Example Output

Parsed Results (var_dump'ed)

object(MagpieRSS)#3 (23) {
  ["parser"]=>
  resource(12) of type (Unknown)
  ["current_item"]=>
  array(0) {
  }
  ["items"]=>
  array(10) {
    [0]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(35) "Signs You’ve Been Single Too Long"
      ["link"]=>
      string(71) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/21/signs-youve-been-single-too-long/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(79) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/21/signs-youve-been-single-too-long/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Thu, 21 Feb 2019 11:38:18 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(46) "Being Singleadviceinterestingsinglesingle life"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1676"
      ["description"]=>
      string(565) "
Whether it’s been weeks, months, or, dare I say, years, there comes a point when you need to face facts: you’ve been single too long. Being single can be really great. It gives you the time to catch up with the rest your life, concentrate on your career, hang out with the boys, and, hopefully, […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(10982) "
Whether it’s been weeks, months, or, dare I say, years, there comes a point when you need to face facts: you’ve been single too long. Being single can be really great. It gives you the time to catch up with the rest your life, concentrate on your career, hang out with the boys, and, hopefully, get to know yourself better.
It’s the perfect opportunity to assess past relationships, figure out what it is that you want and don’t want, and prepare yourself for when she finally walks into your life.
But the day you see a yeti staring back at you in the mirror, you can say with almost perfect certainty that, yup, you’ve been single too long. You can stop the downward spiral before it gets that dire; you just need to ask yourself a few honest questions.
Do you want to have sex with your ex?
Maybe it’s the extra beer you just drank. Maybe it’s the romantic Hugh Grant movie on late-night that you swore you would never watch. Maybe it’s the fact that you’re sitting in your living room alone… again.
Admit it. You’ve been thinking about sleeping with your ex. Not in a fantasy, remembering the good times sort of way; but in a what-if, one hesitation away from hitting “send” sort of way.
Take my advice: keep your finger off the button. This isn’t the “I drunkenly slept with my best friend’s ex” kind of trouble. This is impending doom. It will only end in a blazing ball of fire. Going back for a second round will only serve to highlight your original problems. Once the post-sex afterglow has worn off, you’ll be right back in it. It’s inevitable.
When these moments hit, do whatever you can to distract yourself. Go for a bike ride until your legs are going to fall off. Meet up with friends for a beer. Take your mother out for dinner. Whatever you decide, it’s imperative that you leave your phone at home. Shut it off and walk away.
Are you sleeping with wildly inappropriate women?
Let’s be honest; you’ve probably always thought about sex with inappropriate women. But are you now acting on it? Have you woken up next to your buddy’s baby sister, your mother’s friend, the older lady from the grocery store? Has your personal age of consent dropped frighteningly low?
It’s official. You’ve been single too long. First things first: whatever you do, either don’t do her, stop doing her, or don’t do her again. You’ve caused enough damage. There’s no need to wreak more havoc on her ego and your reputation.
Now, take a good hard look at the situation and realize that it’s inappropriate for a reason. People are already starting to talk. You don’t need to be known as that guy. There’s no way back from being “him”. Take a breather and keep it in your pants.
Are your standards steadily sloping?
When once there was a day that you wouldn’t look twice at a 5, do you now find yourself chatting up a 3? Are you now willing to put up with things that were once serious deal-breakers? Do you look across the restaurant table and wonder what the hell you’re doing here?
That’s desperation setting in, a real red flag that you’ve been single too long. Once this realization has hit you in all its glory, now is a good time to assess your love life.
Take stock of what you want, what you can’t live without, and what you absolutely cannot live with. It’s tough, but don’t let go of that list. When it comes to what you want, compromise can be a very slippery, very steep slope.
Is your phone’s wallpaper your dog?
Pull your phone out of your pocket. Be honest. Are your doggy’s brown eyes staring back at you? Last night, did you find yourself telling your friends about the cute thing she did the other day? Do you feel a little chagrined when you wake up to find she’s not asleep at your feet?
After being single for a good period, it’s nice to come home to a little pet love and affection. But when you start obsessing, going 10 blocks out of your way to the butc her, you’ve been single for too long. Clearly, you’ve been single too long. You need to start getting out there again, find someone to bestow that pent up affection on.
Has your hobby taken over your life?
Hobbies are great. A diversified life, curious-mind, and healthy taste for adventure are huge turn ons. No woman wants a man who is afraid to take a chance. But, if your new hobby is about to bankrupt you, and yet you still can’t stop, perhaps it’s time to take a break. You need to step back and reassess.
Once again, you’ve found a replacement for a real-live girl on which to devote all your time and attention. Maybe it’s just laziness, maybe it’s fear of being hurt again; whatever your reason, it’s time to stop distracting yourself.
Face whatever it is that has been stopping you. If you’re not ready to give up your obsession quite yet, use your present love to find your future love.
Has your Nana begun to set you up?
You’re driving, unusually slow, down the highway. Your vision is blurring, breath quickened and shallow; you wipe the cold sweat from your brow and listen as your heart pounds. This isn’t a bout of the flu, this is panic, worsening as you approach your final destination until you’re convinced that your head is going to explode.
You’ve arrived, there’s no avoiding what will come next: a new list of young women your Nana is convinced would be perfect. All of whom make you want to run for the hills.
Your love life has hit rock bottom and you’ve been single too long. Every woman in your family now calls, texts, emails, wall posts, tweets, and practically sky-writes about their latest choice for a blind date, each one just perfect.
The gentle look of concern in their eyes has turned to desperation – why can’t he just find a nice girl, they plead. You have run out of appropriate answers.
Instead of sitting back and letting your love life happen to you, now is the time to get proactive. Maybe you should take your Aunt Joan up on that blind date. Maybe you should chat up the ”nice girl” your Nana brought home for you.

Whatever you do, point your energy in the right direction. Doing something is better than doing nothing. You never know where it will bring you. If you continue to do nothing, we both know exactly where you’ll end up. Right where you are.
Have you let yourself go?
Everyone lets their self go a little post-breakup. After months of hard work keeping your best foot forward, eating with your mouth closed, and generally being your polite self, there’s a little delight in letting it all hang out – especially after a long relationship. It’s suddenly rewarding being an utter pig again. Sloth is liberating and rebellious. It’s easy to revel in it.
But when you start scaring the neighborhood children, I can tell you with almost absolute certainty that the limits of your singlehood grace period have been reached. Your personal rebellion is in its final stages; the dream is dying a speedy death. It’s time to clean yourself up and get back out there.
First things first: a really long, extremely thorough shower. Attend to every nook and cranny. Shave. The mountain-man has returned to the city. Now that you can reenter into society somewhat, get a real haircut.
Next, and the hardest step, stop ordering greasy takeout. Cook for a change. Eat a vegetable every once in a while. In general, get off your lazy ass; maybe even get some sun and some fresh air.
Is masturbating just not cutting it anymore?
You never believed it. You never thought it could happen to you. Your 14-year-old self who has just discovered the greatest thing on earth is reeling from the revelation. You really can have too much of a good thing!
Masturbation has suddenly lost all its charm and allure. Your constant companion, your good old fallback, the longest relationship you’ve ever had, is starting to let you down. Even porn isn`t as exciting as it once was.
Now it’s official: You’ve been single too long. You can put up with a lot, but this is your limit. This is when panic starts to set in.
Just like when you’ve been with a partner for a good amount of time, you can get a little bored with each other. At the beginning you weren’t able to keep your hands off each other, and in the middle you’re going to bed because you’re actually tired. It’s easy to get a little lazy.
To keep things going, you need constant creativity and a spirit of experimentation. When you’re in a partnership of one, believe it or not, same rules apply.
Instead of wasting your energy coming up with new ways to get off, why not harness this energy for good.
So, you’ve been single too long?
Let this be your catalyst to break your cycle of singlehood. Everyone is looking for someone special, someone for the long haul. But relationships, like all major life events, rarely just happen. They take a little time, a little energy, and a lot of effort.
You must actively participate in your finding of a new partner. Stop sitting around, expecting it to just fall into your lap. Wake up and do something about it. Get out there.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(76) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/21/signs-youve-been-single-too-long/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(565) "
Whether it’s been weeks, months, or, dare I say, years, there comes a point when you need to face facts: you’ve been single too long. Being single can be really great. It gives you the time to catch up with the rest your life, concentrate on your career, hang out with the boys, and, hopefully, […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(10982) "
Whether it’s been weeks, months, or, dare I say, years, there comes a point when you need to face facts: you’ve been single too long. Being single can be really great. It gives you the time to catch up with the rest your life, concentrate on your career, hang out with the boys, and, hopefully, get to know yourself better.
It’s the perfect opportunity to assess past relationships, figure out what it is that you want and don’t want, and prepare yourself for when she finally walks into your life.
But the day you see a yeti staring back at you in the mirror, you can say with almost perfect certainty that, yup, you’ve been single too long. You can stop the downward spiral before it gets that dire; you just need to ask yourself a few honest questions.
Do you want to have sex with your ex?
Maybe it’s the extra beer you just drank. Maybe it’s the romantic Hugh Grant movie on late-night that you swore you would never watch. Maybe it’s the fact that you’re sitting in your living room alone… again.
Admit it. You’ve been thinking about sleeping with your ex. Not in a fantasy, remembering the good times sort of way; but in a what-if, one hesitation away from hitting “send” sort of way.
Take my advice: keep your finger off the button. This isn’t the “I drunkenly slept with my best friend’s ex” kind of trouble. This is impending doom. It will only end in a blazing ball of fire. Going back for a second round will only serve to highlight your original problems. Once the post-sex afterglow has worn off, you’ll be right back in it. It’s inevitable.
When these moments hit, do whatever you can to distract yourself. Go for a bike ride until your legs are going to fall off. Meet up with friends for a beer. Take your mother out for dinner. Whatever you decide, it’s imperative that you leave your phone at home. Shut it off and walk away.
Are you sleeping with wildly inappropriate women?
Let’s be honest; you’ve probably always thought about sex with inappropriate women. But are you now acting on it? Have you woken up next to your buddy’s baby sister, your mother’s friend, the older lady from the grocery store? Has your personal age of consent dropped frighteningly low?
It’s official. You’ve been single too long. First things first: whatever you do, either don’t do her, stop doing her, or don’t do her again. You’ve caused enough damage. There’s no need to wreak more havoc on her ego and your reputation.
Now, take a good hard look at the situation and realize that it’s inappropriate for a reason. People are already starting to talk. You don’t need to be known as that guy. There’s no way back from being “him”. Take a breather and keep it in your pants.
Are your standards steadily sloping?
When once there was a day that you wouldn’t look twice at a 5, do you now find yourself chatting up a 3? Are you now willing to put up with things that were once serious deal-breakers? Do you look across the restaurant table and wonder what the hell you’re doing here?
That’s desperation setting in, a real red flag that you’ve been single too long. Once this realization has hit you in all its glory, now is a good time to assess your love life.
Take stock of what you want, what you can’t live without, and what you absolutely cannot live with. It’s tough, but don’t let go of that list. When it comes to what you want, compromise can be a very slippery, very steep slope.
Is your phone’s wallpaper your dog?
Pull your phone out of your pocket. Be honest. Are your doggy’s brown eyes staring back at you? Last night, did you find yourself telling your friends about the cute thing she did the other day? Do you feel a little chagrined when you wake up to find she’s not asleep at your feet?
After being single for a good period, it’s nice to come home to a little pet love and affection. But when you start obsessing, going 10 blocks out of your way to the butc her, you’ve been single for too long. Clearly, you’ve been single too long. You need to start getting out there again, find someone to bestow that pent up affection on.
Has your hobby taken over your life?
Hobbies are great. A diversified life, curious-mind, and healthy taste for adventure are huge turn ons. No woman wants a man who is afraid to take a chance. But, if your new hobby is about to bankrupt you, and yet you still can’t stop, perhaps it’s time to take a break. You need to step back and reassess.
Once again, you’ve found a replacement for a real-live girl on which to devote all your time and attention. Maybe it’s just laziness, maybe it’s fear of being hurt again; whatever your reason, it’s time to stop distracting yourself.
Face whatever it is that has been stopping you. If you’re not ready to give up your obsession quite yet, use your present love to find your future love.
Has your Nana begun to set you up?
You’re driving, unusually slow, down the highway. Your vision is blurring, breath quickened and shallow; you wipe the cold sweat from your brow and listen as your heart pounds. This isn’t a bout of the flu, this is panic, worsening as you approach your final destination until you’re convinced that your head is going to explode.
You’ve arrived, there’s no avoiding what will come next: a new list of young women your Nana is convinced would be perfect. All of whom make you want to run for the hills.
Your love life has hit rock bottom and you’ve been single too long. Every woman in your family now calls, texts, emails, wall posts, tweets, and practically sky-writes about their latest choice for a blind date, each one just perfect.
The gentle look of concern in their eyes has turned to desperation – why can’t he just find a nice girl, they plead. You have run out of appropriate answers.
Instead of sitting back and letting your love life happen to you, now is the time to get proactive. Maybe you should take your Aunt Joan up on that blind date. Maybe you should chat up the ”nice girl” your Nana brought home for you.

Whatever you do, point your energy in the right direction. Doing something is better than doing nothing. You never know where it will bring you. If you continue to do nothing, we both know exactly where you’ll end up. Right where you are.
Have you let yourself go?
Everyone lets their self go a little post-breakup. After months of hard work keeping your best foot forward, eating with your mouth closed, and generally being your polite self, there’s a little delight in letting it all hang out – especially after a long relationship. It’s suddenly rewarding being an utter pig again. Sloth is liberating and rebellious. It’s easy to revel in it.
But when you start scaring the neighborhood children, I can tell you with almost absolute certainty that the limits of your singlehood grace period have been reached. Your personal rebellion is in its final stages; the dream is dying a speedy death. It’s time to clean yourself up and get back out there.
First things first: a really long, extremely thorough shower. Attend to every nook and cranny. Shave. The mountain-man has returned to the city. Now that you can reenter into society somewhat, get a real haircut.
Next, and the hardest step, stop ordering greasy takeout. Cook for a change. Eat a vegetable every once in a while. In general, get off your lazy ass; maybe even get some sun and some fresh air.
Is masturbating just not cutting it anymore?
You never believed it. You never thought it could happen to you. Your 14-year-old self who has just discovered the greatest thing on earth is reeling from the revelation. You really can have too much of a good thing!
Masturbation has suddenly lost all its charm and allure. Your constant companion, your good old fallback, the longest relationship you’ve ever had, is starting to let you down. Even porn isn`t as exciting as it once was.
Now it’s official: You’ve been single too long. You can put up with a lot, but this is your limit. This is when panic starts to set in.
Just like when you’ve been with a partner for a good amount of time, you can get a little bored with each other. At the beginning you weren’t able to keep your hands off each other, and in the middle you’re going to bed because you’re actually tired. It’s easy to get a little lazy.
To keep things going, you need constant creativity and a spirit of experimentation. When you’re in a partnership of one, believe it or not, same rules apply.
Instead of wasting your energy coming up with new ways to get off, why not harness this energy for good.
So, you’ve been single too long?
Let this be your catalyst to break your cycle of singlehood. Everyone is looking for someone special, someone for the long haul. But relationships, like all major life events, rarely just happen. They take a little time, a little energy, and a lot of effort.
You must actively participate in your finding of a new partner. Stop sitting around, expecting it to just fall into your lap. Wake up and do something about it. Get out there.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [1]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(34) "How To Pick Up A Rich Girl To Date"
      ["link"]=>
      string(73) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/19/how-to-pick-up-a-rich-girl-to-date/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(81) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/19/how-to-pick-up-a-rich-girl-to-date/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Tue, 19 Feb 2019 12:42:28 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(55) "Dating Advicegirlgirlshow tohowtorelationshipsrichwomen"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1662"
      ["description"]=>
      string(575) "
Picking up a rich girl  is a real roller coaster ride of emotions. It can be done… but proceed with caution, friend. The Older, The Easier The stereotype of a “snobby little rich girl” is probably one of the most apt stereotypes out there — everyone under the age of 25 is already too cocky […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(7014) "
Picking up a rich girl  is a real roller coaster ride of emotions. It can be done… but proceed with caution, friend.
The Older, The Easier

The stereotype of a “snobby little rich girl” is probably one of the most apt stereotypes out there — everyone under the age of 25 is already too cocky for their own good and add a stack of hundreds and a lifetime of pampering to the pile and you’ve got one super entitled, very bitchy girl.
But as rich girls age, that edge of entitlement is replaced with a softening boredom with their lives in general. And thanks to easy living and some light (to major) plastic surgery, this cougar with cash to burn is a tight, tight package waiting for you to be her dangerous hobo (anyone who pulls in fewer than 6 figures a year is a hobo to a rich girl).
That’s not to say you can’t crack the nut that is a young rich girl. But the amount of effort it takes to pull that move off isn’t going to repaid by the fruit of your labor. Because young rich girls don’t give head. So aim OLDER.
Talk The Talk

You don’t have to drop a wad of cash on a rich girl and you don’t have to be dressed in the finest of Italian leathers (in fact, skip the finest of Italian leathers, dude). But if you don’t TALK like you’re a rich guy (and like you’ve been a rich guy all your life), you’re going to go down in flames.
Rich people don’t take vacations. They “holiday.” They don’t have couches. They have “sofas.” They don’t talk about doing the dishes or cleaning up after themselves because they all have “a girl” who does that stuff for them. The 1993 Will Smith film “Six Degrees of Separation” has a great primer on how to expertly fake it like a rich guy.
The goal here isn’t to memorize canned dialogue and try to impress the rich girl in question. You just need to confidently converse as if you’ve had  in the bank your whole life and make sure to not raise any red flags with phrases like like, “Man, SPAM is tasty!” or “I have to get home early to see if my food stamps were delivered.”
Spend Big…once

Rich girls are, first and foremost, girls. And like with any girls, a little chivalry goes a long, long way. So be prepared to plunk down some bucks for a swanky meal, some drinks and bottle service at a lounge your rich girl likes to frequent on weeknights.
But don’t start gritting your teeth just yet. Once you’ve proven that you can hang, paying the check just becomes a matter who’s quickest to the draw. And since you’re not a rich guy, don’t be a credit card cowboy. Let her pay. Trust us, she won’t notice. When there are that many zeroes in your account (with a number at the left side rather than the right of said zeroes), a $1500 bottle of vodka is nothing.
Letting her pay after your initial encounter isn’t being dishonest… you never said you were rich. You were just telegraphing that you know about the finer things in life and spending lots of money on said things (no matter who gets the tab) doesn’t cause you to flinch.
Be Frivolous And Mean

Rich people have few real, everyday problems. Yes, they have relatives who get sick and yes they have their mini crises (just look at the Lohans… yick). But do rich people ever have to worry about losing their jobs? No. Do rich people ever have to wonder if they’ll have enough money to cover their mortgage? Of course not… they probably don’t even have mortgages. They own the banks, after all.
And a life without those little worries causes rich people to lose what us poor folk call “perspective.” And no “perspective” means you’re in for an easy, boring life. So what do the rich do when they get bored? They do frivolous shit and then they’re mean to each other.
If you want a primer in rich girl frivolity, just rent “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” Or look at Paris Hilton’s life story — it’s all tanning, boats, wasting cash, doing drugs and having lots and lots of sex. The fun part is, you don’t have to partake in all the frivolous activity… just be there when it goes down and jump on board when it comes to the sex part.
After bouts of frivolous fun, rich people turn on each other and get catty and mean. Who can blame them… they’re bored out of their mind. If you were set for 10 lifetimes, you’d probably start some bizarre PR feud with your best friend too. When the mood turns sour with your rich girl, don’t take it personally. Just diss her harder than she disses you and wait a week. Then call her up, feign some tears and apologize. She’ll be back in your arms, asking you which Italian Count you’re a descendant of in no time.
Have Fun…Then Flee

Rich people can slum it and poor people can live it up. But no one jumps their social class ever, really. Just ask the parents of your rich girl… they had to earn their cash the hard way and they still think like you and your ilk, which is why they loathe their daughters hard partying, fast spending ways.
Unless the rich girl is a gem in the rough, she’s going to be little more than a fun lost weekend or two. Don’t get attached. Even if she falls for you and, against her parents better wishes, the two of you get hitched, you’re going to be in for a miserable life… you’ll never be able to provide for her in the manner she’s used to. And if she’s cool slumming it for the rest of her life, well then buddy, she was never a rich girl at all… she was a phony, just like you. Which means you’re perfect for each other!
Happy hunting! Or should we say, digging?
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(78) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/19/how-to-pick-up-a-rich-girl-to-date/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(575) "
Picking up a rich girl  is a real roller coaster ride of emotions. It can be done… but proceed with caution, friend. The Older, The Easier The stereotype of a “snobby little rich girl” is probably one of the most apt stereotypes out there — everyone under the age of 25 is already too cocky […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(7014) "
Picking up a rich girl  is a real roller coaster ride of emotions. It can be done… but proceed with caution, friend.
The Older, The Easier

The stereotype of a “snobby little rich girl” is probably one of the most apt stereotypes out there — everyone under the age of 25 is already too cocky for their own good and add a stack of hundreds and a lifetime of pampering to the pile and you’ve got one super entitled, very bitchy girl.
But as rich girls age, that edge of entitlement is replaced with a softening boredom with their lives in general. And thanks to easy living and some light (to major) plastic surgery, this cougar with cash to burn is a tight, tight package waiting for you to be her dangerous hobo (anyone who pulls in fewer than 6 figures a year is a hobo to a rich girl).
That’s not to say you can’t crack the nut that is a young rich girl. But the amount of effort it takes to pull that move off isn’t going to repaid by the fruit of your labor. Because young rich girls don’t give head. So aim OLDER.
Talk The Talk

You don’t have to drop a wad of cash on a rich girl and you don’t have to be dressed in the finest of Italian leathers (in fact, skip the finest of Italian leathers, dude). But if you don’t TALK like you’re a rich guy (and like you’ve been a rich guy all your life), you’re going to go down in flames.
Rich people don’t take vacations. They “holiday.” They don’t have couches. They have “sofas.” They don’t talk about doing the dishes or cleaning up after themselves because they all have “a girl” who does that stuff for them. The 1993 Will Smith film “Six Degrees of Separation” has a great primer on how to expertly fake it like a rich guy.
The goal here isn’t to memorize canned dialogue and try to impress the rich girl in question. You just need to confidently converse as if you’ve had  in the bank your whole life and make sure to not raise any red flags with phrases like like, “Man, SPAM is tasty!” or “I have to get home early to see if my food stamps were delivered.”
Spend Big…once

Rich girls are, first and foremost, girls. And like with any girls, a little chivalry goes a long, long way. So be prepared to plunk down some bucks for a swanky meal, some drinks and bottle service at a lounge your rich girl likes to frequent on weeknights.
But don’t start gritting your teeth just yet. Once you’ve proven that you can hang, paying the check just becomes a matter who’s quickest to the draw. And since you’re not a rich guy, don’t be a credit card cowboy. Let her pay. Trust us, she won’t notice. When there are that many zeroes in your account (with a number at the left side rather than the right of said zeroes), a $1500 bottle of vodka is nothing.
Letting her pay after your initial encounter isn’t being dishonest… you never said you were rich. You were just telegraphing that you know about the finer things in life and spending lots of money on said things (no matter who gets the tab) doesn’t cause you to flinch.
Be Frivolous And Mean

Rich people have few real, everyday problems. Yes, they have relatives who get sick and yes they have their mini crises (just look at the Lohans… yick). But do rich people ever have to worry about losing their jobs? No. Do rich people ever have to wonder if they’ll have enough money to cover their mortgage? Of course not… they probably don’t even have mortgages. They own the banks, after all.
And a life without those little worries causes rich people to lose what us poor folk call “perspective.” And no “perspective” means you’re in for an easy, boring life. So what do the rich do when they get bored? They do frivolous shit and then they’re mean to each other.
If you want a primer in rich girl frivolity, just rent “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” Or look at Paris Hilton’s life story — it’s all tanning, boats, wasting cash, doing drugs and having lots and lots of sex. The fun part is, you don’t have to partake in all the frivolous activity… just be there when it goes down and jump on board when it comes to the sex part.
After bouts of frivolous fun, rich people turn on each other and get catty and mean. Who can blame them… they’re bored out of their mind. If you were set for 10 lifetimes, you’d probably start some bizarre PR feud with your best friend too. When the mood turns sour with your rich girl, don’t take it personally. Just diss her harder than she disses you and wait a week. Then call her up, feign some tears and apologize. She’ll be back in your arms, asking you which Italian Count you’re a descendant of in no time.
Have Fun…Then Flee

Rich people can slum it and poor people can live it up. But no one jumps their social class ever, really. Just ask the parents of your rich girl… they had to earn their cash the hard way and they still think like you and your ilk, which is why they loathe their daughters hard partying, fast spending ways.
Unless the rich girl is a gem in the rough, she’s going to be little more than a fun lost weekend or two. Don’t get attached. Even if she falls for you and, against her parents better wishes, the two of you get hitched, you’re going to be in for a miserable life… you’ll never be able to provide for her in the manner she’s used to. And if she’s cool slumming it for the rest of her life, well then buddy, she was never a rich girl at all… she was a phony, just like you. Which means you’re perfect for each other!
Happy hunting! Or should we say, digging?
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [2]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(41) "Fatal Attractions: Signs and How To Avoid"
      ["link"]=>
      string(79) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/19/fatal-attractions-signs-and-how-to-avoid/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(87) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/19/fatal-attractions-signs-and-how-to-avoid/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Tue, 19 Feb 2019 11:27:11 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(59) "Dating AdviceadviceAttractionshow tohowtorelationshipssigns"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1658"
      ["description"]=>
      string(678) "
You’ve been caught cheating? Well your significant other might break your stuff. But the other woman won’t hurt you, right? Wrong. How quickly you forget “Fatal Attraction.” The 1987 Michael Douglas/Glenn Close adultery film “Fatal Attraction” has made a boat-load of money over the years and is replayed on cable stations at least four times a year. What keeps us […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(7904) "
You’ve been caught cheating? Well your significant other might  your stuff. But the other woman won’t hurt you, right? Wrong. How quickly you forget “Fatal Attraction.”
The 1987 Michael Douglas/Glenn Close adultery film “Fatal Attraction” has made a boat-load of  over the years and is replayed on cable stations at least four times a year. What keeps us so fascinated in this story is how a simple fling can turn into an obsession and then into pure terror. And the scariest part of the whole thing is that what goes down in “Fatal Attraction” could absolutely happen to you. But thankfully, you’ve got us here to show you how to avoid a “Fatal Attraction” of your own.
What Is Fatal Attraction?
Glenn Close is one hell of an actress. She was able to inhabit the character of Alex Forrest in “Fatal Attraction” from her sexy beginnings to her terrifying behavior during the movie’s final act. That’s why she was nominated for an Oscar (she should’ve won… the award ended up going to Cher?!)
But for all of Ms. Close’s acting abilities, she’d be lying if she said the Alex Forrest character was entirely original creation. Both Close and numerous psychiatrists have said Alex Forrest has something nutty going on inside.
Some psychiatric experts say Alex Forrest was suffering from a condition known as erotomania. Erotomania is the term given when someone has delusion that someone else is in love with them. The condition is somewhat rare and is often associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. And also, that’s not really what a “Fatal Attraction” is. Believing someone else loves you is only part of it… the scary, obsessed, VIOLENT behavior Close’s character exhibited goes far beyond a simple delusion.
The scarier and more accurate diagnosis is that Alex Forrest was suffering from Borderline personality disorder. Borderline personality disorder, or BPD, is the diagnosis psychiatrists give to absolutely unstable individuals; people who exhibit night and day character traits. People with BPD can often hurt themselves and others.
So, a weekend fling with a BPD case? Not a good idea. Hell, throw in erotomania with BPD and you’ve got yourself a recipe for boiled rabbit. So… how can you tell if some hottie has BPD? Good question…
Spotting BPD
A psychiatrist would say you shouldn’t even try to spot your future ex-wife’s psychiatric flaws… only a certified professional can. Well, when the day comes when we can all keep a shrink on retainer and bring him to the bar with us, that’ll be fine. But in the mean time, you’re gonna just have to do your best to spot some obvious BPD warning signs.
There’s a 9-point checklist for diagnosing BPD… if the hottie chewing on her straw in the back of the room has 5 or more of these symptoms, she’s probably got a meat cleaver in her hand bag. The 9 points are:

Being terrified of being abandoned (real or fake) — if you tell her you have to go to the bathroom and she seductively coos back, “I’d die if you didn’t come back” …not a good sign
A history of unstable — if she’s been with three times as many guys as you have girls, things aren’t looking good (also she has chlamydia)
Poor self image — if she keeps insisting she’s fat even though her last meal was ten days ago … watch out!
She’s impulsive when it comes to sex, eating and drugs — damn… I guess a girl who likes going on blowjob binges HAD to be too good to be true
Suicidal — duh.
Scary mood swings — if every joke you tell gets her to go from laughing to bawling, you might want to watch out
Feelings of emptiness — well, that’s just sad
Inappropriate rage — well that’s just all , isn’t it?
Paranoia — she hears black helicopters above? Tell her she’s right and duck away to your, uh, “secret hiding place” ie anywhere else but there

Man, ONE of these symptoms is a bad sign. Five is clearly no good.
If you just met Michael Myers in a cocktail dress, get out while you can. But what if you’ve already hooked up with her? What then?
Safely Ditching Her Before She Flips
Giving the kiss-off to a lunatic is dangerous business. That was Michael Douglas’ character’s big problem in “Fatal Attraction.” Well that and the infidelity. But that’s of little comfort if you’re currently dating Norman Bates’ great-niece. So we’re gonna help you as much as we can, here.
First thing you should know is that psychiatric drugs don’t work for BPD. Sorry to burst your “slip her a Xanax” mickey pipe-dream, but mood stabilizers just don’t seem to work. Which is just fantastic and not at all scary, by the way.
Michael Douglas’ character, Daniel Gallagher, screws up when he all but cuts Alex Forrest off after their weekend fling. You can’t blame Gallagher… his wife was coming back from out of town. But if he had known his fling was a rabid, foam-at-the-mouth looney, hopefully he woulda done differently.
The best way to ditch a BPD case is to get her to think she’s ditching you. Harness that insane rage and paranoia and all those crazy symptoms against you. Smother her and when she acts obsessed, you come back at her twice as hard. She calls you twice a day? You call EIGHT times.
The thing about people with Borderline Personality Disorder is that they hurt the ones who love them and obsess over the ones who don’t. So if you appear in the former category, she’ll grow cold and bored pretty quickly.
Just don’t try to get too eager… we know you can’t stand this girl, but don’t jump at the first opportunity she gives you to split up. Instead, reply, “Oh, baby, no! I want to stay together!” Trust us… slow and steady wins the race, even when it comes to ditching a psycho bitch.
And If She’s Already Flipped Out
Well good! Then things just became easier… because now you can call the cops. And in a lot of states, you could get her committed. If she tries anything clearly illegal, get a restraining order drawn and do everything you can to keep her out of your life.
You might crack… her utter obsession with you is absolutely flattering. But when you walk into your apartment and find her dining on your cat, you’re not going to be happy. So GET RID OF HER!
And for God’s sake… good luck!
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(84) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/19/fatal-attractions-signs-and-how-to-avoid/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(678) "
You’ve been caught cheating? Well your significant other might break your stuff. But the other woman won’t hurt you, right? Wrong. How quickly you forget “Fatal Attraction.” The 1987 Michael Douglas/Glenn Close adultery film “Fatal Attraction” has made a boat-load of money over the years and is replayed on cable stations at least four times a year. What keeps us […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(7904) "
You’ve been caught cheating? Well your significant other might  your stuff. But the other woman won’t hurt you, right? Wrong. How quickly you forget “Fatal Attraction.”
The 1987 Michael Douglas/Glenn Close adultery film “Fatal Attraction” has made a boat-load of  over the years and is replayed on cable stations at least four times a year. What keeps us so fascinated in this story is how a simple fling can turn into an obsession and then into pure terror. And the scariest part of the whole thing is that what goes down in “Fatal Attraction” could absolutely happen to you. But thankfully, you’ve got us here to show you how to avoid a “Fatal Attraction” of your own.
What Is Fatal Attraction?
Glenn Close is one hell of an actress. She was able to inhabit the character of Alex Forrest in “Fatal Attraction” from her sexy beginnings to her terrifying behavior during the movie’s final act. That’s why she was nominated for an Oscar (she should’ve won… the award ended up going to Cher?!)
But for all of Ms. Close’s acting abilities, she’d be lying if she said the Alex Forrest character was entirely original creation. Both Close and numerous psychiatrists have said Alex Forrest has something nutty going on inside.
Some psychiatric experts say Alex Forrest was suffering from a condition known as erotomania. Erotomania is the term given when someone has delusion that someone else is in love with them. The condition is somewhat rare and is often associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. And also, that’s not really what a “Fatal Attraction” is. Believing someone else loves you is only part of it… the scary, obsessed, VIOLENT behavior Close’s character exhibited goes far beyond a simple delusion.
The scarier and more accurate diagnosis is that Alex Forrest was suffering from Borderline personality disorder. Borderline personality disorder, or BPD, is the diagnosis psychiatrists give to absolutely unstable individuals; people who exhibit night and day character traits. People with BPD can often hurt themselves and others.
So, a weekend fling with a BPD case? Not a good idea. Hell, throw in erotomania with BPD and you’ve got yourself a recipe for boiled rabbit. So… how can you tell if some hottie has BPD? Good question…
Spotting BPD
A psychiatrist would say you shouldn’t even try to spot your future ex-wife’s psychiatric flaws… only a certified professional can. Well, when the day comes when we can all keep a shrink on retainer and bring him to the bar with us, that’ll be fine. But in the mean time, you’re gonna just have to do your best to spot some obvious BPD warning signs.
There’s a 9-point checklist for diagnosing BPD… if the hottie chewing on her straw in the back of the room has 5 or more of these symptoms, she’s probably got a meat cleaver in her hand bag. The 9 points are:

Being terrified of being abandoned (real or fake) — if you tell her you have to go to the bathroom and she seductively coos back, “I’d die if you didn’t come back” …not a good sign
A history of unstable — if she’s been with three times as many guys as you have girls, things aren’t looking good (also she has chlamydia)
Poor self image — if she keeps insisting she’s fat even though her last meal was ten days ago … watch out!
She’s impulsive when it comes to sex, eating and drugs — damn… I guess a girl who likes going on blowjob binges HAD to be too good to be true
Suicidal — duh.
Scary mood swings — if every joke you tell gets her to go from laughing to bawling, you might want to watch out
Feelings of emptiness — well, that’s just sad
Inappropriate rage — well that’s just all , isn’t it?
Paranoia — she hears black helicopters above? Tell her she’s right and duck away to your, uh, “secret hiding place” ie anywhere else but there

Man, ONE of these symptoms is a bad sign. Five is clearly no good.
If you just met Michael Myers in a cocktail dress, get out while you can. But what if you’ve already hooked up with her? What then?
Safely Ditching Her Before She Flips
Giving the kiss-off to a lunatic is dangerous business. That was Michael Douglas’ character’s big problem in “Fatal Attraction.” Well that and the infidelity. But that’s of little comfort if you’re currently dating Norman Bates’ great-niece. So we’re gonna help you as much as we can, here.
First thing you should know is that psychiatric drugs don’t work for BPD. Sorry to burst your “slip her a Xanax” mickey pipe-dream, but mood stabilizers just don’t seem to work. Which is just fantastic and not at all scary, by the way.
Michael Douglas’ character, Daniel Gallagher, screws up when he all but cuts Alex Forrest off after their weekend fling. You can’t blame Gallagher… his wife was coming back from out of town. But if he had known his fling was a rabid, foam-at-the-mouth looney, hopefully he woulda done differently.
The best way to ditch a BPD case is to get her to think she’s ditching you. Harness that insane rage and paranoia and all those crazy symptoms against you. Smother her and when she acts obsessed, you come back at her twice as hard. She calls you twice a day? You call EIGHT times.
The thing about people with Borderline Personality Disorder is that they hurt the ones who love them and obsess over the ones who don’t. So if you appear in the former category, she’ll grow cold and bored pretty quickly.
Just don’t try to get too eager… we know you can’t stand this girl, but don’t jump at the first opportunity she gives you to split up. Instead, reply, “Oh, baby, no! I want to stay together!” Trust us… slow and steady wins the race, even when it comes to ditching a psycho bitch.
And If She’s Already Flipped Out
Well good! Then things just became easier… because now you can call the cops. And in a lot of states, you could get her committed. If she tries anything clearly illegal, get a restraining order drawn and do everything you can to keep her out of your life.
You might crack… her utter obsession with you is absolutely flattering. But when you walk into your apartment and find her dining on your cat, you’re not going to be happy. So GET RID OF HER!
And for God’s sake… good luck!
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [3]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(38) "8 Signs A Girl Isn’t Worth Your Time"
      ["link"]=>
      string(74) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/18/8-signs-a-girl-isnt-worth-your-time/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(82) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/18/8-signs-a-girl-isnt-worth-your-time/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Mon, 18 Feb 2019 15:01:15 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(62) "Dating AdviceDating Issuesdating issueissuesrelationshipssigns"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1645"
      ["description"]=>
      string(576) "
Guys have a tendency to fixate on one or two superficial things about a girl and ignore the more substantial aspects of the girls behavior. They don’t give themselves enough time to get to know the girl. This can cause a guy to get caught up with a woman that really isn’t worth his time. Here are […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(5869) "
Guys have a tendency to fixate on one or two superficial things about a girl and ignore the more substantial aspects of the . They don’t give themselves enough time to get to know the girl. This can cause a guy to get caught up with a woman that really isn’t worth his time. Here are eight signs that a girl isn’t worth your time.
A mean or malicious woman.

This is how certain dictionaries define a rather choice word that starts with the letter B. If she falls into that category, you don’t need her. Pretty isn’t enough to put up with a crappy attitude, especially if you’ve put her on a pedestal. Lose her quick. She ain’t worth it.
She doesn’t like you.

It could be a matter of no attraction. You guys could be physically stuck on each other, but maybe she doesn’t like the real you. If this is the case, don’t waste your time trying to change yourself. Find someone more suited to deal with who you are. Because once that physical attraction fades, there’s nothing left.
Nothing in common.

You don’t need to have everything in common with her, but you do need something that connects the two of you. If you guys can’t come together on anything, anything, then you need to part ways with her. It’s a wonder you hooked up with her in the first place. Could you imagine a  involving two people with nothing in common? Watching paint dry would be more enjoyable.
Mind .

Ah yes, the vampire woman that likes to toy with your mind. She sucks the energy right out of you with her manipulative ways. If this chick is constantly trying to make you jealous, if she’s always giving you ultimatums, if she’s always trying to make you , do yourself a favor and drop her like stocks in the Nasdaq. Nothing you do will ever be good enough, so don’t waste your time.
Another guy.

Are you the unlucky soul that fell for the girl that had a man? If so, get over it quick and bounce out of that situation. Chicks like these are nothing but headaches. First of all, she’ll take all of her frustration about her man out on you. Secondly there’s no guarantee that she’ll leave that poor loser for you. Thirdly, you don’t want her to. If she can cheat on him, she’ll cheat on you.
Flaky.

The girl with frozen feet isn’t worth your time either. One day she loves you. The next day she doesn’t know. The third day she wants your babies. The fourth day she needs time away. Give it to her. Give her as much time away as she needs, and never come back. She’ll never know what she wants, and she’ll drag you through the mud while she “tries” to figure it out.
The clingy girl.

Somewhere in that pretty little head of hers is a scarred individual. Maybe she had a string of guys treat her like crap. Maybe her father was never around. What ever the case may be, now you’ve got to deal with it. She’s like a dying plant in need of constant watering. A leech. She can’t be happy without you around, and you’ll never be happy with her there.
An ex.

The biggest sign that she doesn’t belong with you is the fact that you tried it and failed once before. An ex is  for a reason. Keep it that way. There are a lot of  out there, don’t go backwards.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(79) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/18/8-signs-a-girl-isnt-worth-your-time/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(576) "
Guys have a tendency to fixate on one or two superficial things about a girl and ignore the more substantial aspects of the girls behavior. They don’t give themselves enough time to get to know the girl. This can cause a guy to get caught up with a woman that really isn’t worth his time. Here are […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(5869) "
Guys have a tendency to fixate on one or two superficial things about a girl and ignore the more substantial aspects of the . They don’t give themselves enough time to get to know the girl. This can cause a guy to get caught up with a woman that really isn’t worth his time. Here are eight signs that a girl isn’t worth your time.
A mean or malicious woman.

This is how certain dictionaries define a rather choice word that starts with the letter B. If she falls into that category, you don’t need her. Pretty isn’t enough to put up with a crappy attitude, especially if you’ve put her on a pedestal. Lose her quick. She ain’t worth it.
She doesn’t like you.

It could be a matter of no attraction. You guys could be physically stuck on each other, but maybe she doesn’t like the real you. If this is the case, don’t waste your time trying to change yourself. Find someone more suited to deal with who you are. Because once that physical attraction fades, there’s nothing left.
Nothing in common.

You don’t need to have everything in common with her, but you do need something that connects the two of you. If you guys can’t come together on anything, anything, then you need to part ways with her. It’s a wonder you hooked up with her in the first place. Could you imagine a  involving two people with nothing in common? Watching paint dry would be more enjoyable.
Mind .

Ah yes, the vampire woman that likes to toy with your mind. She sucks the energy right out of you with her manipulative ways. If this chick is constantly trying to make you jealous, if she’s always giving you ultimatums, if she’s always trying to make you , do yourself a favor and drop her like stocks in the Nasdaq. Nothing you do will ever be good enough, so don’t waste your time.
Another guy.

Are you the unlucky soul that fell for the girl that had a man? If so, get over it quick and bounce out of that situation. Chicks like these are nothing but headaches. First of all, she’ll take all of her frustration about her man out on you. Secondly there’s no guarantee that she’ll leave that poor loser for you. Thirdly, you don’t want her to. If she can cheat on him, she’ll cheat on you.
Flaky.

The girl with frozen feet isn’t worth your time either. One day she loves you. The next day she doesn’t know. The third day she wants your babies. The fourth day she needs time away. Give it to her. Give her as much time away as she needs, and never come back. She’ll never know what she wants, and she’ll drag you through the mud while she “tries” to figure it out.
The clingy girl.

Somewhere in that pretty little head of hers is a scarred individual. Maybe she had a string of guys treat her like crap. Maybe her father was never around. What ever the case may be, now you’ve got to deal with it. She’s like a dying plant in need of constant watering. A leech. She can’t be happy without you around, and you’ll never be happy with her there.
An ex.

The biggest sign that she doesn’t belong with you is the fact that you tried it and failed once before. An ex is  for a reason. Keep it that way. There are a lot of  out there, don’t go backwards.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [4]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(40) "Easy Meals Recipes to Cook for Your Date"
      ["link"]=>
      string(79) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/18/easy-meals-recipes-to-cook-for-your-date/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(87) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/18/easy-meals-recipes-to-cook-for-your-date/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Mon, 18 Feb 2019 13:50:59 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(53) "InterestingcookingdinnerhelpinterestingkitchenRecipes"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1638"
      ["description"]=>
      string(554) "
Call me crazy, but the idea of dropping serious cash on a meal for two just doesn’t sound like my idea of a good time.  Though she may appreciate a night out on the town, odds are she’s clueless that you just shelled out $15 bucks for a glass of wine that sells for the […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(6946) "
Call me crazy, but the idea of dropping serious cash on a meal for two just doesn’t sound like my idea of a good time.  Though she may appreciate a night out on the town, odds are she’s clueless that you just shelled out $15 bucks for a glass of wine that sells for the same price per bottle at the local liquor store.
In my experience, there’s probably no better place to show off your sense of confidence and determination to that lovely lady than in your very own kitchen.  Besides, she’ll always remember your efforts behind the stove more than that tab at the local restaurant.   After you’ve assured she’s not a , pick up the phone and have her over for dinner.
With that said, I must confess:   I am not a chef.  Over the years I’ve listened to the needs of real guys when it comes to food.  Let me guess:  A) you don’t have a lot of experience in the kitchen B) you hate reading recipes that look more like a science project than a meal C) your interest in Top Chef begins and ends with staring at .  I’ve got you covered.
My culinary approach is focused around using quality ingredients and simple preparation to create outstanding meals.  Great meals start with great ingredients.  Instead of investing your time and  on costly marinades and seasonings, focus your efforts on purchasing fresh, quality ingredients.  After that, it’s all about reading and following instructions.  For the more experienced, it’s okay to improvise.  After all, that’s how great discoveries are often made.  However, if your experience in the kitchen is limited to pushing ‘start’ on the microwave, it’s best to stick to the plan I’ve created below.
Be sure to read through the entire recipe/sequence and have all of your items prepped accordingly before starting.  It’s a good idea to make sure your place, including your bathroom, is in order before she comes over.  Have a cocktail, relax, and put on some tunes that will help stimulate topics for conversation.  Remember, girls pick up on every detail, so play that to your advantage even if it means acting like this meal was incredibly difficult to pull off.  Most of all, be yourself and treat her like a gentleman.  Trust me, you will be rewarded.
Spring Mix Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

The spring mixed salad blend should be available with the other prewashed and bagged salads in your local grocery store.  A European blend or Arugula blend would make for a perfect substitute if needed.
4 Cups Pre-Washed Spring Mix Salad, loosely packed

6 Cherry Tomatoes, halved

¼ Small Red Onion, thinly sliced

¼ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 ½ Teaspoons Balsamic Vinegar

1 Pinch Kosher Salt

¼ Teaspoon Fresh Cracked Pepper*

2 oz Shaved Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Combine greens, tomatoes, and red onion into a serving bowl.  In a separate mixing bowl, combine oil and balsamic vinegar and whisk vigorously to combine.  Pour the mixture over the salad and season with salt and pepper, toss.  Using a chef’s knife or vegetable peeler, shave the Parmigiano Reggiano into shards.  Top the salad with cheese and serve.
Pan Seared Salmon over Lemon and Basil Spaghetti

A light and clean dish that’s sure to satisfy any palate.  Pair with Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or a light Pilsner.
8 oz Dry Spaghetti

2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

2 6-8 oz Salmon Filets, skin removed

Kosher Salt

Fresh Cracked Pepper

1 Lemon

2 Cloves Garlic, finely minced

¼ Cup White Wine

2 Tablespoons Capers

2 Cups Baby Spinach Leaves, loosely packed

8-10 Basil Leaves, chopped
Heat a large pot of salted water over high heat.  When water comes to a boil, add pasta and cook until al dente, 8-10 minutes.  Drain pasta and set aside.  Meanwhile add two tablespoons of olive oil into a preheated skillet over medium high heat.  Season salmon filets with salt and pepper and add to skillet.  Cook, undisturbed, 2-3 minutes on one side.  Squeeze the juice of ½ lemon over the top of the fillets, flip, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 130 degrees F; remove from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.  Add garlic into the same skillet used for the salmon and sauté; 1 minute.  Add white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any of the browned bits from the salmon using a wooden spoon.  Finally add capers, spinach, and the remaining juice from ½ lemon into the skillet and cook until spinach leaves have wilted.  Add pasta into the skillet with the other ingredients and toss to combine.  Begin plating by placing a generous portion of the spaghetti in the center of the plate.  Top with salmon and garnish with fresh chopped basil.  Serve.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(84) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/18/easy-meals-recipes-to-cook-for-your-date/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(554) "
Call me crazy, but the idea of dropping serious cash on a meal for two just doesn’t sound like my idea of a good time.  Though she may appreciate a night out on the town, odds are she’s clueless that you just shelled out $15 bucks for a glass of wine that sells for the […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(6946) "
Call me crazy, but the idea of dropping serious cash on a meal for two just doesn’t sound like my idea of a good time.  Though she may appreciate a night out on the town, odds are she’s clueless that you just shelled out $15 bucks for a glass of wine that sells for the same price per bottle at the local liquor store.
In my experience, there’s probably no better place to show off your sense of confidence and determination to that lovely lady than in your very own kitchen.  Besides, she’ll always remember your efforts behind the stove more than that tab at the local restaurant.   After you’ve assured she’s not a , pick up the phone and have her over for dinner.
With that said, I must confess:   I am not a chef.  Over the years I’ve listened to the needs of real guys when it comes to food.  Let me guess:  A) you don’t have a lot of experience in the kitchen B) you hate reading recipes that look more like a science project than a meal C) your interest in Top Chef begins and ends with staring at .  I’ve got you covered.
My culinary approach is focused around using quality ingredients and simple preparation to create outstanding meals.  Great meals start with great ingredients.  Instead of investing your time and  on costly marinades and seasonings, focus your efforts on purchasing fresh, quality ingredients.  After that, it’s all about reading and following instructions.  For the more experienced, it’s okay to improvise.  After all, that’s how great discoveries are often made.  However, if your experience in the kitchen is limited to pushing ‘start’ on the microwave, it’s best to stick to the plan I’ve created below.
Be sure to read through the entire recipe/sequence and have all of your items prepped accordingly before starting.  It’s a good idea to make sure your place, including your bathroom, is in order before she comes over.  Have a cocktail, relax, and put on some tunes that will help stimulate topics for conversation.  Remember, girls pick up on every detail, so play that to your advantage even if it means acting like this meal was incredibly difficult to pull off.  Most of all, be yourself and treat her like a gentleman.  Trust me, you will be rewarded.
Spring Mix Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

The spring mixed salad blend should be available with the other prewashed and bagged salads in your local grocery store.  A European blend or Arugula blend would make for a perfect substitute if needed.
4 Cups Pre-Washed Spring Mix Salad, loosely packed

6 Cherry Tomatoes, halved

¼ Small Red Onion, thinly sliced

¼ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 ½ Teaspoons Balsamic Vinegar

1 Pinch Kosher Salt

¼ Teaspoon Fresh Cracked Pepper*

2 oz Shaved Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Combine greens, tomatoes, and red onion into a serving bowl.  In a separate mixing bowl, combine oil and balsamic vinegar and whisk vigorously to combine.  Pour the mixture over the salad and season with salt and pepper, toss.  Using a chef’s knife or vegetable peeler, shave the Parmigiano Reggiano into shards.  Top the salad with cheese and serve.
Pan Seared Salmon over Lemon and Basil Spaghetti

A light and clean dish that’s sure to satisfy any palate.  Pair with Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or a light Pilsner.
8 oz Dry Spaghetti

2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

2 6-8 oz Salmon Filets, skin removed

Kosher Salt

Fresh Cracked Pepper

1 Lemon

2 Cloves Garlic, finely minced

¼ Cup White Wine

2 Tablespoons Capers

2 Cups Baby Spinach Leaves, loosely packed

8-10 Basil Leaves, chopped
Heat a large pot of salted water over high heat.  When water comes to a boil, add pasta and cook until al dente, 8-10 minutes.  Drain pasta and set aside.  Meanwhile add two tablespoons of olive oil into a preheated skillet over medium high heat.  Season salmon filets with salt and pepper and add to skillet.  Cook, undisturbed, 2-3 minutes on one side.  Squeeze the juice of ½ lemon over the top of the fillets, flip, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 130 degrees F; remove from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.  Add garlic into the same skillet used for the salmon and sauté; 1 minute.  Add white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any of the browned bits from the salmon using a wooden spoon.  Finally add capers, spinach, and the remaining juice from ½ lemon into the skillet and cook until spinach leaves have wilted.  Add pasta into the skillet with the other ingredients and toss to combine.  Begin plating by placing a generous portion of the spaghetti in the center of the plate.  Top with salmon and garnish with fresh chopped basil.  Serve.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [5]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(33) "10 Best Songs About Growing Apart"
      ["link"]=>
      string(72) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/17/10-best-songs-about-growing-apart/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(80) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/17/10-best-songs-about-growing-apart/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Sun, 17 Feb 2019 10:38:50 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(54) "InterestingGrowing Apartintestingmusicsongstop 10top10"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1623"
      ["description"]=>
      string(578) "
Looking for the ten best songs about growing apart? Whether we like it or not, growing apart is a fact of life. It is never easy, but it is inevitable. Friends come and go, and lovers drift apart. Here is a look at the top ten songs about growing apart. “Angie” by The Rolling Stones. Growing apart […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(5884) "
Looking for the ten best songs about growing apart? Whether we like it or not, growing apart is a fact of life. It is never easy, but it is inevitable. Friends come and go, and lovers drift apart. Here is a look at the top ten songs about growing apart.
“Angie” by The Rolling Stones. Growing apart lyric: “With no loving in our souls and no money in our coats, you can’t say we’re satisfied.” It is obvious from the song that the couple still cares about one another, but is it time to move on? You betcha!

“Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” by Meatloaf. Growing apart lyric” “I poured it on and I poured it out. I tried to show you just how much I care. I’m tired of words and I’m too hoarse to shout. But you’ve been cold to me so long I’m crying icicles instead of tears.” When you have been reduced to crying icicles, it’s time to hit the road.

“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” by The Righteous Brothers. Growing apart lyric: “You never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips. And there’s no tenderness like before in your fingertips.” Not closing your eyes during a kiss, or infrequent kissing, is a sure sign of the “kiss of death” to a relationship.

“Let’s Just Kiss And Say Goodbye” by The Manhattans. This song needs no growing apart lyric-the title says it all!

“Time For Me To Fly” by REO Speedwagon. Growing apart lyric: “Oh, but I’m tired of holding on to a feeling I know is gone, I do believe that I’ve had enough.” You can only hold on for so long before you have to call it quits.

“I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt. Growing apart lyric: “I can’t make you love me if you don’t. You can’t make your heart feel somethin’ it won’t.” Sometimes it just takes one last night together before moving on.

“Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough” by Patty Smyth and Don Henley.Growing apart lyric: “I don’t want to lose you but I don’t want to use you just to have somebody by my side.” Staying with someone because you don’t want to be alone is a sure sign you have grown apart.

“Already Gone” by Kelly Clarkson. Growing apart lyric: “It started with the perfect kiss then we could feel the poison set in. Perfect couldn’t keep this love alive.” Some relationships simply aren’t made to last.

“I Know There’s Something Going On” by Frida. Growing apart lyric: “You know you’ve changed and your words they lie, that’s something you can’t deny.” When you act like a changed person and start lying, the bags need to be packed.

“It Ends Tonight” by The All American Rejects. Growing apart lyric: “Maybe it’s best you leave me alone. A weight is lifted on this evening, I give the final blow.” That lyric speaks for itself.

The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(77) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/17/10-best-songs-about-growing-apart/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(578) "
Looking for the ten best songs about growing apart? Whether we like it or not, growing apart is a fact of life. It is never easy, but it is inevitable. Friends come and go, and lovers drift apart. Here is a look at the top ten songs about growing apart. “Angie” by The Rolling Stones. Growing apart […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(5884) "
Looking for the ten best songs about growing apart? Whether we like it or not, growing apart is a fact of life. It is never easy, but it is inevitable. Friends come and go, and lovers drift apart. Here is a look at the top ten songs about growing apart.
“Angie” by The Rolling Stones. Growing apart lyric: “With no loving in our souls and no money in our coats, you can’t say we’re satisfied.” It is obvious from the song that the couple still cares about one another, but is it time to move on? You betcha!

“Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” by Meatloaf. Growing apart lyric” “I poured it on and I poured it out. I tried to show you just how much I care. I’m tired of words and I’m too hoarse to shout. But you’ve been cold to me so long I’m crying icicles instead of tears.” When you have been reduced to crying icicles, it’s time to hit the road.

“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” by The Righteous Brothers. Growing apart lyric: “You never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips. And there’s no tenderness like before in your fingertips.” Not closing your eyes during a kiss, or infrequent kissing, is a sure sign of the “kiss of death” to a relationship.

“Let’s Just Kiss And Say Goodbye” by The Manhattans. This song needs no growing apart lyric-the title says it all!

“Time For Me To Fly” by REO Speedwagon. Growing apart lyric: “Oh, but I’m tired of holding on to a feeling I know is gone, I do believe that I’ve had enough.” You can only hold on for so long before you have to call it quits.

“I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt. Growing apart lyric: “I can’t make you love me if you don’t. You can’t make your heart feel somethin’ it won’t.” Sometimes it just takes one last night together before moving on.

“Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough” by Patty Smyth and Don Henley.Growing apart lyric: “I don’t want to lose you but I don’t want to use you just to have somebody by my side.” Staying with someone because you don’t want to be alone is a sure sign you have grown apart.

“Already Gone” by Kelly Clarkson. Growing apart lyric: “It started with the perfect kiss then we could feel the poison set in. Perfect couldn’t keep this love alive.” Some relationships simply aren’t made to last.

“I Know There’s Something Going On” by Frida. Growing apart lyric: “You know you’ve changed and your words they lie, that’s something you can’t deny.” When you act like a changed person and start lying, the bags need to be packed.

“It Ends Tonight” by The All American Rejects. Growing apart lyric: “Maybe it’s best you leave me alone. A weight is lifted on this evening, I give the final blow.” That lyric speaks for itself.

The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [6]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(33) "How To Get A Waitress Go With You"
      ["link"]=>
      string(77) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/16/how-to-get-a-waitress-go-home-with-you/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(85) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/16/how-to-get-a-waitress-go-home-with-you/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Sat, 16 Feb 2019 10:29:04 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(57) "Dating AdviceInterestingbarhow tohowtorestauranteWaitress"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1618"
      ["description"]=>
      string(663) "
The waitress is a whimsical center of male fantasies – a kind of modern, marginalized, apron-clad goddess of the past couple centuries. Whether she’s the blonde, doe-eyed, Southern-accented sort or the sleek-figured, heavily eye-shadowed silhouette characterized by an ambitious acting career, waitresses seem to embody the best of young(ish) women at work. Unfortunately, a lot of them […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(6496) "
The waitress is a whimsical center of male fantasies – a kind of modern, marginalized, apron-clad goddess of the past couple centuries. Whether she’s the blonde, doe-eyed, Southern-accented sort or the sleek-figured, heavily eye-shadowed silhouette characterized by an ambitious acting career, waitresses seem to embody the best of young(ish) women at work. Unfortunately, a lot of them also seem too preoccupied with their tip jars, vats of coffee and regular customers to spare a moment of flirtation beyond fluttering their lashes as they pass you the bill. How does one lure such a strangely intriguing creature from the corner cafe back to the bedroom? Like everything else that seems impossible and, in actuality, is secretly easy, it’s only a small matter of mind games, great timing and flattering the tip jar.
NOTE: You must identify the caliber of your waitress’ work habits and/or style. Silly as it seems, this is essential to preparing yourself to pounce on her, as various waitresses require various methods of amusement. Second, when entering your waitress’ restaurant, wait a few minutes and stall (i.e. making a pretend phone call, finishing up the front page of the newspaper) as you casually observe what tables your waitress is tending. When you’ve made a good enough guess at her specific section, ask nonchalantly to be seated therein.
The New Girl
If your wanted woman fumbles, nervously glances around, forgets a few drinks and fidgets in the presence of her manager, she’s new (i.e. you have nothing to worry about). New waitresses are thrown into a wildly unorganized world of pain and, therefore, are terribly vulnerable. The best way to win over your new waitress is by offering some comfort in a time when everyone is consumed with condemning her abilities and she herself can’t stop worrying about when or how she will be fired. When she wades over to your table, say “Thank You” always. When she takes you order, smile and say “And please don’t rush, I can see how busy you are by yourself over here.”
Continue to make casual, reassuring comments throughout your meal and soon she’ll be eager to visit, if only to hear what comfort you have to offer next. When at last the bill rolls around, you should say: “You know, I hope I’m not being presumptuous here, but I’d love to sit down to dinner with you sometime soon where someone else is waiting on you.” Waitresses work hard and like very much the idea of restaurants where they don’t work. If you’re too nervous to disrupt her in the middle of her anxious discourse, leave a note with your tips that communicates a similar sentiment (and, of course, your phone number). Remember, new waitresses are most often young, non-locals looking for companionship (meaning – it couldn’t take more than one or two dinners to offer her your company…in bed).
The Sassy Sort
Some waitresses, quite oppositely, are thoughtlessly sure of themselves. If you notice your waitress never misses a mark, constantly manages to run around without appearing disheveled and dazed and memorizes your order without notepad and pen, she’s seasoned. Moreover, if you observe her briskness to be matched by a brushing off of any flirtation or flattery from any customer, she’s sassy. Sassy waitresses are somewhat common and slightly more difficult to sleep with, as they are consistently prepared for piles of flirtatious men. What they’re not prepared for is men who can seemingly read their minds (or at least create the illusion of such). This means flattering her in a creative way. Instead of smiling and asking for frequent refills and ogling her uniform, admire her.
When she next comes to your table, toss out a nonchalant comment in the vain of: “I’m sorry if this sounds bizarre, but you’re an incredibly skilled waitress. I’ve never seen everything go so smoothly. I only say this because it’s super busy and I try to imagine what a mess I’d be.” Here, she’ll probably roll her eyes. Then say something like: “Okay, okay, I’m sorry. I’m sure you’re used to a lot of guys hitting on you. That’s not what I meant. Though, I can see why…” Don’t say anything more – Sassy waitresses appreciate the sultrier, more silent, hard-to-get-type men, so just turn back to your paper or blackberry and pretend she’s already left you. This then means leaving a little note with a big tip, reading: “Okay, so maybe I was hitting on you…while simultaneously being impressed. Still, you should call me.” Women of this type will find such frankness quite adorable and intriguing. After all, they’re used to scoundrels slobbering over them instead of sly lads like yourself.
In Case Of Ignored Motes/Advances
If a note or offer is ignored by a waitress, don’t feel discouraged and determine never to return to the restaurant. On the contrary, make an effort to go back. She’s probably just suspicious of strangers and random notes. If she sees you again and you shamelessly smile, politely nod and request a table in her section, she’ll begin to think you’re a well-intentioned gentleman who simply happens to find her attractive. If you’re the confident sort, who feels he has nothing to lose, say to her “Hello, again,” when she approaches your table. If she doesn’t remember you, remind her, “Oh, I’m just the guy who asked you out and who you probably thought was a creep. Sorry ‘bout that.” Your casualness will make her feel comfortable in letting up a little. If she does remember you, she’ll feel as relaxed as you do. (Translation: be very relaxed). You may actually have more of a chance the second time around, so don’t back down. (NOTE: Another thing not to do: Ask her “When does your shift end, sweetie?” It’s a line she’s heard a thousand times and, moreover, a real lame one).
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(82) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/16/how-to-get-a-waitress-go-home-with-you/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(663) "
The waitress is a whimsical center of male fantasies – a kind of modern, marginalized, apron-clad goddess of the past couple centuries. Whether she’s the blonde, doe-eyed, Southern-accented sort or the sleek-figured, heavily eye-shadowed silhouette characterized by an ambitious acting career, waitresses seem to embody the best of young(ish) women at work. Unfortunately, a lot of them […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(6496) "
The waitress is a whimsical center of male fantasies – a kind of modern, marginalized, apron-clad goddess of the past couple centuries. Whether she’s the blonde, doe-eyed, Southern-accented sort or the sleek-figured, heavily eye-shadowed silhouette characterized by an ambitious acting career, waitresses seem to embody the best of young(ish) women at work. Unfortunately, a lot of them also seem too preoccupied with their tip jars, vats of coffee and regular customers to spare a moment of flirtation beyond fluttering their lashes as they pass you the bill. How does one lure such a strangely intriguing creature from the corner cafe back to the bedroom? Like everything else that seems impossible and, in actuality, is secretly easy, it’s only a small matter of mind games, great timing and flattering the tip jar.
NOTE: You must identify the caliber of your waitress’ work habits and/or style. Silly as it seems, this is essential to preparing yourself to pounce on her, as various waitresses require various methods of amusement. Second, when entering your waitress’ restaurant, wait a few minutes and stall (i.e. making a pretend phone call, finishing up the front page of the newspaper) as you casually observe what tables your waitress is tending. When you’ve made a good enough guess at her specific section, ask nonchalantly to be seated therein.
The New Girl
If your wanted woman fumbles, nervously glances around, forgets a few drinks and fidgets in the presence of her manager, she’s new (i.e. you have nothing to worry about). New waitresses are thrown into a wildly unorganized world of pain and, therefore, are terribly vulnerable. The best way to win over your new waitress is by offering some comfort in a time when everyone is consumed with condemning her abilities and she herself can’t stop worrying about when or how she will be fired. When she wades over to your table, say “Thank You” always. When she takes you order, smile and say “And please don’t rush, I can see how busy you are by yourself over here.”
Continue to make casual, reassuring comments throughout your meal and soon she’ll be eager to visit, if only to hear what comfort you have to offer next. When at last the bill rolls around, you should say: “You know, I hope I’m not being presumptuous here, but I’d love to sit down to dinner with you sometime soon where someone else is waiting on you.” Waitresses work hard and like very much the idea of restaurants where they don’t work. If you’re too nervous to disrupt her in the middle of her anxious discourse, leave a note with your tips that communicates a similar sentiment (and, of course, your phone number). Remember, new waitresses are most often young, non-locals looking for companionship (meaning – it couldn’t take more than one or two dinners to offer her your company…in bed).
The Sassy Sort
Some waitresses, quite oppositely, are thoughtlessly sure of themselves. If you notice your waitress never misses a mark, constantly manages to run around without appearing disheveled and dazed and memorizes your order without notepad and pen, she’s seasoned. Moreover, if you observe her briskness to be matched by a brushing off of any flirtation or flattery from any customer, she’s sassy. Sassy waitresses are somewhat common and slightly more difficult to sleep with, as they are consistently prepared for piles of flirtatious men. What they’re not prepared for is men who can seemingly read their minds (or at least create the illusion of such). This means flattering her in a creative way. Instead of smiling and asking for frequent refills and ogling her uniform, admire her.
When she next comes to your table, toss out a nonchalant comment in the vain of: “I’m sorry if this sounds bizarre, but you’re an incredibly skilled waitress. I’ve never seen everything go so smoothly. I only say this because it’s super busy and I try to imagine what a mess I’d be.” Here, she’ll probably roll her eyes. Then say something like: “Okay, okay, I’m sorry. I’m sure you’re used to a lot of guys hitting on you. That’s not what I meant. Though, I can see why…” Don’t say anything more – Sassy waitresses appreciate the sultrier, more silent, hard-to-get-type men, so just turn back to your paper or blackberry and pretend she’s already left you. This then means leaving a little note with a big tip, reading: “Okay, so maybe I was hitting on you…while simultaneously being impressed. Still, you should call me.” Women of this type will find such frankness quite adorable and intriguing. After all, they’re used to scoundrels slobbering over them instead of sly lads like yourself.
In Case Of Ignored Motes/Advances
If a note or offer is ignored by a waitress, don’t feel discouraged and determine never to return to the restaurant. On the contrary, make an effort to go back. She’s probably just suspicious of strangers and random notes. If she sees you again and you shamelessly smile, politely nod and request a table in her section, she’ll begin to think you’re a well-intentioned gentleman who simply happens to find her attractive. If you’re the confident sort, who feels he has nothing to lose, say to her “Hello, again,” when she approaches your table. If she doesn’t remember you, remind her, “Oh, I’m just the guy who asked you out and who you probably thought was a creep. Sorry ‘bout that.” Your casualness will make her feel comfortable in letting up a little. If she does remember you, she’ll feel as relaxed as you do. (Translation: be very relaxed). You may actually have more of a chance the second time around, so don’t back down. (NOTE: Another thing not to do: Ask her “When does your shift end, sweetie?” It’s a line she’s heard a thousand times and, moreover, a real lame one).
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [7]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(32) "Older Women Versus Younger Women"
      ["link"]=>
      string(71) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/older-women-versus-younger-women/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(79) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/older-women-versus-younger-women/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Fri, 15 Feb 2019 17:19:32 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(70) "InterestingLove & Sexinterestinglifetipsolderrelationshipswomenyounger"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1603"
      ["description"]=>
      string(611) "
Friends, the world of dating is like a well-stocked candy store. Forrest Gump would be proud. There’s a vast array of delicious treats in every imaginable color, flavor and size, which, at first glance, can be at once scintillating and overwhelming. After you get through the initial excitement of entering a glorious world of pure imagination, […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(6185) "
Friends, the world of dating is like a well-stocked candy store. Forrest Gump would be proud. There’s a vast array of delicious treats in every imaginable color, flavor and size, which, at first glance, can be at once scintillating and overwhelming. After you get through the initial excitement of entering a glorious , though, you realize that there are certain things you’ll always gravitate to – saltwater taffy and nut clusters for some, gummy peaches and Milky Way Darks for others – leaving all the other candy to wonder what it did wrong because you bought it a few times and then abandoned it for sweeter pastures.
There’s no magic formula for the ideal age difference between partners (only you know what you like at the proverbial candy store), but besides physical, emotional and intellectual traits, age often plays a significant role in the success (or failure) of . There are some reliable truths about what it’s like to date an older woman versus what you’ll experience with a younger one, and who better to bring you these truths than your friendly neighborhood truth-brokers? We wouldn’t presume to steer you away from the M&M wall towards the Jujubes, but we can give you the basics about each and let you decide for yourself what suits your sweet tooth.
The Older Woman

Let’s dispense with the clichés before we go any further.  women are (often) more experienced in the boudoir, they (often) need less coddling than younger women because they’ve had some time to figure out their feelings and whatnot, and they (often) like to take a leadership role in the relationship, whether fiscally or otherwise. These are all good things for a certain type of gent, the type who is comfortable with a woman who rakes in more dough each month than he does and might not want children because she either  or long ago discovered that she’s . However, if you like to call the shots in a relationship, or if you want someone to experience your ‘firsts’ with, then you might find it frustrating to date someone significantly older than you.
The thing to remember about clichés is that although they’re based in truth, they’re also often gross generalizations that aren’t true of even half of an entire population. If you’re all, ‘damn, I should TOTALLY be dating a cougar because she won’t force me to feel feelings,’ then slow your roll, son, and think twice before jumping into that antique bed. Yes, many (if not most) older women (…and we aren’t talking about two or three years here, more like 10 or 15) have abandoned the hormonal rollercoaster for more even-tempered pastures, and if they’re interested in a younger dude, then they probably aren’t looking to rush to the altar any time soon. Or ever. But there’s also the distinct possibility that an older woman has been looking for Mr. Right for a while, and that your youthful, shall we say, ‘vigor’ is just the thing she needs to be convinced that you’re The One. Because she’s older, she will most likely be more than ready to set the date and settle down, so unless you’re romancing a legit twice-divorced cougar who really only wants you as a bedbuddy, you should beware the suddenly-serious relationship that ends with you in a tux. Unless, of course, that’s what you want.
The Younger Woman

If you’re the type of dude who took a little longer than most to ‘grow up’ and ‘get his sh** together,’ then don’t apologize; just date a younger woman who will look up to you as a role model despite the fact that you’re still living in a tricked-out bachelor pad at the ripe ol’ age of 48. You’re happy with your life choices, so it makes sense to date someone who can be happy with them too. Younger women often have high energy and low expectations (for marriage and children, that is), making them ideal companions for anyone who wants to relive his youth or prolong the youth he’s been re-living for the past few decades. She might have three roommates and a part-time job, but if you’re looking for someone to dote lovingly and lavish gifts upon, then a younger woman might just be for you.
What you won’t get with a younger woman, for the most part, is life experience, and, depending on your age difference, the understanding of a shared history. This doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker – in fact, sometimes it’s a welcome respite from the stress of dealing with people your own age/bitterness level – but it can result in worldviews different enough to make a true partnership almost impossible.
When all is said and done, the right woman for you, no matter what her age, is the one who turns your wheels and makes you excited to face the world. (This post began with sugar; it seems only fitting to end it with some saccharine.) Keep in mind, though, that even though age is only a number, it’s also a pretty fair predictor of what you can and can’t expect from a potential mate.
 
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(76) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/older-women-versus-younger-women/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(611) "
Friends, the world of dating is like a well-stocked candy store. Forrest Gump would be proud. There’s a vast array of delicious treats in every imaginable color, flavor and size, which, at first glance, can be at once scintillating and overwhelming. After you get through the initial excitement of entering a glorious world of pure imagination, […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(6185) "
Friends, the world of dating is like a well-stocked candy store. Forrest Gump would be proud. There’s a vast array of delicious treats in every imaginable color, flavor and size, which, at first glance, can be at once scintillating and overwhelming. After you get through the initial excitement of entering a glorious , though, you realize that there are certain things you’ll always gravitate to – saltwater taffy and nut clusters for some, gummy peaches and Milky Way Darks for others – leaving all the other candy to wonder what it did wrong because you bought it a few times and then abandoned it for sweeter pastures.
There’s no magic formula for the ideal age difference between partners (only you know what you like at the proverbial candy store), but besides physical, emotional and intellectual traits, age often plays a significant role in the success (or failure) of . There are some reliable truths about what it’s like to date an older woman versus what you’ll experience with a younger one, and who better to bring you these truths than your friendly neighborhood truth-brokers? We wouldn’t presume to steer you away from the M&M wall towards the Jujubes, but we can give you the basics about each and let you decide for yourself what suits your sweet tooth.
The Older Woman

Let’s dispense with the clichés before we go any further.  women are (often) more experienced in the boudoir, they (often) need less coddling than younger women because they’ve had some time to figure out their feelings and whatnot, and they (often) like to take a leadership role in the relationship, whether fiscally or otherwise. These are all good things for a certain type of gent, the type who is comfortable with a woman who rakes in more dough each month than he does and might not want children because she either  or long ago discovered that she’s . However, if you like to call the shots in a relationship, or if you want someone to experience your ‘firsts’ with, then you might find it frustrating to date someone significantly older than you.
The thing to remember about clichés is that although they’re based in truth, they’re also often gross generalizations that aren’t true of even half of an entire population. If you’re all, ‘damn, I should TOTALLY be dating a cougar because she won’t force me to feel feelings,’ then slow your roll, son, and think twice before jumping into that antique bed. Yes, many (if not most) older women (…and we aren’t talking about two or three years here, more like 10 or 15) have abandoned the hormonal rollercoaster for more even-tempered pastures, and if they’re interested in a younger dude, then they probably aren’t looking to rush to the altar any time soon. Or ever. But there’s also the distinct possibility that an older woman has been looking for Mr. Right for a while, and that your youthful, shall we say, ‘vigor’ is just the thing she needs to be convinced that you’re The One. Because she’s older, she will most likely be more than ready to set the date and settle down, so unless you’re romancing a legit twice-divorced cougar who really only wants you as a bedbuddy, you should beware the suddenly-serious relationship that ends with you in a tux. Unless, of course, that’s what you want.
The Younger Woman

If you’re the type of dude who took a little longer than most to ‘grow up’ and ‘get his sh** together,’ then don’t apologize; just date a younger woman who will look up to you as a role model despite the fact that you’re still living in a tricked-out bachelor pad at the ripe ol’ age of 48. You’re happy with your life choices, so it makes sense to date someone who can be happy with them too. Younger women often have high energy and low expectations (for marriage and children, that is), making them ideal companions for anyone who wants to relive his youth or prolong the youth he’s been re-living for the past few decades. She might have three roommates and a part-time job, but if you’re looking for someone to dote lovingly and lavish gifts upon, then a younger woman might just be for you.
What you won’t get with a younger woman, for the most part, is life experience, and, depending on your age difference, the understanding of a shared history. This doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker – in fact, sometimes it’s a welcome respite from the stress of dealing with people your own age/bitterness level – but it can result in worldviews different enough to make a true partnership almost impossible.
When all is said and done, the right woman for you, no matter what her age, is the one who turns your wheels and makes you excited to face the world. (This post began with sugar; it seems only fitting to end it with some saccharine.) Keep in mind, though, that even though age is only a number, it’s also a pretty fair predictor of what you can and can’t expect from a potential mate.
 
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [8]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(30) "A Guide to Your Future Divorce"
      ["link"]=>
      string(69) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/a-guide-to-your-future-divorce/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(77) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/a-guide-to-your-future-divorce/#respond"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Fri, 15 Feb 2019 11:37:01 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(75) "Dating IssuesFriends And FamilyadvicebreakupsDivorceexpertguidehow toissues"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1599"
      ["description"]=>
      string(601) "
One of my friends who have made good livings over the years, I’m probably the most financially secure. I’ve invested well. But more importantly, I’ve never been married. Unlike so many of my peers, I’ve never been “halved” in a marital dissolution. But this doesn’t mean I don’t have experience with the topic. It seems that […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(9377) "
One of my friends who have made good livings over the years, I’m probably the most financially secure. I’ve invested well. But more importantly, I’ve never been married. Unlike so many of my peers, I’ve never been “halved” in a marital dissolution. But this doesn’t mean I don’t have experience with the topic. It seems that now, in my forties, I’m witnessing as many of my buddies grinding through tough breakups as I watched strippers grind on those same guys during perfunctory lap dances at bachelor parties in our twenties and thirties. Most of these friends look to me for advice, and I do my best to offer it. But I’ve realized that I could be a better friend—and satisfy my own curiosity—if I sought out answers from an expert. So I recently sat down with a prominent divorce attorney who’s represented high-profile clients in the Los Angeles area for more than 40 years. Rick (not his real name) walked me through many lessons that can be learned from the drama and pain he encounters daily.
If a man is getting married, what should he be thinking about?
The first thing is how compatible their value systems are. The second thing is, what does he have to protect and would a premarital agreement work for them? In a premarital agreement, we can figure out the ‘what if’ and how it would work.
If you want to cap spousal support at a certain amount because your career has already been built up, you can do that. Let’s say you take a ball player who has a $10 million contract, and he got that contract because of his years of training and playing. That career has to be protected financially from the standpoint of earning power. Sponsorship income can be carved out, because that’s really for past services. If you have a career that precedes the marriage, you could be contributing your separate-property career to a community-property bank account, and that’s not something you necessarily want to do.

“There is no contract that has been rewritten by the courts more than premarital agreements.”

What if a guy has a small business, and his spouse doesn’t have anything?
The person would want to protect that asset. If there were a prenup, his interest in the business could remain separate, but the salary he takes out of the business can be community property. So, if the business is sold down-the-line, that doesn’t become community property, including the increased value of the business. You’ll have a valuation of assets that were acquired before marriage and it will be disclosed and there will be wording that protects separate property.
Can people get around a prenup during a divorce?
A judge can throw out a premarital agreement if it is “unfair” at the time of enforcement; or, if the disclosures were not correct; or, if it were instituted under duress; or, if one person lacked capacity when they entered the agreement. Let’s say the woman had six children at the time of enforcement, but the premarital agreement had a waiver of spousal support. I think a judge could throw out that waiver. There is no contract that has been rewritten by the courts more than premarital agreements.
This makes me wonder what I should do if I were going to live with someone, as I have in the past and could conceivably do again. Should I have something in writing with them?

I think that’s very important but many people can’t get themselves to propose that type of an agreement because they are saying to the person they want to live with, “Let’s live together to see how we get along,” without any promises.

“Anyone can sue for anything. There’s always someone out there who’s going to take the case. You’re really better off having an agreement.”

What could happen if I didn’t have a pre-cohabitation agreement, or whatever it’s called?
If she gets sick, you’re putting yourself in jeopardy because she’s not working; or if she lost her job and you’re taking care of her. Those are the kinds of things that can be very harmful, economically. She could have potential rights of a quasi-contractual relationship, based on promises and how you held yourself out to the public. If there were letters at Valentine’s Day or Christmas or birthdays, saying “I’ll always care for you and I will love you forever…” and you were providing her with important things like cars or anything that puts you together contractually; then chances are you would be approached to give her money to get reestablished. It’s a risk issue. Anyone can sue for anything. There’s always someone out there who is going to take her case. It’s the cost of a potential loss and the cost of legal fees. So you’re better off settling. You’re really better off having an agreement.”
If someone wants out of his marriage, what should he do?
He should see a divorce lawyer, right away. The first thing we would do is create a binder of all assets and liabilities and all income and the sources of the assets, whether they were separate or community; whether or not there was deferred income, so we would get an understanding of what child support would be and what spousal support would be. Child support is pretty easy, because there’s a computer program that tells you what a judge is going to be looking at. With no children, it’s usually easier, especially if it’s a longer-term marriage, say 12 years [shorter marriages usually pay support for a set amount of time; if it’s longer term, it can go on indefinitely].
If a man is leaving his wife for someone else, does that change anything?
It will change the anger level. It will not change the law. However, if he has given community property to that person, that community property can be clawed back.
Should a man tell his wife that he’s leaving her for someone else?
I would wait to determine whether or not it was necessary to tell her. But I wouldn’t lie to her if she said, “I know there was someone else in your life.” I would be very careful about how I would respond to those questions. He should keep things as calm as possible and not aggravate the situation.

“In my 38-year-marriage, I’ve learned what not to do.”

In addition to wanting to lessen the aggravation, a big concern for most entering a divorce process is limiting their legal bills. What advice could you give someone on how they can keep their costs down?
By being organized. They have to fill out a form of their expenses, and the lawyer needs to back it up. I have had people show up with a grocery bag full of receipts and expected me to figure it out. That just costs a lot of money to unravel. And secondly, by being in communication with your attorney and not being an absent client. It’s impossible to represent an empty chair.
Many of my friends have complained about their divorce attorneys. What are the signs that you aren’t being represented well?
How well your attorney listens to you is number one. I’ve seen lawyers take conference calls while with a client or multitask: Write emails, text, et cetera. It’s very obvious when they have their mind on other things instead of being there for a client. If the attorney is too busy to put the time into their case, then it is time to leave. And it is better to leave sooner than later. Also, many lawyers love to write self-serving inflammatory letters [to the other side]. They do it for control and to create situations that will generate more fees. There are people out there who are just nasty, and they think that’s how the game should be played.
What have you learned as a divorce attorney that you’ve brought into your 38-year marriage?
Well, I’ve learned what not to do. If you can get the point across that I’m not right, necessarily, and you’re not right, necessarily, then we can discuss things and get to the middle and try and work things out so it’s not a burr-under-the-saddle kind of situation. Some of the smallest things can be blown out of proportion and make things uncomfortable.
That is the best guidance Rick gave me. Maybe if more people could simply do a little more to not let marital problems explode, they wouldn’t have to go through all of this costly unpleasantness. Still, I think I’ll take a wide berth of it all and remain unmarried.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(74) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/a-guide-to-your-future-divorce/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "0"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(601) "
One of my friends who have made good livings over the years, I’m probably the most financially secure. I’ve invested well. But more importantly, I’ve never been married. Unlike so many of my peers, I’ve never been “halved” in a marital dissolution. But this doesn’t mean I don’t have experience with the topic. It seems that […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(9377) "
One of my friends who have made good livings over the years, I’m probably the most financially secure. I’ve invested well. But more importantly, I’ve never been married. Unlike so many of my peers, I’ve never been “halved” in a marital dissolution. But this doesn’t mean I don’t have experience with the topic. It seems that now, in my forties, I’m witnessing as many of my buddies grinding through tough breakups as I watched strippers grind on those same guys during perfunctory lap dances at bachelor parties in our twenties and thirties. Most of these friends look to me for advice, and I do my best to offer it. But I’ve realized that I could be a better friend—and satisfy my own curiosity—if I sought out answers from an expert. So I recently sat down with a prominent divorce attorney who’s represented high-profile clients in the Los Angeles area for more than 40 years. Rick (not his real name) walked me through many lessons that can be learned from the drama and pain he encounters daily.
If a man is getting married, what should he be thinking about?
The first thing is how compatible their value systems are. The second thing is, what does he have to protect and would a premarital agreement work for them? In a premarital agreement, we can figure out the ‘what if’ and how it would work.
If you want to cap spousal support at a certain amount because your career has already been built up, you can do that. Let’s say you take a ball player who has a $10 million contract, and he got that contract because of his years of training and playing. That career has to be protected financially from the standpoint of earning power. Sponsorship income can be carved out, because that’s really for past services. If you have a career that precedes the marriage, you could be contributing your separate-property career to a community-property bank account, and that’s not something you necessarily want to do.

“There is no contract that has been rewritten by the courts more than premarital agreements.”

What if a guy has a small business, and his spouse doesn’t have anything?
The person would want to protect that asset. If there were a prenup, his interest in the business could remain separate, but the salary he takes out of the business can be community property. So, if the business is sold down-the-line, that doesn’t become community property, including the increased value of the business. You’ll have a valuation of assets that were acquired before marriage and it will be disclosed and there will be wording that protects separate property.
Can people get around a prenup during a divorce?
A judge can throw out a premarital agreement if it is “unfair” at the time of enforcement; or, if the disclosures were not correct; or, if it were instituted under duress; or, if one person lacked capacity when they entered the agreement. Let’s say the woman had six children at the time of enforcement, but the premarital agreement had a waiver of spousal support. I think a judge could throw out that waiver. There is no contract that has been rewritten by the courts more than premarital agreements.
This makes me wonder what I should do if I were going to live with someone, as I have in the past and could conceivably do again. Should I have something in writing with them?

I think that’s very important but many people can’t get themselves to propose that type of an agreement because they are saying to the person they want to live with, “Let’s live together to see how we get along,” without any promises.

“Anyone can sue for anything. There’s always someone out there who’s going to take the case. You’re really better off having an agreement.”

What could happen if I didn’t have a pre-cohabitation agreement, or whatever it’s called?
If she gets sick, you’re putting yourself in jeopardy because she’s not working; or if she lost her job and you’re taking care of her. Those are the kinds of things that can be very harmful, economically. She could have potential rights of a quasi-contractual relationship, based on promises and how you held yourself out to the public. If there were letters at Valentine’s Day or Christmas or birthdays, saying “I’ll always care for you and I will love you forever…” and you were providing her with important things like cars or anything that puts you together contractually; then chances are you would be approached to give her money to get reestablished. It’s a risk issue. Anyone can sue for anything. There’s always someone out there who is going to take her case. It’s the cost of a potential loss and the cost of legal fees. So you’re better off settling. You’re really better off having an agreement.”
If someone wants out of his marriage, what should he do?
He should see a divorce lawyer, right away. The first thing we would do is create a binder of all assets and liabilities and all income and the sources of the assets, whether they were separate or community; whether or not there was deferred income, so we would get an understanding of what child support would be and what spousal support would be. Child support is pretty easy, because there’s a computer program that tells you what a judge is going to be looking at. With no children, it’s usually easier, especially if it’s a longer-term marriage, say 12 years [shorter marriages usually pay support for a set amount of time; if it’s longer term, it can go on indefinitely].
If a man is leaving his wife for someone else, does that change anything?
It will change the anger level. It will not change the law. However, if he has given community property to that person, that community property can be clawed back.
Should a man tell his wife that he’s leaving her for someone else?
I would wait to determine whether or not it was necessary to tell her. But I wouldn’t lie to her if she said, “I know there was someone else in your life.” I would be very careful about how I would respond to those questions. He should keep things as calm as possible and not aggravate the situation.

“In my 38-year-marriage, I’ve learned what not to do.”

In addition to wanting to lessen the aggravation, a big concern for most entering a divorce process is limiting their legal bills. What advice could you give someone on how they can keep their costs down?
By being organized. They have to fill out a form of their expenses, and the lawyer needs to back it up. I have had people show up with a grocery bag full of receipts and expected me to figure it out. That just costs a lot of money to unravel. And secondly, by being in communication with your attorney and not being an absent client. It’s impossible to represent an empty chair.
Many of my friends have complained about their divorce attorneys. What are the signs that you aren’t being represented well?
How well your attorney listens to you is number one. I’ve seen lawyers take conference calls while with a client or multitask: Write emails, text, et cetera. It’s very obvious when they have their mind on other things instead of being there for a client. If the attorney is too busy to put the time into their case, then it is time to leave. And it is better to leave sooner than later. Also, many lawyers love to write self-serving inflammatory letters [to the other side]. They do it for control and to create situations that will generate more fees. There are people out there who are just nasty, and they think that’s how the game should be played.
What have you learned as a divorce attorney that you’ve brought into your 38-year marriage?
Well, I’ve learned what not to do. If you can get the point across that I’m not right, necessarily, and you’re not right, necessarily, then we can discuss things and get to the middle and try and work things out so it’s not a burr-under-the-saddle kind of situation. Some of the smallest things can be blown out of proportion and make things uncomfortable.
That is the best guidance Rick gave me. Maybe if more people could simply do a little more to not let marital problems explode, they wouldn’t have to go through all of this costly unpleasantness. Still, I think I’ll take a wide berth of it all and remain unmarried.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
    [9]=>
    array(14) {
      ["title"]=>
      string(54) "Love Challenge For Couples: Improve Your Relationships"
      ["link"]=>
      string(92) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/love-challenge-for-couples-improve-your-relationships/"
      ["comments"]=>
      string(101) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/love-challenge-for-couples-improve-your-relationships/#comments"
      ["pubdate"]=>
      string(31) "Fri, 15 Feb 2019 11:13:22 +0000"
      ["dc"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["creator"]=>
        string(9) "Alex Wise"
      }
      ["category"]=>
      string(53) "Dating Issuesadvicechallengelifetipsloverelationships"
      ["guid"]=>
      string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=1596"
      ["description"]=>
      string(607) "
Day 1: Envision your future. One of the best conversations I’ve ever had my wife started like this: “Imagine your ideal life. Now tell me about it.” The idea is, let’s explore how we want to be living five or ten years from now. You could have a number of questions to steer the conversation: […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["content"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["encoded"]=>
        string(6313) "
Day 1: Envision your future.
One of the best conversations I’ve ever had my wife started like this: “Imagine your ideal life. Now tell me about it.” The idea is, let’s explore how we want to be living five or ten years from now. You could have a number of questions to steer the conversation: Where do we wake up? What does our house look like? What are we doing for work? What is it about the work we enjoy? How much do we earn? Who are our friends? What kind of things do we do for fun? This allows you get the inside track on the outcomes your partner wants for her life. It gives you an invaluable insight into the person, and she’ll be really receptive toward being asked in a way she hasn’t been asked before. She’ll more than likely ask the same questions back, and you can see where your ultimate goals are and aren’t aligned. It may sound all business, but it’s important.
Day 2: Do goals worksheets together.
To paraphrase Woody Allen , relationships are like sharks— they have to keep moving or they die. Going somewhere within a relationship is important: You should have goals to achieve together and separately. Those benchmarks don’t have to align, but they should be complemetary. (Like, ahem, having kids.) In Day 1, you established your vision. On Day 2, discuss how you’re going to get there. Goals won’t seem so daunting if you divide things into waystations, like Health, Career and Personal. For example: If you want to earn $200,000 in ten years and you earn $50,000 now, what do you need to be earning in five years? Once you have these waystations in place, your path to reaching the destination you discussed in day one will become more clear. Write your goals down and revisit them every six months to check your progress. Being in a successful relationship isn’t about sacrificing your dreams, just making sure they’re harmonious. (And cut yourself some slack: Goals should have a 50% likelihood of not being realized. The idea is to push yourself.)

Day 3: Keep things novel
Today, try a shared experience that neither of you have done before. Women crave novelty, and one reason relationships sink into the doldrums is that couples do the same thing again and again. There’s a lot of science behind adventure dates: Excitement-Transfer Theory (or ETT) holds that when you do something exciting with someone, they transfer their excitement to you. Any guy who’s ever given a girl a ride on the back of his motorcycle benefits from ETT. It doesn’t have to be something dangerous, just some a bit thrilling with perhaps an element of risk. You’re establishing yourself as a source of excitement, even if you just suggested it or are along for the ride. And it works both ways. If you’re in a situation you’ve never in, you’ll see a different side of her personality.
Day 4: Do something selfless.
Gift her something that’s all about her: A massage, a spa treatment, a yoga class pack or something else that’ll make her feel good. I started doing that with my wife recently; being the practical type, she can’t stand spending money frivolously. But when I bought her a salon treatments, she said, “Oh God, I’ve wanted to do this all the time.” She loved it because she wouldn’t have done it for herself, and she didn’t have to do anything but sit back and enjoy it. Do things that show you cherish her, and she’ll feel better about her you. You should want her to feel her the best all the time—your relationship is the best when she’s feeling great.
Day 5: Establish a hierarchy of asks.
Recently, my wife and I had a fight because on a night out, I was grumpy in front of her friends. I was tired and stressed from work and couldn’t perform the way she wanted to. We talked it through and established that we don’t ask each other many things, so when we do ask for something, we should know that it’s significant. Ask her what she wishes you would do (or do differently) or like. Figure out how important that is to her. Figure out where you can change. And make sure the conversation goes both ways.
Day 6: Change your perspective on her idiosyncracies.
I’m a bit of a neat freak, and I used to moan about my wife not being tidy or closing kitchen drawers. Then I learned to appreciate these inconsequential quirks. It’s really being accepting of someone’s core: “Oh well—she’s just not going to be a certain way; Is that a dealbreaker, or is it something I can learn to live with and appreciate?” Another example: My wife is stubborn about socializing. On occasion, it drives me crazy. But I’ve learned to admire that she doesn’t do things out of social obligation. Yet another example: I love to sleep in on the weekend, and she never has. She’s always up early doing things around the house and waking me up to get. On one hand, I’d like to lie in. On the other hand, I admire her spirit and energy for getting things done. Instead of lamenting that I wasn’t getting to sleep in, I started thinking, “Look at my amazing wife, she’s getting things done.” The only thing that changed was my perspective.
Day 7: Honor the part of her that’s sexual.
Too often, sex becomes a perfunctory thing that’s done during commercial breaks. Today, have an honest conversation about desire. Have a conversation that tickles her intellectual G-spot: Who’s her celebrity crush? What does imagine it would be like to meet him? What does she like about him? It’s a harmless conversation that gets her thinking about sexual agency and autonomy in a safe way. Separate your own ego from it. You have desires, and she has desires. Work them out together, and your relationship will only get stronger.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      }
      ["wfw"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["commentrss"]=>
        string(97) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2019/02/15/love-challenge-for-couples-improve-your-relationships/feed/"
      }
      ["slash"]=>
      array(1) {
        ["comments"]=>
        string(1) "1"
      }
      ["summary"]=>
      string(607) "
Day 1: Envision your future. One of the best conversations I’ve ever had my wife started like this: “Imagine your ideal life. Now tell me about it.” The idea is, let’s explore how we want to be living five or ten years from now. You could have a number of questions to steer the conversation: […]
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["atom_content"]=>
      string(6313) "
Day 1: Envision your future.
One of the best conversations I’ve ever had my wife started like this: “Imagine your ideal life. Now tell me about it.” The idea is, let’s explore how we want to be living five or ten years from now. You could have a number of questions to steer the conversation: Where do we wake up? What does our house look like? What are we doing for work? What is it about the work we enjoy? How much do we earn? Who are our friends? What kind of things do we do for fun? This allows you get the inside track on the outcomes your partner wants for her life. It gives you an invaluable insight into the person, and she’ll be really receptive toward being asked in a way she hasn’t been asked before. She’ll more than likely ask the same questions back, and you can see where your ultimate goals are and aren’t aligned. It may sound all business, but it’s important.
Day 2: Do goals worksheets together.
To paraphrase Woody Allen , relationships are like sharks— they have to keep moving or they die. Going somewhere within a relationship is important: You should have goals to achieve together and separately. Those benchmarks don’t have to align, but they should be complemetary. (Like, ahem, having kids.) In Day 1, you established your vision. On Day 2, discuss how you’re going to get there. Goals won’t seem so daunting if you divide things into waystations, like Health, Career and Personal. For example: If you want to earn $200,000 in ten years and you earn $50,000 now, what do you need to be earning in five years? Once you have these waystations in place, your path to reaching the destination you discussed in day one will become more clear. Write your goals down and revisit them every six months to check your progress. Being in a successful relationship isn’t about sacrificing your dreams, just making sure they’re harmonious. (And cut yourself some slack: Goals should have a 50% likelihood of not being realized. The idea is to push yourself.)

Day 3: Keep things novel
Today, try a shared experience that neither of you have done before. Women crave novelty, and one reason relationships sink into the doldrums is that couples do the same thing again and again. There’s a lot of science behind adventure dates: Excitement-Transfer Theory (or ETT) holds that when you do something exciting with someone, they transfer their excitement to you. Any guy who’s ever given a girl a ride on the back of his motorcycle benefits from ETT. It doesn’t have to be something dangerous, just some a bit thrilling with perhaps an element of risk. You’re establishing yourself as a source of excitement, even if you just suggested it or are along for the ride. And it works both ways. If you’re in a situation you’ve never in, you’ll see a different side of her personality.
Day 4: Do something selfless.
Gift her something that’s all about her: A massage, a spa treatment, a yoga class pack or something else that’ll make her feel good. I started doing that with my wife recently; being the practical type, she can’t stand spending money frivolously. But when I bought her a salon treatments, she said, “Oh God, I’ve wanted to do this all the time.” She loved it because she wouldn’t have done it for herself, and she didn’t have to do anything but sit back and enjoy it. Do things that show you cherish her, and she’ll feel better about her you. You should want her to feel her the best all the time—your relationship is the best when she’s feeling great.
Day 5: Establish a hierarchy of asks.
Recently, my wife and I had a fight because on a night out, I was grumpy in front of her friends. I was tired and stressed from work and couldn’t perform the way she wanted to. We talked it through and established that we don’t ask each other many things, so when we do ask for something, we should know that it’s significant. Ask her what she wishes you would do (or do differently) or like. Figure out how important that is to her. Figure out where you can change. And make sure the conversation goes both ways.
Day 6: Change your perspective on her idiosyncracies.
I’m a bit of a neat freak, and I used to moan about my wife not being tidy or closing kitchen drawers. Then I learned to appreciate these inconsequential quirks. It’s really being accepting of someone’s core: “Oh well—she’s just not going to be a certain way; Is that a dealbreaker, or is it something I can learn to live with and appreciate?” Another example: My wife is stubborn about socializing. On occasion, it drives me crazy. But I’ve learned to admire that she doesn’t do things out of social obligation. Yet another example: I love to sleep in on the weekend, and she never has. She’s always up early doing things around the house and waking me up to get. On one hand, I’d like to lie in. On the other hand, I admire her spirit and energy for getting things done. Instead of lamenting that I wasn’t getting to sleep in, I started thinking, “Look at my amazing wife, she’s getting things done.” The only thing that changed was my perspective.
Day 7: Honor the part of her that’s sexual.
Too often, sex becomes a perfunctory thing that’s done during commercial breaks. Today, have an honest conversation about desire. Have a conversation that tickles her intellectual G-spot: Who’s her celebrity crush? What does imagine it would be like to meet him? What does she like about him? It’s a harmless conversation that gets her thinking about sexual agency and autonomy in a safe way. Separate your own ego from it. You have desires, and she has desires. Work them out together, and your relationship will only get stronger.
The post  appeared first on .
"
      ["date_timestamp"]=>
      int()
    }
  }
  ["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) "Fri, 22 Feb 2019 14:59:21 +0000"
    ["language"]=>
    string(5) "en-US"
    ["sy"]=>
    array(2) {
      ["updateperiod"]=>
      string(6) "hourly"
      ["updatefrequency"]=>
      string(1) "1"
    }
    ["generator"]=>
    string(30) "https://wordpress.org/?v=5.0.3"
    ["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) "Fri, 22 Feb 2019 14:59:21 GMT
"
  ["etag"]=>
  string(36) ""3762e8a6270c8d0b48783a892d02e919"
"
}