Life is short, unpredictable, eventful, uncharted, and totally happens as it will. This means that we should not get too comfortable, complacent, or take it for granted, for we know not what lies ahead, no matter how invincible we have convinced ourselves we are…

There is much to be said on the subject of appreciating life, people, and what you have, but, today, we will merely touch on segments of this vast discussion. I think that we need constant reminders besides losing someone to keep us on course, and in gratitude for those in our lives. When we learn to appreciate through loss, often it is too late, and we have ignored certain obligations to those whom we have lost, but, if we can learn to embrace each day, each person in our life in the now, in real time, then when loss does occur, then we might be more accepting, and certainly more comfortable in the healing process…

Each day we should start the day by letting those in our homes know how much we love them, before we go our separate ways. And in the course of the day, we should let those near us see the best of our character and personality, for it is really not fair that they should have to deal with more than an occasional outburst, or other forms of bad behavior. Those we work with, those we play with, those we love, should only get the best of us…

Yes, we all have our moments of bad behavior, but, if we TRY, we can lessen these times, and lessen the impact. Too many people lash out all day long, taking their personal problems, impatience, and selfishness out on others, making everyone who comes into their contact suffer. You see it is like a domino effect; Joe wakes up crabby, brushes off his family, goes to the office and begins the day by yelling at people, who then feel his harshness all day long, and they in turn, might lash out at someone else, and when they get home, they are irritable and high strung, which hurts the people closest to them. If we could simply TRY to remember that one bad word, one attitude which is sour, one action which is uncalled for, affects MANY people in the course of the day, week, month, or year, then perhaps we could control our moods a bit better…

Living with the best of yourself is an ongoing practice of control, attitude, and belief that positive mentality and actions reaps the most rewards. Negativity of any kind, does nothing more than produce more negativity, and we all know that negativity dwells within, often creating more unnecessary troubles. Positive mentality and action also creates a domino effect, an effect which produces good all the way around; it is fair, selfless, and considerate of other people, which breeds the same from those around us. It is true, you get what you give…

My people, that is those around me, closest to me or not, deserve much better than a snotty, self consumed, irrational attitude and behavior from me, and I tell you, I certainly TRY to remember this at all times. Yes, time has taught me this, mostly from being treated so badly at work, or from being around crabby, selfish people, but, I have indeed, learned…

Life is short, precious, and the time you spend with other people should be an overall representation of the kind of person you REALLY are, the kind of person that does not have to make amends or excuses for their behavior, for you TRY each day to put the best of you forward that all in the world might embrace the person you are from deep inside…

It’s summer time and that means there’s a much better chance of seeing bare skin. Better yet, glowing and tanned skin! Especially if you work in an environment where the ladies dress according to the weather, seeing those long stems or getting glimpses of toned abdomens can almost act like an all-day aphrodisiac.

After work and weekends can feel like the summer vacation days of youth. Barbecues every night, softball and baseball games, going to the pool or beach, and just working in the yard can all seem so much more tantalizing and sensual than the long stretch of winter now behind us (there’s a reason why women are attracted to those hunky lawn boys and gardeners!).

You already know what you like in ladies’ summer fashions—the less the better, right? But, guys, how much thought do you put into what you’re wearing during the summer? Shorts, tee shirts, board shorts, and the like are all fine for the outside, but do you make any changes in your underwear choices for summer?

Perhaps you should. In fact, let me give you a woman’s perspective on men’s underwear choices. So when you do get the opportunity to take off your summer clothes, the ladies will be impressed by the fact that you’re not wearing some dingy tighty-whities!

Its About More Than Just Tighty-Whities

First off, I’m certainly not encouraging you to spend a lot of your free hours shopping for new drawers at the mall—how awkward! Nope, there are plenty of websites with good things for you to check out and some also have women’s lingerie. Pick up something for your gal at the same time!

Now, the type of underwear you choose is going to be somewhat reflective of your personality or, at least, the personality you want to present. So that’s where we’ll start.

If I see a guy wearing some basic briefs, as long as they aren’t white, I think they’re just perfectly normal. They don’t think about their underwear too much, but are aware enough to spice it up with different colors. Don’t get me wrong, though, some sparkling white (no stains allowed!) briefs on a summer tanned body can look awfully good, too, just don’t try to rock that look every single day.

Bikinis Are Not The Same As Tiny Speedos

Different varieties of men’s bikinis are also a good choice to show off summer bodies. There are styles ranging from the traditional narrow sides with more coverage in front and back, to some that are more moderate with more coverage all around but still more skin-baring than traditional briefs.

Different colors, different band widths, brand names displayed on the underwear, fabrics—all of these things can make a big difference in the bikini look. Generally, the rule should be: the more confidence you show in your bod, the less coverage you can get away with. Just, you know, beware of Borat issues that can make you look, well, comic.

Freshen Up Your Boxers For Summer

Boxers, of course, are still an option for summer wear. Switch these up, though, from your winter stock. Cotton is a good fabric choice for the summer, especially since it’s going to be hot!

It’s okay to get playful with boxers—brighter colors, stripes, plaid, etc. But no alcohol advertisements, smiley faces are pretty much out, as is anything that’s too cutesy or cartoonish. A good rule of thumb—if you can easily picture the pattern on a toddler boy, they’re probably too immature for you!

You may still be able to get away with some silk boxers for special night time activities, just make sure it’s cool enough so they’re not sticking unattractively to your legs and package. Also be careful not to get cheesy with your color selection. Keep it simple if you’re spicing up the fabric. Black is a good choice for silk or satin, year-round.

Pouches Aren’t Just For Kangaroos

Pouches aren’t just for body-builders, either. Regular guys can get away with them and they’re reportedly more comfortable and supportive for guys’ than some other selections. In case you haven’t been looking at this category for a while, you are not restricted to just the g-string type variety of pouch.

There are pouch styles that are appealing on any body type. These include boxer-brief pouches, and different types of bikini pouches. Although, in general, I say stay away from patterns, you can get away with some patterns for special occasions. Especially if you are very secure and have a good sense of humor.

Don’t be afraid to try different color choices with the pouch, either. You’re already showing the ladies that you’re confident just through your choice of the pouch, so it’s okay to look at more than just black (though black is a strong choice if you’re just too uncertain about colors).

Don’t Be Afraid To Change Your Habits

Some believe men are creatures of habit. It can be true that guys want to spend less energy than women in their fashion and appearance choices. It’s not a hard and fast rule, just a generalization.

There are advantages to changing things up, though. Women discover, as early as the preschool years that putting on different outfits can bring out different facets of their personality. It can also change how others view them.

Since guys don’t have as many fashion items to choose from (i.e., no dresses, skirts, high heels, etc.), perhaps there’s a built-in lack of creativity in clothing choices. Or they have the fear that they’ll seem less manly, in some way, if they wear something different than other guys.

So changing up your underwear is a relatively safe way to try out some different fashion choices. The guys don’t have to know and better yet, the ladies will notice. You can even think of it as part of role-playing for bedroom activities!

Or, if you need a strictly practical reason to change things up, remember Mom’s tried and true advice: wear clean underwear. You never know who might end up seeing them! Changing out your drawers seasonally is a good habit to get into and practical to boot!

Summertime is here, and if you live in a state where it’s really HOT or humid, most likely, you’ll be smart enough to wear less clothing when you go outside.  Girlfriends Lingerie resides in Mesa, Arizona, and at this time of the year, it’s well above 100 degrees.  Depending on where you live, you may or may not have a lot of water in your area.  If you are sunbathing around an area with water, you should always becareful and remember that the water reflects the sun on you, which means you’ll tan or burn a lot quicker. 

If you want to wear a sexy bikini that shows a lot of skin, try our itsy bitsy bikini.  It comes in 5 colors and will hug your curves.  Do bikini’s make you feel good about yourself?  In all reality, it’s YOU that matters here, not what others think….unless of course you are purposely wearing our Gauze G-String bikini for the sole purposes of getting a nice tan and getting some attention focused on your body! For all of your anxiety over whether your bikini bottom makes your hips look wide, people at the beach or around the pool are busy socializing, eating, drinking and worrying about their own hips. They’re not thinking about yours.

If you’re self conscious to the point of wanting to cover up, you can use one of our sarongs to do so.  The important thing to remember is that you are wearing a bikini to get what you want, a nice tan in the hot sun, so remember that as long as you are comfortable with what you are wearing, that’s all that matters.  Check out Girlfriends Lingerie for our hot bikini’s and swimsuits!

This summer, people all across the U.S. will be indulging in the latest vacation trend—the staycation! Not familiar with the concept of a “staycation”? Let me educate you.

The staycation is a vacation at home. With gas prices and airfare seeming to increase by the day, and economic prosperity seeming to decrease at a similar rate, staycations are the way to go.

In my younger years, I had no choice but to take staycations when I used my vacation time. My salary didn’t allow for savings and as a singleton, I wasn’t comfortable traveling alone anyway.

Staycations are no longer for the young, single, or financially-challenged. People everywhere are viewing staying-at-home as not only practical, but creative, an investment in their local community, and fiscally responsible.

Themes Aren’t Just For Kids’ Parties

If you were going on a traditional vacation, there’d be a theme. Even if it’s just a geographical theme (the mountains, the beach, a different country), there is an underlying motif that ties everything together.

Since staying at home for your vacation isn’t geographically different than any other day, it’s up to you to choose the theme. The best part? You can change your theme daily or however often you like.

One day can be all about the outdoors—you and your significant other in your hottest swimwear, soaking up the rays, playing in a sprinkler, wading in a pool (even a plastic or inflatable pool will put you in the spirit!) for part of the day. Then, cover up with a cute wrap or sarong for grilling or just for eating outdoors.

Other themes can include a bedroom day (ladies and gents—this is the perfect opportunity to indulge in some new under things!), a day full of rental movies (series of movies or changing between your picks and his picks are a good way to go),

Focus On Yourselves As A Couple

Don’t feel any pressure to entertain others while you’re on your staycation. After all, if this was an away couples’ vacation, you probably wouldn’t be dragging your best friends along with you.

Try to incorporate some things that you would do on any other vacation. Try out a new restaurant or, at least, one you’ve never tried before. Try a new activity. Your spirits and intentions during a regular vacation can be fostered during a staycation with the right attitude.

Make time for real conversation. This is something many couples find being revived when on vacation because they’re away from their usual elements and stressors. Make a concentrated effort to do the same during your staycation. Don’t talk about the honey-do list or the laundry.

A good rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t be doing it on a regular vacation, put it off until your staycation is over, too!

Indulge In What You Can

Typically, new clothing is bought in anticipation of vacation. Okay, maybe this is mostly applicable to us ladies. At any rate, if you’re already cutting out airfare, gas, car rental, hotels, park tickets, and so on… you don’t have to cut out everything.

Why not get a new bathing suit and sarong for your outdoor theme day? Why not buy some cute loungewear for the movie day? Even guys need some new drawers, lounge pants, and maybe some slippers.

You don’t have to eat out every day the way you probably would on vacation elsewhere, but don’t spend all your time in the kitchen, either. Order take-out, delivery, or buy easy and convenient to make foods from the grocery store.

Be A Tourist In Your Own Town

You know all those places you drive by all the time and don’t stop at? We’ll get to it someday, you think. Well, a staycation is the perfect someday occasion.

Local museums, historical sites, parks, and the zoo can be just as exotic and new in your own hometown. If it helps, imagine you’re visiting from another town.

Do all the fun touristy things you’d do elsewhere and be unashamed and unapologetic about it! Take pictures in front of signs and landmarks. Ask others to take pictures of you and your significant other together.

Get souvenirs. This is one of those things you can indulge in, too, since you’re saving money elsewhere. Save little mementos to remind you later of the great times you had during your staycation. Napkins, menus, matchbooks, ticket stubs, and postcards can all be added to any pictures you take to make a nice scrapbook page or memory box of your staycation.

Take Care Of Yourselves

You know how when you come back from vacation, people notice a certain glow about you? It’s not necessarily just from spending time on a beach or poolside. Getting caught up on your sleep helps, as do the other care-taking activities you indulge in.

If you normally make a point of getting your hair done or having a spa day on vacation, there are creative ways to do this that can be very romantic, as well. Treat you and your significant other to some new fluffy robes or silky kimono robes for your at-home spa day.

Stock up on some fun face masks from the local drugstore, some cucumbers to slice up for your eyes and fancy little cucumber finger sandwiches to enjoy with some home-brewed iced tea.

Since you’re home alone, guys may even be willing to undergo some manicure and pedicure procedures. Swear to him you’ll keep it secret, though. And what could be more deliciously romantic than a bubble bath for two with candles and flower petals sprinkled on top?

Creativity And The Right Spirit Are Key

Staycations are only limited by your imagination. As with any vacation, it’s your time to do what you want. If the point is to spend alone time with your significant other, then honor that.

As with most things in life, if your spirit and heart are into it, the fun will follow!

There are a lot of men out there who are spending way too much time making comparisons between their woman and those who are available, often, using this method to make their woman do that which they want them to do. This is so wrong, so childish, and can make a woman feel as if she is not worthy in most respects…

I can understand that men want to see beautiful women, sexy women, and totally confident women, but, if you are married, or are in a relationship, there must have been something about the woman you are with else why are you with her? Look, if you need to have more pizazz to your relationship, talking it over works wonders; you don’t need to make someone feel less than desirable or out of place to get what you want. Honesty and sharing go a long, long way…

True, too many women do not care for themselves as much when they are comfortable in a relationship, still, that does not mean that a man has the right to make her feel as if she is unattractive, unexciting, unlovable. She might just need to hear what would make you happy, perhaps you need to initiate the change by buying her things which will dress her up, inspire her, or make her understand what it is you need. Granted, these subjects are often difficult to discuss, but, if you care for someone, discussion is the most adult way to handle that which creates wedges in a relationship…

Women are often misinformed about their role as wife, Mother, significant other; too often they have been raised that if you are a wife, Mother, or whatever; once you take on this role, you no longer have to try to impress. This is not their fault, it is the fault of social upbringing, and should be eradicated. Some women know intrinsically that remaining sexy, hot, and intriguing is the way to keep a man’s interest, but, most are raised believing that once you are in a marriage/relationship, he should be interested, else why did he commit?

Instead of men blaming and distributing guilt, ill-feelings, hurt, and shame, they need to take time to try to discuss such things. Instead of withdrawing to a fantasy world, give her the chance to be your fantasy, help her along without demands, without comparison, without disregard for her role as your wife/woman/lover/friend…

Women over 30 should not compared to 17 and 18 year old girls! It is cruel, it is foolish, it is totally a waste of time. All women were once that young, that cute, that desirable, and as they grow older, they do not want to be reminded that those days are gone, they already know that, plus, any man worth his salt should see that aging does not mean that women are less, in fact, they are more. It is like this, it is easy to be ‘all that’ when you are young, but, if she can still look good beyond 30 and higher, that is truly, a beautiful woman! It is all perceptual, and yes, there is lots of good lookin’ babes out there, but, realize this, those babes are always what they seem, and, they might have nothing else to offer, so, you better take a good long look at what is attractive and realize just how great the wife/woman/lover/friend you have really is, as the grass on the other side is not always greener, though the manure might be fresher…

Always take your partners feelings into consideration before you open your mouth, act, or react, it is the kindest thing you can do for them. And, if you have issues with any facet of them, try to discuss them on a mature and kind platform, you might be surprised at how effective this is. Also, if you would like your partner to change their appearance, help them along by purchasing that which you would like to see them in, it is not so hard to do, is it? Keep the outside world outside, and give the world in which you live the best of yourself, in honesty, fairness, compassion, consideration, respect, and genuine discussion of most things. No one deserves to be taunted for that which they do not understand, and so, if your partner does not seem to ‘get’ what you want or need, that is your own fault, for you are not grown enough to let them know…

By now the Summer activities are gaining momentum, or are at least getting started. Lots of fun to be had, lots of things to do, lots of fiery sparks in the air, and, speaking of fiery sparks, can you believe that the 4Th of July is almost here? Already???

That means time to take a look at GFL’s 4Th of July line of swimwear, bootie sets, dresses, rompers, and even men’s g-string pouches, all done in American tradition with Star Spangled hot and sexy design and cut. There are some really great items, so be sure to check out the new items tab, you will find that special something to make this 4Th of July, 2008 more than memorable, it will be sizzling like a thousand sparklers in a row, bursting like a barge full of fireworks, and as intense as all of the anticipation of this notable day…

Men’s USA G-String Pouch, Fireworks Flash Bikini, American Girl Bikini, American Flag Dress & more 4th of July Lingerie

I am sure most couples have big plans for the 4TH, which involve, family, friends, and lots of events to attend. Even so, there is still some time for that romantic meeting of the body, mind, and soul, time to take up the heat, and make some explosive magic, just you two…

A pool party sounds like a great idea, with food, drinks, and lots of spectacular people to fill the waters and the decks. Crank up some music, and have a good ‘ole time dancing the night away. I am going to an all niter myself, there will be like 120 people and kids there, with all the trimmings and a ton of fireworks. It is an annual celebration, lots of fun, and is always a great time…

There will be lots of boaters out on the waters with some magnificent firework displays. I love watching fireworks from a boat, it is awesome, the fireworks light up the sky, then reflect on the waters, and it is just one of the best ways to observe and participate in the celebration of our country’s freedom…

Not much to do? Create your own fireworks with the person you most desire. Have a bonfire, light some torches, candles, and set off some fireworks of all kinds. Plan a night of shared fun and romance, BBQ, have some bubbly, or some wine, or whatever, and create a night of magical combustion for two, it will be as memorable as a group activity, though I would bet it might be even more so…

Whatever your choice of celebration might be, enjoy, be safe, and set the night afire in as many ways as you can. And don’t forget, Girlfriends Lingerie makes dreams come true, by keeping it sexy and hot…

I have been doing some reading and research on dating, players, sex, love, romance and more. I found this at Ask Men.com, and thought it was worth some discussion, as it is one of those statements which makes you think…

“Men often have sex to feel wanted. Granted, it’s hard to accept that he’s really after affection when he has one hand up your sweater and the other diving down your skirt. But it’s true. Sex for a man appears to be his primal form of giving; it’s one way for him to feel accepted both physically and emotionally. Because some men still aren’t as verbose or as comfortable with expressing emotion as women are, sex tends to be used as a means of showing his love and feeling close to you. If he really wants to say “I love you,” he may suggest sex. So basically, when you reject sex with him, you’re not just rejecting the sex. Adopt a new philosophy: When you say no, tell him when you want to have sex instead. And always make it clear you’re just saying no to sex — not to a cuddle or to a cozy chat.”

This is very interesting and true. Men are way less expressive than women, and, do use body ‘talk’ to make their point,it is a way for them to secure a bond with a woman. It is also a way for them to show a woman their skills as a lover, and their masculinity; it makes them feel strong, desirable, plus, it gives them more confidence when they can seduce a woman, especially if it is a woman they care about winning over…

After they have succeeded, more of their interior personality will come forth, as, it is then easier for them to open up because the deal has been struck, so to speak, the bond has been set. Of course, this all depends on the man’s primary motives. If he is a player, the extent of his opening up will be limited. If he is interested in you for more than play, he will gradually reveal his inner self more and more, and with each sexual encounter, he will feel more comfortable doing so…

It is true what the author says about rejection and using the approach of letting them know that you are not refusing sex totally, it is just a temporary thing, as, it works wonders, especially if he is genuinely interested in you. He may ask why, or he may pout, men are very good at pouting when they are left high and dry, but, if you handle it well, and assure him that you are interested, but would rather wait, chances are he will be fine with that, though, seriously, he will not stop trying even as he exits through the door. Hahaha….

Men have wonderful, caring, personalities. They are not really so different from women, their tactics, techniques, and thought patterns are what make them seem so hard to reach, but, truly, they are so much like women, it would probably scare a lot of guys to realize this fact. It is all perceptual, for either person, or for both. If a woman really believes that men are way different, then that is how she will treat him, and how he will react, for deep inside, he already knows that there is not that much difference, and he will feel inferior to the fact that she insists that he is from Mars…

Full of restlessness, I sit here and think of all the things I would like to do this season, be it alone or with someone special. This time of the year makes my adrenaline rush in anticipation of doing exciting and different things, and each year, I strive to include one really memorable event, as my lifestyle and budget will allow. Of course, if I had lots of money, I could do much, much more, or so I imagine…

We are creative in our imaginations, but, usually when two or more get together, unless they have something planned, it is like, “What should we do?” or “What do you want to do?” or every time you suggest something, someone goes, “Nah.” So, thinking is not good enough, therefore I have found a site which features 500 LIST OF FUN THINGS TO DO!!!

Some of the stuff is typical, some is not, and what I like the most about it is that it is broken down into categories, such as adventure, boredom, kids, and so forth, with a list under each heading. I thought it was pretty useful, certainly one has something to play with, and can create something out of it, I am sure…

Then I found this information which doesn’t really rock me, but, is useful for couples and Summer fun… Frugal Fun.com …

Some of the ideas from this site are as follows:

* Swim together and take turns throwing each other in the water, giving each other piggy-back rides, or just hugging tightly while you stand in cool water up to your chin.

* Throw on some rock and roll, pull the shades, and dance together (clothing optional).

* Dim the lights and do a sexy striptease for your partner

* A deep, relaxing, lengthy massage

* Work up a really good sweat together with your favorite outdoor activity–and then cool off in the bathtub.

* Write a poem or song together, and perform it for each other

* Go out for an early morning hike, before it gets too hot

I have a few of my own, such as get out and have some fun, playing Frisbee, or riding bicycles, walking, playing ball or something, work up a good sweat, come home, take a shower together with luscious coconut oil or some such scent of Summer, then give each other a massage, and finish with ice cubes rubbed on certain parts of the body…

Take a swim together in a private pool with sheer swimsuits, play keep away and other such games, so that you are jumping and chasing, then get out of the pool, have a cool drink, use some of the nectar of your favorite mix to pour on each other, and well, you get the idea…

Like I said, the imagination makes it seem so simple to fulfill the restlessness of Summer, but, too often when it comes to making decisions, we are lost in the options. Perhaps this list will help some, I know it will help me…

Each Summer brings with it, romantic ideals and fantasies, each of which one hopes will come true…

Simple things like dancing in the moonlight on a hot, starry night, just two people entwined in the mystical magic of the moment, or a starlit cruise on a boat, then anchoring, listening to some excellent mood music, sipping champagne, and feeding chocolate dipped strawberries to each other, or having a party for couples with romantic themes, which are a lot of fun, and can truly be memorable…

One of my favorite times in the Summer is an annual trip to Chicago. It is a romantic setting, if you are downtown and near some of the nightlife and Navy Pier. The Pier is a great place;featuring eating establishments,a few bars, a beer garden, outside vendors, boutiques, shops, entertainment, rides, a tropical atrium, and lots and lots of people, some lovers, some seeking love. If the weather is great, which it usually is when I go there, it is such a great experience. Chicago has a lot to offer, and the nightlife is top notch. I take the train, cabs, walk, and experience the Summer heat in the city…

Taking short trips in the Summer is a great way for couples to reconnect, have some fun, do something different, enjoy each other, as companions and as lovers. There are so many great places to go, even if only for the night, it is worth the effort; the fun you share will be there to relive when times seem less than perfect…

Where I live there are lots of quaint little places on the water. You just pack up a small overnight bag, some swimwear, lingerie, some sexy clothes for the two of you, some necessities, some surprises, and off you go to horizons unexplored. Taking long walks on the beach, a romantic dinner, some dancing, and simply doing whatever you want, if only for a night, refreshes and stimulates the entire senses, which means heightened feelings of desire, closer feelings of togetherness, and memories which bind the pages of your life…

Summer makes us feel sexier, it opens up more avenues to stroll and explore, and when you share it with someone who touches your soul, Summer is sexy, Summer is when dreams are realized…