rules to love by.

"I've been thinking about letters recently.  The real kind... Long hand.  And how terrible it is that nobody's writing them any more.  And so I decided to start one to you today.  And I'm going to write to you every day... For a long, long time.  Because I think I might be in danger of falling in love with you."

- Kyle, Beastly

Say what you will, Beastly is one of my all-time favorite movies... I find it romantic, imaginative, and full of good lessons for life.  I've been thinking about all the "love lessons" I've learned from my own experiences and those of my friends and family as well. 

Here's a few I think are most important... And they don't just apply to romantic relationships, they can apply to friends, family, or even total strangers.  Feel free to borrow a couple and make them your own rules.  :)

1.  Always, ALWAYS love with an open heart... If you don't, you'll risk missing some of the best things that could ever happen to you. 

2.  Give second chances.  And third chances... And fourth chances... And fifth chances... 

3.  But know when it's time to save your heart for someone who doesn't need quite so many.  

4.  It's okay - even healthy - to be unsure of what you want.  

5.  Be careful of being "in love with being in love".  This one was passed down from my "Mamo".  

6.  Be silly.  Laugh.  Play.  Joke.  Tease.  Tickle.  Jump.  Run.  Hula-Hoop.  Be a kid again... Together. 

7.  Trust your instincts... They're usually right. 

8.  There are no "mistake" relationships, as long as you learn from them.

9.   Yes... He should open your door, take your coat, and pull out your chair. 

10.  No matter how silly they may seem to others, you should never give up on your nonnegotiable, must-have, uncompromisables.  

11.  The heart doesn't take disappointment well... A few disappointments probably means a cycle that won't change anytime soon. 

12.  Know when a relationship is salvageable and worth fighting for. 

13.  Know when enough damage has been done and when it's time to walk away. 

14.  Don't be afraid to be overly mushy, cheesy, and lovey-dovey if it feels right.  Chances are, the person would rather hear it than try and guess how you're feeling.

15.  Don't try to make your partner jealous... Make others jealous by how well you treat your partner and how strong your bond with them is.   


16.  "A tiger can't change its stripes." - This one is from Mom.  And it has been right... Every. Single. Time.

17.   You always have the right to walk away if someone is treating you poorly... It's a relationship, not an obligation.  And it shouldn't feel like one.  

18.  Kiss, hug, and hold hands like you're a teenager.  I am always impressed and amazed at how 2 of my family members remain so affectionate with one another, even after years of being married and kids.  I hope that I will be lucky enough to still feel that way someday!! 

Any life/love lessons you've learned over the years??  Any favorite life/love quotes??

Hope you have a wonderful Monday!! 

Xoxo B.