Communication Tips for Couples

(Because Mind Reading Is Still Not a Reliable Relationship Strategy)

Let’s be honest—communication in relationships is both a beautiful dance and an occasional mess of flailing limbs and misunderstood emojis. One moment you’re in sync like ballroom pros, the next you're arguing over whether "I'm fine" means "I'm fine" or "You should probably sleep with one eye open tonight."

But fear not, lovebirds! Whether you’ve been together 5 months, 5 years, or 5 decades, sharpening your communication can make all the difference. And no, you don’t need a master’s degree in psychology or a magic wand—just a willingness to listen, laugh, and maybe not bring up serious topics when one of you is hangry.

Let’s break it down with some humor and a little common sense.

1. Use Your Words… Not Just Your Eyebrows

Yes, we all love a good eye-roll or dramatic sigh, but unless your partner is fluent in "Emotional Morse Code," you’re going to need to actually say what you mean. Be direct. Be kind. And avoid opening with, “You ALWAYS…” because that’s the conversational equivalent of lighting a fuse.

Instead, try:
👉 “I feel…” instead of “You make me feel…”
👉 “Can we talk about…” instead of “We need to talk.”
(The latter phrase triggers the same fight-or-flight response as hearing “We need to talk” from your boss.)

2. Timing is Everything

Want to talk about finances, parenting, or whose family you’re visiting for Thanksgiving? Great! Just don’t bring it up while they’re mid-bite of a burrito or during the final 5 minutes of a movie. Serious topics deserve intentional timing—not drive-by emotional grenades.

Golden rule: if they’re wearing headphones, holding a power tool, or watching playoff sports… wait.

3. Listen to Understand, Not to Reload

When your partner is venting, they probably want empathy—not your TED Talk on how to fix it. Sometimes “Wow, that sucks. Want a cookie?” is more effective than “Well, what you SHOULD have done was…”

Active listening is sexy. So is nodding. And saying “I get it.”
Bonus points if you don’t check your phone mid-conversation.

4. Use Humor to Diffuse, Not Dismiss

Sometimes a little levity can help. Like when you're both spiraling into an argument about laundry and one of you says, “I didn’t realize socks were our downfall.” Laughing together can reset the tone—just be sure it’s not at your partner’s expense.

Pro Tip: Sarcasm is not always your friend. Unless you're both fluent in it and signed a waiver.

5. Clarify. And Then Clarify Again.

“Oh, I thought you meant this weekend…”

We’ve all been there. Miscommunication happens because we assume we're speaking the same language. Spoiler: sometimes you're not.

Double-check plans. Summarize the convo. Ask, “So we’re on the same page, right?” And if your partner looks confused, clarify with love—not with interpretive dance or dramatic sighs (see Tip #1).

6. Texting Is Great—But It's Not Everything

Sure, texting is convenient. But no emoji can replace tone of voice, body language, or that spark you get from eye contact. Use texts for sweet notes, logistics, and memes—not for deep emotional convos or delivering bad news.

Unless you want your relationship to be powered by GIFs and misunderstanding.

7. Don’t Keep Score (Unless You’re Playing Scrabble)

Healthy communication isn’t about who wins. It’s about understanding, compromise, and—occasionally—agreeing that neither of you is right, and the dog now owns the remote.

The point is to stay connected. Not to win an imaginary argument trophy you’ll resent each other for polishing later.

Communication is a Practice, Not a Perfection

You’re going to mess it up sometimes. You’ll say the wrong thing. They’ll misread your tone. There will be awkward pauses and conversations that go sideways.

That’s okay.

What matters is coming back to the table (or couch or car or hike), saying, “Hey, I want to do better,” and trying again. With love. With patience. And occasionally with snacks as a peace offering.

Because a couple that communicates well? That’s a couple that lasts. And probably laughs a whole lot along the way. 

Darling For Hire

  

Darling For Hire

Author: Sofialexandra Shalom

Brianna has rules. Keep her grades up. Stay invisible. And never let her two lives collide.

To the world, she’s just a quiet college student who prefers to stay in her own lane. But under the fake lashes, black wig, and a name that isn’t hers, she’s something else entirely—a high-end escort with a schedule and a secret to protect.

Everything works fine... until Zaiden McLauren walks in.

He’s rich, rude, and used to getting what he wants. What he needs now is a fake girlfriend to play nice in front of his family—and to Brianna’s horror, he picks her. The same arrogant billionaire who once made her blood boil is now the man she has to smile at in public and keep up appearances with behind closed doors.

But this isn’t the job she signed up for.

Because the closer they pretend to be, the harder it gets to remember what’s real... and what’s just part of the act.

Review:

Sofialexandra Shalom’s Darling For Hire is a whip-smart, emotionally layered romance that blends sharp humor, simmering tension, and the ache of double lives. 

Brianna, the protagonist, is a master of compartmentalization: college student by day, high-end escort by night. Her rules are simple—stay invisible, stay sharp, and never let the masks slip. But when Zaiden McLauren, a billionaire with a chip on his shoulder and a family to appease, hires her to play the role of his fake girlfriend, Brianna’s carefully curated world begins to unravel.

The story starts with a delicious bait-and-switch: a steamy dream sequence interrupted by the blunt reality of morning chaos and Maureen, Brianna’s best friend and comic foil. Shalom’s voice is breezy and biting, capturing the rhythm of female friendship, the exhaustion of survival, and the yearning for something more. Brianna’s inner monologue is a cocktail of sarcasm, longing, and grit.

This isn’t just a romance novel. It’s a story about performance, boundaries, and the blurry line between fantasy and reality. Brianna’s job at Deja’s Darlings is transactional, but her emotional landscape is anything but. She’s juggling the complexities of her own life, all while navigating the emotional minefield of pretending to be someone’s perfect partner.

Zaiden’s entrance promises friction and fire. He’s the kind of man Brianna swore off—arrogant, entitled, and far too observant. But as the fake relationship deepens, so does the danger of forgetting what’s real. 

Shalom doesn’t just explore romantic chemistry; she interrogates power, vulnerability, and the cost of keeping secrets.

Darling For Hire is ideal for readers who crave banter, tension, and heroines who are equal parts sharp and soft. It’s a story that laughs in the face of tropes, then turns them into something raw, real, and irresistibly readable.

Click here to get Darling For Hire on MyFavReads

#billionaire #enemiestolovers #fakerelationship #contemporary #escort #forcedproximity #lovetriangle #oppositesattract #playboy #steamy #mfrapp, #myfavreads, and #myfavreadsapp

 

In-Laws: The Love-Hate Relationship

(Because You Can’t Choose Your Partner’s Parents, but You Can Choose Your Reactions)

Ah, in-laws. The delightful bonus level of commitment that nobody warns you about when you say, “I do.” One moment, you’re sharing toasts at the wedding. The next, your mother-in-law is rearranging your spice rack “just to help.” It’s the ultimate test of patience, diplomacy, and the fine art of smiling through gritted teeth.

But despite the eye-rolls, unsolicited advice, and passive-aggressive casserole critiques, in-laws aren’t all bad. In fact, with a little perspective (and maybe a secret emergency chocolate stash), the relationship can go from tense to tolerable—and maybe even warm.

The Honeymoon Phase: "They’re So Sweet!"

At first, you want to impress them. You bring wine. You offer to help clean. You laugh a little too hard at Uncle Larry’s jokes about his colonoscopy. You’re in full-on charm mode.

They tell you, “Welcome to the family!” and you melt—because it feels like a Hallmark movie.

But then… the casserole comments begin.

The Reality Check: “You’re Not Doing It Her Way”

Here it comes. One day you’re just living your life, folding towels the way you always have, and suddenly your father-in-law is explaining “the real way” to do it. Spoiler: It involves tri-folding with military precision.

And don’t even get started on parenting advice. If you have kids, your in-laws may suddenly become part-time pediatricians, full-time toy consultants, and occasional nap schedule saboteurs.

The Holidays: The Super Bowl of In-Law Dynamics

Ah yes, the holidays. A time for family, joy, and pretending not to notice your mother-in-law dusting your shelves while commenting on the lack of coasters. It’s also the season of strategically splitting time between families without igniting World War III.

The key is to go in with a plan, a smile, and maybe a bottle of wine just for yourself.

The Good Stuff: They’re Not Always the Villains

Believe it or not, sometimes in-laws surprise you in the best ways. Like when your father-in-law helps fix your leaky sink. Or your mother-in-law babysits so you can go on a long-overdue date night. Or when they genuinely show up in a crisis with soup, hugs, and “We’re here for you.”

It’s in those moments that you remember: you didn’t just marry your partner. You gained a quirky, often complicated, sometimes downright wonderful extended family.

Tips to Keep the Relationship (and Your Sanity) Intact:

• Boundaries are your best friend: Set them kindly, but firmly. Just because Grandma June thinks 6am is a great time to drop by doesn’t mean you have to answer the door.

• Pick your battles: Not everything needs a confrontation. Some things just need a deep breath and a silent scream into your pillow.

• Humor heals: When your in-law "helpfully" reorganizes your kitchen, just smile, nod, and say, “You missed a spot!” Laughing is way better than crying over your displaced cinnamon sticks.

• Celebrate the wins: Did they compliment your cooking instead of correcting it? That’s progress. Frame that moment. Mentally. Or literally. Your choice.

• Remember why you're doing this: You love your partner. They love their family (mostly). Loving them sometimes means learning to coexist with a few quirks, a lot of opinions, and that one aunt who always asks when you're having kids.

It’s a Package Deal—Handle With Humor

In-laws are like that weird bonus feature in a video game—you don’t always understand it, sometimes it makes you rage-quit, but once you get the hang of it, it adds something meaningful to the experience.

Love them, tolerate them, learn from them… and if all else fails, retreat to your bathroom sanctuary, light a candle, and meditate for five minutes until someone inevitably knocks.

“Just checking to see if you’re okay.”

Yes. Yes, you are. You’re killing it at this in-law game. With grace, grit, and just a sprinkle of sass.

  

The Lycan's Queen

  

The Lycan's Queen

Author: S.R. Page (Redsonia)

Valeria grew up hidden in plain sight, her true nature suppressed by magic. As an Arcanthrope, a rare werewolf with mystical powers, Valeria is highly sought after for breeding, power, and sacrifice.

Just days before her 21st birthday, Valeria finds out that Isolde, a witch who raised her, plans to harvest her magic and give her to Sheridan Silvermane, the young Alpha who has been itching to claim her as his own.

With no other choice, Valeria flees North, into the forbidden lands no werewolf dares to enter. There, she encounters Lucian Malrik, and the magic binding her prevents Valeria from recognizing him for what he is—the powerful Lycan King and her fated mate.

Lucian brings her home, determined to help her heal, but enemies within his palace force Valeria to flee again.

...

“Six months,” Lucian growled, his eyes reflecting a violent storm of emotions. “It took me six months to find—”

“Mate,” she whispered.

His anger was replaced by glee in an instant. “You know what I am to you?”

“You’re the bastard who abandoned me.”

“No. I never abandoned you, Val. Let me explain. Let me prove that you are my only one...”

...

As Sheridan hunts her, witches scheme, and the unrest on the border is rising, Lucian must protect his people and win Valeria's heart.

With enemies closing in, Valeria is running out of time to discover the true nature of her powers, which she must do because she is the only one who can end the war between species... as the true Lycan Queen.

Review:

S.R. Page’s The Lycan’s Queen opens with a whisper and grows into a roar. It’s a supernatural romance that refuses to play by the rules of fate or fantasy. At its heart is Valeria, a wolfless girl raised in the shadows of the Silvermane Pack, her true nature bound by magic and betrayal. She is an Arcanthrope, a rare werewolf with mystical powers, and her very existence is currency in a world ruled by dominance, superstition, and sacrifice.

The first chapter sets the tone with quiet dread. Valeria overhears a conversation that shatters her world. Her adoptive mother, Isolde, and the Young Alpha Sheridan plot to exploit her body and latent power during a celestial alignment. The betrayal is visceral.

Valeria’s flight from the pack is not just an escape; it’s the ignition of her transformation. She journeys into forbidden lands, where she meets Lucian Malrik, the Lycan King, and her fated mate. Their romance simmers with tension and emotional complexity, refusing to reduce love to destiny alone. 

Lucian’s plea—“Let me prove that you are my only one”—is not a promise of salvation, but a challenge to earn trust in a world that has taught Valeria to expect betrayal.

Page’s prose balances elemental symbolism with forensic realism, crafting a world where witches scheme, borders bleed, and power is never without cost. 

Valeria is no passive heroine; she is a survivor, a seeker, and ultimately, a queen in her own right. As war looms and enemies close in, her journey becomes one of reclamation of magic, identity, agency, and love.

The Lycan’s Queen is a tale for readers who crave emotional resonance, outsider triumphs, and the kind of romance that burns through betrayal to find truth. It’s fierce, poetic, and utterly unforgettable.

Click here to get The Lycan's Queen on MyFavReads

#werewolf #fatedmates #weaktostrong #magic #king #healing #faceslapping #possessive #vampire #strongfl #mfrapp, #myfavreads, and #myfavreadsapp

 

The Heat Between Us: "Grown. Sexy. Unapologetic. Love doesn’t expire — and neither does desire."

   

The Heat Between Us:

"Grown. Sexy. Unapologetic. Love doesn’t expire — and neither does desire."

Can they rekindle a love that time almost extinguished?

Ty, a successful businesswoman, thought she had it all: thriving businesses, close friends, and hard-won independence. But a chance encounter with MJ, a man from her past, stirs up long-dormant desires and reminds her of a love she never confessed.

As they navigate rekindled passions and navigate the complexities of their shared history, Ty and MJ are forced to confront the choices that kept them apart. But life has a way of throwing curveballs, and when the unthinkable happens, Ty must decide if she is ready to fully trust a man who once broke her heart.

"The Heat Between Us" is a story of second chances, undeniable chemistry, and the courage it takes to rewrite your own ending.

Click here to get The Heat Between Us

on Amazon / Kindle / Kindle Unlimited 

 

The Best Ghost Shows to Binge

(Because Nothing Says Relaxation Like Screaming at a Flickering Light)

Let’s be honest—there’s something weirdly comforting about watching people wander through dark, haunted locations yelling “Did you hear that?!” every five minutes. It’s like horror therapy, only with night vision and a lot more denim.

If you’re craving the spine-tingling thrill of paranormal investigations without actually risking possession or tripping over an antique rocking chair, this list is for you. So grab your blanket (the one you hide under), your ghost-hunting snacks (Oreos count), and let's dive into the best ghost shows to binge—because clearly you weren’t planning on sleeping tonight anyway.

Ghost Adventures

Starring: Zak Bagans, Intensity Level: 11/10

Part ghost hunt, part bro-fest, part protein shake commercial. Zak and his crew dive headfirst into haunted hot spots with the subtlety of a marching band. It’s chaotic, dramatic, and full of night-vision jump scares. You’ll start saying “bro” way too much and feel strangely motivated to buy EMF equipment.

The Ghost Brothers

Starring: Dalen, Juwan, and Marcus – Paranormal Investigators and Absolute Legends

Imagine your funniest, most skeptical friends suddenly decided to take on the paranormal… and absolutely thrived at it. These guys bring charisma, real friendship, and a whole lot of humor to the ghost-hunting world. They don’t just investigate the supernatural—they roast it, question it, and somehow still manage to catch it on tape. If laughter and goosebumps had a baby, it would be this show. Do not skip it.

Kindred Spirits

Starring: Amy Bruni and Adam Berry – Ghost Counselors Extraordinaire

Less "aggressive yelling in the dark" and more "let’s help this ghost find emotional closure." Amy and Adam combine ghost hunting with genuine empathy. It’s spooky, touching, and weirdly therapeutic. If you’re the type who hugs your houseplants and cries during coffee commercials, this is your ghost show.

Ghost Hunters

Starring: The OGs of EMF Meter Fame

Back when the idea of ghost hunting on TV was still novel, these guys showed up with plumbing gear and started ghost-busting like suburban superheroes. Watching them debunk creaky floorboards and find actual hauntings is still satisfying. Also, you’ll learn an impressive number of ways to stare meaningfully at a thermostat.

28 Days Haunted

Starring: The Bravest People You’ll Never Envy

Imagine being locked inside a haunted building for nearly a month, with cameras everywhere, no phone signal, and only your own nerves for company. This Netflix series is part ghost show, part psychological experiment, part “WHY would you do this to yourself?” Perfect if you want full-on creepy with a dash of chaos.

Destination FearStarring: A Team Who Needs a Group Therapist

What do you get when you pack your best friends into an RV and drive to the scariest places in America? This show. You’ll feel like part of the group as they camp out in haunted hospitals, abandoned prisons, and other places you would only enter for a million dollars—or for the plot of a horror film.

The Haunting Of…

Starring: Kim Russo and Celebrities Who’ve Seen Some Stuff

Celebs revisit the places where they had real-life ghost encounters. Spoiler: fame won’t protect you from disembodied voices. Watch as they relive their chills, and try not to yell “WHY WOULD YOU GO BACK IN THERE?!” at your screen.

Paranormal Witness

Starring: People Who Wish They Were Making It Up

Reenactments, eerie interviews, and chilling tales of hauntings told by those who lived through them. This is the show you watch when you're ready to believe everything is haunted—including your couch.

Binge Responsibly

Look, ghost shows aren’t just entertainment—they’re adrenaline-laced bundles of joy wrapped in static. Whether you're watching muscle-bound bros scream in haunted basements or the Ghost Brothers cracking jokes while chasing shadows, you're in for a paranormal good time.

Just remember: ghosts may be spooky, but running out of snacks is worse. So keep the lights low, the popcorn high, and maybe sage the couch for good measure.

And if your hallway light flickers after this marathon… it’s probably just the wiring. Probably. 

The Best Places to Watch the Sunrise in the U.S.

(Because Coffee Tastes Better With a View and Slight Regret About Being Awake This Early)

Sunrises are like nature’s apology for making you wake up before 7 a.m. They’re quiet, colorful, and momentarily make you forget how warm your bed was before you got this wild idea. But let’s be honest—if you’re going to sacrifice sleep, it better be for a sunrise worth gasping over, not a glimpse through your bathroom window over the neighbor’s trash cans.

So grab a thermos of coffee, put on pants (or don’t, I’m not judging if you're on a remote trail), and check out these top spots across the U.S. where sunrise watching is an event, not just a time of day.

Cadillac Mountain – Acadia National Park, Maine

If you want to be the first person in the U.S. to greet the sun, congratulations—you’re going to need to be on Cadillac Mountain. For much of the year, this is literally where the sun first hits American soil. You’ll feel like a patriotic pancake soaking up the golden syrupy light.

Pro tip: Get there early. Like, “set three alarms and don’t hit snooze” early. And bring a blanket. Or six.

Haleakalā – Maui, Hawaii

A dormant volcano that lets you watch the sunrise above the clouds? Yes, please. Haleakalā is the kind of place that makes you believe in magic, coffee, and your body's ability to survive a 3 a.m. wake-up call. The views are so incredible they should come with background music and dramatic narration.

Also, it’s freezing up there. On an island. In paradise. Bring a parka, a camera, and your sense of awe (and maybe a ukulele for flair).

Grand Canyon – Arizona

Watching the sunrise here is like seeing the Earth slowly wake up and stretch in the most dramatic way possible. The canyon starts off quiet and shadowy, and then BAM—sunlight spills in, turning those rocky layers into a living painting.

Don’t be surprised if you whisper, “Wow,” followed by “Did we bring snacks?” because, let’s be real, it’s early and you’re already hungry.

Key West – Florida (Technically, the Sunset’s Famous… But Stay With Me)

Sure, Key West is known for its sunsets, but flip the script and check out the sunrise on the other side of the island. It’s quieter, calmer, and filled with pelicans that look like they’ve had three cups of coffee before you’ve even opened your eyes.

Bonus: Afterward, you can reward yourself with key lime pie for breakfast. (No judgment here.)

Bryce Canyon – Utah

Sunrise at Bryce isn’t just a visual—it’s a full-body experience. The hoodoos (those strange, tall rock formations) catch the first light like they’re in some kind of ancient sun ritual. The colors shift from ghostly grays to fiery oranges. It’s a great place to realize how small you are and how badly you need chapstick.

Also, you’ll whisper “hoodoo” every five minutes because it’s fun to say. Admit it.

Great Smoky Mountains – Tennessee/North Carolina

Want a softer, mistier kind of sunrise? Head to Clingmans Dome or Newfound Gap and get ready for layers—of mountains and clothing. The Smokies deliver a dreamy, pastel-colored sky with fog floating like it’s auditioning for a ghost movie.

Perfect for couples, poets, and people who like pretending they're in a Nicholas Sparks novel (but with less drama and more granola bars).

Mount Rainier – Washington

This mountain says “good morning” with such majestic flair it could honestly host its own sunrise talk show. The snow-covered peak glows pink and orange like it’s blushing under your admiration. Bonus: If you spot a bear, it probably just wants to watch the sunrise, too. Don’t make eye contact. Just nod respectfully.

Outer Banks – North Carolina

Sand between your toes, salt in the air, and the kind of peaceful silence that only exists before the tourists wake up. Watching the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean from the beach is peak coastal romance. It’s also the only time you’ll be able to find parking in July.

Pro tip: Bring a beach blanket, coffee, and someone to hold when the breeze inevitably turns into a wind tunnel.

Sunrise Is for the Bold (and Slightly Sleep-Deprived)

Sunrise watching is not for the faint of heart—or the fans of snooze buttons. But if you're willing to sacrifice a little sleep, it’s one of the simplest, most soul-recharging experiences out there.

You don’t need a fancy camera, a perfect Instagram caption, or a mountain-top proposal (though, hey, not a bad idea). You just need your favorite person, a good spot, and maybe some snacks to ward off cranky early-morning energy.

Because nothing says “we’re still romantic” like watching the sky catch fire... before the rest of the world has even had coffee.

 

How to Naturally Get Back Your Youthful Energy

(Without Selling Your Soul or Drinking a Potion from a Forest Witch)

Remember when you could pull an all-nighter, eat a chili dog at 2 a.m., and still show up for work like a caffeinated superhero? Yeah… good times. Now you eat a cookie after 9 p.m. and wake up feeling like you ran a marathon in your sleep.

But good news: you can get your youthful energy back. No, not by rewinding time or stealing it from toddlers (tempting as that may be). We're talking about natural, practical steps—with just the right amount of weirdness to keep it fun.

Move That Body (Even If It Creaks)

Exercise is like that friend who always drags you out of the house but somehow makes your life better. You don’t have to run a triathlon or start CrossFit cult meetings. Just move. Walk, dance, stretch, jump on a mini trampoline like you’re auditioning for a '90s workout tape.

Your body doesn’t care how you move—just that you do. And once you do it consistently, your energy levels will start whispering, “Hey, remember me?”

Eat Like You Love Yourself (Not Like You’re Mad at Your Colon)

Yes, pizza is technically a circle of happiness. But your youthful energy isn’t hiding under pepperoni slices. Whole foods, leafy greens, lean proteins, colorful fruits—those are your real energy MVPs.

Also, hydration. Water is the original energy drink, and it won’t give you a sugar crash or make your eyelid twitch.

Hot tip: When you drink water in a fancy glass, it feels like self-care and not punishment.

Sleep Is Not Optional. It’s Mandatory Magic.

When you were young, you rebelled against bedtime. Now, sleep is the party. Getting 7–9 hours of quality sleep is like charging your human batteries. Without it, you’re just a grumpy, half-functioning phone at 3%.

And no, four cups of coffee doesn’t count as rest. Although we respect the effort.

Breathe Like a Wise Tree-Hugging Yogi

Deep breathing, meditation, even a few minutes of mindful silence can zap away stress and invite energy back in. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Sit quietly, close your eyes, and pretend you're in a peaceful forest… not surrounded by unfolded laundry.

Your mind gets a reset, your nervous system chills out, and your energy levels perk up like a cat hearing a treat bag rustle.

Laugh More. No, Seriously. Laugh.

Nothing brings energy back faster than a good belly laugh—the kind that makes you snort or cry or both. Watch your favorite comedy. Tell bad jokes. Laugh at yourself when you forget why you walked into the kitchen again.

Laughter is nature’s Red Bull. Plus, it works your abs (bonus!).

Get Outside. Sunlight Is Nature’s Energy Socket

Sunshine is a natural energy booster, mood enhancer, and free source of Vitamin D—aka the vitamin that whispers to your bones, “Get up and dance.” Just 15–30 minutes a day can work wonders (and also make you feel like a solar-powered flower).

If you're feeling fancy, take a barefoot walk in the grass and call it “earthing.” It’s trendy, slightly magical, and oddly satisfying.

Do What Lights You Up

Nothing zaps your energy faster than boredom and burnout. Reconnect with the things that make you feel alive: painting, gardening, writing, dancing, inventing sock puppet soap operas—whatever makes you smile.

Energy isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, mental, and spiritual. When you fuel your passions, your whole being perks up like a plant finally getting watered.

You’re Not Old, You’re Seasoned

Youthful energy doesn’t mean bouncing off the walls like a sugar-charged toddler. It means waking up excited, feeling motivated, and maybe even doing a spontaneous cartwheel if your knees agree.

You don’t need potions, promises, or an expensive juice cleanse endorsed by a celebrity who hasn’t aged since 1998. You just need intention, consistency, and a whole lot of self-love (and maybe a dance party in the kitchen).

Because energy isn’t lost. Sometimes, it just takes a little coaxing to come back out and play.

 

Why You Need to Start Planning Your Holiday Book Promotion in September and October

(Click here to get Book Promotion Help)

Ah, the holidays—the most wonderful (and chaotic) time of the year. Shoppers are in a frenzy, shipping deadlines loom, and your readers are out there searching for the perfect gift. Spoiler: that perfect gift could be your book—but only if you start planning now.

If you wait until November or December to think about promoting your book, you’re already late to the holiday party (and someone else snagged the good eggnog). That’s why September and October are the sweet spot for getting your holiday promotions rolling. Here’s why.

1. Readers Shop Earlier Than You Think

Forget the old-school last-minute mall runs. These days, people start holiday shopping as soon as pumpkin spice lattes hit the shelves. If your book isn’t already on their radar by October, it risks getting lost in the holiday shuffle.

2. Promotion Takes Time to Gain Traction

Whether you’re scheduling blog features, social media ads, or newsletter swaps, you can’t just snap your fingers and expect results overnight. Promotions build momentum, and the earlier you start, the more visibility your book will have when readers are ready to click “buy.”

3. The Competition Gets Fierce

By November, every author, business, and their grandma is flooding feeds with sales pitches. Standing out in December is like shouting in Times Square at midnight on New Year’s Eve. But if you start in September or October, you’ll already have carved out your space (and maybe saved your voice).

4. You Can Strategize Instead of Scramble

Holiday promotions are about more than just posting “Buy My Book!” once a week. When you start early, you have time to:

• Create themed graphics and images.

• Schedule social media posts in advance.

• Pitch to holiday gift guides, book blogs, and influencers.

• Bundle your book with other goodies (bookmarks, signed copies, gift baskets—oh my!).

5. Readers LOVE Holiday-Themed Marketing

Let’s be honest—slap a Santa hat on your book cover graphic and readers pay attention. Start early, and you can weave in Halloween, Thanksgiving, and holiday cheer, keeping your book visible through the entire season.

Don’t Be the Author Who Waits

Think of your holiday promotion like shipping a package. You wouldn’t wait until December 24th to mail it and hope it arrives on time, right? Same goes for your book. September and October are when the smart authors plant the seeds, so their sales can grow into a bountiful holiday harvest.

So grab your calendar, dust off those festive graphics, and start planning now. Because nothing looks better under the tree than a beautifully wrapped book (except maybe two books). 🎄📚

Click here to get some Help in Holiday Book Promotion

Keeping the Spark Alive in a Long-Term Relationship

(Because "Comfortable" Doesn’t Have to Mean "Boring")

Let’s be honest—long-term love can feel a little like wearing your favorite hoodie. It’s warm, cozy, familiar, and smells like the dryer sheets you both agreed on back in 2016. But even the comfiest hoodie starts to look a little worn if you never shake things up. The good news? That spark you felt in the beginning? It’s not gone—it just needs a little stoking.

Keeping the flame lit in a long-term relationship doesn’t require grand gestures or elaborate plans. It just takes intention, a sprinkle of creativity, and the occasional wildly inappropriate joke that makes your partner snort-laugh mid-sip of coffee.

Start by remembering how it all began. Those early days when you couldn't stop touching each other, when every little detail seemed fascinating, and when you actually listened to stories about their weird coworker Greg. Bring back some of that energy. Try holding hands for no reason. Sneak a kiss in the cereal aisle. Write a post-it note that says “You’re still hot” and leave it where they’ll find it... like taped to the remote.

Spontaneity is another love language. Random lunch date? Yes. Impromptu kitchen dance party? Absolutely. Drive out to look at the stars on a weeknight like a couple of irresponsible romantics? Now you’re talking.

Speaking of talking—do more of it. Not just “What’s for dinner?” or “Did you pay the electric bill?” but the good stuff. Ask questions you haven’t asked in years. “What’s something you still want to do together?” “If we ran away tomorrow, where would we go?” “Do you think raccoons have best friends?” (Trust me, the last one leads to a quality conversation.)

Don’t forget the power of surprise. Slip their favorite candy into their bag. Book a massage they didn’t ask for. Put on that outfit they always say they love (yes, even if it requires actual pants). The smallest unexpected moment can feel like a spark plug for the heart.

Another tip? Laugh. A lot. Laugh at your inside jokes, your ridiculous quirks, the fact that neither of you can load the dishwasher the same way. Humor is intimacy in disguise—it bonds you without needing anything fancy or expensive.

Touch still matters too. Not just the "cue the music" kind, but the forehead kisses, the back rubs during Netflix marathons, the footsies under the table. Touch says, “I still choose you.” Every. Single. Day.

And if things feel routine? That’s okay. Sometimes life is more grocery lists than grand romance. But love thrives in the ordinary when you notice it. When you make space for joy. When you celebrate the quiet and still flirt in the hallway.

The spark doesn’t fade because time passes. It fades because we stop feeding it. But when you water it with attention, affection, laughter, and the occasional smooch that makes the neighbors jealous—it glows, burns, and sometimes roars back to life.

So go ahead—grab your person, your favorite hoodie, and light that spark. You've still got it.

  

 

How Often Are Couples Getting It On?

A Lighthearted Look at Love Through the Relationship Timeline

Let’s talk about something we all think about but rarely discuss with actual numbers—how often couples make love through the different stages of their relationship. Spoiler alert: It’s not always like the honeymoon scene from a romantic comedy (unless that rom-com is sponsored by Ben & Jerry’s and elastic waistbands).

Now, before we dive in, remember: There’s no “perfect” number. Some couples get frisky like clockwork. Others prefer quality over quantity. And for some, an uninterrupted nap is the new foreplay. This isn’t about shame—it's about curiosity and maybe a few giggles.

So grab your partner (or at least your favorite snack), and let’s explore the average rhythms of romance through the stages of a relationship.

Stage 1: The Honeymoon Phase (0–2 Years)

Also known as: "Can’t Keep Their Hands Off Each Other"

This is when you’re still discovering each other's quirks, favorite positions, and whether or not your partner snores. The hormones are on a rave-level party schedule, and you might be making love 3 to 5 times a week—or more if you both work from home and have strong coffee habits.

Even bad weather becomes an excuse to stay in bed longer. Clothes are optional. Chores are forgotten. DoorDash becomes your third roommate.

Stage 2: The “We Live Together Now” Phase (2–5 Years)

Also known as: "I Love You, But You Left Your Socks on the Couch Again"

Reality starts to set in. You’re splitting bills, arguing about what temperature to set the thermostat on, and discovering that even your soulmate has weird bathroom habits.

Intimacy is still important, but it might settle into a rhythm of 1 to 3 times a week—depending on work stress, how many streaming services you subscribe to, and whether or not you both remembered to do laundry.

Still romantic. Slightly more scheduled. And yes, sometimes initiated with “Want to...you know?”

Stage 3: Married or Long-Term Relationship Vets (5–10+ Years)

Also known as: "We’re in Love, But Also...We’re Tired"

You’ve weathered job changes, family drama, and possibly small humans calling you “Mom” and “Dad.” At this stage, intimacy is less about quantity and more about connection—and if we’re being honest, 1 to 4 times a month is a very common sweet spot.

It’s not that the spark is gone—it’s that the spark has to work around school projects, dentist appointments, and the sudden need to fix a leaky faucet at 10 PM.

Late-night loving sometimes turns into late-night shoulder massages and shared melatonin.

Stage 4: Seasoned Love (10+ Years and Still Giggling)

Also known as: "We’ve Got History, Heart, and Maybe Some Heating Pads"

Here’s the beautiful part: Intimacy often takes on new forms. It's still there, but it may not look like it did in your twenties—and that’s okay. Some couples still make love weekly, others monthly, and some find other ways to connect deeply (cue the synchronized teeth brushing).

The frequency might drop, but the meaning behind it deepens. You’ve built a life together. You’ve grown. You’ve probably seen each other sneeze spaghetti, and you’re still in love.

That, friends, is romance.

So… What’s Normal?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Every couple’s intimacy frequency is unique, like a love language wrapped in scheduling chaos. What matters most is that you both feel connected, desired, and like you're part of the same saucy team.

Open communication, affection, touch (even the quick “I love you” butt grab while cooking), and laughter are all part of a healthy, evolving love life.

So whether you’re in the three-times-a-week camp or the “we cuddle and giggle and that counts” stage—cheers to love, in all its messy, magical glory.

I Have Your Number: A Funny Guide to Why People Drive You Nuts Dating and Relationship Edition

       

I Have Your Number:

A Funny Guide to Why People Drive You Nuts Dating and

Relationship Edition

I Have Your Number A Funny Guide to Why People Drive You Nuts What’s Inside? Answers! • Let’s be honest: people are confusing, including you. • Why does your coworker chew like a goat but still get promoted? • Why do you feel spiritually allergic to group projects? • Why is your partner emotionally allergic to hugs, but cries during car commercials? • Why do you get irrationally angry when someone walks too slowly in front of you at the grocery store? • Why do you feel like you’re meant for something bigger, but also need a nap, like... all the time? • The answer to all of these may not be trauma. (Although let’s be honest, it’s partially trauma.) You will understand why when you understand Life Path numbers. In “I Have Your Number”, author and teacher Debra Zachau takes numerology out of the dusty textbooks and into the real world, drawing on over 11,000 sessions with clients to test every definition. What she discovered will make you laugh, nod, and finally get why people act the way they do. About the Author Debra Zachau is a teacher, author, and advisor who has devoted more than two decades to helping people understand themselves and their relationships through numerology and tarot. She is the creator of The Clarity Tarot deck and the author of Decode Tarot. With thousands of client sessions under her belt, Debra’s unique approach blends wisdom, humor, and compassion, making self-discovery feel less like therapy and more like an adventure.

Numerology is a learnable skill that doesn’t excuse bad behavior, but helps you tell the difference between a natural-born quirk and something negotiable. That’s the magic.  You stop wasting energy trying to sandpaper people into shapes they were never meant to be. You start asking better questions. Is this trait essential to who they are, or is this just a defense mechanism? Can I live with it, laugh at it, or let it go? Suddenly, relationships, careers, and even parenting start to feel less like guesswork and more like navigating with a decent map.

And maybe that’s the biggest takeaway. Self-discovery isn’t about fixing what people

can’t stand about you. It’s about finally seeing the design behind it all, the brilliance in

the flaws, the lessons in the struggles, the humor in the contradictions.

Click here to get  Have Your Number on Amazon Kindle