Guys Prone to Grudges?

The secret to any solid relationship is enjoying the good times and forgiving and forgetting the not-so-good times. But, according to SELF Magazine and the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, moving past the tough spots could be easier for you than for your man.

Experts believe that how each gender handles conflict and resolution may be due to the different ways men and women are typically raised.

For example, women are often raised to be more empathetic then men, finding it easier to forgive and forget. Remember that in order to come out of an argument with your relationship still intact, or better yet, even stronger than before, he may need a little more time to come around. The experts recommend talking things out rationally and working toward a solution to spark your man’s sensitive and forgiving nature.

I have to wonder though, as a woman, there have been many times when it seems like I'm the one internalizing the fight while the conflict rolls off my partner's back. Am I crazy or does common sense lead you to believe the exact opposite of the expert's findings? Tell us what you think.

Meshing Love and Money

According to internationally acclaimed personal finance expert Suze Orman, “it pays to have a clear strategy when it comes to meshing love and money.” While this can be a problem for many couples over the years, it doesn’t have to be.

In a recent Q & A on Oprah.com, Orman discusses five key strategies to set for smooth sailing:

• Every woman needs her own savings in addition to a shared account

• Every woman also needs one credit card in her name only

• Debts you had prior to a marriage are yours alone–unless you actively merge them

• Be pragmatic about the assets you bring into a relationship

• After you marry, every asset either of you acquire is jointly held

What do you do? Stuff singles under your mattress for a rainy day? Hold a rousing game of rock/paper/scissors to figure out who will pay this months cable bill? Have a fun and effective strategy that works for you and your partner? Fill us in!

Frisky Puppy

Tongue-in-cheek or tongue-on-tennis ball? If you own a pooch who wants to make a statement (or attract some attention from sexy--and good humored--singles at the dog park), check out this doggy tee from love and sex writers Em Taylor and Lo Sharky (EmandLo.com).

Co-authors of six steamy and hysterical books on sex and relationships, Em and Lo's blog, the dailybedpost.com is a great daily read for those in search of advice and commentary on love, lust and libido.

New Rules for a Good Marriage

According to Sarah Mahoney, writer for MSN.com, there are some surprising new marriage rules that will help you and your partner get closer – or fall in love all over again. If you’re looking to reconnect with your spouse (or to strengthen what you've already got going for you) look no further...

“Many so-called "inevitable" marriage pitfalls are really just unexamined old wives' tales,” says Mahoney. “On closer inspection, two facts become clear: There's only a trace of truth in each fable — but there's also the potential to retool them to make your relationship even closer. Here are five of the most enduring myths, plus new rules to replace them.”

You can check them out here:

• Myth: Never go to bed angry. If you don't hash through every conflict right away, it'll lead to resentment and ultimately blowups.
• New rule: Sleep on it. Conflicts are best dealt with when you have calmed down and are well rested.

• Myth: One day the two of you will just realize you've grown apart and fallen out of love.
• New rule: A marriage doesn't run on feelings — it thrives because both spouses work hard on it.

• Myth: As you both get older, sex will simply stop mattering to you and your husband.
• New rule: There's no reason you won't grow more sexually connected.

• Myth: When the kids leave home, there will be nothing left to keep your marriage together.
• New rule: Your marriage can flourish in that new freedom.

• Myth: Every guy has a midlife crisis — any day, your spouse will drive off in a new red sports car.
• New rule: It's not a crisis — and it's not just for men.

Sexercise

If you’re looking to lose some weight, try skipping the gym--head for the bedroom! You may recognize her from Oprah or The Today Show, Kerry McCloskey, author of “The Ultimate Sex Diet”, claims she lost 23lbs having sex with her sweetie.

McCloskey says sex and food are the two primary components. By eating healthy and having sex 3 to 5 times during the work week and following up on the weekends, you can burn 1600 calories a week!

“It’s made us much happier,” said McCloskey. “When you’re intimate I think you treat each other differently, it’s just something natural. You have the endorphins from sex and you’re less irritable. I think it’s very healthy for both people.”

Sounds like it’s time to hit the sheets!

Pre-Presidential Pucker

According to a recent poll conducted by Match.com and Happen Magazine, 77% of Americans think Barack Obama would be a better kisser than John McCain.

"While the majority of our member base considers themselves 'middle of the road,' it appears that America is leaning to the left with their lips," said Darcy Cameron, senior director of marketing and advertising for Match.com.”

The poll was conducted online and received 1,433 total responses.

The part that we love best? “Neither Michelle Obama, Cindy McCain nor any babies were polled as part of this survey.”

What do you think? Which candidate has a winning smooch and which should kiss that nomination goodbye?

Bridal Wishlist

Check it out! Our romance tips were featured on the Bridal Wishlist Blog: Are You Romantic?

Bridal Wishlist is a great resource for brides looking to add a fun and modern element to their wedding--love love love their take on traditional and not-so-traditional dresses for the "big day".

Thanks for the shout out!!