●Keep a list of what you need to do during the Holidays. It should include things like decorating, wrapping presents and making cookies. But also put some things on there that are just for you, like a relaxing bath or massage. Your relationship should be a priority; make sure it is on your list.

●Remember all the hugging, touching, and kissing that used to come eff ortlessly to your relationship? The reality is that we all crave aff ection, no matter how long we’ve been together. Physical contact, without the expectation of sex, is something that we all, particularly women, crave. Aff ectionate touching triggers the release of Oxytocin, the calming, stress fi ghting, and bond-building hormone that’s also released during contact between a mother and her infant. Touch, cuddle, and kiss your partner--oft en! The hormones released help us bond with each other and reduce stress.

●Decide early how much money you want to spend this holiday season. Less to spend? Don’t add the stress of debt to your relationships. Make romantic coupons good for whatever inspires you and your loved one. Write a check for one million kisses. Give your honey a lottery ticket with a note: “I hit the jackpot when IAM Love IDEAS I married you.” On strips of paper, write 100 reasons why you love your partner. Wrap them up in a gift box.
●It’s better with your socks on. If your sex life isn’t as hot as you want it to be, it may be because you’re cold. Couples with cold feet were only able to reach an orgasm 50% of the time. When feet were warmed, the number jumped to 80%. Now there is a great Christmas present!

●Make some new traditions. Buy stockings for each of you and agree to fi ll them with sensual goodies like massage oils or candles, (you can stay mild or go wild), and open them together on Christmas Eve.

●Appreciate your partner. Thankful people are happy people, and thankful couples are happy couples. Appreciate one thing about your partner every day, and then speak up and let him hear how magnifi cent/handsome/ thoughtful you think he is. That’s a wonderful gift to give and to receive!

	AMY BARRAJ Amy Barraj is a resident of Loudoun County, mother of three and a self-described Romance Specialist. She currently pursues her passion for educating women about romance-enhancing products through in-home Passion Parties. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or amybarraj.yourpassionconsultant.com