In a William Wallace (Braveheart) voice: “They can take our lives, but they can never take our FREEDOM!!”

Many have seen that movie, many have heard these words (probably even recited improperly), but no one realizes that these words are something to live by on a day–to-day basis. These words, along with other famous quotes, become the foundation to a good inner-strength. I will, throughout my BoBH (pronounced Bob) blogs, explain the importance of this quote and of the others, but for now, let’s start at the start. Start off on a good foot, with some rainbows, pixie dust and a bucket of sunshine.

Now that you’ve realized the point of these blogs, I want you to realize why I’m here. I, myself, have been through my fair share of relationships. From the best, long-term relationships, to the utterly terrible, short-term disasters, I’ve dealt with many situations. Now don’t get me wrong. I’m no guru; I’m no man whore or some “know-it-all”. Recently, I’ve come to notice that many boys, like me, go into relationships without realizing what they are doing, what they want and the changes that may need to be made.

That’s why I’m here. I’m that little voice inside your head, hopefully leading you to happiness with whoever that person may be.

Just like sports, video production, cooking, you need to have a pre-“game” plan:

Step 1:
Foundation for the Future.

The main thing is that both parties involved know what each other want and agree on it. Hell, sign a contract if you want (we all know how some women can alter the “understanding”). Choose your destiny is pretty appropriate to this topic. First off, figure out what you guys “are”. Is this relationship a serious one (long-term or just a short-term one)? The famous “friends with benefits”? The “no-friends, just benefits” combo? Feel free to create your own, individually or as a couple.

But wait! Don’t just think present, maybe even look into the future. Obviously no one is asking you to be like Nostradamus, but talk about the future with you guys. Do you see this “friend with benefits” deal become a serious relationship? How fast do you want to move in a relationship? Basic understanding is the foundation of this relationship.

Step 1.1:
1+1=1?

I only created this step recently; I’ve come to realize its key importance in a successful relationship. I’ve called it 1.1 because it belongs fundamentally with the foundation, yet is not necessary and can be watered-down if preferred.

This step, I believe, can be mainly used for the serious relationships, but can be changed for whatever plan you have created for the both of you. Now remember, this step doesn’t have to be a cannonball attack (all at once), it can be more like a grenade explosion, with several pieces hitting you at different times, and slowly letting the pieces sink in.

What I’m trying to get at is that you need to understand the other person’s likes, dislikes, hobbies, preferences, turn-ons, turn-offs, etc… Like mentioned before, feel free to sit down with each other and just let loose, telling everything, starting with a clean and open slate. Or just over time, mention something that you like or dislike. But for the love of all that is right…do not get mad at the other person if they did not know. They don’t read minds! Explain to the person why you like or hate that thing…make it clear and understandable.

This is why it’s 1+1=1. If you want to understand the other person, and for them to understand you, you will need to become “one” and share what is necessary to make the relationship fun, exciting and enjoyable.

This will be it for this blog. Those are just a few quick tips to start off. If there is anything you guys want me to talk about or discuss more in depth, feel free to ask/recommend. I’m open to all.

And remember: Stay good, stay strong, and stay out of trouble!

Peace.

Andrew

First of all, don’t worry, I’m here to save the romance and offer you some great tips to ensure that you don’t spend February 14^th in the dog house…or sleeping on the couch.

Show Your Love

• First of all, it’s important to realize that Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to just be one day of the year. Do that something special or buy that unique gift you know she’ll love. Tell her that you love her. Love her with all of your heart and soul. Give yourself completely to her. She knows that that is the best gift she could ever get. 

Rent / Watch a Movie 

• This year, life has been pretty easy on you guys. They have released a movie entitled, “Valentine’s Day” – - think you can handle that one? However, if you’d rather not head out to the hustle and bustle of hundreds of couples, you could always rent a movie (or, *cough* * illegally download it *cough*), go find a snugly blanket, make some homemade treats, and cuddle up together. 

Buy Her a Sweet Card

• I still have a valentine I got when I was eight. It had a bumble bee and said “honey, will you bee mine.” Obviously you don’t have to be as lame as that, but buying a special card or valentine will truly make her feel special.

Buy Her Flowers

• Although I will announce that flowers are a great gesture in saying you’re sorry and perfect for valentine’s day – if you buy a girl flowers for no reason at all – you will get bonus points (and will get the benefit of going “but remember that time I bought you flowers” during a fight). The element of surprise will do wonders. Therefore, if your woman loves romantic gifts, roses will be perfect – they are even the sign of love and passion!
  

Buy Her Jewellery

• I know, I know – this isn’t easy and it’s very intimidating. Girls have their specific taste in shoes, clothes, and of course, jewellery. My suggestion would be to watch her closely for a little while, see what she wears at work, at a party, or even just when relaxing at you at home. There would be no point buying her a beautiful necklace if she never wears them! My only suggestion on this one would be to avoid rings! You’ve heard of promise rings, engagement rings and wedding rings, but have you ever heard of a girlfriend ring? Of course not, because they don’t exist. Nor should they.

Buy Her Chocolate

• I’m going to reveal to you a secret most males do not know… girls love (and crave) chocolate! In fact, girls crave chocolate because it has mood-elevating properties. This is why women sometimes indulge in chocolate after a tough break up or when other stresses occur. Chocolate helps to even out these fluctuations chemically; therefore, it sounds like a win-win for you, you look like a hero for buyer her a special treat, and she’s not moody!

As a final warning, even if she really needs that new vacuum cleaner or toaster, don’t buy it for her for Valentine’s Day. It’s way too unromantic! However, still, do not panic. In fact, more than half the Valentine’s Day cards and gifts are bought are purchased in the day before the holiday… there is still lots of time! Now go out and find that special gift and have a wonderful, and romantic, holiday!

Hugs N Kisses