We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine.

When reality TV star Kourtney Kardashian told boyfriend Scott Disick that she was struggling to lose weight, his response left something to be desired.

"Ugh, I feel like 93 (pounds) is the dream," Disick told the petite 33-year-old, sparking a public backlash.

In Kardashian's case, it was pregnancy weight that was making her feel insecure, but it isn't uncommon for women to pack on pounds when they enter into a relationship. In fact, a recent study concluded that couples living together were more likely to become obese.

Ask Diana: My Friend Is Still in Love With Her Married Ex

But when is it OK for your partner to weigh in? And is brutal honesty helpful or hurtful?

"Nobody EVER loses weight because of being criticized by a loved one, in fact the opposite is true," says Nina Atwood, therapist and author of "Soul Talk." "Criticism diminishes self-esteem, and low self-esteem is related to increased weight problems. Brutal honesty is hurtful in this situation because it hurts the relationship by signaling lack of acceptance. When you love someone, you are supportive. Love is acceptance, so if the person you love accepts you, his only job is to continue loving you," she adds.

"Many people think that being hurtful will motivate someone to do something faster," says relationship expert Lindsay Kriger. "It's possible that your partner wants you to lose weight, but isn't sure how else to get you to do it. I have heard a wife call her husband a 'fat pig' before. Instead of being a motivating force, it causes people to shut down, do the opposite or develop resentment and anger towards the criticizer."

There may be many reasons a man would address his partner's weight gain, ranging from loss of attraction to being controlling, but it could be as simple as genuine concern.

"Sometimes we need to get things off our chest and we don't know how to express something that is bothering us," explains Marina Pearson, founder of Divorce Shift and author of "Goodbye Mr. Ex." "I believe we are always doing the best we can with the resources we have. Being hurt by another person's opinion is something to look at. And something to remember is that we are only hurt by something we judge about ourselves."

Of course, it can be difficult to discuss such weighty issues without hurt feelings.

"There has to be a way to talk about the situation without blaming or criticizing," says Beverly Hills-based psychotherapist Dr. Fran Walfish. "It's very important to acknowledge out loud that you're feeling hurt. It's also important to take an honest look at yourself and ask if there's any way your partner can talk about this without you getting defensive. The person delivering the critique also needs to ask, 'Why do I care so much?' And the receiving person should hopefully be open enough to do self-exploration and understand why they're overweight. Discussing the matter could actually make couples feel more bonded."

On the other hand, Atwood says if your partner can't be supportive, kick him to the curb.

"If your partner tells you that you are fat, lose the partner first, then work on yourself," says Atwood. "You should never put up with being criticized in a hurtful way. You may be allowing him to stay in your life because he reflects the bad feelings you have about yourself. To accomplish positive goals, you must first accept yourself, be honest with yourself in a caring way and then only allow supportive people close to you."

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, Diana Falzone, whose work has been published in the textbook Sexuality Education, answers a woman's relationship question.

Diana Falzone is a FoxNews.com contributor. Her work has been published in the textbook "Sexuality Education" which is distributed in universities across North America.

Dear Diana,

I think my boyfriend wants to cheat on me, if he hasn't already. We have been together for three years, and I've never had a reason not to trust him until recently. He left his laptop open and I saw he was on a dating site. He even has a profile pic up that I took of him when we were in Vegas together. I keep acting weird around him now. He asks me what's up, but I'm afraid if I say anything, the situation will become real and ruin our relationship. I don't understand why he is doing this. Please help me.

Thanks,
Mary

Hi Mary,

First of all, I'm sorry you are going through this. However, you cannot ignore the fact your boyfriend is on a dating site. Unless he's a covert spy (which is highly unlikely), he is seeking, at the very least, attention from other women. There may be a multitude of reasons for his actions, yet you must confront him.

Ask Diana: My Friend Is Still in Love With Her Married Ex

I recommend that you set aside a time when you can have a lengthy discussion. Prior to your talk with your boyfriend, think about what you will do should he say he has cheated, or wants to. Are you willing to leave him? Would you want to try and work on the issues he is dealing with? Having a plan will give you more strength to do what is best for you.

Should he say he wants to be with other women, do not take it as a personal insult. Obviously, he is going through something, and to take the blame for his bad behavior would be extremely unfair to you. He has disrespected you, your relationship, and himself with his actions. Please find the strength to love yourself first and foremost. Sometimes, it's better to walk away than let someone walk all over you.

All the best,
Diana

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, we find out E.L. James is working on a writing guide.

Ever wish you could write a steamy novel like Fifty Shades of Grey? You're in luck, because the author is planning to share her know-how in a new book.

According to the Associated Press, Fifty Shades of Grey author E.L. James is teaming with the publisher of her popular novels to put out a how-to guide titled Fifty Shades of Grey: Inner Goddess (A Journal). The book is said to include tips from James herself, along with blank journal pages for would-be writers to jot down their stories and ideas.

For fans of James' series, this certainly seems like a novel idea. Others, however, might not be so impressed. In the past, James' work was met with criticism from reviewers (such as The Telegraph and The Chicago Tribune) and authors (such as Chelsea Handler and Salman Rushdie), who knock the books for their writing style.

But regardless of the reviews, James's books have sold more than 70 million copies worldwide. So what do you think? Would you take writing advice from James on your first foray into fiction?

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, licensed NYC therapist Rachel Sussman gives advice to stop fighting in your relationship.

All couples argue from time to time, and that's perfectly normal. There are many things to bicker about in today's hectic world. Many couples argue about finance, sex, parenting, and work/life balance.

Many couples also argue about roles. Meet Tara and Steven who are clients in my psychotherapy practice. They sought my guidance because they are arguing more than usual and they are afraid of the long-term impact on their relationship from the friction.

Tara and Steven mostly have a solid marriage and the issues they are grappling with are representative of the myriad struggles that couples have. Both have demanding jobs, plus there are three children (ages four through ten) at home requiring care, guidance and love. Additionally there is a marriage that needs tending as well.

In my office, they had an explosive argument about an unpaid bill that left them temporarily without cell service. What they didn't understand was that they're not arguing about the bill, they're arguing about the defined roles they each take on in the marriage.

"Why is it my responsibility to pay all the bills?" asks Steven. "Don't I have enough on my plate these days?"

Tara barks back, "You have always paid the bills, Steven. It's always been your job! Just like taking Michelle to swim team is my job. In fact, you know I hate the swim team mornings!"

Deciding how much time to devote to a career, family, and a spouse is a major issue among couples.

Unfortunately, most couples don't take the time to sit down and discuss the "business of family." Instead, roles are randomly assigned or taken on without much thought. This haphazard set up, which isn't ideal, leaves too much room for error.

Keep reading for Rachel's solution to this common relational issue.

We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, licensed NYC therapist Rachel Sussman gives advice for spicing up date night.

The term "date night" has become ubiquitous. I'm so glad to see that many of us are eagerly embracing an activity that has so many positive benefits. Clearly, we understand the premise that connecting with our spouse as an adult is a necessary ingredient toward keeping a marriage healthy and vibrant. Plus it's a great way to ensure that romance will live on.

There are so many good reasons to have a regular date night on your calendar. Date night should be something you and your spouse enthusiastically plan for and look forward to. View it as a special moment in your hectic lives when the children and other stressors are temporarily shelved. Plus, studies show that when couples do new and fun things together it actually builds new neural pathways in their brains, which allows them to connect in deeper ways.

Enticed? I hope so! Now get to work. Here are a few great places to start:

"My Turn, Your Turn" dates. Women often complain that their husbands never put any effort into planning dates. Put him to the test and take turns planning something new and unique to do with each other. Keep it a secret until the day of.

Do a fun activity together. Don't just go to dinner. Go dancing, see live music, attend a cooking class or a sporting event. When you do something you really enjoy with your partner, it stimulates your brain's "feel-good" zone and actually makes you happy!

Tease your brain. Plan a date out of your intellectual comfort zone. Take a class together. Attend a lecture. See a play or a foreign movie and discuss it with your partner afterward.

Make a commitment to have some sex date nights as well. If you're in a rut, putting a sex date on the calendar is a really good thing. Try not to make excuses ("I'm tired" or "I'm stressed"), and remember that once you get started, it's always fun.

Tennis anyone? Exercising with your partner is a great way to burn calories and get your competitive juices flowing as well. Book a court, join a sports league, or hit a yoga class.

Find time to kiss. Kissing is so romantic, erotic and fun. It's a great non-verbal way to say, "I love you, I'm attracted to you, and you are important to me."

Volunteer for a good cause together. Sign up to assist a cause that is important to both of you. You'll spend time with each other, but you'll also make a difference and help others.

Can't find a sitter? Try a date night at home. Put the kids to bed. Then, crack open a fine bottle of wine and cook a delicious meal together. Eat it slowly by candlelight.

Schedule a couple's massage. Benefits of massage abound. Plus relaxing together with your paramour is really special. If you've done this already, go again. And if you've never experienced it, book it now.

These are just a few ideas from my personal repertoire. Challenge yourself and create some unique traditions to keep date night exciting for you.

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, licensed NYC therapist Rachel Sussman gives advice for making every day romantic.

As yet another Valentine's Day approaches, I've stopped to think about the true essence of the holiday. While its red roses and heart-shaped boxes of candy have become ubiquitous, in actuality, Valentine's Day stands for so much more than those symbols.

Valentine's Day is a celebration of love and romance — two of the most important ingredients that make up a healthy relationship. Much like our yearly wedding anniversary, Valentine's Day should serve as a reminder to all couples of the importance of honoring their love, connection and devotion to each other.

So when you're sitting down to write a romantic or sexy card, be sure to say thank you in your words and deeds. Tell your partner that you appreciate having him or her in your life, day in and day out. Make a commitment to honor the romance in your relationship not just on Valentine's Day, but every day.

Consider making Valentine's Day a "New Year's resolution" for your romance. Each Valentine's Day talk about what's important to your relationship. Promise to keep romance and date night alive and well. Pledge to put sex back on the front burner where it belongs. Promise to love, cherish and adore each other for each day forward. And remember how lucky you are to have someone special in your life.

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, Christine Ruane identifies couples who need to tone down the online overshare.

Valentine’s Day is coming up, and this social media moderate is making a specific appeal to all you social network fanatics out there: Get a room.

Before you call me the green monster, I can honestly say that this plea does not come from a place of jealousy. In fact, I love seeing my friends happy (a G-rated happy), but advice from some relationship experts may make you re-think your instinct to publicly display your relationship via the Internet.

Putting your relationship all over social media can be risky business. You’re not just sharing information about your life, but you’re also sharing private details about the life of your significant other. As we all know, opposites (sometimes) attract, so while you may be comfortable documenting your relationship online, your significant other may not.

Not sure where to draw the line? Here are a few tips on how to play it cool:

Be Consistent

According to Laurie Puhn, author of Fight Less, Love More if it’s in your nature to share information about yourself in real life, then there is nothing wrong with putting it on social networking sites. However, if someone comments on your excessive online activity when it comes to your relationship, listen up! You don’t want your family and friends to be annoyed with your relationship as they see it from the Internet. Ask yourself this: Would you call a friend of yours and talk about your relationship every day? If not, then don’t subject them to it on Facebook.

Proceed With Caution

As Puhn points out, your group of Facebook friends, Twitter followers and other social connections does not solely include your close friends. Make sure that the information you’re sharing about your relationship (and life in general) is appropriate for your entire audience.

The Relationship-Saver

Also, ask yourself the golden question BEFORE you post something: What would my significant other think? Would he/she be comfortable with what you’re doing? Try to put your relationship first. Social media expert Peter Shankman suggests having the rules laid out before either of you start sharing.

Communicate

Just because you exchange messages, “poke” each other, share pictures or tag one another, that does necessarily mean that you’re communicating. Shankman says nothing will ever replace face-to-face conversations in a relationship. Most importantly, do not use social media as a way to passive aggressively send a message to your mate. If you have an issue, turn off the electronics and talk it out.
The Talk

If you didn’t have the pre-sharing talk that Shankman suggested earlier, you may be forced to have the post-sharing talk. When your mate has posted something that you are not comfortable with, Puhn advises to be BLUNT! Share your standard of privacy, because if you don’t, you'll be left wondering what else your partner is telling people about you. This conversation is great indicator of how the rest of your relationship will go, because if he/she cannot agree to respect your privacy, then it’s likely that your significant other is more interested in appearances than reality. If that’s the case, breaking up might be the right decision.

But Don’t Be Afraid

You can use social networking to help your relationship as well, so don’t be afraid to tweet, post, pin, etc. For instance, if there’s something you see that your mate would like, post it to their wall or tweet them. Use it as opportunity to let them know that you’re thinking about them. Plus, your friends will be happy to see that you’re happy and have found someone special.

We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, Rachel Sussman shares tips for keeping infidelity at bay.

The discovery that your partner is either emotionally or sexually involved with another is one of the most devastating experiences one can live through. Being in a relationship carries many different definitions and implications, yet the desire that your partner remain sexually faithful seems to be nearly universal.

There are numerous reasons why people cheat, and it's good to know them so you'll be aware to not let them seep into your own marriage.

Most people report that they cheated because they felt emotionally disconnected and lonely in their marriage. Others complain that they felt unimportant or undervalued by their partner. And some say that it was because of a decrease in sex, sexual dissatisfaction, and/or boredom in the bedroom.

My analogy is that a strong marriage is like the foundation of a beautiful home — if you give it the maintenance it needs, it will stay robust and retain its value for years to come. Alternatively, if you let it hang out there through stormy weather, it will slowly crack and bring the walls down with it.

So if you want to keep your marriage robust and affair proof — here are a few tips for relationship and monogamy success:

• Marry the right person for the right reasons at the right time in your life. You should feel completely confident during your engagement period that you are marrying a person whose character, nature and goals are fully in line with yours.
• Couples need to understand that marriage is a huge commitment and that staying happily married requires a lot of compromise and endeavor. Before you wed, speak to your partner about your feelings about fidelity. Surprisingly few newly engaged couples seem to have these frank discussions, some of which can serve to avoid painful misunderstandings later on.
• Have intimacy in your marriage. Long walks on the beach are much more than a cliché — they truly serve a purpose.
• Boost each other up. Couples can tend to be very critical toward each other, and too many years of criticism with the absence of praise can take a huge toll on a love bond. Don't let this happen to your marriage. Be the president of your partner's fan club, and be sure to regularly remind them how terrific they are.
• Have fun together. When the chips are down, you want to think of your partner as someone who brings joy into your life. Laughter is such a great elixir and it really helps keep couples together.
• It's important to have sex — and even better to have great sex. Being sexual helps you feel more connected to your partner. It makes you feel cared for, attached, and comforted. It's a nonverbal experience that helps you communicate in an entirely different way. And, it's fun!

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, Matt Libassi shares date ideas on the cheap.

Between car payments, rent, food and Fluffie's cat litter, your hard earned paycheck gets stretched pretty darn far. And the last thing you want to skimp on is your love life. So how can you woo that special someone without breaking the bank? We've narrowed down some great date night ideas that won't make you look cheap (even though they are!)

For That Intellectual Outing: Donation-Only Museums

There are some great museums where you don't have to pay entrance fees, just a simple "donation." So dip into your pocket and pass out two ten dollar bills, it's roughly the price of going to the movies, your date will love the atmosphere, and you got yourself a practically free, fun-filled, cultured afternoon. For New York City dwellers, the Guggenheim and the Metropolitan Museum of Art will welcome the budget-conscious with open arms.

The Showstopper: Broadway Shows

Don't get overwhelmed by the seemingly high price tags of theater tickets. There are ways to beat the presumed tickets price, including the famous NYC TKTS booths and stand-by lines. Most theaters offer discounted limited view seats, or call lines (you get there about two hours before show time and get cheaper tickets). Just call the box office before you head to the show. Break a leg!

The Super Saver: Deal-a-Day Lists

Between LivingSocial, GiltCity and Amazon Local, the whole deal-a-day email listing are fantastic for saving on some special outings. From wine tours to hikes, casino day trips and beer tastings, you can save big on some special adventures. Just Google, sign up with an email, and let the savings roll in.

The Green-Thumbers: Farming Fun

From pick-your-own apples, to pick-your-own pumpkins, heck even pick-your-own peaches! Take a drive out to your local farm, grab a basket and get started. Most places offer a flat fee (as much as you can carry) so bring a coat with extra pockets!

Stop Your Wine-ing: Wine Tours

Cascading landscapes, fresh rural air, a crisp cool glass of your favorite wine. What could be better? We're talking wine tours! What's great about most wineries is you only pay for what you drink, often for a "flight" (4-5 glasses, sipping size) is roughly $20-40 bucks, and more often than not you can bring your own munchies. So plan on a little picnic with your partner, and make a day of it.

So there you have it my friends. Anything to add to our list?

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, we're looking at the five friends you need to have, even if you're married.

When you said, "I do," that meant you were done looking for a new best friend, right? Your spouse would forever be your go-to person for advice about work and family. Your mate would share all of your interests, and be happy to listen to whatever is on your mind. If I'm describing your fantasy, I guess you've already figured out the truth: our spouse cannot and should not satisfy all of our needs. That's where friends come in. 

Research shows that a rich life with love, health, and happiness is dependent upon having a support network made up of more than our spouse. Life will be more interesting, and your marriage will be even better, if you have these five types of friends to rely on too.

The Adventurer
When you and your mate get into a boring daily routine, an inspiring friend can help you break free of the monotony. The adventurer goes to concerts, is the first one to know about a new restaurant in town, and takes day-trips to museums in a nearby city. She encourages you to join her at a knitting convention or inspires you to take up tae kwon do. She doesn't just talk about doing things; she actually does them. With her help, you will never lose sight of the fact that life is what you make it.

The Truthful Friend
Never out to hurt you, but not here to shield you either, this friend tells it like it is. She is confident and comfortable with her own life, so she has no axe to grind. You can trust her with your secrets, and she'll be your personal family adviser without judging your situation. Having an honest friend who has your best interests in mind helps you stay on the right track.

The Work Adviser
This friend might be a co-worker, your old high school buddy, or your neighbor. However you met him or her, you know that she has wisdom when it comes to making important life choices about where to work, when to ask for a raise, and how to decide when it's time to make a change. You might not share a love of fried chicken or movies, but when it comes to work, this friend knows more than anyone.

The Childhood Friend
When you're angry with your overbearing mother, you call your childhood friend to vent. You know that she will listen to all your complaints, but she won't join you in ridiculing your mom. Rather, she'll offer a balanced perspective that comes from having known you and your mother for decades. A childhood friend doesn't jump to conclusions; she looks to put a temporary situation in context. Having a friend who forgives your foibles and reminds you of your history helps you make better decisions in the present.

The Unlikely Friend
If you put all of your friends in one room, this one might not fit in. Perhaps this friend is much quieter and introverted than your other friends. Maybe she has unique interests like photography, skateboarding, or writing. This difference is exactly why you like her. She brings out something special in you that your other friends don't see. When you are with her, you feel like a secret part of yourself is being expressed. The unlikely friend makes life richer and allows you to be all of who you are.

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, we're looking at Jennifer Lawrence's desirability factor.

AskMen.com has published its annual list of the Top 99 Most Desirable Women, and Silver Linings Playbook actress Jennifer Lawrence came out on top.

"Overall, there's a sense that she's a little more authentic than other actors," said James Bassil, AskMen's editor-in-chief. "She's fresh because we haven't seen her all over the gossip pages for the past three or four years," he added during his interview with Reuters.

The 22-year-old Hunger Games actress beat out fellow "desirable women" such as actress Mila Kunis, supermodel Kate Upton, pop star Rihanna and actress Emma Stone, who ranked 2 through 5, respectively. This also isn't Lawrence's first time on the list, as she was included in last year's Top 99 Most Desirable Women in 2011, coming in at No. 47.

With both critically acclaimed films (such as Winter's Bone) and box-office blockbusters (X-Men: First Class) under her belt, there's no doubt that Lawrence's star is definitely on the rise. Would you consider her this year's Most Desirable Woman, too? Who would you choose?

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, we're looking at what to get your significant other that he'll actually like.

When it comes to the man in your life, finding that "special something" can be especially tricky. While men don't always get it right when it comes to holiday shopping, gals too can easily miss the gift-giving mark. To avoid ending up with a less-than-enthused dude this holiday season, Farnoosh Torabi, host of Financially Fit on Yahoo! Finance, put together the top five gifts to skip this year, along with upgraded alternatives that are more likely to please:

Passé technology
Digital photo frames are a perfect example of a once-trendy "tech" gift that flew off the shelves in years past but is now widely viewed as a waste of money by consumers that found them to be clunky and over-rated.
Upgraded alternative: This year's hottest tech gifts are items that make life a little bit easier, such as the Belkin TV anywhere Gadget that hooks up to your phone and allows you to watch TV.

Gifts that send a "message"
Nothing FAILS to say "I love you," more than a gift that passive-aggressively asks for something in return. For example, if that certain "home project" on your mind leads you to buy your mate a tool, your generous gift might be misconstrued as a back-handed request.
Upgraded alternative: If your man asked for something specific, make sure to note details like the make, model, and brand to ensure you pick up the right tool. Or pick something which can be used on fun excursions and won't seem like a request for extra chores around the home.

Generic-looking ties
Ties are often considered sophisticated fashion statements, but if you think generic, run of the mill neckwear will "wow" your man, think again.
Upgraded alternative: If, and ONLY if, your guy actually wears ties on a regular basis, you may still want to still consider getting him a tie, but one that speaks directly to his personality. If the statement is unique and just for him, then there'll be no complaints.

Trinkets that serve no purpose
Time to nix novelty trinkets from your list! Items like the hip and trendy retro attachment for your iPhone from MoshiMoshi are hot right now, but after the newness wears off, this will soon be dumpster material.
Upgraded alternative: A quirky gizmo that actually serves a purpose is a better choice — like a funky bottle opener or laptop case. Look for unusual products for guys that are both fun and functional, like a Universal 5-in-One Laser Pen, a wearable wristband that charges cell phones, or a personalized flask.

Shaving stuff
Grooming supplies for men are also popular, but think hard before gifting the same old products.
Upgraded alternative: Instead, why not pamper your guy with an actual shave? Old school barbers offer relaxing, spa-like shaving services that even the most "manly man" can appreciate, and while they're there, they can pick out the grooming products they like best.

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, we're looking at how to deal with mom conversations over the holidays.

When we think of the holiday season, our minds are typically filled with images of joy, giving, great food, and family bonds. But along with the merriment, this festive time of year can be extraordinarily stressful.

From mid-November through early January, there is a recurring theme in my private practice. One frequently discussed topic is how to satisfy one’s personal needs and desires during the holidays versus managing their mother’s expectations.

I often hear stories of folks stuffing their cars to the brim with gifts at 5:00 a.m. on Christmas Eve while venturing off to visit one set of parents in New Jersey. And several hours later, car re-packed, they drive overnight to visit the other set of folks in Ohio. Once the holidays end, they are exhausted, stressed, and depleted.

Why do we put ourselves through these torturous routines, year after year? Many people tell me it's to please their moms. In fact, when I recently suggested to one client that she change up her holiday customs, she said, "Are you kidding? If I don't spend Thanksgiving with my mother, there would be hell to pay! I'm just not up to that sort of confrontation."

There comes a time in our lives when we need to make tough decisions regarding time management and life management. And this maturation process involves asking yourself, "How do I want to spend my holidays this year?" Unfortunately, most of us tend to feel guilty or selfish when speaking this type of language. We are programmed to care for others, and for many, saying yes is easier than saying no.

However, please understand that it is through this process of stating our needs, that we are able to acquire more joy, peace and meaning from our holidays . . . and our lives. With this in mind, the ability to create a wonderful holiday tradition for yourself and your family may require saying a polite yet thoughtful "no" to Mom.

How can we do this without causing a war within our respective clans? Follow these five suggestions to ensure a smoother holiday for this season and for the future:

1. Take a hard look at your life and your schedule and see makes the most sense for you regarding the holidays. Ask yourself, "What do the holidays signify to me and how do I want to spend my time this year?"
2. Once you have an answer to these questions, begin to map a plan that is comfortable for you.
3. If you decide that you are not going to see your mother for a certain holiday, contact her (I always prefer a conversation over emailing or texting) for a productive discussion.
4. Prepare yourself before calling. Ask yourself, "How might this discussion play out? How will Mom react to the news that I'm skipping Christmas this year?"
5. Don't be afraid. State your predicament and/or your decision. Speak in "I" statements. Try to keep your tone gentle and loving. Stay calm, listen to your mother’s point of view, and try not to be defensive. For example: "Mom, I know how much you love Thanksgiving and how important it is for you to have your family with you. I really respect that about you. However, I'm so sorry to say that I'm not going to be able to make it home this year due to my busy work schedule. I know this is disappointing to you, and I'm sorry for this. Why don't we get out our calendars and plan another time when we can get together?"

I certainly understand that these are difficult decisions and phone calls to make. But in the end, you will feel better when you create a new holiday tradition that best suits you.

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We're happy to present this story from one of our favorite sites, Fox News Magazine. Today, we're looking at some places to meet someone new besides the standard bar.

You've probably heard the saying, "Love will find you when you stop looking for it." But sometimes rules are meant to be broken.

And while happy hour may seem like an ideal social setting to meet someone new, let's not overlook opportunities to find love elsewhere.

Some of the best places to meet a mate are already part of your everyday routine:

Commuting: Keep your eyes peeled on subways, buses and trains. You never know when you'll have something to talk — or laugh — about with the stranger sitting next to you.

Sports Leagues: Many communities offer co-ed sports teams — whether it be flag football, dancing or bowling. Find out what types leagues exist in your area and sign up. You'll be forced to interact with new faces and you might find a new group to socialize with.

Coffee Shop: Don't just order your coffee and leave — plan to spend some time reading, writing or doing some work. Sit there long enough and you're bound to meet some new people.

Blind Date: It's easier to survive a blind date than it seems — and anyone can play matchmaker if you're open to it.

Work Functions: Volunteer to play wingman at your best friend's work parties. Office outings are a great place to expand your social group and perhaps, meet someone special. Plus, you’ll already have a mutual friend to make an introduction.

At work: Is your would-be spouse one of your colleagues? It's quite possible. Plenty of couples meet at the office.

Classes/Seminars: Sign up for a cooking lesson, a photography seminar or a new workout class. You'll surround yourself with people who are in tune with your hobbies and interests and you'll have common ground to start a conversation.

Grocery Store: Grocery shopping doesn't have to be a chore — if the opportunity arises, start a conversation with the cute guy in front of you at the check-out line.

Online: Dating online is more popular than ever. If you're not comfortable interacting with strangers, the internet is your oyster. Use it to weed through the dating pool options to find someone compatible with you.

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