object(MagpieRSS)#4 (23) {
["parser"]=>
resource(13) of type (Unknown)
["current_item"]=>
array(0) {
}
["items"]=>
array(10) {
[0]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(59) "Keeping Love Alive and Balanced: A Man’s Guide to Balance"
["link"]=>
string(94) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/16/keeping-love-alive-and-balanced-a-mans-guide-to-balance/"
["comments"]=>
string(102) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/16/keeping-love-alive-and-balanced-a-mans-guide-to-balance/#respond"
["dc"]=>
array(1) {
["creator"]=>
string(9) "Alex Wise"
}
["pubdate"]=>
string(31) "Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:05:58 +0000"
["category"]=>
string(40) "Dating AdviceguideKeeping Love Alivelove"
["guid"]=>
string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9184"
["description"]=>
string(264) "Women can only love men in two ways – they can love men as hoes, or they can love men as mothers. Hoes love the sex; mothers love taking care of the man. A man needs a woman to give him both kinds of love in order for him to love her fully and have […]"
["content"]=>
array(1) {
["encoded"]=>
string(5679) "Women can only love men in two ways – they can love men as hoes, or they can love men as mothers. Hoes love the sex; mothers love taking care of the man. A man needs a woman to give him both kinds of love in order for him to love her fully and have the energy to fight the temptations that come with being a man. Sadly, the difficult part is no woman can be a ho and a mother at the same exact time, equally – some external force is needed to make that happen.
That external force is GAME. It is game that drives and directs all relationships.
Game is that thing that men develop, which helps them persuade a woman to do something, that she doesn’t initially feel like doing, If a woman doesn’t initially feel like going on a date, your game is what makes her feel that she should give you an opportunity to get a date. The more you exercise your game, the better you become at dealing with various forms of women’s resistance. In the long run the whole purpose of building your game with multiple women, is ultimately, to have a monogamous relationship because the game needed to keep one woman in a LTR far outweighs the amount of game needed to keep 5 women in the stable at once, since the LTR woman eventually will get used to your game, and you’ll have to constantly upgrade it, to keep her interested in you.
When a woman first falls in love with a guy, she tries very hard to be a ho and a mother at the same time. Usually though, you’ll find what side of the fence she’s naturally on very quickly. The motherly one will not be in a rush to have sex, the ho will. The ho will not be in a rush to cook for you, the motherly one will bring you some samples to eat, very early on.
The motherly woman is very kind, loving and caring. She wants to wash your clothes, she wants to massage your back when it’s aching, cook your food etc. And that’s a beautiful thing; it makes you feel good to have that kind of love in your life. However, there’s a flipside. – a motherly loving woman, just like your mother will always feel that YOU NEED HER. She feels that without her, you wouldn’t be able to stand on your own. Like all mothers, she will always view you as her baby. In other words, she loves you, but she doesn’t respect you. Hard to see a woman viewing you like that, and still getting wet for you, don’t you think?
The hoish woman is the one who gets d*ckmatized. She loves f&^king. She is always down to bring or accept something new into the bedroom. Her love is based on her desire to be physically intimate and to submit to her man’s physical control and direction. However, the bad thing about all hoes, is that they’re hoes, and outside of sex, they really don’t want to do anything else for you. They don’t want to wash your clothes, they don’t want to massage your back, they don’t want to cook for you etc. They love f*cking but they have no desire to be “pleasant” or relieve you of the stress that comes with being a man who gets no credit for the work he provides to his family or society, each and every day.
Now here’s the question that ought to be asked if you’re not already asking it: why can’t a woman naturally be 50% ho and 50% mother? The answer to that question is very simple – She doesn’t know how to! Most women don’t start out like men do having to learn how to persuade women to give them something that they don’t initially want to. The vast majority of women only start working on the art of persuasion when they have a man that they feel they’re in love with.
Since most men don’t utilize scenarios where a woman has to figure out how to persuade a man to give her something (outside of using some variation of sex, which she ought to give him anyhow as part of keeping the relationship alive and passionate) women grow to not appreciate the things their men give them, and become more and more entitled. And when they meet men who don’t give them things that they think they “deserve” based on the things men gave them in the past for free, they begin to view the other men as stuck-up, over-confident, bitter etc when in reality, it’s the fault of the men of the past, who never helped the women learn how to persuade to get their way.
The downfall of a relationship always begins when a man gets comfortable. When a man gets comfortable, he no longer feels the need or the urge to persuade which makes a woman feel like she is being taken for granted. As he gets comfortable, the woman loses her desire to persuade, and resolves deeper and deeper to the love that she is accustomed to. Before long, the negatives of the love that she naturally possesses begin to seep into a relationship and cause problems. The mother begins to nag, demands that you do chores, complains that she does all the work and you take her for granted. The ho begins to complain that you’re out too much, and she’s not getting f*&ked like she used to. She wants to go out to eat all the time, and when you have to eat inside she finds it difficult to even prepare a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. When things fall apart, you’ll both yell and scream. You’ll blame each other, but at the end…
It’s always your fault fellas… if you’re not using your game to direct your relationship; you’re allowing your woman’s innate nature to drag your relationship into purgatory.
Agree? Disagree? What do you think?
"
}
["wfw"]=>
array(1) {
["commentrss"]=>
string(99) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/16/keeping-love-alive-and-balanced-a-mans-guide-to-balance/feed/"
}
["slash"]=>
array(1) {
["comments"]=>
string(1) "0"
}
["summary"]=>
string(264) "Women can only love men in two ways – they can love men as hoes, or they can love men as mothers. Hoes love the sex; mothers love taking care of the man. A man needs a woman to give him both kinds of love in order for him to love her fully and have […]"
["atom_content"]=>
string(5679) "Women can only love men in two ways – they can love men as hoes, or they can love men as mothers. Hoes love the sex; mothers love taking care of the man. A man needs a woman to give him both kinds of love in order for him to love her fully and have the energy to fight the temptations that come with being a man. Sadly, the difficult part is no woman can be a ho and a mother at the same exact time, equally – some external force is needed to make that happen.
That external force is GAME. It is game that drives and directs all relationships.
Game is that thing that men develop, which helps them persuade a woman to do something, that she doesn’t initially feel like doing, If a woman doesn’t initially feel like going on a date, your game is what makes her feel that she should give you an opportunity to get a date. The more you exercise your game, the better you become at dealing with various forms of women’s resistance. In the long run the whole purpose of building your game with multiple women, is ultimately, to have a monogamous relationship because the game needed to keep one woman in a LTR far outweighs the amount of game needed to keep 5 women in the stable at once, since the LTR woman eventually will get used to your game, and you’ll have to constantly upgrade it, to keep her interested in you.
When a woman first falls in love with a guy, she tries very hard to be a ho and a mother at the same time. Usually though, you’ll find what side of the fence she’s naturally on very quickly. The motherly one will not be in a rush to have sex, the ho will. The ho will not be in a rush to cook for you, the motherly one will bring you some samples to eat, very early on.
The motherly woman is very kind, loving and caring. She wants to wash your clothes, she wants to massage your back when it’s aching, cook your food etc. And that’s a beautiful thing; it makes you feel good to have that kind of love in your life. However, there’s a flipside. – a motherly loving woman, just like your mother will always feel that YOU NEED HER. She feels that without her, you wouldn’t be able to stand on your own. Like all mothers, she will always view you as her baby. In other words, she loves you, but she doesn’t respect you. Hard to see a woman viewing you like that, and still getting wet for you, don’t you think?
The hoish woman is the one who gets d*ckmatized. She loves f&^king. She is always down to bring or accept something new into the bedroom. Her love is based on her desire to be physically intimate and to submit to her man’s physical control and direction. However, the bad thing about all hoes, is that they’re hoes, and outside of sex, they really don’t want to do anything else for you. They don’t want to wash your clothes, they don’t want to massage your back, they don’t want to cook for you etc. They love f*cking but they have no desire to be “pleasant” or relieve you of the stress that comes with being a man who gets no credit for the work he provides to his family or society, each and every day.
Now here’s the question that ought to be asked if you’re not already asking it: why can’t a woman naturally be 50% ho and 50% mother? The answer to that question is very simple – She doesn’t know how to! Most women don’t start out like men do having to learn how to persuade women to give them something that they don’t initially want to. The vast majority of women only start working on the art of persuasion when they have a man that they feel they’re in love with.
Since most men don’t utilize scenarios where a woman has to figure out how to persuade a man to give her something (outside of using some variation of sex, which she ought to give him anyhow as part of keeping the relationship alive and passionate) women grow to not appreciate the things their men give them, and become more and more entitled. And when they meet men who don’t give them things that they think they “deserve” based on the things men gave them in the past for free, they begin to view the other men as stuck-up, over-confident, bitter etc when in reality, it’s the fault of the men of the past, who never helped the women learn how to persuade to get their way.
The downfall of a relationship always begins when a man gets comfortable. When a man gets comfortable, he no longer feels the need or the urge to persuade which makes a woman feel like she is being taken for granted. As he gets comfortable, the woman loses her desire to persuade, and resolves deeper and deeper to the love that she is accustomed to. Before long, the negatives of the love that she naturally possesses begin to seep into a relationship and cause problems. The mother begins to nag, demands that you do chores, complains that she does all the work and you take her for granted. The ho begins to complain that you’re out too much, and she’s not getting f*&ked like she used to. She wants to go out to eat all the time, and when you have to eat inside she finds it difficult to even prepare a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. When things fall apart, you’ll both yell and scream. You’ll blame each other, but at the end…
It’s always your fault fellas… if you’re not using your game to direct your relationship; you’re allowing your woman’s innate nature to drag your relationship into purgatory.
Agree? Disagree? What do you think?
"
["date_timestamp"]=>
int(1731751558)
}
[1]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(60) "Understanding Insurance Coverage: A Guide for Dating Couples"
["link"]=>
string(98) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/08/understanding-insurance-coverage-a-guide-for-dating-couples/"
["comments"]=>
string(106) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/08/understanding-insurance-coverage-a-guide-for-dating-couples/#respond"
["dc"]=>
array(1) {
["creator"]=>
string(13) "J. T. Ellison"
}
["pubdate"]=>
string(31) "Fri, 08 Nov 2024 15:39:49 +0000"
["category"]=>
string(60) "InterestingInsurance CoverageInsurance PlansMedical Expenses"
["guid"]=>
string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9180"
["description"]=>
string(313) "Dating someone special is new and exciting and makes you feel like you’re in the clouds. But, if you want to get steady and build a life with this person, you must be brave enough to have tricky conversations, like the one about finances. You may feel uncomfortable bringing the topic up, but trust us […]"
["content"]=>
array(1) {
["encoded"]=>
string(5916) "Dating someone special is new and exciting and makes you feel like you’re in the clouds. But, if you want to get steady and build a life with this person, you must be brave enough to have tricky conversations, like the one about finances.
You may feel uncomfortable bringing the topic up, but trust us – the sooner you start openly talking about money, the better. Plus, you can start with a lighter topic, like medical insurance coverage.
When done right, the money talk can strengthen your partnership and provide peace of mind as you build a life together. In today’s guide, we’ll help you navigate this discussion by exploring how you can understand insurance coverage as a couple.
Navigating Insurance Plans Together: Where to Start
Once you both agree to start the insurance discussion, it’s time to show your cards. By this, we mean explaining each other’s current plans. This involves discussing what kind of coverage you already have and identifying gaps that might affect your shared future.
Discuss each other’s health needs and group them under common (regular checkups, birth control, and so on) and special. Under special, include individual health needs, such as gluten insensitivity or HIV medication. Once you have these figured out, it’s time to look for a plan that covers all these needs.
Begin by reviewing the basics, such as policy types, premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.
Let’s take the price of PrEP pills as an example. If one of you is at risk, this is a life-saving medication, but the cost can be quite high without insurance. Luckily, according to Freddie’s guide, PrEP is free with most health insurance plans.
The same is true for birth control. Thanks to regulations under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most employer-sponsored and individual health plans provide coverage for FDA-approved contraceptive methods without charging a copayment or coinsurance when provided by an in-network provider. This includes pills, patches, implants, and more.
So, explore different plans together while considering your unique health needs and financial situations.
Next comes an open chat about budgeting for these costs together. Consider creating a spreadsheet or using budgeting apps designed for couples to track expenses easily.
How Couples Can Share Medical Expenses Effectively
One of the best ways to build a happy married life is to have a healthy relationship with money. This also includes sharing medical expenses and supporting each other’s decisions.
Consider setting up a joint health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) if you’re eligible – these can offer tax advantages while helping you save specifically for medical costs. It’s like having a piggy bank dedicated to your healthcare needs.
Another strategy is to create an expense tracking system that both of you maintain regularly. Whether it’s a shared spreadsheet or an app designed for couples’ finances, staying on top of payments and reimbursements ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
Evaluate insurance plans annually during open enrollment periods. Comparing employer-sponsored options might reveal potential cost-saving opportunities when adding each other as dependents.
Finally, consider pooling resources in ways that best align with your financial goals and responsibilities. Some couples choose to split everything 50/50; others proportionally divide based on income levels or specific coverage benefits they need more urgently, whatever suits your dynamic.
Ultimately, maintaining open lines of communication about these choices helps solidify trust while navigating complex healthcare landscapes together.
Common Misconceptions About Joint Coverage
Everyone has misconceptions, but when it comes to money and sharing expenses for something as important as health, you can’t let them deter you from making the right decisions.
So here are some topics to keep in mind about joint coverage:
Don’t be afraid to have the money talk and everything it implies! When you approach financial talks with confidence, you make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to life goals. These conversations strengthen your partnership, paving the way for a secure, harmonious journey.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(103) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/08/understanding-insurance-coverage-a-guide-for-dating-couples/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(313) "Dating someone special is new and exciting and makes you feel like you’re in the clouds. But, if you want to get steady and build a life with this person, you must be brave enough to have tricky conversations, like the one about finances. You may feel uncomfortable bringing the topic up, but trust us […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(5916) "Dating someone special is new and exciting and makes you feel like you’re in the clouds. But, if you want to get steady and build a life with this person, you must be brave enough to have tricky conversations, like the one about finances.
You may feel uncomfortable bringing the topic up, but trust us – the sooner you start openly talking about money, the better. Plus, you can start with a lighter topic, like medical insurance coverage.
When done right, the money talk can strengthen your partnership and provide peace of mind as you build a life together. In today’s guide, we’ll help you navigate this discussion by exploring how you can understand insurance coverage as a couple.
Once you both agree to start the insurance discussion, it’s time to show your cards. By this, we mean explaining each other’s current plans. This involves discussing what kind of coverage you already have and identifying gaps that might affect your shared future.
Discuss each other’s health needs and group them under common (regular checkups, birth control, and so on) and special. Under special, include individual health needs, such as gluten insensitivity or HIV medication. Once you have these figured out, it’s time to look for a plan that covers all these needs.
Begin by reviewing the basics, such as policy types, premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.
Let’s take the price of PrEP pills as an example. If one of you is at risk, this is a life-saving medication, but the cost can be quite high without insurance. Luckily, according to Freddie’s guide, PrEP is free with most health insurance plans.
The same is true for birth control. Thanks to regulations under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most employer-sponsored and individual health plans provide coverage for FDA-approved contraceptive methods without charging a copayment or coinsurance when provided by an in-network provider. This includes pills, patches, implants, and more.
So, explore different plans together while considering your unique health needs and financial situations.
Next comes an open chat about budgeting for these costs together. Consider creating a spreadsheet or using budgeting apps designed for couples to track expenses easily.
One of the best ways to build a happy married life is to have a healthy relationship with money. This also includes sharing medical expenses and supporting each other’s decisions.
Consider setting up a joint health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) if you’re eligible – these can offer tax advantages while helping you save specifically for medical costs. It’s like having a piggy bank dedicated to your healthcare needs.
Another strategy is to create an expense tracking system that both of you maintain regularly. Whether it’s a shared spreadsheet or an app designed for couples’ finances, staying on top of payments and reimbursements ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
Evaluate insurance plans annually during open enrollment periods. Comparing employer-sponsored options might reveal potential cost-saving opportunities when adding each other as dependents.
Finally, consider pooling resources in ways that best align with your financial goals and responsibilities. Some couples choose to split everything 50/50; others proportionally divide based on income levels or specific coverage benefits they need more urgently, whatever suits your dynamic.
Ultimately, maintaining open lines of communication about these choices helps solidify trust while navigating complex healthcare landscapes together.
Everyone has misconceptions, but when it comes to money and sharing expenses for something as important as health, you can’t let them deter you from making the right decisions.
So here are some topics to keep in mind about joint coverage:
Don’t be afraid to have the money talk and everything it implies! When you approach financial talks with confidence, you make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to life goals. These conversations strengthen your partnership, paving the way for a secure, harmonious journey.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1731080389) } [2]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(72) "How to Find a Trustworthy Private Investigator for Relationship Concerns" ["link"]=> string(111) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/07/how-to-find-a-trustworthy-private-investigator-for-relationship-concerns/" ["comments"]=> string(119) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/07/how-to-find-a-trustworthy-private-investigator-for-relationship-concerns/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(7) "Diana D" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Thu, 07 Nov 2024 14:56:22 +0000" ["category"]=> string(119) "Divorce And BreakupsInterestingcheatingInvestigationInvestigatorPrivate InvestigatorSurveillanceSurveillance Techniques" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9176" ["description"]=> string(326) "Have you ever suspected in a relationship that little something is wrong but failed to figure out how to get the answers? Everyone knows that relationships can be difficult, and at times, you may want to uncover more about what exactly is going on. If you’re uncertain, there is only one professional who can offer […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(8788) "Have you ever suspected in a relationship that little something is wrong but failed to figure out how to get the answers? Everyone knows that relationships can be difficult, and at times, you may want to uncover more about what exactly is going on. If you’re uncertain, there is only one professional who can offer the proof – private investigators.
However, when it comes to relationship issues it can be very hard to find a reliable private investigator. You want someone experienced, an expert who is real and competent and whose work is discrete but effective. It becomes necessary to identify and select a qualified investigator who will help people clear their relationship status.
Matters of person-to-person relationship investigations should therefore be an affair of huge legal and reputation and courtesy for the probabilities. Hiring a private investigator is a step that means a serious decision to be made after a careful comparison of your current circumstances and goals.
The first step carried out in an investigation incorporates the initial case assessment which reveals the level of investigation and its feasibility, the initial consultations include a simple analysis wherein professional investigators talk about some aspects of the case and how it can be undertaken bearing in mind the legal possibilities and individual privacy respectively.
If you’re living in Las Vegas, hiring a private investigator can provide you with essential facts and help you make an informed decision about your relationship. A reputable Las Vegas private investigator will properly describe any laws applicable to your case, techniques for gathering evidence, and any possible legal consequences.
It is vital how one arranges this trust before hiring a private investigator. A reliable investigator would always possess relevant academic certifications that show qualification as a professional. This makes them clear on their working process, the amount they charge, and the outcome they will deliver.
Also, it focuses on respect for its clients’ privacy and does not share, distribute, or sell any of the information you provide to them besides opting for the quick and easy way to make money. In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by the Private Investigator Agency, out of the working clients, 90% of them are concerned about confidentiality.
Professional credentials and verifiable experience form the foundation of trustworthy investigative service. It is always important to verify one’s qualifications to avoid receiving inadequate, unprofessional attention to the case by an unqualified and or fake investigator. Here are the essential verification steps:
Credit checks on the detectives serve your interests and contribute to professional and efficient investigation services on your relationship issues.
In our professional life, many techniques are employed while investigating relationship matters. These approaches uphold extreme ethics and legal propriety to ensure on one aspect the results are well attained and on the other the clients are comfortable. Here are the key techniques investigators utilize:
While observing and recording activities in their subjects, professional surveillance protects their rights to privacy. Police personnel and attorneys employ tools and procedures, which enable them to collect proof while adhering to law and morality.
The investigations of modern relationships imply the study of public accounts and activities in social networks. Career detectives are aware of investigative privacy laws and thus, give attention to information within the public domain.
Investigation costs are usually a function of, the complexity of the case, the number of services needed, and the time taken to accomplish a particular task. Understanding fee regimes and possible costs enables them to brace for investigation costs on the right angle in terms of resource provisions. Here are typical cost considerations:
A clear picture of the cost of investigation assists in avoiding unnecessary digging into the pockets when the costs are high while at the same time avoiding underfunding, which will inhibit the investigation process.
Not all people who call themselves as investigators are reliable as they seem to be. Avoid private investigators who boast that they will come up with the answers you are seeking, as competent, experienced workers understand that every job does not always guarantee evidence.
Beware of questionable value and vagueness other than being expensive for their services because original investigators explain their charges well and in detail. Denying these red flags guaranteed results, hidden fees, and bad communication you will steer clear of unethical investigators and look for an honest, motivated expert who will assist you.
However, it is never stressful to secure the services of a reliable private detective for issues to do with relationships. If you spend some time conducting research, visit their offices to check if they are qualified to handle your case. If you speak to them fully you will end up with the right person. Bear in mind that a competent investigator will never pry and always let you know what is going on.
If you need answers in your relationship then you can always hire the right private investigator who will help you come to a better decision by providing the answers you need for the future.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(116) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/11/07/how-to-find-a-trustworthy-private-investigator-for-relationship-concerns/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(326) "Have you ever suspected in a relationship that little something is wrong but failed to figure out how to get the answers? Everyone knows that relationships can be difficult, and at times, you may want to uncover more about what exactly is going on. If you’re uncertain, there is only one professional who can offer […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(8788) "
Have you ever suspected in a relationship that little something is wrong but failed to figure out how to get the answers? Everyone knows that relationships can be difficult, and at times, you may want to uncover more about what exactly is going on. If you’re uncertain, there is only one professional who can offer the proof – private investigators.
However, when it comes to relationship issues it can be very hard to find a reliable private investigator. You want someone experienced, an expert who is real and competent and whose work is discrete but effective. It becomes necessary to identify and select a qualified investigator who will help people clear their relationship status.
Matters of person-to-person relationship investigations should therefore be an affair of huge legal and reputation and courtesy for the probabilities. Hiring a private investigator is a step that means a serious decision to be made after a careful comparison of your current circumstances and goals.
The first step carried out in an investigation incorporates the initial case assessment which reveals the level of investigation and its feasibility, the initial consultations include a simple analysis wherein professional investigators talk about some aspects of the case and how it can be undertaken bearing in mind the legal possibilities and individual privacy respectively.
If you’re living in Las Vegas, hiring a private investigator can provide you with essential facts and help you make an informed decision about your relationship. A reputable Las Vegas private investigator will properly describe any laws applicable to your case, techniques for gathering evidence, and any possible legal consequences.
It is vital how one arranges this trust before hiring a private investigator. A reliable investigator would always possess relevant academic certifications that show qualification as a professional. This makes them clear on their working process, the amount they charge, and the outcome they will deliver.
Also, it focuses on respect for its clients’ privacy and does not share, distribute, or sell any of the information you provide to them besides opting for the quick and easy way to make money. In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by the Private Investigator Agency, out of the working clients, 90% of them are concerned about confidentiality.
Professional credentials and verifiable experience form the foundation of trustworthy investigative service. It is always important to verify one’s qualifications to avoid receiving inadequate, unprofessional attention to the case by an unqualified and or fake investigator. Here are the essential verification steps:
Credit checks on the detectives serve your interests and contribute to professional and efficient investigation services on your relationship issues.
In our professional life, many techniques are employed while investigating relationship matters. These approaches uphold extreme ethics and legal propriety to ensure on one aspect the results are well attained and on the other the clients are comfortable. Here are the key techniques investigators utilize:
While observing and recording activities in their subjects, professional surveillance protects their rights to privacy. Police personnel and attorneys employ tools and procedures, which enable them to collect proof while adhering to law and morality.
The investigations of modern relationships imply the study of public accounts and activities in social networks. Career detectives are aware of investigative privacy laws and thus, give attention to information within the public domain.
Investigation costs are usually a function of, the complexity of the case, the number of services needed, and the time taken to accomplish a particular task. Understanding fee regimes and possible costs enables them to brace for investigation costs on the right angle in terms of resource provisions. Here are typical cost considerations:
A clear picture of the cost of investigation assists in avoiding unnecessary digging into the pockets when the costs are high while at the same time avoiding underfunding, which will inhibit the investigation process.
Not all people who call themselves as investigators are reliable as they seem to be. Avoid private investigators who boast that they will come up with the answers you are seeking, as competent, experienced workers understand that every job does not always guarantee evidence.
Beware of questionable value and vagueness other than being expensive for their services because original investigators explain their charges well and in detail. Denying these red flags guaranteed results, hidden fees, and bad communication you will steer clear of unethical investigators and look for an honest, motivated expert who will assist you.
However, it is never stressful to secure the services of a reliable private detective for issues to do with relationships. If you spend some time conducting research, visit their offices to check if they are qualified to handle your case. If you speak to them fully you will end up with the right person. Bear in mind that a competent investigator will never pry and always let you know what is going on.
If you need answers in your relationship then you can always hire the right private investigator who will help you come to a better decision by providing the answers you need for the future.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1730991382) } [3]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(31) "The Best Hip-hop Love Song Ever" ["link"]=> string(70) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/10/03/the-best-hip-hop-love-song-ever/" ["comments"]=> string(78) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/10/03/the-best-hip-hop-love-song-ever/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(10) "Andrew Tch" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:09:49 +0000" ["category"]=> string(107) "Interestingbest songsdmxeve featuring faith evanship hopkillarmymusicnassongsthe lost boyzthe pharcydetupac" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9172" ["description"]=> string(347) "So, while driving back to pittsburgh after last week’s matchmaker event, my friend and i listened to different satellite radio rap stations the entire way, and were both utterly flabbergasted at how bad today’s mainstream hip-hop is. seriously, I’m usually not a “everything was better back in the day” type of guy, but after a […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(9760) "
So, while driving back to pittsburgh after last week’s matchmaker event, my friend and i listened to different satellite radio rap stations the entire way, and were both utterly flabbergasted at how bad today’s mainstream hip-hop is. seriously, I’m usually not a “everything was better back in the day” type of guy, but after a couple verses from something called “waka flocka flame” almost gave me epilepsy, there’s really nothing else i can say.
As we neared pittsburgh, drake’s “best i ever had” came on, and the following conversation ensued:
Friend: “who is this guy?” (the only “new” rapper my man knows about is kanye. seriously, talking hip-hop with him makes me feel like i’m back in 1997. all i’d need is a pair of fatigues and a red jansport and i’d be right back in homeroom)
Me: “new cat named drake. why?”
Friend: “i can actually understand what he’s saying. if i was a 13 year old girl, i’d love this song”
Me: “that’s easily the gayest thing you’ve said all day. you need to quit playing them away games”
Friend: “the game’s out there, manye. you either play or get played”
Anyway, remembering this conversation and the subject matter of “best i’ve ever had” got me thinking: what’s the best hip-hop love song ever made? To be honest with you, i’m not exactly sure…but, i do have nine nominees.
***note: on my list, “love” doesn’t just encapsulate romantic love. the songs i’ve listed run the gamut from romantic and platonic to even inanimate object. also, just in case another batch of people completely unable to not take themselves seriously happen to “discover” vsb today, i want to remind everyone to remove the sphincter poles and realize that these nominees are just reflections of my own personal whims and remembrances***
One of the reasons why i’ve love the wu so much is that they’re completely and utterly unafraid to take artistic chances. from ghost spitting that his “rhymes are like ziti” to the rza’s perpetual (and occasionally annoying) experimentation, you literally have no idea what the hell you’ll hear when listening to a wu album. This fact is evident the first verse of “sweet love“, when street life rhymes about having sex with his girlfriend while he’s driving his car. not head. sex. while. driving.
Later in the song, cappadonna spits his infamous “love is love, love. love is love, love” line (which i later immortalized with a left arm tat) and method man delivers a verse than i actually cut and pasted and sent as a poem to a woman i was involved with, lying that i wrote it myself because i knew she’d never listen to the song.
***btw, by “was involved with” i mean “totally had an unrequited crush for“. the “poem” didn’t help. a couple weeks later, i got even more desperate and cut and pasted an inspectah deck verse. this worked. and by “this worked” i mean, “i finally got some from her four years later“***
From the storyline and the chorus to eve’s verse and the fatalistic feel of the end of the song, everything about this track is perfect. Btw, speaking of perfect, if i had to rank “impressive and envy-worthy beards”, black thought’s would definitely be 1st, jerome bettis’, would be 2nd and paul pierce’s would be 295th.
Along with radiohead’s “creep” and “friends zone” by 88 keys and shitake monkey, this song perfectly represents the gamut of emotions men go through when faced with unrequited love. Plus, it’s one of the 10 or so songs that any self-respecting hip-hop head knows all of the words to. And, if you need a surefire way to make hipster chicks swoon, tweet a line from fatlips verse at least once a day.
I’m including it because, well, i don’t know if i ever loved anything as much as tupac claimed to love his gun. well, maybe cookies and cream milkshakes, but that’s about it
Probably the first real surprise entry on the list, i nominated “full moon” because of the depth of the brotherly bond for a murdered friend that killa sin expresses in the song’s second verse. I still get chills today when i hear him say “we went back far, like acorn fights around the swings”.
Arguably the best story from hip-hop’s best storyteller, “undying love” deals with a rather, ummm, extreme reaction to finding out that your loved one was unfaithful. Is also one of the only “story” songs where each of the characters involved is dead by the end. basically, it’s a great song to have on your boning mixtape.
For no other reason than the fact that i say “since you gave me the p*ssy, your ass has gotten fatter” in dmx’s voice (in my head) to my girlfriend at least once a week.
I had a “why it made the cut” summary written out, but i deleted it when i realized that it was completely panderific. The only reason this song is here is because i realized i hadn’t named any female rappers and wanted to be subversive by not going with salt and pepa’s perfunctory “gotta man”.
I won’t say that the video still brings tears to my eyes when renee gets shot, but i will say that i haven’t watched it in over 10 years just because of that possibility. Maybe this makes me a punk, but seriously, renee didn’t have to die. why the hell did renee have to die????
Anyway falks, i’m sure i’m missing a few (hundred). What else would you nominate for the best hip-hop love song ever?
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(75) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/10/03/the-best-hip-hop-love-song-ever/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(347) "So, while driving back to pittsburgh after last week’s matchmaker event, my friend and i listened to different satellite radio rap stations the entire way, and were both utterly flabbergasted at how bad today’s mainstream hip-hop is. seriously, I’m usually not a “everything was better back in the day” type of guy, but after a […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(9760) "So, while driving back to pittsburgh after last week’s matchmaker event, my friend and i listened to different satellite radio rap stations the entire way, and were both utterly flabbergasted at how bad today’s mainstream hip-hop is. seriously, I’m usually not a “everything was better back in the day” type of guy, but after a couple verses from something called “waka flocka flame” almost gave me epilepsy, there’s really nothing else i can say.
As we neared pittsburgh, drake’s “best i ever had” came on, and the following conversation ensued:
Friend: “who is this guy?” (the only “new” rapper my man knows about is kanye. seriously, talking hip-hop with him makes me feel like i’m back in 1997. all i’d need is a pair of fatigues and a red jansport and i’d be right back in homeroom)
Me: “new cat named drake. why?”
Friend: “i can actually understand what he’s saying. if i was a 13 year old girl, i’d love this song”
Me: “that’s easily the gayest thing you’ve said all day. you need to quit playing them away games”
Friend: “the game’s out there, manye. you either play or get played”
Anyway, remembering this conversation and the subject matter of “best i’ve ever had” got me thinking: what’s the best hip-hop love song ever made? To be honest with you, i’m not exactly sure…but, i do have nine nominees.
***note: on my list, “love” doesn’t just encapsulate romantic love. the songs i’ve listed run the gamut from romantic and platonic to even inanimate object. also, just in case another batch of people completely unable to not take themselves seriously happen to “discover” vsb today, i want to remind everyone to remove the sphincter poles and realize that these nominees are just reflections of my own personal whims and remembrances***
One of the reasons why i’ve love the wu so much is that they’re completely and utterly unafraid to take artistic chances. from ghost spitting that his “rhymes are like ziti” to the rza’s perpetual (and occasionally annoying) experimentation, you literally have no idea what the hell you’ll hear when listening to a wu album. This fact is evident the first verse of “sweet love“, when street life rhymes about having sex with his girlfriend while he’s driving his car. not head. sex. while. driving.
Later in the song, cappadonna spits his infamous “love is love, love. love is love, love” line (which i later immortalized with a left arm tat) and method man delivers a verse than i actually cut and pasted and sent as a poem to a woman i was involved with, lying that i wrote it myself because i knew she’d never listen to the song.
***btw, by “was involved with” i mean “totally had an unrequited crush for“. the “poem” didn’t help. a couple weeks later, i got even more desperate and cut and pasted an inspectah deck verse. this worked. and by “this worked” i mean, “i finally got some from her four years later“***
From the storyline and the chorus to eve’s verse and the fatalistic feel of the end of the song, everything about this track is perfect. Btw, speaking of perfect, if i had to rank “impressive and envy-worthy beards”, black thought’s would definitely be 1st, jerome bettis’, would be 2nd and paul pierce’s would be 295th.
Along with radiohead’s “creep” and “friends zone” by 88 keys and shitake monkey, this song perfectly represents the gamut of emotions men go through when faced with unrequited love. Plus, it’s one of the 10 or so songs that any self-respecting hip-hop head knows all of the words to. And, if you need a surefire way to make hipster chicks swoon, tweet a line from fatlips verse at least once a day.
I’m including it because, well, i don’t know if i ever loved anything as much as tupac claimed to love his gun. well, maybe cookies and cream milkshakes, but that’s about it
Probably the first real surprise entry on the list, i nominated “full moon” because of the depth of the brotherly bond for a murdered friend that killa sin expresses in the song’s second verse. I still get chills today when i hear him say “we went back far, like acorn fights around the swings”.
Arguably the best story from hip-hop’s best storyteller, “undying love” deals with a rather, ummm, extreme reaction to finding out that your loved one was unfaithful. Is also one of the only “story” songs where each of the characters involved is dead by the end. basically, it’s a great song to have on your boning mixtape.
For no other reason than the fact that i say “since you gave me the p*ssy, your ass has gotten fatter” in dmx’s voice (in my head) to my girlfriend at least once a week.
I had a “why it made the cut” summary written out, but i deleted it when i realized that it was completely panderific. The only reason this song is here is because i realized i hadn’t named any female rappers and wanted to be subversive by not going with salt and pepa’s perfunctory “gotta man”.
I won’t say that the video still brings tears to my eyes when renee gets shot, but i will say that i haven’t watched it in over 10 years just because of that possibility. Maybe this makes me a punk, but seriously, renee didn’t have to die. why the hell did renee have to die????
Anyway falks, i’m sure i’m missing a few (hundred). What else would you nominate for the best hip-hop love song ever?
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1727960989) } [4]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(50) "How Do You Know When You Have Found Your Soulmate?" ["link"]=> string(88) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/19/how-do-you-know-when-you-have-found-your-soulmate/" ["comments"]=> string(96) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/19/how-do-you-know-when-you-have-found-your-soulmate/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(10) "Andrew Tch" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Thu, 19 Sep 2024 14:17:34 +0000" ["category"]=> string(117) "Dating AdviceEffortless CompromiseEmotional SafetyShared GrowthSoulmateUnconditional AcceptanceUnspoken Understanding" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9169" ["description"]=> string(368) "Finding a soulmate is often one of life’s most profound and magical experiences. Besides mere compatibility or shared interests, it’s connecting on a deeper level that feels both extraordinary and natural. But how do you truly know when you’ve met this exceptional person? It’s not just about how one feels or romance, but the journey […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(6163) "Finding a soulmate is often one of life’s most profound and magical experiences. Besides mere compatibility or shared interests, it’s connecting on a deeper level that feels both extraordinary and natural. But how do you truly know when you’ve met this exceptional person? It’s not just about how one feels or romance, but the journey of recognition of a soulmate is full of emotional resonance, mutual understanding, and shared values that bond together and can never be paralleled. These signs and feelings stand for what tells you that this is your soulmate as we get into the core of what makes that connection so unique.
There is often an depths of unsaid, yet profound understanding between you and your soul mate. This is beyond the finishing of sentences for each other; this is something to do with knowing feelings and thoughts of each other from a very deep level intuitively. You might be able to convey with just a gesture or a look, and the relationships easily come out of an unconscious rapport. You may feel very connected to someone with this degree of knowledge, as though you are speaking the same language.
How readily you relate to and interact with one other is what defines an effortless relationship. Natural themes and uncomfortable silences don’t strain conversations. This comfort goes beyond just talking; it’s evident in the way you spend your time together, engaging in pleasurable and organic activities. It extends to joint projects you do together, like planning your wedding. For example, designing your wedding invitation cards using some sort of wedding card maker shows how ideal your relationship is. You design them together, and it’s something that you both are involved in with such ease, hence it’s an activity depicting a bond put into fun meaningful joint activities. Such a bond may then seem to perfectly click into place, and every interaction becomes just right and natural in its feel and character.
You feel super accepted in a soulmate relationship for who you are. Your partner loves your flaws and imperfections, accepting them fully instead of trying to make changes in you. This art of acceptance keeps you so secure and trusting that you can be yourself, showing the real you to the other person without expecting judgment of any sort. It means a relationship in which you are valued just because of your real self and given the best avenue to express individuality freely.
Emotional safety is the bedrock of a soulmate relationship wherein you feel comfortable sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings, knowing your partner will listen with empathy and support. Actually, this safety is based on the trust and respect that provide you with your right to be vulnerable without the fear of criticism or betrayal. This sense of security allows the level of intimacy to rise, and it strengthens the emotional bond between the two of you even more.
A soulmate relationship is defined by sharing a common future vision: having aligned goals, values, and aspirations in life. This strong foundation makes it even stronger in the commitment of a lifetime. If both partners know where they are going on career ambitions, family plans, or lifestyle choices, then it becomes mutually reinforcing and ensures your bond, working toward a common purpose. That naturally will be mirrored in the plans and milestones, too, once you have taken that next big leap into your life as a unit. A good example would be sending out save the date postcards for your wedding; the actual act is practical, but as an action it displays both of your commitments to one another, and shared excitement about the future together. This is a statement that you want to share the joy of your union with family and friends and symbolizes all those important milestones you are about to experience together.
Having a soulmate usually inspires personal growth. Your partner helps you and encourages you in your journey of growth and improvement. Because of the energy this interaction produces, both individuals are encouraged to grow and maximize their potentials. Together, you both enhance each other’s lives and support each other’s aspirations, that encourages individual and group advancement.
Agreements and the resolving of disputes come about easily and organically in a soulmate relationship. Disagreements are approached with mutual respect and understanding, finding solutions through cooperation rather than conflict. Being able to iron out disagreements amicably, without having to compromise on your values or identity, is indicative of a strong connection and deep-seated compatibility.
In other words, a soulmate is much more than a hurricane of emotions, love at first sight, or the temporary bond between two people. It is all about bonding on an eternal basis with someone whereby the two persons almost understand one another silently, communicate with ease, and believe in each other’s bright prospects for the future. The above quotes further describe the profound connection that defines a soulmate relationship: the joy you feel in their presence, the intuitive sense of certainty, and how you naturally navigate through the ups and downs together. Fundamentally, it’s all about recognizing and appreciating that special connection which a soulmate relationship can offer, making every moment in life that you will share absolutely unique.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(93) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/19/how-do-you-know-when-you-have-found-your-soulmate/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(368) "Finding a soulmate is often one of life’s most profound and magical experiences. Besides mere compatibility or shared interests, it’s connecting on a deeper level that feels both extraordinary and natural. But how do you truly know when you’ve met this exceptional person? It’s not just about how one feels or romance, but the journey […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(6163) "Finding a soulmate is often one of life’s most profound and magical experiences. Besides mere compatibility or shared interests, it’s connecting on a deeper level that feels both extraordinary and natural. But how do you truly know when you’ve met this exceptional person? It’s not just about how one feels or romance, but the journey of recognition of a soulmate is full of emotional resonance, mutual understanding, and shared values that bond together and can never be paralleled. These signs and feelings stand for what tells you that this is your soulmate as we get into the core of what makes that connection so unique.
There is often an depths of unsaid, yet profound understanding between you and your soul mate. This is beyond the finishing of sentences for each other; this is something to do with knowing feelings and thoughts of each other from a very deep level intuitively. You might be able to convey with just a gesture or a look, and the relationships easily come out of an unconscious rapport. You may feel very connected to someone with this degree of knowledge, as though you are speaking the same language.
How readily you relate to and interact with one other is what defines an effortless relationship. Natural themes and uncomfortable silences don’t strain conversations. This comfort goes beyond just talking; it’s evident in the way you spend your time together, engaging in pleasurable and organic activities. It extends to joint projects you do together, like planning your wedding. For example, designing your wedding invitation cards using some sort of wedding card maker shows how ideal your relationship is. You design them together, and it’s something that you both are involved in with such ease, hence it’s an activity depicting a bond put into fun meaningful joint activities. Such a bond may then seem to perfectly click into place, and every interaction becomes just right and natural in its feel and character.
You feel super accepted in a soulmate relationship for who you are. Your partner loves your flaws and imperfections, accepting them fully instead of trying to make changes in you. This art of acceptance keeps you so secure and trusting that you can be yourself, showing the real you to the other person without expecting judgment of any sort. It means a relationship in which you are valued just because of your real self and given the best avenue to express individuality freely.
Emotional safety is the bedrock of a soulmate relationship wherein you feel comfortable sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings, knowing your partner will listen with empathy and support. Actually, this safety is based on the trust and respect that provide you with your right to be vulnerable without the fear of criticism or betrayal. This sense of security allows the level of intimacy to rise, and it strengthens the emotional bond between the two of you even more.
A soulmate relationship is defined by sharing a common future vision: having aligned goals, values, and aspirations in life. This strong foundation makes it even stronger in the commitment of a lifetime. If both partners know where they are going on career ambitions, family plans, or lifestyle choices, then it becomes mutually reinforcing and ensures your bond, working toward a common purpose. That naturally will be mirrored in the plans and milestones, too, once you have taken that next big leap into your life as a unit. A good example would be sending out save the date postcards for your wedding; the actual act is practical, but as an action it displays both of your commitments to one another, and shared excitement about the future together. This is a statement that you want to share the joy of your union with family and friends and symbolizes all those important milestones you are about to experience together.
Having a soulmate usually inspires personal growth. Your partner helps you and encourages you in your journey of growth and improvement. Because of the energy this interaction produces, both individuals are encouraged to grow and maximize their potentials. Together, you both enhance each other’s lives and support each other’s aspirations, that encourages individual and group advancement.
Agreements and the resolving of disputes come about easily and organically in a soulmate relationship. Disagreements are approached with mutual respect and understanding, finding solutions through cooperation rather than conflict. Being able to iron out disagreements amicably, without having to compromise on your values or identity, is indicative of a strong connection and deep-seated compatibility.
In other words, a soulmate is much more than a hurricane of emotions, love at first sight, or the temporary bond between two people. It is all about bonding on an eternal basis with someone whereby the two persons almost understand one another silently, communicate with ease, and believe in each other’s bright prospects for the future. The above quotes further describe the profound connection that defines a soulmate relationship: the joy you feel in their presence, the intuitive sense of certainty, and how you naturally navigate through the ups and downs together. Fundamentally, it’s all about recognizing and appreciating that special connection which a soulmate relationship can offer, making every moment in life that you will share absolutely unique.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1726755454) } [5]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(52) "10 Lessons I Learned While Being Purposefully Single" ["link"]=> string(91) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/19/10-lessons-i-learned-while-being-purposefully-single/" ["comments"]=> string(99) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/19/10-lessons-i-learned-while-being-purposefully-single/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(13) "J. T. Ellison" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Thu, 19 Sep 2024 14:12:46 +0000" ["category"]=> string(37) "Being Singlebeing singlelessonssingle" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9166" ["description"]=> string(314) "Unfortunately, many of us are out there dating aimlessly – clueless as to what we want and, even more unfortunate, who we are. Awhile back, I took some time out to soul search and reflect, deciding not to date until I figured some things out. And although I cannot claim to know everything (I still […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(6975) "Unfortunately, many of us are out there dating aimlessly – clueless as to what we want and, even more unfortunate, who we are. Awhile back, I took some time out to soul search and reflect, deciding not to date until I figured some things out. And although I cannot claim to know everything (I still make mistakes but, who doesn’t?), being “purposefully single” taught me not only how to better conduct myself in love, but how to better conduct myself in life. The following are just a few lessons I learned.
Like many women, there was a time in my life where the only lens that mattered was that of the man I was with. I found comfort in his validations and was crushed whenever he saw something in me that he didn’t like. While being “purposefully single,” I allowed myself time to finally make an effort to figure out who I really was. I learned that my identity should be shaped by my passions and interests, many of which I never had the courage or time to explore. It became less important how others saw me and emphasis shifted to what I saw in myself.
Anyone who knows me knows that I deeply value my male friendships. However, it is quite ironic that despite the fact that I have always been able to establish and maintain friendships with men, I never applied this technique to my romantic relationships. While single, I spent more time with my friends. This allowed me to understand the value they brought into my life, as well as realize how this level of male love and support was missing from my other relationships.
I once viewed Friday, aka date night, as the worst night of the week. I always found myself home alone on my couch, bitter and depressed that I wasn’t cuddled up with someone or out on a romantic date. Looking back, I was such a fool to think that Fridays were only for couples. Being single, and not looking, didn’t allow me to waste any time feeling sorry for myself. I could either just exist as a single woman or live a single life. And as it turns out there are plenty of things to do on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, etc. night without a man, with the girls or just by myself.
Many women feel that they are “failing” because they haven’t “landed a man.” This pressure only increases with age. Being purposefully single became my way of pushing back. I was single, sane, healthy and beautiful. Perhaps, I just wasn’t ready. Or perhaps I could benefit more from singlehood. The truth is, there were plenty of reasons I was single, but none had anything to do with me being unattractive, unfeminine or unworthy.
For many women, men offer a level of comfort and affection that cannot be compared or replaced. And when this “love” is absent, many of us feel an undeniable void in our lives. While single, I was forced to look past this perspective and realized that there were several different types of love that are just as, and even more, fulfilling as romantic love, including love of family, friends, community, self and most importantly, God.
Women often blame men for all of their past and current relationship woes. Terms like “men are dogs” and “there aren’t any good men left” are often the result of pain and misdirected anger. Men have and will continue to hurt women. Women have and will continue to hurt men. But, women also hurt themselves. During my “single-dom,” I took responsibility for some of the bad decisions I had made then took the time to try and correct the unhealthy behaviors that put me in those positions. Old habits die hard, but it was worth trying for my own benefit, and of course for any person I decided to be with in the future.
When I turned 27, out of the blue and without my consent, it appeared as though everyone (my friends, family and complete strangers) decided that it was time for me to get married and have kids. Overnight – my focus went from hanging out with my girls and building my career to searching for the perfect potential husband and father for my unborn children. When I finally decided enough was enough, I rededicated myself to enjoying a pressure-free life; I was still young and had a lot to learn. At that point, I promised myself that I wouldn’t let the ticking of someone else’s clock overpower my own voice.
Before I took the time to really reflect on my dating mistakes, I had been carrying some serious baggage. In addition, I was burdened with a myriad of emotions, including anger towards the men in my past, but even more so anger towards myself. First things first, I took the steps to forgive me. This was the hardest thing to do and by removing men from my life, I had much more space and time to self-reflect, digest, accept and heal.
When a man gets cut off and out of your life without his permission, he tends to let his true colors show. And when they do, many of us act surprised by this “sudden” change in behavior. For various reasons, I had consciously placed myself in relationships that I knew would never and should never work. The men I had been choosing picked me for certain reasons, and I them for others – none of which were good. Looking back, that seems so obvious that I was using men as a distraction from having to really deal with and make decisions for myself. As a single woman, I am forced to think for myself and thus hold myself accountable for my own actions.
Reading back through my journal and blog entries, I can see the growth I’ve made. My opinions of myself have changed, I have become more certain of my dreams and aspirations and there is clear evidence of a happier and more confident woman. Being single didn’t solve all of my problems. But, what it did do was (1) remove unnecessary drama and distractions from my life, (2)force me into a serious period of introspection, (3) provided me a much needed break from serial monogamy, and (4) allowed room for some really great people and things to enter my life. A man can bring you happiness, but first you have to be happy by and with yourself.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(96) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/19/10-lessons-i-learned-while-being-purposefully-single/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(314) "Unfortunately, many of us are out there dating aimlessly – clueless as to what we want and, even more unfortunate, who we are. Awhile back, I took some time out to soul search and reflect, deciding not to date until I figured some things out. And although I cannot claim to know everything (I still […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(6975) "Unfortunately, many of us are out there dating aimlessly – clueless as to what we want and, even more unfortunate, who we are. Awhile back, I took some time out to soul search and reflect, deciding not to date until I figured some things out. And although I cannot claim to know everything (I still make mistakes but, who doesn’t?), being “purposefully single” taught me not only how to better conduct myself in love, but how to better conduct myself in life. The following are just a few lessons I learned.
Like many women, there was a time in my life where the only lens that mattered was that of the man I was with. I found comfort in his validations and was crushed whenever he saw something in me that he didn’t like. While being “purposefully single,” I allowed myself time to finally make an effort to figure out who I really was. I learned that my identity should be shaped by my passions and interests, many of which I never had the courage or time to explore. It became less important how others saw me and emphasis shifted to what I saw in myself.
Anyone who knows me knows that I deeply value my male friendships. However, it is quite ironic that despite the fact that I have always been able to establish and maintain friendships with men, I never applied this technique to my romantic relationships. While single, I spent more time with my friends. This allowed me to understand the value they brought into my life, as well as realize how this level of male love and support was missing from my other relationships.
I once viewed Friday, aka date night, as the worst night of the week. I always found myself home alone on my couch, bitter and depressed that I wasn’t cuddled up with someone or out on a romantic date. Looking back, I was such a fool to think that Fridays were only for couples. Being single, and not looking, didn’t allow me to waste any time feeling sorry for myself. I could either just exist as a single woman or live a single life. And as it turns out there are plenty of things to do on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, etc. night without a man, with the girls or just by myself.
Many women feel that they are “failing” because they haven’t “landed a man.” This pressure only increases with age. Being purposefully single became my way of pushing back. I was single, sane, healthy and beautiful. Perhaps, I just wasn’t ready. Or perhaps I could benefit more from singlehood. The truth is, there were plenty of reasons I was single, but none had anything to do with me being unattractive, unfeminine or unworthy.
For many women, men offer a level of comfort and affection that cannot be compared or replaced. And when this “love” is absent, many of us feel an undeniable void in our lives. While single, I was forced to look past this perspective and realized that there were several different types of love that are just as, and even more, fulfilling as romantic love, including love of family, friends, community, self and most importantly, God.
Women often blame men for all of their past and current relationship woes. Terms like “men are dogs” and “there aren’t any good men left” are often the result of pain and misdirected anger. Men have and will continue to hurt women. Women have and will continue to hurt men. But, women also hurt themselves. During my “single-dom,” I took responsibility for some of the bad decisions I had made then took the time to try and correct the unhealthy behaviors that put me in those positions. Old habits die hard, but it was worth trying for my own benefit, and of course for any person I decided to be with in the future.
When I turned 27, out of the blue and without my consent, it appeared as though everyone (my friends, family and complete strangers) decided that it was time for me to get married and have kids. Overnight – my focus went from hanging out with my girls and building my career to searching for the perfect potential husband and father for my unborn children. When I finally decided enough was enough, I rededicated myself to enjoying a pressure-free life; I was still young and had a lot to learn. At that point, I promised myself that I wouldn’t let the ticking of someone else’s clock overpower my own voice.
Before I took the time to really reflect on my dating mistakes, I had been carrying some serious baggage. In addition, I was burdened with a myriad of emotions, including anger towards the men in my past, but even more so anger towards myself. First things first, I took the steps to forgive me. This was the hardest thing to do and by removing men from my life, I had much more space and time to self-reflect, digest, accept and heal.
When a man gets cut off and out of your life without his permission, he tends to let his true colors show. And when they do, many of us act surprised by this “sudden” change in behavior. For various reasons, I had consciously placed myself in relationships that I knew would never and should never work. The men I had been choosing picked me for certain reasons, and I them for others – none of which were good. Looking back, that seems so obvious that I was using men as a distraction from having to really deal with and make decisions for myself. As a single woman, I am forced to think for myself and thus hold myself accountable for my own actions.
Reading back through my journal and blog entries, I can see the growth I’ve made. My opinions of myself have changed, I have become more certain of my dreams and aspirations and there is clear evidence of a happier and more confident woman. Being single didn’t solve all of my problems. But, what it did do was (1) remove unnecessary drama and distractions from my life, (2)force me into a serious period of introspection, (3) provided me a much needed break from serial monogamy, and (4) allowed room for some really great people and things to enter my life. A man can bring you happiness, but first you have to be happy by and with yourself.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1726755166) } [6]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(53) "Five Common First Kiss Mistakes and How to Avoid Them" ["link"]=> string(92) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/11/five-common-first-kiss-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/" ["comments"]=> string(100) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/11/five-common-first-kiss-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(10) "Andrew Tch" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:08:52 +0000" ["category"]=> string(87) "Dating Adviceaffectionattractionbad breathdelightdesirefirst kisskissPleasuretenderness" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9163" ["description"]=> string(350) "The first kiss marks the moment when two people, standing at the precipice of friendship versus “something more,” take a leap of faith to fall over the edge into whatever that “something more” is. It’s an important moment because it shifts a relationship beyond friendship or platonic affection and into genuine romance. A kiss is […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(5395) "The first kiss marks the moment when two people, standing at the precipice of friendship versus “something more,” take a leap of faith to fall over the edge into whatever that “something more” is. It’s an important moment because it shifts a relationship beyond friendship or platonic affection and into genuine romance. A kiss is an intimate gesture that communicates volumes in a way that words cannot – attraction, affection, tenderness, desire, pleasure, delight and so much more.
Beyond that, the quality of the kiss and the way you initiate it can tell your partner a lot about who you are romantically.
“A first kiss can be a deeply profound and memorable experience that serves as a positive touchstone throughout the relationship,” says Barbie Adler, the Founder and President of Selective Search, a leading national luxury matchmaking firm that has helped thousands of singles find lasting love. “Couples who have been together for decades often remember exactly where and when they had their first kiss. While a lot of this has to do with the particular person you share the moment with, there are some steps you can take beforehand to help guarantee that it will have that special magic.”
This might seem like an obvious point, but its importance can’t be overstated. When kissing, you want all of the focus to be on the sense of touch rather than taste or smell. Having fresh breath makes the kiss more pleasant for your date and shows forethought on your part. Whether or not you will be eating on the date, you should always give your teeth a thorough brushing beforehand and bring some mints or gum along just to be sure.
Having excessively dry lips is not a particularly flattering look, and it can be very uncomfortable and distracting for your partner. Fortunately, this is a simple problem to solve. Regardless of whether you habitually use some sort of moisturizer or lip balm, you should definitely use it on the days up to and including your date. Not only will having soft, moist lips spare your partner some discomfort, but it will add enjoyment to their experience.
A passionate kiss is a good thing, but “passion” too often gets confused with sheer force or intensity. If one partner is kissing too hard or too fast and barely giving the other a chance to breathe, the kiss can quickly turn unpleasant. “The best kisses are responsive to your partner and attentive to their reactions,” Adler points out. “This shows that you are addressing their wants and needs instead of just your own. A passionate musician doesn’t play fast and loud all the time but responds to the mood of the music — a good kisser is much the same way.”
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to incorporating some tongue into their kissing. However, it’s universally true that you should never lead with your tongue. Using tongue right away can catch your partner off guard and even repulse them. A good kiss starts with the lips only and incorporates the tongue gradually, reacting to the mood and to how the other person is responding. A little tongue can really elevate the kiss, but less is almost always more.
Most of us are familiar with this kissing faux pas from its use in movies and TV shows, where it’s often portrayed as a red flag. Regardless of how you are feeling, it’s usually interpreted as a sign that you are not fully immersed in the kiss, and it can be off-putting for your partner. Keeping your eyes closed heightens your awareness of your other senses, which actually makes the kiss more pleasurable for you. It helps create the feeling that you and your partner are in a world of your own, fully present with one another, which is the feeling that defines a truly great kiss.
While a stellar first kiss can help seal the deal when it comes to dating someone, a lackluster first kiss is by no means a dealbreaker.
“If you ever come away from a first kiss feeling like you’ve messed up, the best thing to do is simply to keep your head up, stay positive, and move on,” advises Adler. “If the rest of the date went well, there’s no reason to treat the moment of the kiss as a be-all-end-all. Instead, take some time after the date to think about what may have made it unsatisfying and what you could do differently next time.”
More often than not, it’s your own nerves that get in the way–next time, try to focus instead on the other person, and allow yourself to follow their lead. Once you’ve gotten more comfortable, consider taking the lead yourself, and then giving it back to them–it helps keep them guessing and keeps things exciting. Getting a sense of what their kissing style is and working to match it is a reliable way to make the second kiss be the one that really sends sparks flying.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(97) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/11/five-common-first-kiss-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(350) "The first kiss marks the moment when two people, standing at the precipice of friendship versus “something more,” take a leap of faith to fall over the edge into whatever that “something more” is. It’s an important moment because it shifts a relationship beyond friendship or platonic affection and into genuine romance. A kiss is […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(5395) "
The first kiss marks the moment when two people, standing at the precipice of friendship versus “something more,” take a leap of faith to fall over the edge into whatever that “something more” is. It’s an important moment because it shifts a relationship beyond friendship or platonic affection and into genuine romance. A kiss is an intimate gesture that communicates volumes in a way that words cannot – attraction, affection, tenderness, desire, pleasure, delight and so much more.
Beyond that, the quality of the kiss and the way you initiate it can tell your partner a lot about who you are romantically.
“A first kiss can be a deeply profound and memorable experience that serves as a positive touchstone throughout the relationship,” says Barbie Adler, the Founder and President of Selective Search, a leading national luxury matchmaking firm that has helped thousands of singles find lasting love. “Couples who have been together for decades often remember exactly where and when they had their first kiss. While a lot of this has to do with the particular person you share the moment with, there are some steps you can take beforehand to help guarantee that it will have that special magic.”
This might seem like an obvious point, but its importance can’t be overstated. When kissing, you want all of the focus to be on the sense of touch rather than taste or smell. Having fresh breath makes the kiss more pleasant for your date and shows forethought on your part. Whether or not you will be eating on the date, you should always give your teeth a thorough brushing beforehand and bring some mints or gum along just to be sure.
Having excessively dry lips is not a particularly flattering look, and it can be very uncomfortable and distracting for your partner. Fortunately, this is a simple problem to solve. Regardless of whether you habitually use some sort of moisturizer or lip balm, you should definitely use it on the days up to and including your date. Not only will having soft, moist lips spare your partner some discomfort, but it will add enjoyment to their experience.
A passionate kiss is a good thing, but “passion” too often gets confused with sheer force or intensity. If one partner is kissing too hard or too fast and barely giving the other a chance to breathe, the kiss can quickly turn unpleasant. “The best kisses are responsive to your partner and attentive to their reactions,” Adler points out. “This shows that you are addressing their wants and needs instead of just your own. A passionate musician doesn’t play fast and loud all the time but responds to the mood of the music — a good kisser is much the same way.”
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to incorporating some tongue into their kissing. However, it’s universally true that you should never lead with your tongue. Using tongue right away can catch your partner off guard and even repulse them. A good kiss starts with the lips only and incorporates the tongue gradually, reacting to the mood and to how the other person is responding. A little tongue can really elevate the kiss, but less is almost always more.
Most of us are familiar with this kissing faux pas from its use in movies and TV shows, where it’s often portrayed as a red flag. Regardless of how you are feeling, it’s usually interpreted as a sign that you are not fully immersed in the kiss, and it can be off-putting for your partner. Keeping your eyes closed heightens your awareness of your other senses, which actually makes the kiss more pleasurable for you. It helps create the feeling that you and your partner are in a world of your own, fully present with one another, which is the feeling that defines a truly great kiss.
While a stellar first kiss can help seal the deal when it comes to dating someone, a lackluster first kiss is by no means a dealbreaker.
“If you ever come away from a first kiss feeling like you’ve messed up, the best thing to do is simply to keep your head up, stay positive, and move on,” advises Adler. “If the rest of the date went well, there’s no reason to treat the moment of the kiss as a be-all-end-all. Instead, take some time after the date to think about what may have made it unsatisfying and what you could do differently next time.”
More often than not, it’s your own nerves that get in the way–next time, try to focus instead on the other person, and allow yourself to follow their lead. Once you’ve gotten more comfortable, consider taking the lead yourself, and then giving it back to them–it helps keep them guessing and keeps things exciting. Getting a sense of what their kissing style is and working to match it is a reliable way to make the second kiss be the one that really sends sparks flying.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1726063732) } [7]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(63) "Why Do Guys Think The Grass Is Always Greener With Other Women?" ["link"]=> string(101) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/04/why-do-guys-think-the-grass-is-always-greener-with-other-women/" ["comments"]=> string(109) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/04/why-do-guys-think-the-grass-is-always-greener-with-other-women/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(9) "Alex Wise" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:31:08 +0000" ["category"]=> string(43) "Dating AdvicedatingOther Womenrelationships" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9160" ["description"]=> string(345) "“You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.” Cliche but very true. I’m sure every person has had that experience of ending a relationship or being dumped, only to wonder afterwards why we weren’t appreciative of the person when we were with them. Barry Schwartz wrote a fabulous book The Paradox of Choice: Why More […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(6256) "
“You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.” Cliche but very true. I’m sure every person has had that experience of ending a relationship or being dumped, only to wonder afterwards why we weren’t appreciative of the person when we were with them.
Barry Schwartz wrote a fabulous book The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less where he talks about how dating can often be compared to surfing channels on TV. You are just about to commit to a show, but you always wonder if one more lap around the channels will give you the “perfect” show to watch. The same can apply to dating. Say you’re dating a woman for a few weeks, things are going great, but what if there is an “even better” match for you. Even more so with online dating, since it can reduce the partners on Match.com to start looking like a commodity to be traded in for an upgrade.
For guys, one big factor in this is the myth of “if I were single right now I’d have tons of hot women throwing themselves at me.” Um, sure dude. So your woman is giving you a hard time today. But if you were a bachelor again, you’d most likely have the same ups and downs of any single man: Hot Pockets for dinner, lame first dates, feeling empty after a random bar hookup. Fantasize all you want, but reality checks are healthy, too.
I know for me, after most of my relationships ended, whether short or long-term, I usually went through a period of remorse, rehashing all the opportunities I had to tell her the things I loved about her, but didn’t say a word. By rehashing, I mean sobbing while curled up on the floor.
After I eventually got out of my victim story, I took the experience as a lesson to carry into and practice in my next relationship.
“Praise is literal food for feminine qualities. If you want your woman to grow in her radiance health, happiness, love, beauty, power and depth, praise these qualities. Praise them daily. A number of times.” – David Deida
Unless you live in a monastery in Tibet, as a guy you WILL see attractive, sexy women throughout your day, for the rest of your life. And that is a wonderful thing. But just be mindful of the thoughts that come up AFTER you notice a beautiful woman. “Oh, she’d make a great girlfriend.” “I bet SHE wouldn’t nag me about my socks on the floor.” “She’d probably do all the kinky things I want in bed.” Those are thoughts that may be true (not likely) or may not be true (likely). Either way, the reality is that it often just kickstarts an endless loop of thoughts that take you AWAY from your current woman. Enjoy the energy that attractive women bring to the world. But also keep your ultimate intention alive. And unless you want a distant and unfulfilling connection with your woman, get on the appreciation bus.
Here are 3 suggestions for having your own woman’s grass be the greenest in your world:
The BIG P.S: Of course, all of this is NOT to say that relationships end simply because a man didn’t appreciate his woman enough. There are always many factors in a relationship, and it’s a mix of both partner’s personalities, patterns and intentions. And this also isn’t to imply that women don’t do their own things that push men away.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(106) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/04/why-do-guys-think-the-grass-is-always-greener-with-other-women/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(345) "“You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.” Cliche but very true. I’m sure every person has had that experience of ending a relationship or being dumped, only to wonder afterwards why we weren’t appreciative of the person when we were with them. Barry Schwartz wrote a fabulous book The Paradox of Choice: Why More […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(6256) "“You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.” Cliche but very true. I’m sure every person has had that experience of ending a relationship or being dumped, only to wonder afterwards why we weren’t appreciative of the person when we were with them.
Barry Schwartz wrote a fabulous book The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less where he talks about how dating can often be compared to surfing channels on TV. You are just about to commit to a show, but you always wonder if one more lap around the channels will give you the “perfect” show to watch. The same can apply to dating. Say you’re dating a woman for a few weeks, things are going great, but what if there is an “even better” match for you. Even more so with online dating, since it can reduce the partners on Match.com to start looking like a commodity to be traded in for an upgrade.
For guys, one big factor in this is the myth of “if I were single right now I’d have tons of hot women throwing themselves at me.” Um, sure dude. So your woman is giving you a hard time today. But if you were a bachelor again, you’d most likely have the same ups and downs of any single man: Hot Pockets for dinner, lame first dates, feeling empty after a random bar hookup. Fantasize all you want, but reality checks are healthy, too.
I know for me, after most of my relationships ended, whether short or long-term, I usually went through a period of remorse, rehashing all the opportunities I had to tell her the things I loved about her, but didn’t say a word. By rehashing, I mean sobbing while curled up on the floor.
After I eventually got out of my victim story, I took the experience as a lesson to carry into and practice in my next relationship.
“Praise is literal food for feminine qualities. If you want your woman to grow in her radiance health, happiness, love, beauty, power and depth, praise these qualities. Praise them daily. A number of times.” – David Deida
Unless you live in a monastery in Tibet, as a guy you WILL see attractive, sexy women throughout your day, for the rest of your life. And that is a wonderful thing. But just be mindful of the thoughts that come up AFTER you notice a beautiful woman. “Oh, she’d make a great girlfriend.” “I bet SHE wouldn’t nag me about my socks on the floor.” “She’d probably do all the kinky things I want in bed.” Those are thoughts that may be true (not likely) or may not be true (likely). Either way, the reality is that it often just kickstarts an endless loop of thoughts that take you AWAY from your current woman. Enjoy the energy that attractive women bring to the world. But also keep your ultimate intention alive. And unless you want a distant and unfulfilling connection with your woman, get on the appreciation bus.
Here are 3 suggestions for having your own woman’s grass be the greenest in your world:
The BIG P.S: Of course, all of this is NOT to say that relationships end simply because a man didn’t appreciate his woman enough. There are always many factors in a relationship, and it’s a mix of both partner’s personalities, patterns and intentions. And this also isn’t to imply that women don’t do their own things that push men away.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1725460268) } [8]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(51) "Why Not Wed Now? The Rise of Eloping in Modern Love" ["link"]=> string(89) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/04/why-not-wed-now-the-rise-of-eloping-in-modern-love/" ["comments"]=> string(97) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/04/why-not-wed-now-the-rise-of-eloping-in-modern-love/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(9) "Alex Wise" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:22:00 +0000" ["category"]=> string(81) "Weddinghoneymoonhoneymoon packagesMatrimonyweddingwedding in the U.Swedding setup" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9157" ["description"]=> string(390) "Gone are the days when weddings meant grand ballrooms, hundreds of guests, and a year-long planning frenzy. Today’s couples are increasingly ditching the traditional nuptials playbook in favor of something simpler, more personal, and yes—spontaneous. Eloping is no longer just a plot twist in romantic comedies; it’s becoming a mainstream choice for lovers seeking a […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(5405) "Gone are the days when weddings meant grand ballrooms, hundreds of guests, and a year-long planning frenzy. Today’s couples are increasingly ditching the traditional nuptials playbook in favor of something simpler, more personal, and yes—spontaneous. Eloping is no longer just a plot twist in romantic comedies; it’s becoming a mainstream choice for lovers seeking a meaningful union without the spectacle. This shift reflects broader cultural changes, with modern couples valuing authenticity, intimacy, and financial savvy over conventional wedding norms.
What’s the big appeal of eloping? Imagine the freedom of marrying your best friend without the stress of seating charts, catering disasters, and the dreaded guest list politics. Elopements strip down the ceremony to its core: the union of two souls. This isn’t about skipping the celebration; it’s about tailoring it to what truly matters to the couple. Many see it as a way to start their journey without the pressure, allowing them to focus on each other rather than on orchestrating a massive event.
The financial benefits of eloping are undeniably attractive. The average wedding in the U.S. can tug at the purse strings, with expenses often stretching into tens of thousands of dollars. In contrast, eloping is a fraction of that cost, even with some luxurious embellishments. This isn’t merely about being thrifty; it’s about investing in what the couple values most. Maybe that means buying a home, traveling the world, or preparing for future adventures together. Many modern lovers simply don’t want to plan a wedding that aligns more with others’ expectations than their own dreams.
Among the hottest trends in eloping is destination elopement, combining the wedding and honeymoon into one unforgettable escape. Finding all-inclusive elopement packages in Arizona, Hawaii, or California is easy online, presenting couples with picturesque settings from sun-kissed beaches to serene deserts. These packages often include everything the couple needs, from a celebrant and a photographer to a perfectly styled venue. This convenience means they can literally show up and get married amidst breathtaking landscapes. For many, this choice is not just about ease; it’s about making the wedding a personal adventure, a true beginning of a lifetime’s journey in some of the most stunning places on earth.
One of the most profound reasons couples choose to elope is the desire for a deeply personal experience. Traditional weddings can sometimes feel like they’re more about the guests than the couple getting married. Eloping flips this on its head, offering a day that’s entirely about the couple’s love and commitment. This intimate affair allows for genuine moments that are often swallowed up in larger ceremonies. Couples can exchange vows in quiet, secluded spots that hold special meaning or even whisper sweet nothings without an audience. The intimacy of an elopement can strengthen the bond between partners, making the day truly about their union and nothing else.
The flexibility to customize their day without the constraints of a traditional wedding setup is a huge draw for eloping couples. Whether it’s incorporating unique traditions, adventurous activities, or unconventional attire, eloping gives the freedom to break the mold. Couples can craft a day that reflects their true selves, whether that’s hiking to a remote mountaintop to say “I do” or having a simple ceremony in their backyard with just their dog as a witness. This level of personalization ensures that their wedding day feels authentic and unforgettable.
As societal norms evolve, so too does the concept of marriage and how it should be celebrated. The rise of eloping signifies a shift towards more egalitarian relationships where decisions are made in tandem, focusing on what’s best for the couple. It’s a move away from the spectacle and towards substance. Additionally, as social media continues to spotlight the most extravagant aspects of weddings, more couples are choosing to avoid the comparison trap and opt for something that feels true to who they are, away from the public eye.
Eloping is not just a trend; it’s a reflection of changing priorities and the value modern couples place on authenticity, intimacy, and personalization. It’s about making the day yours and keeping the focus on the most important aspect—the love shared between two people. Whether on a sunlit beach or a quiet city hall, eloping is reshaping the wedding industry one heartfelt, genuine ceremony at a time.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(94) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/09/04/why-not-wed-now-the-rise-of-eloping-in-modern-love/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(390) "Gone are the days when weddings meant grand ballrooms, hundreds of guests, and a year-long planning frenzy. Today’s couples are increasingly ditching the traditional nuptials playbook in favor of something simpler, more personal, and yes—spontaneous. Eloping is no longer just a plot twist in romantic comedies; it’s becoming a mainstream choice for lovers seeking a […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(5405) "
Gone are the days when weddings meant grand ballrooms, hundreds of guests, and a year-long planning frenzy. Today’s couples are increasingly ditching the traditional nuptials playbook in favor of something simpler, more personal, and yes—spontaneous. Eloping is no longer just a plot twist in romantic comedies; it’s becoming a mainstream choice for lovers seeking a meaningful union without the spectacle. This shift reflects broader cultural changes, with modern couples valuing authenticity, intimacy, and financial savvy over conventional wedding norms.
What’s the big appeal of eloping? Imagine the freedom of marrying your best friend without the stress of seating charts, catering disasters, and the dreaded guest list politics. Elopements strip down the ceremony to its core: the union of two souls. This isn’t about skipping the celebration; it’s about tailoring it to what truly matters to the couple. Many see it as a way to start their journey without the pressure, allowing them to focus on each other rather than on orchestrating a massive event.
The financial benefits of eloping are undeniably attractive. The average wedding in the U.S. can tug at the purse strings, with expenses often stretching into tens of thousands of dollars. In contrast, eloping is a fraction of that cost, even with some luxurious embellishments. This isn’t merely about being thrifty; it’s about investing in what the couple values most. Maybe that means buying a home, traveling the world, or preparing for future adventures together. Many modern lovers simply don’t want to plan a wedding that aligns more with others’ expectations than their own dreams.
Among the hottest trends in eloping is destination elopement, combining the wedding and honeymoon into one unforgettable escape. Finding all-inclusive elopement packages in Arizona, Hawaii, or California is easy online, presenting couples with picturesque settings from sun-kissed beaches to serene deserts. These packages often include everything the couple needs, from a celebrant and a photographer to a perfectly styled venue. This convenience means they can literally show up and get married amidst breathtaking landscapes. For many, this choice is not just about ease; it’s about making the wedding a personal adventure, a true beginning of a lifetime’s journey in some of the most stunning places on earth.
One of the most profound reasons couples choose to elope is the desire for a deeply personal experience. Traditional weddings can sometimes feel like they’re more about the guests than the couple getting married. Eloping flips this on its head, offering a day that’s entirely about the couple’s love and commitment. This intimate affair allows for genuine moments that are often swallowed up in larger ceremonies. Couples can exchange vows in quiet, secluded spots that hold special meaning or even whisper sweet nothings without an audience. The intimacy of an elopement can strengthen the bond between partners, making the day truly about their union and nothing else.
The flexibility to customize their day without the constraints of a traditional wedding setup is a huge draw for eloping couples. Whether it’s incorporating unique traditions, adventurous activities, or unconventional attire, eloping gives the freedom to break the mold. Couples can craft a day that reflects their true selves, whether that’s hiking to a remote mountaintop to say “I do” or having a simple ceremony in their backyard with just their dog as a witness. This level of personalization ensures that their wedding day feels authentic and unforgettable.
As societal norms evolve, so too does the concept of marriage and how it should be celebrated. The rise of eloping signifies a shift towards more egalitarian relationships where decisions are made in tandem, focusing on what’s best for the couple. It’s a move away from the spectacle and towards substance. Additionally, as social media continues to spotlight the most extravagant aspects of weddings, more couples are choosing to avoid the comparison trap and opt for something that feels true to who they are, away from the public eye.
Eloping is not just a trend; it’s a reflection of changing priorities and the value modern couples place on authenticity, intimacy, and personalization. It’s about making the day yours and keeping the focus on the most important aspect—the love shared between two people. Whether on a sunlit beach or a quiet city hall, eloping is reshaping the wedding industry one heartfelt, genuine ceremony at a time.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1725459720) } [9]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(44) "How A Man Should Deal With A Pregnancy Scare" ["link"]=> string(83) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/08/13/how-a-man-should-deal-with-a-pregnancy-scare/" ["comments"]=> string(91) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/08/13/how-a-man-should-deal-with-a-pregnancy-scare/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(10) "Andrew Tch" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Tue, 13 Aug 2024 14:23:56 +0000" ["category"]=> string(100) "ParentingDeal With A PregnancyPregnancyPregnancy ScarePregnancy Testrelationship immediately changes" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9152" ["description"]=> string(325) "There are many joys of being in a loving relationship. Regular laughter, smiles and sex are just to name a few of them. Although, when you experience the irregular things, it’s not as joyous–in fact, it’s downright scary. There are two words put together that will scare any man and last weekend I heard them: […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(4274) "
There are many joys of being in a loving relationship. Regular laughter, smiles and sex are just to name a few of them. Although, when you experience the irregular things, it’s not as joyous–in fact, it’s downright scary.
There are two words put together that will scare any man and last weekend I heard them: “I’m late.”
When a guy hears those two little words, he wants to run, cry, scream and throw up especially if he is not ready to be a father.
When my girfriend dropped the bomb on me, I tried to stay calm, tried to say all the right things, but I when I opened my mouth.
Since both of us are not as financially stable as we should be at our ages (due to the fact that we live in a city that no longer has a middle class) and the fact that we’re old enough to be parents, (even if we both don’t want to be right now) we’ve never been so scared before in our lives.
The next few hours were a blur of emotions, however we handled it accordingly and if you’re a guy in a similar situation like this, here are some guidelines to get through it:
Don’t ever let your girlfriend type up symptoms on the computer. She will not only scare the living shit out of herself but she will do the same to you as well. My girlfriend went from thinking she was pregnant to thinking she had ovarian cancer in less than two minutes just because her breasts weren’t sore. (I’m not even f*cking joking.) So, if you’re having a pregnancy scare, stay away from the computer because only a pregnancy test will give you the answer you need.
Not that you’re going to be particularly horny anyway because hearing “I’m late” will automatically make you temporarily impotent, but if you are trying to distract yourself from the situation through sex, she will not be having it–AT ALL.
It’s easy to get mad at each other during a pregnancy scare. Even though you might want to scream at the top of your lungs, “How the f*ck aren’t you on birth control already?” or “Why did you ride me so hard that the condom literally burned rubber?”–DON’T. Let’s face it: You both screwed up and pointing fingers is not going to make the situation any easier.
Although you must be thinking that taking a pregnancy test should be the first thing on this list, I will tell you why it’s not. What if your girlfriend really is pregnant? The second you see that positive sign, your relationship immediately changes and it won’t ever be the same again regardless if you decide to keep the baby or not. That is why you should take the day off and do all the fun things you can think of before you eventually have to take the test. I took my girlfriend to Centre Island in Toronto and we rode the Scrambler, walked around, ate ice cream and spent the night on Ward Beach where I built a fire for us. It was an incredible night and this reassured her that no matter what the test results were going to be, that I was going to be by her side through it all.
After you had a great day with one another, wake up and have her take the test. Morning pee is apparently the strongest to detect the pregnancy hormone and you shouldn’t delay it any further. Don’t let her take it alone. You have every right to be there by her side–unless of course she doesn’t want you to watch her pee on a stick. In that case, just wait on the couch until she opens the door.
So the test came up ‘negative.’ I’m not going to lie, we partied like it was 1999 and in a weird way, the whole experience made us stronger as a couple. We now know that we need to be more responsible when it comes to birth control (especially since we’re not ready to be parents) and even though we don’t want to be parents yet, we’re starting to think about moving in together.
Maybe I’m not ready to be a father–but I think I am definitely ready to take “baby steps” to being the man who will be ready in the future.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(88) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2024/08/13/how-a-man-should-deal-with-a-pregnancy-scare/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(325) "There are many joys of being in a loving relationship. Regular laughter, smiles and sex are just to name a few of them. Although, when you experience the irregular things, it’s not as joyous–in fact, it’s downright scary. There are two words put together that will scare any man and last weekend I heard them: […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(4274) "There are many joys of being in a loving relationship. Regular laughter, smiles and sex are just to name a few of them. Although, when you experience the irregular things, it’s not as joyous–in fact, it’s downright scary.
There are two words put together that will scare any man and last weekend I heard them: “I’m late.”
When a guy hears those two little words, he wants to run, cry, scream and throw up especially if he is not ready to be a father.
When my girfriend dropped the bomb on me, I tried to stay calm, tried to say all the right things, but I when I opened my mouth.
Since both of us are not as financially stable as we should be at our ages (due to the fact that we live in a city that no longer has a middle class) and the fact that we’re old enough to be parents, (even if we both don’t want to be right now) we’ve never been so scared before in our lives.
The next few hours were a blur of emotions, however we handled it accordingly and if you’re a guy in a similar situation like this, here are some guidelines to get through it:
Don’t ever let your girlfriend type up symptoms on the computer. She will not only scare the living shit out of herself but she will do the same to you as well. My girlfriend went from thinking she was pregnant to thinking she had ovarian cancer in less than two minutes just because her breasts weren’t sore. (I’m not even f*cking joking.) So, if you’re having a pregnancy scare, stay away from the computer because only a pregnancy test will give you the answer you need.
Not that you’re going to be particularly horny anyway because hearing “I’m late” will automatically make you temporarily impotent, but if you are trying to distract yourself from the situation through sex, she will not be having it–AT ALL.
It’s easy to get mad at each other during a pregnancy scare. Even though you might want to scream at the top of your lungs, “How the f*ck aren’t you on birth control already?” or “Why did you ride me so hard that the condom literally burned rubber?”–DON’T. Let’s face it: You both screwed up and pointing fingers is not going to make the situation any easier.
Although you must be thinking that taking a pregnancy test should be the first thing on this list, I will tell you why it’s not. What if your girlfriend really is pregnant? The second you see that positive sign, your relationship immediately changes and it won’t ever be the same again regardless if you decide to keep the baby or not. That is why you should take the day off and do all the fun things you can think of before you eventually have to take the test. I took my girlfriend to Centre Island in Toronto and we rode the Scrambler, walked around, ate ice cream and spent the night on Ward Beach where I built a fire for us. It was an incredible night and this reassured her that no matter what the test results were going to be, that I was going to be by her side through it all.
After you had a great day with one another, wake up and have her take the test. Morning pee is apparently the strongest to detect the pregnancy hormone and you shouldn’t delay it any further. Don’t let her take it alone. You have every right to be there by her side–unless of course she doesn’t want you to watch her pee on a stick. In that case, just wait on the couch until she opens the door.
So the test came up ‘negative.’ I’m not going to lie, we partied like it was 1999 and in a weird way, the whole experience made us stronger as a couple. We now know that we need to be more responsible when it comes to birth control (especially since we’re not ready to be parents) and even though we don’t want to be parents yet, we’re starting to think about moving in together.
Maybe I’m not ready to be a father–but I think I am definitely ready to take “baby steps” to being the man who will be ready in the future.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1723559036) } } ["channel"]=> array(8) { ["title"]=> string(18) "Loveawake.com blog" ["link"]=> string(26) "https://blog.loveawake.com" ["description"]=> string(27) "Free dating tips and advice" ["lastbuilddate"]=> string(31) "Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:05:58 +0000" ["language"]=> string(5) "en-US" ["sy"]=> array(2) { ["updateperiod"]=> string(9) " hourly " ["updatefrequency"]=> string(4) " 1 " } ["generator"]=> string(30) "https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.5" ["tagline"]=> string(27) "Free dating tips and advice" } ["textinput"]=> array(0) { } ["image"]=> array(0) { } ["feed_type"]=> string(3) "RSS" ["feed_version"]=> string(3) "2.0" ["encoding"]=> string(5) "UTF-8" ["_source_encoding"]=> string(0) "" ["ERROR"]=> string(0) "" ["WARNING"]=> string(0) "" ["_CONTENT_CONSTRUCTS"]=> array(6) { [0]=> string(7) "content" [1]=> string(7) "summary" [2]=> string(4) "info" [3]=> string(5) "title" [4]=> string(7) "tagline" [5]=> string(9) "copyright" } ["_KNOWN_ENCODINGS"]=> array(3) { [0]=> string(5) "UTF-8" [1]=> string(8) "US-ASCII" [2]=> string(10) "ISO-8859-1" } ["stack"]=> array(0) { } ["inchannel"]=> bool(false) ["initem"]=> bool(false) ["incontent"]=> bool(false) ["intextinput"]=> bool(false) ["inimage"]=> bool(false) ["current_namespace"]=> bool(false) ["last_modified"]=> string(31) "Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:05:58 GMT " ["etag"]=> string(36) ""1c0fac3213b0fb33091c54151ae0cdc2" " }