After the Aisle

Romancing the Road by Mary Chatman

Seeing a couple riding off into the sunset is so romantic. After a wedding, it is the perfect ending to the ceremony. There is something special about watching the couple ride off into the sunset with streamers, flowers, and cans in tow. It doesn’t matter if it is a trusty Honda, a Bentley, or a brand-new Mercedes stretch limousine. There is something sexy and romantic that sends chills and thrills to even the least cupid-struck among us. Hitting the road together is a great time to create intimacy and ignite passion. It is just the two of you and the open road, so go ahead and get frisky, by all means let the flirting begin. Hitting the open road with the love of your life can be fun and exhilarating. It’s just like anything else; it’s what you make of it. If you get it right, you will feel just like many lovebirds - you will find the call of the open road simply irresistible.

Hold on a minute…before the sweet phase turns sour, there is one thing to keep in mind; the road is the perfect breeding ground for arguments. It is not like being on a plane, bus, or train with people all around. It’s just the two of you with a console between you. Don’t let it hit you and blow out the wind in your sail. You don’t want a simple decision, like where to stop for a bathroom break or where you are going to eat, turn into a full-blown civil war. Road trips can also create disharmony, add stress, and tension to what is otherwise meant to be a good time.

1. Decide on a destination as a team. Surprise trips are no fun if it is not something that your beloved enjoys. Remember that anticipation is very important and should be a shared experience. Each time you plan a road trip together, you will get better and better at picking a location that you both will agree on. You may want to keep the first trip short and sweet, and see how it goes. You can always increase the distance for your next road trip together.

2. What to pack. Load up the CD player with your favorite oldies. You know, the ones that made sparks fly from the start. Fill a cooler with ice for your beverages and pack a picnic basket with all of your favorite goodies. Don’t forget to order a “Love Life Design” romantic create-it-yourself tote bag for use once you arrive at your destination. Pick up Honeymoon Table Topics to Go or Conversation Cards, which are perfect for the days you may end up stuck in the room and want to find yourself in a state of laughter. These decks of interesting topics and thought provoking funny questions are a great way to get you both asking and answering questions you never asked each other before. They will also steer you clear of questions that may stir up the calmest ocean and keep you laughing and storytelling for as long as you can stand it!

3. Don't rush. Remember this is a fun, romantic ride into the sunset. You don’t have to be in a hurry, so make sure you have the time and are not rushing to get home before the trip even starts. Allow time for stopping by outlets for a little shopping or window shopping, whichever you prefer. You may just want to pick up a treasure to later remind you of the trip. Pull over and watch a sunset together and smell the roses - just breathe. Romance thrives on time. Make the best of it. Go ahead…pull over and have a make out session. Just make sure it is at a welcome center and just a tease please, because I don’t want you to get a ticket for indecent exposure.

4. Keep the line of communication open. Take advantage of the open road in a positive way. Keep the line of communication open. Listen to your partner with an open heart and mind. Open up and share your own feelings too. Do not dictate to each other. Resist the temptation to nag and complain. Even if the navigator occasionally gets things wrong, it's better to bite your tongue and take a detour. Why? Because you will get things wrong once in a while too! Patience and consideration are key, and if you've followed Tip 2 above, you've got the time to enjoy the side trip instead of ranting about your soulmate's inability to read a map.

5. Keep a journal, and take pictures. Recalling shared experiences is not only romantic, it strengthens relationships in the long term. You can even create

a blog about your adventures. Who knows, it may inspire other couples to hit the road. Make up your mind to enjoy every moment. Having the right attitude can make all the difference while romancing the road together!

6. Book a spa treatment in advance. Treat yourselves to a sexy his and her massage while you’re away. There is an even greater excitement booking a relaxing massage away from your area. Check out spas before you leave for your road trip. Try to find a spa that has a sauna or private pool to enjoy prior to your massage.

7. Hide a love note or a small gift. This little romantic gesture, once discovered, will have anyone smiling with glee. Be sure to eat meals on a regular schedule to avoid grouchiness. Once the bickering starts, it can easily lead to knock-down, drag out arguments that are hard to recover from during your short time on the road. Eating meals on a consistent schedule and getting enough rest are the best defenses.

Happy

Trails!