Because we only have ONE life, let’s make it the best possible. I’m a hopeless romantic, so in order to be truly happy, I want a relationship that won’t disappoint me.

If you’re playing along at home, get some paper and a pen. We’re making two lists that will ensure we don’t settle. The first list will contain only things that are required in order to be in a serious relationship with us. The second list, naturally, will contain all the deal-breakers. The rules are simple; if there is a conflict, the relationship cannot go into serious mode.

The thing to keep in mind while composing these lists is DON’T KEEP ANY PARTICULAR GUY IN MIND.

My lists follow.

MANDATORY:
- Believes in marriage
- Wants kids
- Financial stability
- Romantic & affectionate
- Proud of me
- Values togetherness
- Has a good family (my ex’s family can’t be beat…) 
- Witty & smart
- Reciprocal
- Open-minded/independent thinker
- Creative
- Minimal drinking/NO smoking or drugs
- Responsible
- Supportive
- Dog lover
- Trustworthy & trusting
- Thinks about the future
- Considerate of others’ feelings
- Good driver (for when he drives our kids)
- Kills all the roaches

UNACCEPTABLE:
- Substance abuse/addictions
- Egomania
- Über-outdoorsy types/meat-heads/hippies
- Physically or emotionally abusive
- Taking but no giving
- Atheists
- Conservatives
- Life of the party types (i.e., Frat Boys)
- Dummies
- Those who don’t want kids or pets
- Endless debt
- Non-cultured
- Cheaters
- Emotionally unavailable
- Unhealthfully suspicious or jealous

Remember, DO NOT SETTLE. Your soulmate is out there. Just be patient.

“It’s not how far you fall, it’s how fast you bounce back.”