you choose and it doesn’t have to be in a church so you may be able to get married in the same venue where you are holding the reception. This will cut down on transport costs and you may get a better deal all round with an all inclusive package. Whether you choose a romantic castle in the Highlands of Scotland, a magnificent stately home or something more modest, remember stick to your budget and don’t be tempted to overspend.
Of course you and you future spouse may just decide to go abroad either alone or with a few friends and family and get married on a beach, up a mountain of even Las Vegas in Elvis Presley style. Tour operators will be very helpful in providing you with the correct advice and information about getting married abroad.
When choosing your exotic destination remember that some of the destinations we normally associate with glorious sunshine and beautiful beaches and scenery may have seasons where the weather may not be so predictable or kind. Beware of monsoon and hurricane seasons in particular.
Organising a wedding can be a very stressful affair but there are usually plenty of people that will be willing to help such as friends and family as well as wedding organisers if you want to leave everything to a professional. There are also many ways that you can get the information that you need to ensure your wedding day goes smoothly and to plan.
Whatever you decide, good luck, have fun, enjoy and make you wedding day a very special day.

http://www.love2have.co.uk/

Joe Markus
31
25 7

The honeymoon is over. Maybe you’ve been together a few months, a few years, or even a lot of years. At some point, though, the early flames of passion will fade and you’ll start looking for ways to reignite them.
You’re in luck, then, because that’s exactly what this article is about!
1. Have Fun Together
Remember the fun times you had when you first started dating? You laughed, you played, and you spent time enjoying each other’s company. There’s no reason for the fun to stop just because you’ve been together for a while. Think about some of these options:

Collect cartoons or jokes that your spouse will enjoy
Play a game together, like checkers or backgammon
Do something unexpected to surprise your spouse
Do a puzzle together
Make popcorn and watch a favorite movie

2. Be Romantic
What did you used to do when the two of you were romancing each other? Jump start the romance by going back to some of those previous activities that generated warm feelings. Maybe you used to:

Eat dinner by candlelight
Hide a love note in your spouse’s lunch
Build a fire and relax in front of it
Take walk in the moonlight

3. Go Back To Dating
One way to jump start your relationship is to “date” each other again. Add to the fun by calling to ask each other out, and the one doing the asking then plans the date. To make it more challenging, set a budget limit for the date. You’d be amazed at how much fun it is to be creative and plan a date for $30 or less.
Once you’re on the date, treat each other as you did when you were first getting acquainted. Men, open the car door for your lady. Women, put on a special dress and flirt with your gentleman.
4. Do The Little Things
The day to day grind of life can really wear you down, and at those times paying attention to the little things gets harder. It’s more important then ever, though, that you make the extra effort to do the little things that your spouse will really appreciate. You could:

Make a point to give your spouse a hug and a kiss each morning before you leave and each evening when you get home
Remember to say please and thank you
Pick the chore your spouse dislikes the most, and do it for him or her without being asked
Say “I love you” often, not just when you think it’s expected

5. Be Physical
We’re not just talking about sex. Being physical means touching her arm, holding his hand, offering a gentle caress or neck rub after a tough day. And when the two of you do move towards having sex, don’t just turn out the lights and get on with it every time. Seduce each other a bit, light some candles and take a bubble bath together. As pleasurable as sex is, doing the same thing the same way every time gets boring so spice things up a bit and you’ll be amazed at what will happen. ZZ

Gary Nave
347
25 7

This is the moment she’s been dreaming about since she was a little girl: the love of her life is proposing to her, asking her to join him for eternity. The diamond engagement ring is a perfect symbol of your promise to love her eternally.
There is so much information about diamond engagement rings that is seems overwhelming to say the least. Don’t be confused, here are some simple tips to help you decide what kind of ring to look for and some spending guidelines.
How does one go about choosing that “perfect ring”? The following steps will help you prepare finding the right choice:
*ask family and friends what she likes
*pay attention when she admires someone else’s ring
*browse jewelry stores with her
*take note of the advertisements she likes
*take time to notice the style of other jewelry she wears-is it more simple or ornate
Now that you have some ideas of what kind of ring to look for, the next question is, “how much do I spend?” The often-quoted guideline of spending two months salary is pretty accurate, however if you take the time and do some research, you may find her ring at a wholesale “Jewelry Mart” or even online!
Since this is one of the most important decisions you will ever make, take your time to search for the “perfect ring”. Understand that this is an investment for your future and surprise her with a ring that is beyond her imagination! The engagement ring you choose must not only fit her finger, it must fit her personality and style. It should be a reflection of who she is. Although there are so many different diamond shapes, sizes, and settings to choose from, ultimately the decision comes down to personal taste.
Good Luck!!! And CONGRATULATIONS! are in order when she accepts!!!