http://dearsugar.com/ Just ask. en http://dearsugar.com/2670986 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/02_2009/790543ceee370ec6_200305379-001.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image xlarger" width="266" height="400"></span><br><br>Money is tight for pretty much everyone these days, and no matter what you do to save, it's close to impossible to cut back on everything all the time. Most couples I know have rituals — Friday night date nights, going to the movies on Sundays, or playing on a bowling league — but whatever their tradition is, it probably costs money. </p> <p>If you're having to pick and choose what activities to keep in the mix, tell me, what are you still spending money on as a couple? </p> <p><span style='font-size:10px !important;'><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></span></p> <p><br clear=all></p> http://dearsugar.com/2670986#comment Dating Money Relationship Protocol traditions Thu, 08 Jan 2009 06:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2670986 http://dearsugar.com/2663772 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2663772"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2663772',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2663772');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/02_2009/c6d50be2cae57d8f_stk64750cor.xlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image xlarge" width="320" height="320"></span>With Winter comes cold and flu season — blah! Though some of you like to be <a href="http://dearsugar.com/967948" >alone when you're sick</a>, many of you like to be taken care of, cuddled, and kept company. </p> <p>When you're in a relationship though (especially when you're living together), it's your significant other that adopts the role your mom used to play — bringing you chicken soup and making sure you have everything you need — but not all men are well equipped in that department. So when you're sick, tell me, is your man a good caregiver? </p> <p><span style='font-size:10px !important;'><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></span></p> <p><br clear=all></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2663772" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: Is Your Significant Other a Good Caregiver?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, he's great at taking care of me! </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, he's not the best doc, but he's great at other things so it's OK. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> He's good for the first day, but after that I'm usually on my own!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — I'll explain below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2663772" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2663772#comment Dear Poll Relationship Protocol Relationships sick Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2663772 http://dearsugar.com/2627715 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2627715"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2627715',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2627715');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/51_2008/aceca2a266f07acf_CoupleApologizing.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image xlarger" height="400" width="317"></span><br><br><br>I've definitely been in a few relationships where it felt like I was always the one apologizing after an argument — even when I knew it wasn't actually me who was in the wrong. Let's face it: Some people just can't say, "I'm sorry" first, regardless of the circumstance. So how is it in your relationship? After a fight, who typically apologizes first? <br clear=all></p> <p><span style='font-size:10px !important;'><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></span></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2627715" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: After a Fight, Who Apologizes First?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> I always do.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> My significant other always says it first.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> It totally depends on who was wrong.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2627715" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2627715#comment apologies Apologizing After a Fight Dear Poll fighting Relationship Protocol Tue, 30 Dec 2008 09:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2627715 http://dearsugar.com/2631991 <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/tags/Relationship+Protocol" >Relationship Protocol</a> was a new Dear feature in 2008, which gave all those coupled up a place to talk about their relationships — the good, the bad, and the ugly! Below are my five favorite posts from '08, but if yours isn't listed, tell us which Relationship Protocol you liked best in comments section below. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/51_2008/6f17a1aed35c85d1_Couple-in-Love.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image xxlarge" width="467" height="312"></span></p> <ul> <li> <a href="http://dearsugar.com/2133246" >How Did You First Exchange I Love You?</a></li> <li> <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1886288" >Have You Picked Up Any Bad Habits From Your Significant Other?</a></li> <li> <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1669724" >What's Off Limits in Front of Your Significant Other?</a></li> <li> <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1628932" >Is Sharing Passwords a Do or a Don't?</a></li> <li> <a href="http://dearsugar.com/2087044" >Do You Miss the Excitement of Being Single?</a></li> </ul> <p><span style='font-size:10px !important;'><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></span></p> http://dearsugar.com/2631991#comment Best of 2008 Relationship Protocol Sugar Awards 2008 Fri, 26 Dec 2008 06:30:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2631991 http://dearsugar.com/2622579 <p>Making <a href="http://dearsugar.com/2537447" >new traditions with your significant other</a> is part of the excitement of building a life together, especially during the holidays. Splitting time between family can be somewhat overwhelming, so creating something special — just for each other — that you can look forward to every year is a great way to ease the holiday stress. So on this Christmas Eve, tell me, what traditions have you created with your special someone? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/51_2008/43afc2a9288594e9_dv1853023.xxlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline center image xxlarge" width="500" height="332"></span></p> <p><span style='font-size:10px !important;'><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></span></p> <p><br clear=all></p> http://dearsugar.com/2622579#comment Christmas holiday Relationship Protocol Relationships Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2622579 http://dearsugar.com/2597491 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/50_2008/aebb1a0c14a49c76_phone.xxlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image xxlarge" width="333" height="500"></span><br><br>When in a relationship, most people <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1523449" >tell their significant other</a> everything, even the stuff they're not supposed to, but there's something to be said about having a private conversation without your man sitting right there next to you. Since every relationship is different, tell me, do you prefer to talk to your friends and family in private or in front of your honey so he can be a part of the conversation too? </p> <p><span style='font-size:10px !important;'><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></span><br /> <br clear=all></p> http://dearsugar.com/2597491#comment Family Friends Privacy Relationship Protocol Relationships Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2597491 http://dearsugar.com/2558072 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2558072"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2558072',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2558072');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p>When you're in a relationship, you know how important it is to <a href="http://dearsugar.com/2534381" >keep the romance alive</a>. Since it's easy to let the stresses and concerns of our daily lives overwhelm us, flirtatious banter while doing our day job — text message or email — is a perfect way to keep the other person top of mind. Plus it makes the day go by so much faster! So ladies, tell me, do you flirt with your significant other throughout the day?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/49_2008/74e0a4a5358b1299_text.xxlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image xxlarge" width="500" height="333"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2558072" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: Do You Flirt With Your Significant Other?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, we send steamy texts every once in a while — it keeps things fresh!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, we never got in the habit of doing that. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2558072" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2558072#comment Dear Poll Relationship Protocol Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2558072 http://dearsugar.com/2537447 <p>I think one of the best parts about being in a relationship is creating new traditions together, unique to the life you live as a couple. Of course, incorporating each other's family traditions is always fun, but so is instating an after-Thanksgiving hike with your hubby every year or a putting up Christmas lights while eating your leftovers. If this is something you've done in your relationship, tell us, what holiday traditions have you created with your significant other? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/48_2008/d442c65ef34d50d0_hike.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image xxlarge" width="476" height="359"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2537447#comment holiday Relationship Protocol Thanksgiving traditions Fri, 28 Nov 2008 08:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2537447 http://dearsugar.com/2534381 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/48_2008/ad7e80bad8172d56_flowers.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image xlarger" width="275" height="377"></span>Over the weekend I asked you all to tell me <a href="http://dearsugar.com/2506092" >how important sex is in your relationship</a>, and I was surprised to see that it's an infrequent act for many of you. Sure, once the honeymoon period subsides, it's normal for that initial lust to die down, but if you're not connecting physically, there must be other ways you stay in tune with one another. So ladies, tell me, how do you keep the fire, passion, and intimacy alive in your relationship when you're not getting it on? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a><br /> <br clear=all></p> http://dearsugar.com/2534381#comment Relationship Protocol Relationships Romance Sex Tue, 25 Nov 2008 06:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2534381 http://dearsugar.com/2480477 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/45_2008/5407aae791d42847_away.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image xxlarge" width="368" height="464"></span>Does the old saying when the cat's away, the mouse will play ring at all true in your relationship? It's a common notion that when a significant other is out of town, the other half gets a "hall pass." While I'm sure that's appealing to some, others might use that time apart to catch up on alone time, to get errands run, or to simply spend time with friends and family. So when it comes to your relationship, tell me, when the cat's away, do you play? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2480477#comment Alone Time Party Relationship Protocol Relationships Mon, 10 Nov 2008 10:00:00 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2480477 http://dearsugar.com/2464096 <p>Even if they're living under the same roof or have plans to meet up after work, I know many couples that still touch base multiple times throughout the day. I think it's really sweet, but communication overload can be irritating for friends and co-workers when the incessant phone calls become disruptive. When I'm in a relationship, I like to share all the excitement of my day with him in person, but what about you? Are you and your significant other in touch throughout the day? And if so, how often do you typically talk?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/45_2008/4594d9439e445005_talk.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline center image xlarger" width="400" height="266"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2464096#comment Communication Friends phone call Relationship Protocol Tue, 04 Nov 2008 21:13:40 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2464096 http://dearsugar.com/2445015 <p>The strength of a relationship is put to the test when the going gets tough. As painful as a difficult situation can be, if you can make it through, then you'll know your relationship has grown. But reacting well to a crisis doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and is often something that must be learned over time. Has your relationship ever been challenged by an outside problem? How are you and your boyfriend when it comes to dealing with situations that are out of your control? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/44_2008/5457a95f33ed22df_Couple-Crisis.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image xxlarge" height="260" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2445015#comment Challenge Crisis Relationship Protocol Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2445015 http://dearsugar.com/2440849 <p>The word on the street is that couples are having more sex these days because of all the stress and overwhelming fear that's lingering in the air. And if you think about it, it makes perfect sense. Sex is a great stress reliever and it's the one thing that can make you feel utterly connected to someone — a comforting feeling during these uncertain times. Since I'm of the curious nature, tell me, are you and your significant other having more sex these days as a destress mechanism?<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/44_2008/8a86baef752edb99_sex.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline center image xlarger" width="400" height="292"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2440849#comment Relationship Protocol Relationships Sex Stress stress relief Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2440849 http://dearsugar.com/2419230 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/43_2008/6914a4139e81b9cf_Couple-Happy.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image xxlarge" height="451" width="300"></span>There’s something extra meaningful when you get praise from a significant other. Of course, a compliment is always nice, but when it comes from your loved one, it tends to hold more meaning. That kind of positive energy really goes a long way in keeping the romance alive. How often do you get compliments and praise from your significant other? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a><br clear=all></p> http://dearsugar.com/2419230#comment affection Compliment flattery Love Relationship Protocol Mon, 27 Oct 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2419230 http://dearsugar.com/2407145 <p>As far as sharing <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1627458" >relationship histories</a> with each other, I tend to believe that some things are better left unsaid. But just because you're not saying it, doesn't mean you're not thinking it. Considering your past relationships in contrast to your current situation can actually help to illuminate the good things you have now or the ways you've changed. On the other hand, there seems little reason to dwell on the past when you're building your new relationship in the present. So ladies, once you're in a new relationship, do you put your past out of your mind? Or do you find yourself naturally making comparisons between your current relationship and your previous ones? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/43_2008/18055f5d5fe6151c_Woman-Wondering.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image xxlarge" height="332" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2407145#comment change differences past relationships Relationship Protocol Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2407145 http://dearsugar.com/2390350 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/43_2008/331bf8ac3381f544_Couple-Golfing.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image xlarger" height="400" width="257"></span>As a relationship develops and your life begins to blend more with your significant other's, it’s likely you'll find your interests expanding to include some of his. At first it might just be a matter of exposure, but after a while his hobby can turn into yours, and vice versa. But the same goes for habits. I’ve seen plenty of night owls turn into <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1558414" >morning people</a> when dating a morning person or a health nut start appreciating the junk foods that her significant other loves. Ladies, what about you and your man? Have you guys picked up any of the other's habits or interests? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2390350#comment common interests habits Hobbies Relationship Protocol Tue, 21 Oct 2008 13:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2390350 http://dearsugar.com/2380995 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/42_2008/f6e75251488f31e8_Couple-Washing-Car.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image xxlarge" height="453" width="300"></span>I hate doing chores — what a way to ruin a good weekend or evening! I always get them done, but I do find myself moping through them most of the time. I can certainly see why it’s so appealing to share the burden with someone else or at least have company while you’re stuck doing it. Having a partner to help handle life’s daily chores and weekly errands is definitely a perk of being in a relationship. And when you live together, it especially comes in handy. What chores do you do as a team? Or do you each do your own thing? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> <br clear=all></p> http://dearsugar.com/2380995#comment chores Relationship Protocol Teamwork Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2380995 http://dearsugar.com/2353831 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/42_2008/Couple-Talking.xlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image xlarge" height="245" width="320"></span>One of the hardest, but most important parts of a relationship is learning how to communicate effectively when the going gets tough. It’s easy to talk when it’s all sunshine and rainbows, but communicating your feelings to someone else when you’re not even sure what you’re feeling can seem impossible. Ideally, once you're settled into a relationship, you’ve figured out the best way to talk to one another, but the truth is, even people who’ve been happily married for decades can be terrible at effective communication. So how does your own relationship fair the rough and volatile communication seas? What are you working on as an individual and as a couple to make your communication stronger? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2353831#comment Communication learning Relationship Issues Relationship Protocol Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2353831 http://dearsugar.com/2336982 <p>The desire for sex varies from person to person, and can range anywhere from a constant urge to a complete lack of interest. Essentially there’s no right answer for how often you should or shouldn’t want sex, but if you’re in a relationship, finding a mutual balance will go a long way in creating a harmonious sexual connection. I’m sure you all have your own happy medium, but ladies, in general, how does your sex drive differ from his? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/41_2008/Couple-Kissing.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image xxlarge" height="330" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2336982#comment couple Relationship Protocol Sex Sex Drive Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2336982 http://dearsugar.com/2322250 <p>We all know that boys will be boys, but when they are in a relationship, time with the guys becomes all the more important. Just as women need alone time with their friends, men desire the same interaction. But I've noticed a common theme when my girlfriends tell me about their significant others' nights out: they're constantly up to no good, drinking too much, staying out too late, and spending too much money. Of course it's their life and they can live it however they see fit, but when it compromises their girlfriends' feelings, something has to change. So ladies, how do you feel when your significant other goes out with the guys? Is it a cause for contention, or are you a supporter of boys' night out? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/41_2008/boys.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image xxlarge" width="489" height="349"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2322250#comment Boys drinking hurt feelings Money Relationship Protocol Relationships Thu, 09 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2322250 http://dearsugar.com/2184085 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/Couple-Kissing.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="315" width="315"></span>When you’re in a relationship, one person’s mood undoubtedly affects the other’s. If you’re angry, he’s going to be worried until he knows what’s wrong, and if he’s sad, you’re going to be concerned until he starts to perk up. But while being in a relationship does make moods interdependent, it also gives you an automatic cheer-up buddy — the person who will pull out all the stops to get you smiling again. Ladies, when you’re down and out, what does your man do to get you up and feeling like yourself again? And do you have any tricks to make him happy? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2184085#comment Happiness Relationship Protocol sadness Smile Mon, 06 Oct 2008 12:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2184085 http://dearsugar.com/2150837 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/Couple-Friends.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="228" width="350"></span>Doing just about anything with a group can be tricky. The more people, the more opinions and personalities are butting up against one another. And combining two groups together can upset any kind of balance that’s already been achieved, which is often the case when you try to combine your friends with your boyfriend’s. Even so, I think it’s worth a try, since establishing a group of mutual friends is completely convenient when it comes to socializing. What do you think? Do you mix your friends with his? Or are they both fairly separate? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2150837#comment Friends Friendship group of people Relationship Protocol Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2150837 http://dearsugar.com/2133246 <p>There are so many amazing things that come with the beginning of a new relationship that I’d be hard pressed to pick just one as my favorite — though who can deny just how great that <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1750154" >butterflies feeling</a> is? One particular moment I think is the most special for a couple is the exchange of "I love you." Whether it’s sappy, funny, or completely random, this step always lingers and represents a deepening connection in a relationship. So ladies, I have to know, how did you and your guy first say I love you? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/Couple-in-Love.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="312" width="467"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2133246#comment firsts I Love You Love Relationship Protocol Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:35:26 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2133246 http://dearsugar.com/2118575 <p>As the old rhyme goes, first comes love, then comes marriage, then comes a baby in the baby carriage — but as we all know, the progression of a relationship is a lot more involved than that. Of course there are steps one takes before settling down and starting a family, but even if you skip out on living together before getting engaged or opt out of getting a dog before having kids, you can still live happily ever after! So looking back on your relationship, did you and your significant other take baby steps in the right direction, or did you just go with the flow and let your emotions take over?<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/dog.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" width="477" height="358"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2118575#comment Family Kids Love personality traits Relationship Protocol Tue, 30 Sep 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2118575 http://dearsugar.com/2087044 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/39_2008/relationships.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="313" height="277"></span>There's a common misconception about couples: once they've settled into their relationship, they become boring. While it's true that some couples <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1696621" >prefer to stay in over going out</a>, that doesn't automatically put them in the dull department; staying home can be fun, too! Of course things do change once you're off the market — <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1764032" >painting the town red</a> doesn't seem like such an urgency — but do you ever miss the excitement of being single? I hear couples tell their friends that they are living vicariously through them when hearing about their dating escapades, so tell me honestly, do you ever wish you were single again? Or are you perfectly happy and content having a significant other, regardless of whether you're considered a bit more boring than you used to be?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2087044#comment personality traits Relationship Protocol Relationships Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2087044 http://dearsugar.com/2070286 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/39_2008/dv692018.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="443" width="300"></span>If you’re in a relationship, you’re probably having sex, but are you talking about it? Serious relationships require communication in response to the small things, like what the plans are for the weekend, and the bigger things, like what you've been arguing about lately. But while sex is certainly an important issue in a relationship, we correlate it more with action than talk. So do you and your significant other seriously discuss your sex life? Or when it comes to sex, is talking the last thing on your mind? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a><br clear=all></p> http://dearsugar.com/2070286#comment Communication Relationship Protocol Sex Sexual Health Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2070286 http://dearsugar.com/2062104 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2062104"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2062104',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2062104');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/39_2008/mani.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="313" height="313"></span>When you're in a relationship, your significant other often becomes your best friend in addition to your lover, which makes doing things together a no-brainer. Many couples <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1099904" >work out</a>, run errands, and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1885541" > cook together</a>, but then there are those girly things that most women only do with their friends — get mani pedis, go shopping, or spend the day at the spa. Though I've found this to be a rarity, I do know couples that do <i>it all</i> together, so what about you and your significant other? Is your man up for doing the girly things with you, too? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> <p><br clear=all></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2062104" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: Do You Do Girly Things With Your Significant Other? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes! He secretly loves the girly stuff!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No. We do couply things together, but I save the girl stuff for my friends! </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please explain below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2062104" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2062104#comment Friendship Relationship Protocol Relationships Shopping spa Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2062104 http://dearsugar.com/2037617 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2037617"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2037617',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2037617');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/38_2008/period.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="313" height="313"></span>Although our periods serve a fabulous purpose, they also comes with a plethora of nasty PMS symptoms: mood swings, volatile emotions, crabbiness, food cravings, bloating — the list goes on and on. And since our period, and everything that comes along with it, only affects us women, it can be an easy target of blame from men. I know from experience how infuriating it is to have your significant other blame your actions on your monthly friend when in fact, your period has absolutely nothing to do with it. I call those assumptions cheap shots! Does this happen in your relationship? Does your significant other ever blame your mood on your period, even when it's nowhere in sight? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> <p><br clear=all></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2037617" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: Does Your Significant Other Blame Your Period? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, he blames my period all the time and it drives me nuts!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, he's actually never done that. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please explain below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2037617" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2037617#comment Dear Poll period PMS Relationship Protocol Fri, 19 Sep 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2037617 http://dearsugar.com/2021988 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2021988"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2021988',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2021988');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p>Just like Thanksgiving and New Years, sometimes personal celebrations cause tension in a relationship, too. Special occasions such as an anniversary or major birthday can be especially overwhelming when factoring in dinner reservations, a gift, and whether or not all of his or her expectations will be met. And even when the pressure is unspoken, it can easily ignite a stressed-out, tension-fueled argument. This has happened to me before so has the stress from a special occasion ever been the root cause of an argument in your relationship?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/38_2008/annoyed.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" width="508" height="336"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2021988" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: Do Major Events Cause Arguments?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, we both get really uppity around special occasions.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No. We don't place a lot of emphasis on those kinds of events.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> It has before but we learned from our argument and now do things differently!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please share!</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2021988" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2021988#comment angry arguments Dear Poll Relationship Protocol Relationships special occasion Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2021988 http://dearsugar.com/1994596 <p>Football season is officially upon us, which for fans everywhere means that Sunday and Monday nights have taken on a whole new meaning. If you're in relationship with a die-hard football fan, suddenly plans and even moods are determined by a team, a game, and a loss. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/37_2008/74583673%282%29.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="334" width="500"></span></p> <p>Remember in <a href="http://dearsugar.com/tags/Sex+and+the+City" >Sex and the City</a> when Samantha dates that guy who will only have sex with her if his team wins? Well football, for some folks, is actually like that! On the flip side, when two fanatics find each other, the season can make for an exciting few months in their relationship. How does your relationship weather the football season? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1994596#comment men Relationship Protocol Relationships sports Women Mon, 15 Sep 2008 12:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1994596 http://dearsugar.com/1964025 <p>Although I do know some couples who are distant from both their sets of parents, most couples I know are close with at least one person’s family. Whether it’s a matter of distance or similar personalities, sometimes it’s just natural for a couple to be more tightly knit with one person’s family over the other's. As a couple, whose family are you the closest to? Or do you find that it’s completely equal? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/37_2008/73106360.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="333" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1964025#comment distance Family personality traits Relationship Protocol Wed, 10 Sep 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1964025 http://dearsugar.com/1933525 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/36_2008/fight.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="300" height="395"></span>Whether he starts them more than you, or you <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1640341" >rock the boat</a> more than he, fights between couples are relatively normal. And while some couples steer clear of those <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1870113" >touchy subjects</a>, there are some issues that are not easily avoidable, thus becoming regular bones of contention. So do you have any re-occurring fights in your relationship? If so, what causes them?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1933525#comment arguing fighting Relationship Protocol Relationships Mon, 08 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1933525 http://dearsugar.com/1910013 <p>Even if you’re not married, a relationship requires certain financial negotiations: <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1850881" >Who pays for what?</a> And when? Often the lines are easily drawn, but sometimes things can get complicated, especially if your boyfriend likes to spend more money than you. It can be difficult to maintain a budget if your partner doesn’t, not to mention that it can often be stressful on a relationship. Is that true for you? Do you find that your boyfriend’s spending habits affect your own? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/36_2008/200248305-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="333" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1910013#comment Budget habits Money personality traits Relationship Protocol Relationships Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1910013 http://dearsugar.com/1902257 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/35_2008/stk31328mls_0.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="355" width="350"></span>Often, there’s a social stigma attached to men who cry. But of course, men get sad, too, and sometimes that sadness is reflected in tears. I mean, they’re only human. Most guys are more apt to keep this act to themselves, so when they enter into a relationship with someone they can trust, it can be a relief to have a literal shoulder to cry on. So does your significant other cry in front of you or does he keep his tears private, behind closed doors?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1902257#comment crying Emotions men Relationship Protocol sensitive Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1902257 http://dearsugar.com/1891706 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/35_2008/dv1991032.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="375" width="300"></span>The great thing about a sexual fantasy is that it can be whatever we want it to be. The problem is that if a fantasy isn't in the realm of reality, it can be hard to act on, which is why many of our wild, crazy, whimsical, or just impossible ideas end up staying in the realm of make believe. And that's OK, but what I want to know is: Do you know what your man's number one fantasy is? And have you ever tried it to make it a reality? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1891706#comment couple fantasy men Relationship Protocol Sex Tue, 26 Aug 2008 07:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1891706 http://dearsugar.com/1886288 <p>I'm a creature of habit, but the older I get, the more I realize how many habits of mine have been adopted from past boyfriends. Cracking my neck, the way I butter my corn, and having to close every closet door before going to bed are just a few. I think it's only natural to pick up such tendencies, but once you start to pick up the bad ones, it can be hard to let them go. Of course, bad habits are all a matter of opinion but tell me, have you picked up any from your significant other? If so, tell us about them below. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/smoke.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" width="507" height="337"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1886288#comment bad habits habits personality traits Relationship Protocol Relationships Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:48:38 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1886288 http://dearsugar.com/1883444 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/dv1991018.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="375" width="300"></span>Couples are all about physical closeness, but somehow it's still strange to learn just how close some couples really are. Take their grooming habits for example. That particular kind of intimacy is one that I usually associate with alone time. Needless to say, I was surprised recently when this topic came up and many of my friends admitted to grooming their significant others — one said she plucks her boyfriend's eyebrows, and another says she has him paint her toenails! Of course when I pried, they admitted that some things they still kept to themselves. So spill it ladies, even if it might be strange: in your relationship, what grooming habits do you do for the other? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1883444#comment closeness habits personal grooming Relationship Protocol Fri, 22 Aug 2008 08:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1883444 http://dearsugar.com/1879837 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/dv721043.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="397" width="300"></span>All relationships have their ups and downs as personal needs and the demands of life fluctuate, but typically we think of these low points as emotional challenges rather than sexual disappointments. However, like all other aspects of a relationship, sex requires work and development, so it’s not surprising when couples encounter difficulties in the bedroom. Though I’m sure there are some of us still satisfying our voracious sexual appetites, I think many people have encountered a <a href="http://dearsugar.com/853522" >sexual dry spell</a> in their relationship before. Have you? And if so, how did you and your boyfriend get out of it? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1879837#comment dry spell Relationship Protocol Relationships Sex unsatisfied Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1879837 http://dearsugar.com/1875722 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1875722"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1875722',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1875722');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/mess.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image preview" width="367" height="465"></span>When you're in a relationship and either living together or spending significant amounts of time together, it's easy to get comfortable and revert to your single woman habits — bras on the doorknob, piles of clothes on your armchair, and excess hair in your bush. Of course the same thing goes with men — gym shorts on the bathroom floor and wet towels on the bed — but I think the notion that men are bigger slobs than women isn't always the case. In fact, most guys I know are complete neat freaks whereas I, admittedly, am not! So to all you coupled up women out there, be honest, who's more of slob, you or your significant other? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1875722" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: Who Is More of a Slob?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> He is! </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I am! </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> We both are, unfortunately. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Neither one of us. We are both neat freaks.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1875722" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1875722#comment Dear Poll messy house personality traits Relationship Protocol slob Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1875722 http://dearsugar.com/1875580 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1875580"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1875580',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1875580');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/shop.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="308"></span>Even if you don't have <a href="http://dearsugar.com/636397" rel="nofollow">joint bank accounts</a>, certain couples still have quite an opinion as to where and how their significant other spends money. Generally speaking, women like to spend on <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1869744" rel="nofollow">material goods</a> and even if they aren't shopping beyond their means, some men just don't understand the importance of a new pair of shoes or flattering new jeans. But what is a woman to do if that's the case? Well hide her purchases, of course! So to all you shopaholics out there, tell me, do you hide the evidence of your shopping sprees from your significant other?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1875580" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: Do You Hide Purchases From Your Significant Other?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I throw away all the bags so he doesn't know I've been shopping. What he won't know won't hurt him!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> It depends on what it is I bought!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, we usually shop together so there's no need. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please share below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1875580" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1875580#comment Dear Poll material things Money Relationship Protocol Shopping Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1875580 http://dearsugar.com/1870113 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/33_2008/dv1483064.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="375" width="300"></span>As we make it through the personal successes, failures, and traumas of life, it’s inevitable that we pick up some sore spots along the way that when poked or nudged, can release a torrent of feelings. And just as we develop them on our own, it’s common for touchy subjects to arise as we encounter <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1864876" >normal relationship issues</a>. It could be something that consistently creates an argument or something that makes one person extremely uncomfortable, whatever it is, it always involves a lot of emotion. Do you and your significant other have any of these sensitive spots? Are there things you avoid talking about or have to tread lightly if you do? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1870113#comment Communication Conversation nervous Relationship Protocol sensitive Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1870113 http://dearsugar.com/1864876 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/33_2008/dv366018c.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="370" width="300"></span>If a relationship lasts long enough, it's natural for thoughts about the long-term future to arise. And figuring out if you and your significant other are on the same wavelength can help you determine whether or not your relationship should continue. </p> <p>But while considering the future is common, and often important, there's still something inherently scary and exciting when having a talk about marriage for the first time. That's probably why many people jump right into it and others tend to hold off. So tell me, have you talked about marriage or the possibility of it with your boyfriend yet? And, if so, how long did you wait before bringing it up? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1864876#comment Communication future Long Term Relationship Marriage Relationship Protocol Relationships Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1864876 http://dearsugar.com/1799396 <p>I don’t consider myself a competitive person, but I can get pretty feisty during a round of <a href="http://www.geeksugar.com/tags/guitar+hero" >Guitar Hero</a> or a game of Scrabble. There’s nothing wrong with a little competition in a friendly game, but what about when it comes to a relationship? I’ve always kept my tiny competitive edge away from my significant other, but I’ve seen some couples duke it out over Monopoly or worse, their roles at work. Maybe it has more to do with the urge to get out a little tension than an actual desire to win, but what do you think? Have you seen this in other couples? Do you and your man ever go head to head?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/dv693028.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="366" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1799396#comment arguing Competition Couples fighting Relationship Protocol Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1799396 http://dearsugar.com/1850881 <p>Gone are the days when the man automatically pays for everything. Since many women out there bring home more money than their significant others, the paying field seems to be evening itself out more and more. When I'm in a relationship, I treat as much as I can budget — if I can't swing paying for nice dinners, I'll be sure to buy breakfast or coffee in the mornings. So ladies, perhaps you make more money than your significant other, or maybe you don't make anywhere near as much as he does — whatever the case, how often do you treat? Are you pretty much 50/50, does he usually pick up the tab, or are you the one that tends to foot most of the bills?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/32_2008/joe.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" width="460" height="371"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1850881#comment bills Money Relationship Relationship Protocol Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1850881 http://dearsugar.com/1841872 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/200225211-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="230" width="350"></span>Balancing priorities can be fairly tricky even if you're single, but when you're in a relationship, things can get all the more complicated. Even a healthy relationship can be both time-consuming and emotionally intense, but when you factor in any drama or conflict, it's easy for your balance to shift. I know that when I'm in a relationship and something challenging happens, I have a very difficult time focusing on anything else until it's been resolved. Are you the same way? Do your relationship issues take precedence over other things going on in your life? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1841872#comment Conflict Issues Love Relationship Protocol Relationships Tue, 05 Aug 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1841872 http://dearsugar.com/1827072 <p>After hearing stories from my married friends about their husbands, I realize how many men are stuck in their mother's ways! It may be endearing for a guy to be a mama's boy, but it can seem a little childish to demand that something be done a particular way for no reason other than, "that's how my mom did it." Does your significant other act this way? Does he like to do things or ask you to do specific things a certain way because that's the way his mom did it?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/31_2008/laundry.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" width="506" height="337"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1827072#comment mother personality traits Relationship Protocol Relationships stubborn Thu, 31 Jul 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1827072 http://dearsugar.com/1819956 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1819956"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1819956',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1819956');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p>One of the perks about <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1597970" rel="nofollow">being in a relationship</a> is that you always have someone — a special someone — to go home with. But even though sex is more readily available when you're married or in a <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1700938" rel="nofollow">long-term relationship</a>, it's also easier to skip it when you're too tired, too stressed, or some other extreme since you know it's always a possibility.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/31_2008/200266578-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="401" width="550"></span></p> <p>I'm constantly curious how often people in relationships have sex. Though the stereotype is that lust dies down over time, I suspect that most of my attached friends have sex more than you'd think. So, if you're married or in a committed relationship, how often are you having sex ? If you're single, do you speculate about your married friends? What do you think is the norm?</p> <p><a href="http://gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1819956" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Relationship Protocol: How Often Do You Get It On?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Every day.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Every other day.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Three times a week.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Once or twice a week.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Two or three times a month.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="5" class="form-radio" /> Once a month.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="6" class="form-radio" /> Once every couple months or less.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="7" class="form-radio" /> Other — Tell me below</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1819956" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1819956#comment Dear Poll frequency of sex Relationship Protocol Relationships Sex Facts Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1819956 http://dearsugar.com/1813497 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/30_2008/dv1800013.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="264" width="325"></span>Every new step in a relationship allows a couple to learn more about each other. Meeting a significant other’s friends reveals his attitude and sense of humor, visiting his childhood home lets you in on his past, and <a href="http://dearsugar.com/tags/moving+in" >moving in</a> together opens up a wealth of information about his day-to-day <a href="http://dearsugar.com/tags/habits" >habits</a>. And while everything you learn may not be music to your ears, accepting someone's minor flaws is part of the package. So, good or bad, what did you learn when you and your honey started living together? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1813497#comment learning Living Together moving in Relationship Protocol Mon, 28 Jul 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1813497 http://dearsugar.com/1801817 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/30_2008/dv1641005.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="390" width="285"></span>Though ultimately satisfying and fulfilling, a relationship is a lot of work. Even the most successful relationship takes compromise and patience, and is always a work-in-progress. But sometimes an issue comes up that’s more significant than everything else, and requires the daunting task of overcoming what can feel like an insurmountable obstacle. It might be a financial crisis or an incident involving trust, but whatever it is, it always puts a couple to the test. So let me ask, what’s the biggest obstacle you and your significant other have had to overcome? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> </p> http://dearsugar.com/1801817#comment Communication problems Relationship Issues Relationship Protocol Fri, 25 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1801817 http://dearsugar.com/1781906 <p>As your relationship develops and you grow closer together, eventually you begin to learn the more intimate details of your partner like his particular neuroses and even his bathroom habits. Being privy to so much private information about the other, it would be simple to break one of the good standby relationship rules — <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1771943" >making the other person look good</a> — by revealing one of those intimate details to others. Fortunately, most of us have enough commonsense to avoid such an indiscretion. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/28_2008/56678397.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="235" width="350"></span></p> <p>But sometimes, whether we're feeling particularly spiteful or simply suffering a slip of the tongue, certain bits of information, opinions, or behaviors, which you'd bother rather keep private, can make their way into a social setting and serious embarrassment can ensue. Hopefully this doesn't happen often, but ladies, have you and your man ever embarrassed each other? If so, was it intentional or totally accidental?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1781906#comment awkward embarrassed habits Privacy Relationship Protocol socializing Thu, 24 Jul 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1781906