FOR THE GUYS - please answer!!!

[argilestox]

Okay, I will jump into this one... I have been divorced for twenty-five years and have had a few serious relationships; none of which panned out - until I met Tracy. We are authors & columnists - Tracy is a ninth grade English teacher, a romance writer & I am a photographer, computer tech, antique car nut, non-fiction writer. Tracy and I have a long term relationship - which is based on five important factors:

1. Dry Humor - We enjoy using our spontaneous sense of humor to create a happy & relaxed atmosphere. At any given moment, we will launch into the most ridiculous kind of thought process on any given word, subject, or situation. Even a town's name - that sounds funny to begin with, can not escape our dry humor. Laughter really makes a relationship harmonious.

2. Serious Discussions - We tackle a serious situation and or subject head-on, and do not stop the discussion until it is researched completely. Once we have agreed in principle - there is always room for amendments. Conversation is Key.

3. Doing the Unexpected - Here is a great example: Tracy & I were walking through the Rushmore Mall - and a favorite Beatles song came over the speakers. We began to dance to the music, and I even twirled her around a few times. People stopped and stared at us - then began to laugh.

4. Giving Each Other Time Alone - Space - Tracy has her hobbies and I have mine. Sometimes we will just go off into our own little world for a while and do what we enjoy - separately. We have common interests and enjoy sharing them with each other. Time Alone & Shared Interests is Vital.

5. Respecting Each Other's Belief Systems - Tracy and I are "wired" differently. We have different beliefs (religion, politics, etc). We respect each others thoughts and actions with regard to our different programming. However, we are adaptable and modify our belief systems accordingly. No One is Right - No One is Wrong. We pay attention and respect each other's boundaries.

There are other factors which are very personal and private. However, if one were to employ the above - a relationship will grow and will remain solid. I hope this has assisted you in your quest to gain knowledge regarding a successful relationship.

Argile Stox