DatingandHandGrenades

Humor from the Heart

 

Dating & Hand Grenades (DH&G) Strategic Tip of the Day ...in case you missed any Check here daily...humor for your brain and your heart! (*see www.ToucheToon.com entry for more daily humor): Want to send out a real greeting card? Contact me for how I can get yours sent free! (Actually on me.) Or visit www.SendOutCards.com/touche to set up your free guest account. Personalize however you like: your own message, graphics, color & style, or chose something already done to hit the spot. Try it! You might like it! Send an actual card, with a real stamp, by mail...and make someone's day. You don't have to lift a finger, except for the ones on your keyboard. It's the ORIGINAL "Social Networking!" Weekend Edition, July 30-August 1, 2010: Anyone see the not subtle Schick shaver ad for women? As the women run by, the "bushes" reshape and reformat to neat topiary geometric shapes. Ok, sure, bikini areas can come in triangles, but cone and round shaped, what?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 29, 2010: Blending families, especially when children are involved, is a highly complex communicative dance. Count on some toes being stepped on during the awkward moments of the learning process. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 28, 2010: Grandma always said, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." I suppose we could be quiet for a little bit. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 27, 2010: There's a company that makes a vibrating panty, with a remote control. As one movie has shown in a rather funny scene, a man cannot be trusted with the remote control. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 26, 2010: Getting back on the horse of life, is a lot easier with a good support system of family, friends and colleagues. It's like your own corral of moral support. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 23-25, 2010: It's kinda funny how angels appear. I thought my mom would still be cranky with me for not getting everything right. But instead, I think she's sending me gentle nature symbols, as to not haunt or scare me. Thanks mom. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   God bless my mom, The original person who's respect and knowledge of all things Native American, Colorado, positive "you-can do-it" attitude & wickedly humorous spirit, inspired mine. She's always been my best friend and now she gets the best angelic seat in the house. Love ya, mom! Give 'em hell in heaven. -with love and humor, Che' As a well respected 25-year Religious Science Practitioner, a memorial service was held Friday, June 4, 3pm at Mile Hi Church in Lakewood, Colorado- with a colorful luau them celebrating her life. She loved all things Hawaii (especially Kawai) even though our gorgeous mountains are are beloved home and sanctuary. The Denver Post Obituary Listing Holiday Weekend Edition, May 28-31, 2010: Embrace change. Even if she is a stranger with a restraining order. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May 27, 2010: People who've recently lost someone often tell us, "if you love someone, tell them." It's true. And compliments and appreciation are wonderful to share, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May 26, 2010: Woody Allan said, "if you want to make God laugh, make a plan." It turns out, rough sketches are laughed at, as well. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May 18, 2010: Doing the right thing doesn't always have that "right" feeling. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May 17, 2010: To be a beacon of light for many, or a candle for one in the dark, both are valid and appreciated. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humoris   Weekend Edition, May 14-16, 2010: Good love is worth fighting for, as long as there are 2 participants. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May 11, 2010: How's this for a tagline, "You grow it, we mow it?"   ...Nice, but it's a little misleading for a Colorado body waxing salon. It'd be more accurate to say, "You grow it, we rip it." Then again, in life, as in business, euphemisms beat truth any day of the week. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   So sorry, relationship humor-seekers: I'm Caring for a sick mom these days instead of keeping up with websites. Wednesday, April 21, 2010: Want to boost immunity, increase blood circulation, improve digestion, reduce stress hormones and enhance your protective hormones? Laugh. Your body will thank you, even if insurance won't cover it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, April 15, 2010: When you help out, the rule of thumb is to not expect anything in return. But the ego does love that appreciation now and then. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, April 14, 2010: Whether you marry for love or money, you have to live with that, and the one you seriously compromised, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 13, 2010: Friends are a precious treasure. Even if they do annoy you every once in a while. You know you do the same for them, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 12, 2010: Ever fall prey to "The Sombrero Effect?" That's vacation speak for buying something you think is such a great idea at the time, only to realize on the plane, how truly stupid it really was. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, April 9-11, 2010: If you ever get bored or need to live in fantasy land, try reading the personal ads on Craigslist for an eye-opening realization or dating trend info. Who knows? You may even run into your spouse there. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, April 8, 2010: Asking for help may be one of the biggest relationship challenges of all. It's humbling to admit when you can't do something by yourself. But it's empowering to know you have backup, if you can appreciatively accept it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 5, 2010: It's so strange to find good Samaritans these days. For some reason it's more convenient for most folks not to care. But for the rare few who take the time out of their busy lives to help another in need, thank you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 26-28, 2010: A woman is suing a gym because she badly injured herself during a pole dancing class. (The strip club kind.) The upside-a great attention-getting conversation starter and sympathy getter. The bad side was her decision to do something above her skill and/or strength level. To those non-litigating folks: Kudos for trying new things, moving out of your comfort zone and willing to take personal risk to grow, develop, get active and find happiness along the way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 23, 2010: Human courtesy is such an underrated value. And yet it is oh so easy to extend.  And very appreciated when you are on the receiving end. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 22, 2010: Isn't it funny that we complain about other people's actions and habits, when our own have much room for improvement? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 22, 2010: Nothing like old friends and new beer. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 19-21, 2010: Time for spring cleaning. Or taking a naked break from old clothes. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 18, 2010: Live. Love. Laugh. Repeat. ...Often. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 17, 2010: Kiss someone if your Irish...or want to be Irish...or want to be kissed (or slapped). Happy St. Patrick's Day! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 16, 2010: Don't like the box choices on the 2010 US Census Form? You can add a hot pink sticker to your return envelope, courtesy of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. Though not officially counted, it will add some box options not specifically covered in the 10 questions like: gay, lesbian, transgendered, and same sex partnerships/marriages. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 15, 2010: It's a great day to phone a friend. Especially because you're breathing and they're breathing.   Don't take for granted that temporary little fact. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 12-14, 2010: Saint Patrick's Day is coming up. 'Tis the weekend for random kisses from randy Irish folks or wannabes. If you're not into it-hand out the silver and green chocolate "kisses." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 11, 2010: Unconditional love may be a myth in our people relationships. That's why we have pets. Not much of an agenda besides a the simple needs of food, water, a good belly scratch, and some playtime. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 8, 2010: Have you been to an adult prom? I highly recommend it. Maybe it's way more fun because there's no expectations or personal life hanging in the balance. Or maybe it's because you can drink. Legally. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, March 3, 2010: There's a new Colorado coffee shop called "Perky Cups." Yeah, you don't have to use your imagination much. It's like Hooter's serving caffeine. Can you guess what the majority of what their web surfing is if they have WiFi? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 26-28, 2010: Last weekend of the Olympics. Gather around and hug the world one more time. May the Olympian spirit of inspiration, personal victory and perseverance in the face of insurmountable odds motivate your goals, no matter how big or small. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 25, 2010: Did you know there's an "orgasm smoothie?" It has bananas, honey, and a bunch of other things that have a variety of effects from the particular ingredients. Basically, it's healthy. And when you're healthy and vibrant overall, it turns out the other parts work pretty darn well, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 19-21, 2010: It's hard to be in two places at once, though that doesn't seem to stop us from trying. Whether overbooking events, or multi-tasking our "to-do's", we try all kinds of multipliers, instead of paying to the actual people right in front of us.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 17, 2010: If you celebrated Fat Tuesday yesterday, aka Mardi Gras, hopefully you have beads, but not a lot of exciting stories to go with them. Because the effects of digital photography are a lot longer lasting than alcohol.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 16, 2010: The Olympic spirit brings out the best in all of us. One world, uniting in the most motivational heartfelt life stories that make you want to cheer for your fellow humans. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 15, 2010: Boulder, Colorado was listed as the happiest place in the USA. Wonder if it's in the water. Or in the Celestial Seasonings tea. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 12-14, 2010: Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year, and the Olympics, oh my! No matter who or what relationship situation you are currently in, there's something to celebrate. And if you are still whining, go adopt an animal companion who needs a home from a shelter, or donate your time. A very appreciated gift that will warm your heart. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 11, 2010: Too bad St. Patrick's day doesn't come before Valentine's day. Maybe those lucky shamrocks would come in handy for happy partnerships and hookups. Or at least you'd have a lot more people to drink and commiserate with. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 10, 2010: Quick, go out and buy a meaningful Valentine's treat. For yourself! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 9, 2010: Are you part of a "Mastermind Group?" It's a regular gathering of 2-8 people who encourage, guide and are accountability partners for the success and actions of each person's goals. The accountability and motivational support is great-and confidential. Many of these groups go on to do phenomenal things with their lives and careers. Sure beats trying to do it all on your own! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 8, 2010: Is someone treating you like crud? Bring another person with you to observe the relationship dynamic. And if you don't get any valid observations, you might just get a momentary behavior change, as your mean person 'pretends to plays nice,' at least around others. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 5-7, 2010: Social networking or real people mingling this weekend? Step away from the mouse. Take advantage of whatever weather. And enjoy face to face contact. If you're game, try the trifecta of humans, pets and nature. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 4, 2010: It's good to have a variety of interests. You meet diverse people, increase your knowledge, and expand your personal network. And sometimes it can rearrange your career path, too! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 2, 2010: Don't you wish you could take words back sometimes? Especially if they were written or recorded? Just goes to show, you should breath and let the emotional moment pass before clicking, recording, or writing. Because they're harder to apologize for and explain later. Plus, they have the added benefit of being shared, viewed and heard...exponentially! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 29-31, 2010: According to digitalcity.com, In Reno, Nevada, the sale of sex toys, which includes "any device ... designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimulation of human genital organs," is forbidden. The state of Nevada allows for brothels but it seems the Reno is a little weary of self stimulation. You can pay someone else to do it for you, but you can't pay to do it for yourself. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 28, 2010: Who needs the Taj Mahal when you can take your sweetie to China's new Chocolate Lover's Exhibit Hall with whole sculptures done in real chocolate? Art and food. And probably prison if you nibble. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 27, 2010: Recognizing great talent is what parents excel in. Of course they're equally good at taking you down a few pegs when cocky. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 26, 2010: Have you told someone you loved them today? Did you at least say you liked their shoes? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 25, 2010: One in three women go online to view porn. Staggering and true. How's that for an eye-opening statistic?- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 22-24, 2010: Happiness is an upwards spiral that can be built upon and increased moment by moment. Each thankful recognition, every communication of appreciation, and any laughs that you start , share or inspire, will magically propel you positively. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 21, 2010: It's a wonderful thing when someone comes back into your life. Hopefully with more lessons and wisdom under the belt, to get along even better. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 20, 2010: If working on ourselves was easy, we'd all be perfect people. Luckily we're human and we get the chance to screw up a little along our learning path to perfection. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 19, 2010: For as much as people knock the impersonal nature of using mass social media, it's a great way to find, located and quickly connect with old school friends, past job colleagues, and even family. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 18, 2010: Have you manipulated someone today? Massage, not mind games. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 15-17, 2010: It'd be great if most couples put as much effort into planning their married life as much as the wedding. Then there'd be a better foundation for success rather than ending as a divorce statistic. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 14, 2010: You can make changes if you have a great enough reason. Fear or reward will usually do the trick. Which one you pick for your motivation is up to you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 13, 2010: Wouldn't it be nice to remain amicable with all past relationships? Unfortunately some people have toxic effects on us as we move along our life's growth and journey. Not everyone goes through the same things at the same time. Sometimes connecting with a more supportive network is more helpful to improving our longtime survival. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 12, 2010: First dates can be really awkward. Especially if someone used Google to prep for the interview. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 11, 2010: Have you hugged it out with someone, even a pet today? Maybe uncomfortable for time observation, a solid 20 second embrace boosts endorphins exponentially. Take that, expensive drug industry! Don't worry, your profits are safe. 80 or more percent of people won't do it once, let alone incorporate it in a daily routine. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 8-10, 2010: Social networking this weekend? Online, or face to face with actual breathing humans?  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 7, 2010: Are you going for some resolutions or changes? An accountability partner is an invaluable resource if you want to make a serious attempt. A good one will kick your butt and pat you on the back, depending on your progress. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 6, 2010: If you need a hug, you may want to try the new airport security screenings. I hear the pat downs are rather thorough. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 5, 2010: The nice thing about talking in person? All elements of communication are in play: voice, body language, vocal tone, eye contact, proximity, subtle nuances, etc. E-mail, although fast and readily available, is often a great way to screw up good communication and spend time repairing needless misunderstandings. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 4, 2010: If you are working on some resolutions for positive change, congratulations. Writing them down is the next biggest step to taking action. And if you really want to dare success, tell someone who won't let you off the hook for progress reports. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, December 31, 2009: Like kissing and fundraising? Niva will donate money for every kiss uploaded online. Might want to remember it's worldwide viewing, so kiss someone who isn't on the "oh, no you did-nt" registry. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 30, 2009: Many people may want to forgo kissing out a not so great 2009, in favor of the "fist bump."  Sure beats the finger gesture. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 29, 2009: Big party plans for New Years or staying in to avoid the chaos? Some put a lot of pressure on the holidays and others could care less. The trick is to enjoy what you like, with the others you maybe with, and not have to call a bail bondsman. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 28, 2009: Time to get out the end of year progress list. Tally it up. There's more to be proud of what you got through and accomplished, than what you might  first think.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 26-28, 2009: It's good to carve out some solitude time during the holiday season. Reflection, breathing, and not wanting to bean a relative or two are all very commendable activities. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Merry Christmas Everyone! ...May your holidays be filled with peace, joy & laughter! Thursday & Friday, December 24-25, 2009: So what if your relatives get on your nerves, or things don't turn out remotely perfectly for the holidays. Know that there are always people who have way less to be thankful for and are still extremely joyous and happy to have the opportunity to make the best of it because their hearts and spirits somehow manage to see the bright side. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 23, 2009: Can you celebrate the eve of an eve? When you have lots of folks you want to connect with over the holidays, sometimes any excuse will do. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 22, 2009: The holidays may be tight for most financially, but you can get creative rather than stressing. Free events-make your own indoor picnic, get the dvd of the performance you want to see, pull memorable quotes out of the classic books and put on something meaningful, cooking, composing a song, poem, or piece of artwork. Few people remember the expensive gifts, as much as the really ingenious ones. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 21, 2009: Last day to get anything out by first class US mail by Christmas. Then it's express or e-mail to tell how much you care. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 18-20, 2009: Holiday cards may be a marketing gimmick for some, but it happens to be a great time to connect with longtime friends, relatives and coworkers. It can make someone's day to bring a genuine smile to their real mailbox. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 17, 2009: Sure it's good to share. But not when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases. Love and lust sometimes blind the common sense of condom use. Considerately sharing responsibility with your romance, will help keep you out of the doctor's office. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 16, 2009: We take it for granted that everyone should be merry around the holidays. Unfortunately bad things happen all year round and this time may be associated with sadness for some. Extending a little more kindness and understanding, will go a long way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 15, 2009: Don't you love it when someone says, "Don't get me anything for a gift," but of course there's an unspoken expectation to do so? Then you get the fun task of decoding that to mean something small, something special, or something huge. Throw them off and donate to a charity in their name and give them the card. Either they'll be more specific and honest next time, or they'll run with that charity idea for your next gift for payback. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 11-13, 2009: Are you a good receiver? The proper response to a compliment is "Thank You", not a winded explanation, justification, self-degradation or belittling something nice. Don't buzz-kill someone else's joy in giving-because they receive back your happiness, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 10, 2009: Remember when we just had to keep up with the Jones? Now it's social media. Want an easy way to update everything at once (like Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, etc., ad nauseum)? Try hitting ping.fm You can link them so that if you comment on one, they all update. Now it's even easier to alert the world to your tuna fish sandwich. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 9, 2009: Are you wearing the right bra size? Most experts say no. The funny thing is the average cup size has naturally increased over time. Whether to weight changes or evolution, or the advent of plastic surgery, it's an interesting phenomenon to observe. There are many happy volunteers who'd like to try! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 8, 2009: Martha Jane Canary, the real woman behind the Calamity Jane wild west fame, was married 13 times. Now there's a woman who knew how to say, "Next!" And with a gun and bull whip. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 7, 2009: Who calls back first? The one who enjoyed being on the date or the inviter to the date? Whoever picks up the phone or shoots an e-mail or text first. Takes all the game playing out.  That usually only works in theory--unless both people are really interested in each other. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, December 3, 2009: Have you ever used telling your "story" as an excuse for your actions? It's great drama. Even gets you worked up while your brain and body chemically recharge, with almost the same force as the original occurrence. What if we used that same fervent energy to come up with solutions and better ways of doing things? Couldn't we all use a few more "ah-ha" moments we were in charge of?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 2, 2009: "Yet" is a thoroughly magical word. Especially if you exchange it for the word "can't". It sets in gear a believable affirmation your brain won't battle as much. Try saying, "I haven't mastered (fill in with what you want to accomplish), YET." Now you've opened a wide door possibility that you CAN. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 1, 2009: It's interesting how we each define personal space and physical boundaries. To some, "touchy-feely"  and close proximity means communication. Yet to another, it may come across as an offensive invasion. Since it's variable for everyone, the key is to ask and respect others, even if they see things a little differently. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 30, 2009: Music is the soundtrack of our lives. But even soundtracks don't start out a perfectly edited, polished piece of work. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 27-29, 2009: Disney now packages fairytale weddings and honeymoons for real people. Let's hope they have some marriage counselors on hand for the relationship reality part beyond the one day/week fantasy fest. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 26, 2009: Having family to spend the holidays with is truly a blessing, even if you don't get along. Of course having friends or volunteering can be a tremendously rewarding, and even more meaningful to see thanks shared live in the human cycle of giving and receiving. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 25, 2009: Careful what you get video of. Even if meant for private viewing between consenting adults, doesn't mean they always get along or things don't end up shared by mishap mistake or malicious intention. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 24, 2009: Want to venture into an edgy social experiment? Try starting a conversation with, "Hello, I love you," and watch the communication dynamic back flip. Either you'll be back pedaling out of a sticky social moment with blushing and  laughter, or, throwing a real person you love, immediately into a whole different interchange. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 23, 2009: Here's a great way to start the week: sew bows on your undies. That way you can secretly remember, in a world that often doesn't really care, what a unique gift you are on the inside. It is more of an announcement when your clothing line falls below your undergarment threshold. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 20-22, 2009: It's a big date movie weekend. If you don't feel like or have the budget for going out, you can enjoy your own home entertainment center for a cozy cinema night in. Plus, your kitchen concession stand probably has less calorie-loaded snacks. Double bonus reason: making out doesn't have to cause a public spectacle, and you already have a room! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 19, 2009: November is National Family Caregivers Month. Statistics state 34 million people are caregivers to someone over 50, and 60% of those are also working full or part time. Sometimes a thankful and sometimes a thankless position.  Also stressful, emotional, rewarding and revealing of your true character. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 18, 2009: Have you heard "how you do one thing is how you do everything?" It's amazing how people see, expect and can accurately predict your behavior based on this. It's not always the way you see yourself though, but should. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 17, 2009: Prewritten texting breakups. There's probably already an ap for that. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 13-15, 2009: Just because you have parental issues, doesn't mean you can't go on to lead a seemingly normal and productive life. Your therapy expenses are a whole 'nother story. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 11, 2009: Flu season is just like plane safety and motherhood. You must take care of yourself first, otherwise you absolutely can't care for anyone else. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 10, 2009: In the world of communication, multitasking is not only overrated. And rude. Not only do you miss the  subtle cues and key details when you don't pay attention, you disrespect the other person and their feeling of worthiness to be heard. Any connection like that is appreciated in this 24/7 access world. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 9, 2009: Wow, there really is someone out there for everyone. And a web site specifically designed to find them. Even one for martial artists who date. Now there's an expectation that most folks don't typically use as a relationship requirement. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 6-8, 2009: It's hard when someone blames you completely for something like financial troubles, divorce, or even cancer. It's even harder to not blame yourself. It'd be a better idea if we didn't even peer over the edge of that very black, very deep rabbit hole, but that improbability will probably keep psychologists and pharmaceuticals in job security for many, many years. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 5, 2009: Many people are un or underemployed right now. It's a huge confidence blow that often takes an emotional toll on our closest relationships.  When you don't feel good about yourself, it's hard to give goodness to others. Also hard to pinpoint why. Give yourself some credit for feeling how you do. And then reach out for help and tell others. They just may understand more than you give them credit for. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 4, 2009: You know how one item on your to-do list, is a list within itself? Domino projects, if you will. To get to the thing you need to do, you have to accomplish several back steps to get there.  Relationships are kind of like that when you need or want something. You have to put in the background time, to open the opportunity of a yes, down the line. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 3, 2009: Gathering people together can present a bit of a challenge: accommodating individual needs, schedules, and expectations. Ultimately though, common goals and fun can hopefully make up for the planning logistics. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 2, 2009:  When your modes of communication are down, you really do have to figure out some alternatives. Some are based on time, and some truly drop off the list in the face of importance, priority and urgency.- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 30-November 1, 2009: Halloween is a great time to experiment with alter-egos or try out a different personality...and get away with it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 29, 2009: Have you sent someone a card lately for no reason? It doesn't have to be a special occasion, and there might be even more memorable meaning with your heartfelt thought. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, October 28, 2009: Often we forget that forgiveness is part of the process of any relationship that encounters difficulties. We all end up on the stupid end at some point, so that means we should remember to be gracious and giving, when we are on the other side. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, October 27, 2009: Trying to sidestep drama when those around you want to pull you in, is not easy. Especially when you are related. But stick to your peace, instead of your guns. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, October 26, 2009:  If you were a huggy/kissy kind of person before, the flu scare is probably putting the kibosh on your people greeting practices. If you aren't so touchy/feely, then the media panic is a great excuse to live as you normally do. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 23-25, 2009:  Out of work? Bet you haven't tried applying for this position: "Fidelity Investigator." Cheating partners, beware. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 9-10, 2009:  Wow, 'snuggling weather' already. Or as many guys put it: 'open the window when it's really cold for some good sleeping weather air.' - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 8, 2009:  When you are right and someone else is wrong, sometimes it's hard to not rub it in. But you'll really appreciate that extended grace when it's you saving face, next. Plus, good karma points add up! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, October 7, 2009:  Isn't it wonderful when someone remembers you all the time and checks in when you need it. It's a good thing to reciprocate with, too. Happy Birthday Dad! Love Ya! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, October 6, 2009:  Making self improvements isn't always the easiest thing to do-even with an overwhelming motivation to do it. Give yourself credit along the way for the little leaps of progress. And be gentle on those days you don't quite make it. Your success will be easier and sweeter. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, October 5, 2009:  Wish someone well on their good news today. There good fortune elevates the playing field of all around them. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 2-4, 2009:  I think I want to become a political lobbyist. I want to sway the vote for more romance and PDA. Not the kind that gets you kicked out of restaurants, just the kind that makes others place bets on how long you've been married or dating. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 25-27, 2009:  Sometimes you need to uncommit your promises. Especially when life's crisis' moments rearrange your priorities. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 24, 2009:  You never know where help is going to come from in your day. Sometimes from known sources, like family, friends and colleagues. And then sometimes the universe has a few surprise sources along the way, the kind that makes it a whole lot more interesting. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 23, 2009:  It's funny when you share one of your passions with others. Especially when they pick it up and get you involved even more as a result. I was hooked after only one hoop dancing class.  Now friends are giving "hooping" a try, too. It's addictive, meditative, and an absolute joyful blast, not to mention a great workout!* *Hoop Dancing-Come join us this Saturday 9/26 @ 4pm in the park! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, September 21, 2009:  Compassion and courtesy go a long way to smoothing over relationship differences. So does an a little selective forgetfulness!   - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 18-20, 2009:  Weekends present some of the best moments to connect with friends and family-even if only for a few minutes to catch up. And with most cell phones, it's the best bargain, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 17, 2009:  Your challenge for the day, should you choose to accept it: make 3 people laugh today. Added benefit if you succeed or surpass that goal: laughter is contagious, and you'll have a better day, too! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 16, 2009:  Relationships breakthroughs are like many great recipes throughout history, from the strangest blunders, can come the most delicious surprises. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 15, 2009:  Any kid will tell you, it's not about gifts, gadgets or things that we remember, it's just spending some memorable time with a parent, that counts in the long run. This is true in our other relationships, as well. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, September 9, 2009:  It's a wonder that any of the stars align just right to create a good relationship that we can really connect with. So when you stumble upon it, appreciate the heck out of it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 8, 2009:  Positive spin is only good, if there's a person believes it.  Start with the truth. That's most believable. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Holiday Weekend Edition, September 4-7, 2009:  Holidays are a wonderful time to spend with those you love. Or the next best thing...people you want to spend time with. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 3, 2009:  "Thaumaturgy" is my word of the day, noun, meaning "the performance of miracles or magic." Who couldn't use that, these days?! Perhaps it's time to pull our own little magic and miracle feats. Or at least be more aware of the good going on around us, instead of hyper-focusing on the bad. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 2, 2009:  Why, oh why do ex's send better e-mails than they ever communicated during the actual relationship?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 1, 2009:  It must be a universal monetary code to try to "pay" your friends with beer and pizza for moving help. In actuality, cash and gifts work better. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 31, 2009:  When it comes to moving, you find out who your real friends are... or who don't want to be yours anymore if you keep asking to use their truck! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   From @ToucheToon on Twitter: Closing our bricks/mortar El Rancho Trading Post. After 8/31online only: www.elranchotrading.com Mom's health + me pulling off 7 days/wk Weekend Edition, August 28-30, 2009:  A quotation from my friend Jean Z. was too funny to pass up... "A year without Bodacious Babes, is a year without sunshine." (The notorious BBS party is this weekend-life crisis'--be damned--we're going to laugh and drink anyway!) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, August 20, 2009:  Summers are great for movies under the stars, in the air condition, or completely skipped...to spend real time creating your own script with others. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, August 19, 2009:  In relationships, whining really does go better with wine. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 18, 2009: "Value Added" is not just a buzzword for businesses. It's good to keep in mind for relationships, too. When you bring something unexpected and helpful to the table, whether advice, time, or care, you build up a solid foundation in your bonds. You'd be surprise who helps out when you are in need, when you step in to assist others first. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 17, 2009: Even if you start the week with a long list and a sense of independence, it's still nice to line up some help, just in case. It builds bonds and teaches us not only how much we need each other, but also how to play nice with others. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, August 14-16, 2009: Celebrate International Artists Day. Next to love, art is about the most beautiful and meaningful thing on the planet. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 13, 2009: Today is International Left Handers Day. Celebrate by holding one. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, August 5, 2009: Summer is a good time for practicing your high school romance tactics...ike hand-holding, flirting and necking. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 4, 2009: "Just Do It" may be a great tag line for shoes, but it could be the cause of death on the toe tag, if it's just too much. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 3, 2009: Isn't it fun to get mistaken by strangers for something you are not? But if someone's going to say it wrong, you might as well turn it funny and enjoy the joke. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 31-August 2, 2009: Having trouble in the orgasm department? If you have around $23,000, you can have an Orgasmatron device surgically implanted. Or you could go the budget route with roses, a sex tips book and some warming lubricant. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 30, 2009: Traveling the same route repetitively? Try noticing 3 new things on your next time out. The same works for people. And makes you more memorable, in return. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 29, 2009: It's amazing how much support can be shown by just showing up. Physically, in person. Cards, calls, texts, e-mails and flowers are all very nice, but face to face really communicates volumes, especially when it's most important. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 24-26, 2009: There is a difference in problem-solving between the sexes. Women tend to talk through their stories and situations, finding the solutions along the discussion way. Men generally contemplate a plan before words leave their mouth. Both ways work. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 23, 2009: It's funny how we show love. Sometimes when everything seems to be going wrong, we just do  the basics and try to take care of things. It may not be much but feels like the only thing we can do. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 17-19, 2009: Peppered with wedding invitations? Perhaps consider yourself socially lucky for the invite, instead of financially strapped for the gift. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 16, 2009: Daily we have the opportunity to do something nice for someone else. Maybe someone already did something positive for you without you knowing. Might as well do unto others, while you're thinking of it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 15, 2009: Have you hugged your pets today? Pretty rewarding for all involved, as fostering that relationship is as good for the heart (and sometimes easier) as human ones. If you don't have any pets, animal shelters would love to have your help for extra hands and hearts. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 14, 2009: What haven't you done in a while? Why not go do it? You don't have to make it the full out version to make it satisfying. Like seing your favorite band in concert could be as simple as downloading a recent song and dancing around with unbridled joy. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 13, 2009: Life is a series of tasks and rewards. For the sake of our relationships, hopefully the first column is smaller. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 10-12, 2009: Today's word is "osculation." Noun, meaning "the act of kissing, or a kiss." Now that you've perhaps learned something new, go use it in a sentence. Better yet, go practice! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 9, 2009: Sometimes it's not the technology out of order, it's us. Good to go in and tweak the communications lines often, Just to keep things running smoothly. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 8, 2009: Some people use a full moon as an excuse to do something different. Why wait for a lunar cycle? Just decide on something and try it. If it works, you can try it again. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 7, 2009: Sometimes in the silence, we hear more of the world. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 6, 2009: It doesn't matter what kind of relationship you're working on. The principles of minimizing manipulation, and increasing respect and compassion, makes for overall good communication: benefiting marriages, families, office places and politics, worldwide. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 3-5, 2009: Holiday weekend in America. BBQ's, festivities and friends. Hopefully staying out of the path of the fireworks to enjoy it all. Happy 4th of July! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 2, 2009: E-mail is a nice way to surprise someone with kind thoughts and words. Not exactly a Hallmark moment, or a substitute for phone or in-person conversations. But a pleasant reminder that you care. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 1, 2009: Isn't it amazing who we end up being friends with? It may be because of situations you get thrown into, instead of chose. But those surprises are bonds can last a lifetime. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 30, 2009: I wish there were a magic pill to speed through the rough spots in life. But sometimes you learn more about family and friends during those times, if you are wise enough to listen.- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 29, 2009: Sometimes it's better to scrap the to-do list and spend time with the special people in your life. There will always be lists. That's not true with the people. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 24-26, 2009: The death of anyone gives us a reality check of our own mortality.  For a short while, we have a little more appreciation for those around us and even may care for ourselves a bit better. Wouldn't it be nice if we could get this realization without the cue of someone having to die? ~Blessings to television legend Ed McMahon, Actress Farrah Fawcett who put a poignant face on the unspoken affliction of anal cancer, and the troubled pop genius of Michael Jackson, and all of their family and friends in their healing. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 25, 2009: Do you ever stop yourself from getting or doing something new or different claiming, "It's not my style?" Newsflash: you can break out of your shell, any time you want to. In the meantime, enjoy that fenced in area you're comfortable in. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 24, 2009: Ever have a disagreement with someone and talk them to death til they see your point? Has it really ever brought anyone over to your side? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 23, 2009: Wondering about if you could drown in a hot tub/bath if extremely tired, probably means you need a nap first. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 22, 2009: War is profitable for a few. Peace is profitable for the many. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Happy Father's Day! Weekend Edition, June 19-21, 2009: It'd be nice if you could go into the weekend without an action plan. And spend the "to-dos" on people. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 18, 2009: Ever meet someone that fit's your "list" perfectly? Of course there's no such thing as perfect when it comes to relationships. They take some effort to make work. Just how much is up to us. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 17, 2009: Even the best plans go awry every once in a while. True character shows when you adapt and turn the situation into a positive experience. Sometimes then you realize, the best surprises can come along the way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 16, 2009: Communication is such an underrated skill these days. Based on all of the issues we encounter in our various relationships, it's the expectation part, that rarely gets conveyed.  Without that knowledge, it's pretty difficult to match what someone wants, with what they get. The good news? It's great if you like fireworks! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 15, 2009: Many folks are looking for work these days. When someone walks into a business dressed casually, or in their running errand clothes, they are missing a great opportunity. Your first impression and interview starts with the first step in a door. Even if you are asking for an application, you are being judged. Looking and acting like an instantly hirable professional, may give you the slight edge to land your next income source. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   • CLOSING PARTY THIS Friday, June 19th, 6-9 pm  Ink Lounge Gallery, 445 S Saulsbury St., Lakewood, Colorado For those of you who couldn't make it to the show's opening night and haven't had a chance to get by the lounge to see the show, here is your opportunity to do so. If you who are wanting to purchase, or have purchased one of the art pieces, you can take it with you that evening. All artists who hung pieces in the show are also encouraged to swing by for the closing and pick up your piece(s) at the end of the night. If you can't make it, you can also pick your work up on Saturday between the hours of noon and 5 pm. Weekend Edition, June 12-14, 2009: It's heartbreaking when you desperately want to make a relationship work with someone, but can't. Sometimes there's a bigger lesson to learn than just the struggles you see with it. With time, you may feel the joy of a lighter heart when you come to terms with the change. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist| Happy Birthday Mom!!! Thursday, June 11, 2009: Why not celebrate on days other than your actual birthday? It's not like you can go do everything and meet with everyone on that exact day. So spread the love and enjoyment factor and milk it for all it's worth! You might have to use the "get one free deals" on that actual day, so plan your celebration to hit those first! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 10, 2009: The band Greenday has a hit song out called "Do You Know Your Enemy." Good question. Sometimes when you think you have someone pegged as friend, they turn out to be a foe instead. Everybody's driven by different motivations and those are subject to change. That golden rule of treating others as you'd like for yourself, still applies. You can always move past friendships that aren't working. Develop new and different ones, always learning and tweaking a little better each time as you go. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 9, 2009: Have you surprised someone with a compliment today? It is truly a gift to  receive and hear. Plus it's great fun for the giver. Turn's out to fit in every budget these days, as well. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 8, 2009: Make sure you thank the people around you. That is if you ever want help again. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 5-7, 2009: Ever notice how we over depend mostly on the voice to catch someone's attention for communication? It's because we rarely use the mutual eye contact that is necessary. If you strain or temporarily lose your voice, you will quickly figure this out. Or talk with a person with hearing impairment-because they understand from experience. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 4, 2009: If you think people can't find out about your wacky exploits with privacy settings on your social networking sites, think again. There's at least one site that can apparently (legally?) hack their way through to your personal data: spokeo.com. The old adage don't do anything you wouldn't want on the front page of a newspaper, is accelerated by the internet-your info, within seconds, worldwide. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 3, 2009: Every once in a while, after the midst of turmoil, comes a wave of peace. Some call it enlightenment. Perhaps because you feel so light when you give up the struggle. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 2, 2009: There is a reason why toy  VooDoo dolls are still kind of popular. It sure beats carrying out the real thing and incurring legal bills. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 1, 2009: Every once in a while, we can actually identify with folks who go off the deep end. It's such a fine line sometimes to stay on one side and not cross over to the other. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May  29-31, 2009: If you realize that "How are you?" is usually used as a rhetorical question, then you will do just fine in most social situations. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May  28, 2009: Thank goodness the social rules have changed considerably. Otherwise, a lot of us would be still sitting around waiting for a good life to hit us in the head. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May  27, 2009: For as advanced as communication technology has become, it is surprising how far many of our social skills have diminished. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May  26, 2009: Work is like spending time with family (the good, bad, and annoying), that you get paid for. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Holiday Double Weekend Edition, May  22-25, 2009: Isn't it interesting that we notice we don't like to hear others whine, if you have the rare opportunity to realize when we are the ones doing it?! A Memorial Day Thank You to all the veteran's and their supporting families. Because of them, we have the freedom to make all the choices we get to in our lives. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May  21, 2009: Funny when someone finally comes around to being nice to you, and they catch you when you're in no mood to reciprocate. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May  20, 2009: True friends always have your back. Even if it's just to tack up a "kick me" sign. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May  19, 2009: Rule of e-mail thumb: don't hit "send" at a late hour. Pull the address out of the send to line and edit in the daylight hours. You'll have regained your composure by then. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May  18, 2009: Did you have any good hookups over the weekend? A spouse or partner definitely counts. Don't think it's boring, just because you're not single. The excitement of connection produces healthy brain chemistry. And the upside for long term couples is a lot less of "unknown" stress when your "hookup," is with someone you already know. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May  15-17, 2009: It's immensely humorous, when you really think about it:  how we have a list, and the universe has the chalk and eraser. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May  14, 2009: Thank goodness for teamwork, especially when helping hands have your back at the most face-saving times. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May  13, 2009: The great thing with friends is sharing life's little joyous successes. And also when you need it, a word of encouragement, to get you back to that happiness part. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May  12, 2009: Postage went up in the US today. Now it costs more to be old fashioned friend. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May  11, 2009: It's good to have a backup plan to your backup plan. Because life rarely goes according to your wishes. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May  8-10, 2009: Happy Happy Mother's Day!!  To all the moms, women and men in supportive rolls of mothers, replacements, helping hands and rest of the assistance village. It really does take a village to raise and take care of everything that lives and breathes on our planet. Take a few moment to honor all  the stewards, whether mothers or other helpful roles this weekend-even if it's just to give them a moment to laugh. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May  7, 2009: Don't you just love those leading e-mails that drop just a hint more than, "how are you doing," and yet too romantically commitment vague to respond back beyond, "...and how are you?" - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May  6, 2009: Don't forget the other ladies on your appreciation list for mother's day. Anyone who's had an impact or influence is important to recognize. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May  5, 2009: Happy Cinco de Mayo. Fun for the day: call five friends and make them laugh. Texts count. Chain e-mail forwards do not. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May 4, 2009: Isn't it great to chat with old school friends? Isn't it greater if they're on the same cell plan or using up night and weekend free time?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May 1-May 3, 2009: Happy May Day! The definition of a true friend is someone who will talk you off of the ledge, instead of blaming you for being there. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, April 24-26, 2009: Spending time with family this weekend or in virtual relationships online? It's a toss up as to which one is more cost effective, if you count therapy bills. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, April 23, 2009: If at first you don't succeed, quit hitting your relationship upside the head with a 2x4. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, April 22, 2009: Happy Earth Day!  Hugs, kisses and flirting are great ways to contribute your part to natural, fun, renewable energy! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 21, 2009: It's national humor month. Great for the health of your mind, body and soul. Plus it's oh so easy to celebrate! Watch a comedy, read humor online (try www.ToucheToon.com !), or share jokes with others. Try what you like to build community and camaraderie! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 20, 2009: Keep a notebook with you. Thoughts, dreams, goals, inspirations. When you have a place to write (or draw) your creative ideas, it clears out mental space so other great ideas may percolate there. Plus you don't kick yourself for forgetting what you think may be the world's next greatest idea. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, April 17-19, 2009: Snow is a great time to cuddle up close and celebrate the weather and love. So is rain, sunshine, wind, sleet, hail... - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, April 15, 2009: Many couples break up over money issues. Nice theory, but it's not about the cash, it's the communication. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 14, 2009: Isn't it funny when your older relatives are more hip and tech savvy than you? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 13, 2009: Sometimes a cleaner space helps with better communication. Less distraction and angst. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Happy Easter! Weekend Edition, April 10-12, 2009: It's a good thing we don't hide lingerie like we do Easter eggs. Otherwise we'd be finding those for months to come, as well. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 7, 2009: Have you tweeted, linkedin, friended, im'd, bluetoothed, blackberried, and uploaded today? Or have you picked up a phone to actually talk to a fellow human? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 6, 2009: Funny story with a moral...A woman in England was doing a Google street search and her husbands vehicle was in it. Apparently the divorce lawyer handling her case said that wasn't the only one like that in the office. Lesson 1: Don't Cheat. Lesson 2: Don't think you can get away with anything these days-there are cameras everywhere. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, April 3-5, 2009: Gifts are what you get others. Joy is what they bring you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, April 2, 2009: No matter what happens around you, your attitude and people around you help get you through. So if your choices of how to react are feeling the misery or finding the joy-which would you prefer? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, April 1, 2009: There's an April Fool's web site that anomalously  sends an e-mail to someone letting them know they've come in contact with an S.T.D. The upside of this? Perhaps more folks into clinics and doctors to prevent other stuff. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 31, 2009: There's a movement out there dedicated and committed to stop complaining. Part of the program is a bracelet worn on one wrist when you keep to the positive commentary. One slip into complaining, and you switch the bracelet to the other hand. The ideal is to shoot for 21 days so it can become a habit. I think it'd be more aptly named "The Optimism Plan." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 30, 2009: It's my birthday week. You know what that means? My to-do list is longer than normal. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 27-29, 2009: Manscaping, landing strip, Brazilian, oh my! You may not be supermodel material, but participation the hair removal biz may help in the aesthetic appeal, location finding, increased attention, frequency and quality in those regions. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 26, 2009: The nice thing about Twitter is cyber access to folks you may not have the guts enough to actually pick up the phone and talk with. Tweet. Tweet. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 25, 2009: Have a good "bro-mance" lately? Men who admire other men, without being gay. Perhaps that date is better as an action movie rather than "Brokeback Mountain." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 24, 2009: Who says saying sorry has to be a miserable experience? Apologies help keep the ever important floral, sugar and jewelry industries in business! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 23, 2009: I have a conspiracy theory for world peace going. Like recycling, every little bit helps. So feel free to exchange kisses, hugs and handshakes, to further world peace. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 20-22, 2009: There's a web site called shop4guys. Any wonder that most of the pics are shirtless?  Ahhhh, the meat market is alive and well. And virtual. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 19, 2009: There's an event called the "Great American Pitchfest" where lots of screenwriters lineup to pitch their screenplays to production companies, agents, managers and studio executives. They have a similar activity in the relationship world. It's called "speed dating." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 18, 2009: Relationships are/Life is like a box of chocolates. A little antioxidant power and happy brain chemistry. Followed by a sugar crash. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy St. Patrick's Day! Tuesday, March 17, 2009: Drinking your way to a happy St. Patties? Make sure your designated driver isn't your partner, so they can have a nice time, too. That way you both get lucky! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 16, 2009: Are you smiling for yourself, or others? Funny thing is when you smile for yourself, lots of others naturally gravitate to you, and also join in. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 13-15, 2009: Gotta love a sappy, syrupy love song. You're the responsible party keeping the insulin producer's drug profits going. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 12, 2009: Sometimes we are doing the best we can. And that is good enough, despite what others might say. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 11, 2009: There's a web site called shop4guys.com. Any wonder that most of the pics are shirtless? The meat market is alive and well. And virtual. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 10, 2009: Ever have a goal that you have to achieve first, before everyone else thinks it's possible? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 9, 2009: Did you have a nice weekend "off the grid?" Not plugged into anything requiring batteries, wi-fi, towers, satellites, or NASA? If you did, congrats on your relaxation time. And now, welcome back to reality. Your pants are ringing. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 6-8, 2009: Having trouble in the orgasm department? If you have around $23,000, you can have an Orgasmatron device surgically implanted. Or you could go the budget route with roses, a sex tips book and some warming lubricant. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 5, 2009: Who says saying sorry has to be a miserable experience? Apologies help keep the ever important floral, sugar and jewelry industries in business! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 4, 2009: Holy cow a lot of us watched a little  of The Bachelor. What does that say of us when an over-hyped television (non)-reality, is more interesting than our own? Perhaps it's the impossible standard dates, the helicopters,  the house, the fishbowl, the cameras, the hot tubs, the directors, producers, production and legal teams. And you thought romance was supposed to be simple. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 3, 2009: Relationships aren't like chewing gum. Although most of us are guilty of treating them as disposable, sometimes. Thought, care and consideration do take effort.  Putting your crud under someone else's table and leaving, not so much. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 2, 2009: When the tide rises for one of us, it rises for all of us. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 27-March 1, 2009: The latest in plastic surgery? Designer lips. The southern ones. And you thought the bikini wax was ouchy to think about. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 26, 2009: You know, "Love the one you're with," includes yourself. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 25, 2009: If you think relationships are like a chess game, perhaps you are right. Long term thinking, strategizing and manipulation can be great for your personal gain. It's when you enjoy the play, the blunders, and the back and forth that the moments of being together are truly enjoyed. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Mardi Gras-Fat Tuesday, February 24, 2009: Ah, what some people do for beads. It's just not the same thing for office supplies. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 20-22, 2009: Here's an interesting and increasing trend in medical miracles: Anal Prosthetic Replacements. Yep. That thought might get your sphincter cringing. Because of the increasing practice of anal sex, this is becoming a phenomenon with medical consequences. If you are pressured and don't want to participate, see if having your partner on the receiving end might change up the conversation. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 19, 2009: The modernization of raising well-adjusted kids and training well-mannered pets has made major strides over the years. One important change is the emphasis on praising the desired behavior rather than reprimanding or reinforcing bad. That, plus everyone's got a cell phone camera and access to the internet. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 18, 2009: They're making a movie from the 9 year old's book, "How to Talk to Girls." I think it's a sequel to another hit book, "Everything I Needed to Know, I Learned in Kindergarten." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 17, 2009: Yes, sex sells, but smells? According to a Journal of Neuroscience report study, women can tell the difference in a man's sweat if they're sexually aroused. FYI, women can tell a lot of interesting things from a plethora subtle cues.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 16, 2009: Happy President's Day.  Perhaps you're lucky enough to have the day off, taking care of your family, or working for that paycheck. No matter what, getting up and having the ability to breathe is a great start. So is the freedom and choice as to how to think about the rest of it.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Happy Valentine's Weekend! Weekend Edition, February 13-15, 2009: There's a "G-spot" shot they can give a woman to enhance orgasms. They might want to rename it the "Geeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!" Spot after that. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 12, 2009: Sometimes you can't solve someone's problem. But oh, the amazing strides that basic empathy, and sometimes a very simple cost-effective apology, can make. From personal relationships, to business, to world politics, it's the Golden Rule...applied. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 11, 2009: Some folks aren't gung ho on Valentine's day. What they may not get is that it's not about the stuff, it's about the love. Most of us don't make much effort daily to express appreciation for those around us and ourselves. So if a grand gesture day is what it takes, then go for it. Or you can  do more of the little stuff, more often. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 10, 2009: Valentine's, hearts, rose petals, cards, chocolates, jewelry, power tools. It doesn't matter how you express your love, just that you do. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 9, 2009: Directions for life:  Live. Love. Learn. Repeat. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, February 4, 2009: Feeling more connected to your fellow Americans, and others on the planet?  Perhaps even more so than after 9/11. Luckily there's a positive shift from the "us and them" view moving to an "all of us" mentality. Truly, we are all in this together. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 3, 2009: Valentine's Day is coming up. Of course it's nice to treat others. But don't forget about yourself. Make sure you spend some time and thought remembering how wonderful you are and the joy you bring to others. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Groundhog Day! Monday, February 2, 2009: In an effort to promote vegetarianism, PETA put together a racy t.v. ad intended to run during the Super Bowl. It was pulled because it showed women in various states of steamy ecstasy with vegetables. And you thought you didn't know what to do with that odd little eggplant. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Super Bowl Weekend Edition, January 30-Feb. 1, 2009: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) caused quite a media frenzy.  The theory was to promote vegetarianism with their over the top sexy Super Bowl ad. The "Veggie Love" spot, will not air during the Super Bowl, as it shows lingerie-clad women enjoying the heck out of one of the food groups.  What a publicity stunt. Best 3 million dollars never spent! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Thursday, January 29, 2009: Thank goodness for free speech and heated controversy. It makes the potential for make-up sex, post-debate, fabulous. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Wednesday, January 28, 2009: Do you ever say, "I'm really bad with names?" Quit it! Stop saying and throwing energy into making that true. Instead, try saying, "I'm getting better with names." You'll be surprised how incremental progress can change many a bad habit. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 27, 2009: It's good to work out. You'll like yourself better. And as a result, others will, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Happy Chinese New Year! Year of the Ox/Bull which symbolizes prosperity! Who couldn't use that right about now?! Monday, January 26, 2009: January is such a good time to refocus. The things you want to see and do better at usually involve other people. But the only one you can change, or in fact start with, is you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 23-25, 2009: They say technology is getting really advanced. Although your cell phone might not make cappuccino, it can apparently make you froth in other ways.  With or without attachments, your handheld device can be converted into a sex toy.  Now that's multitasking. Hold all your calls? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 22, 2009: You'll probably not want to borrow anyone's cell phone ever again when you find out they can be used as a sex toy. With or without attachments. That gives "phone sex" a whole new meaning. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 21, 2009: We may be a little politically hung over from the historic occasion of yesterday's inauguration and celebration. But just like Mr. President, we need to get to work. Not everything has to be a monumental goal on your to-do list. Putting your list in writing is important. Next is commitment and accountability (call a buddy and exchange lists). And start. Start on a piece. Even 5 minutes is closer. And 5 minutes tomorrow. If you miss your mark, don't scrap it. Get back to it. We all can do better. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 20, 2009: History has been made today with President Barack Obama's inauguration for the United States of America. As amazing as that is, we each have the chance to create history everyday, in everything we do. Every better action and better decision, leads to better lives for all of us. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 19, 2009: Today we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Tomorrow will be the inauguration of the first elected African-American to lead America. Talk about the most amazing dreams coming true. Even though it took a lot of time and great effort, it proves we can achieve great change, both personally and collectively. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 16-18, 2009: Why in this day of age, in this economy, does "customer service" have so very little to do with the customer? Nine buttons to press to get to a human. On hold, transferred and disconnected...all while listening to a recording of how much they appreciate your business. Perhaps they should start with an apology. Then maybe they could work their way up to earning your respect & business back with a please and thank you, rather than "It's not my department." It's not that hard. And low and behold, courtesy just happens to be free in the budget. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 15, 2009: Here's where those grade school math skills come in handy...determining which shapes your relationships are in, and what possible fractions may come up as a result. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 14, 2009: Domestic skills have made a fashionable comeback. It turns out that our grandparents knew a little something about being green (before it was a cool bandwagony term), responsibility and family. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 13, 2009: Do you have a buddy for any of your New Year's resolutions? Your chances of success are much higher if you write them down and have some one who knows what you're seeking to do. Accountability is a great kick in the pants. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 12, 2009: Are you laughing more this year? Even sick and  terminally ill kids have a temporary break from some of their physical pain and more strength to fight for life when they can have some fun and laughter while enjoy themselves. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 9-11, 2009: A company just advertised ON THE RADIO that they provide a discreet and classy service for "An affair to remember." They even guarantee it. Do you think court costs, therapy, severed relationships of your friends and family are covered in the cheater's clause? Because that'd be considered pretty memorable. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 8, 2009: There's a new show called "Tool Academy." It's for clueless men who cannot figure out how to treat their  romantic partner that's not like a Neanderthal. Out of the IQ contenders here, their parents are probably seeking some kind of witness protection plan. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 5, 2009: Just because the holidays are officially over, doesn't mean you have to take the mistletoe down. A step to world peace is a mere hug or kiss away. All efforts help! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 2-4, 2009: Changing calendars. Trying to write 09 instead of 08. A list of resolutions. How about a nice look in retrospect of how far you actually came last year? Perhaps some hard-won lessons. And maybe a little joy in the small thankful moments between bad news sound bites. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy New Year!!! Thursday, January 1, 2009: Careful how you word either what you want or resolve. The universe has quite the sense of humor when it comes to interpretation. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, December 31,  2008: Last  chance of this year to cuddle with the ones you love. They can be spousal, your kids, the furballs or appreciation for the miracles from the wings of those above. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 30,  2008: The last days of the year are great for reflection. You started with a clean slate. Then you marked it up, erased it, ran your nails down it. It's kind of nice to see what all got added up in the accomplishment column for a "whew, look at that" progress report. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 29,  2008: Did you get a waxing set for Christmas? Nose clippers? Pedicure gift certificate? Make sure you use them and thank the gift-giver. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist    Weekend Edition, December 26-28,  2008: Weekend recovery time. You can go back to rock and roll, or jazz or whatever you listen to. Unless your family got holiday music. Then you'll just have to deal. Good time to take up a good post-Christmas walk, eh?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Merry Christmas!  Thursday, December 25,  2008: Santa's not the only one you should be kissing up to to be on the nice list. Although it's not as easy, our loved ones deserve even more kindness and respect. You never know. Everyone could get along. There could be a Christmas miracle! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist  Wednesday, December 24,  2008: Hope you are blessed to have family and friends around you for the holidays. You may not get along, but be thankful you have someone around to drive you nuts. Many people don't even get  that option. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 23,  2008: If you're still at a loss for gift ideas, perhaps a framed picture. You can take out the happy family one that comes with the frame and put in yours. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 22,  2008: I didn't mean to have a political Christmas tree. I bought new energy efficient LED lights in white and red. But the white lights look blue. So my tree is glowing red and blue. Finally, a bipartisan joke my dad & I can both laugh at. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist s Weekend Edition, December 18,  2008: Last weekend before Christmas. Mad mall dash, egg-nogged in-laws, vaporizing finances, and a to do list that isn't very season-friendly. Is it any wonder why some of us have a hard time slowing down to smell the pine needles? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 17,  2008: 'Tis the season for better communication. Text tag anyone?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 17,  2008: There's a gift bag that, if moved (peeked in), has sirens that go off. Now that'd be great with pets, anyone with a heart problem, or children who aren't already in therapy. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 16,  2008: Joy to the world, you, and everyone around you. It may take some rosy glasses to see, but there are joyful things we should be thankful for, even if the rest seems overwhelming. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 15,  2008: Caroling from cubicle to cubicle? Why not? Everyone could use some holiday cheer. Especially in the comical off-key format. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 12-14,  2008: Have you taken advantage of any mistletoe yet? I've got this theory that we can start to create peace on this earth, one kiss at a time. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 11,  2008: Ah, what to do when you hear from an  ex. If you're still friends, cordial is easy. But it's harder when they start reminiscing about the past--selecting only the good times. Even more challenging to remind them there's probably a pretty good reason you're not still  together, without looking like a jerk. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 10,  2008: Welcome to the age of drunk dialing and drunken e-mail. Same as late night, for stupidity effect. Oh the things we do that we wish, with coffee, or proper sleep, we could take back, without consequence. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 9,  2008: It seems like everyone is having such a hard time these days with so much going on. Why not call two people and leave a joke or positive message on their voice mail for a little moment of cheer? A spiral in the down direction often just needs a little something to help motivate the emotions back upwards. It's amazing how the human touch can do that. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 8,  2008: Having fun keeping up with the holidays yet? Ba humbug or holiday cheer. Somehow the season brings out our best and worst. Often at the same time. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 5-7,  2008: An 8 year old Colorado boy wrote a popular new relationship book called, "How To Talk To Girls," that's getting national attention. Perhaps the rules for dating are more closely related to the playground than we think. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 4,  2008: It's so much easier to kiss and make up with mistletoe handy. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 3,  2008: Ah, let the mashed potato throwing begin! Just try to make some holiday plans with family and without any button pushing or reacting with unnecessary jabs. Luckily, Santa sees when we take a deep breath and approach things a little differently. Sometimes, holiday concessions help bring more of us in line with the season.  A little emotional charity can really pay off in more peace on earth...starting at home. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 2,  2008: It's so nice to be thought of warmly at the holidays. Usually the first cards are from your insurance agent, accountant and dentist.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 1,  2008: Why wait for New Years to kick in some positive resolutions? You can do a soft kickoff of one goal. The nice thing about trying it through the holidays is that you have to scale it back to a reasonable level-because you already have a lot on your to-do plate. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 28-30,  2008: Great ideas for romance, or any kind of relationship, don't have to reflect the wallet. Ask almost anyone, and some of their most memorable times weren't the most extravagant. They were surprising. And what resulted were the close feelings of connection that from those moments. So consider it an investment: a little creative ingenuity can make you laugh and love (and remember the best stuff) for years to come. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Thanksgiving! Thursday, November 27,  2008: Careful on that honesty game. Because once Pandora lifts the box lid, things can get really ugly. Especially without a pretty dose of tact. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 26,  2008: Beyonce has a great song out with the line, "If you like it, then you should've put a ring on it!" Let that be a bebopping response when an ex contacts you reminiscing about the good ole' romantic days. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 25,  2008: The holidays are a great time to get in touch with friends an family you haven't connected with in a while. You don't have to go through your whole address book in a comprehensive manner. Perhaps pick a few and click out some e-mails. It's a virtual box of chocolates. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Monday, November 24,  2008: T-Day countdown: Three days--less time spent planning, shopping, cooking, friend and family gathering, volunteering, calling dibs on the remote control, and/or making reservations somewhere else. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 21-23,  2008: There's a hair dye for the carpet to match the drapes, as they say. It's supposed to be safe for the nether regions. The best part? The name: Betty. You can have a blond Betty, a Brunette Betty-any kind of colorful Betty. You can even make it festive with stencils. So perhaps the green is festive for the season, or signals the "get lucky here" patch?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 20,  2008: You've got to love Craigslist. Where else could you find an appliance, a date, and a job, all in one sitting?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 19,  2008: Who knows what the future brings. Might as well enjoy each moment as it unfolds into it's own awkwardness, vulnerability and little surprises revealed. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 18,  2008: Hmmm...is it irony, or foreshadowing, to receive an e-mail that says, "We need to talk." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Monday, November 17,  2008: We should all do that V8 smack in the head. The one that says, "Oh yeah, I have a brain and talent too. I don't just have to watch and appreciate it in others." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 14-16,  2008: Here's some ideas for romance on a budget: Candlelight. Snuggling. Reading poetry. Playing romance poker (each hand wins a small romantic prize). Cooking dinner together. Playgrounds in the moonlight. Stargazing. A bath or massage. Wrapping a favorite body part with a bow.  Appreciating what you have, rather than what you don't. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist New 4 page article on El Rancho-Check out the online article (less photos) or come in to see the full layout! Thursday, November 13,  2008: Time communicating is a great thing. Sometimes, no matter how clear you think you are or how good your intentions, your messages aren't always received as such. Checking in checks the translation. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Check It Out! The NEW "Dating And Hand Grenades" monthly feature articles are here! - Humor, heart, and an entertaining way to laugh at the reality of our relationships. Wednesday, November 12,  2008: Time alone is a good thing. Recharging the batteries, completing projects  and errands, and of couurse --that ever popular...sleep! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 11,  2008: Gotta love the emotional roller coaster of a relationship in it's infancy. The, "Should I stay or should I go," question, no matter what the experience level, is handled by complete amateurs on both sides. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 10,  2008: Most folks dread Mondays. Probably because they represent the start of the work week. If you start with the mentality that Monday means you drag yourself, begrudgingly to work, what's the likelihood that many positive things will happen in your day? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 7-9,  2008: It's the weekend. You know what that means...desperately wanting sleep, but needing to hit up that to-do list. And maybe if we get some of that impossible list done, some social activity and a little R & R as a reward. Good luck with that ideal. Or bag it and go play. There's always Monday. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 6,  2008: Don't you love the game of limbo? That state of contorting and bending to make everything in life balance--while moving--and trying not to fall over. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 5,  2008: Can you imagine peace in this world? Now that the election is a done American tradition, we just may enjoy peace of mind, too! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/HumoristWednesday,  November 5,  2008: Can you imagine peace in this world? Now that the election is a done American tradition, we just may enjoy peace of mind, too! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/HumoristTuesday, November 4,  2008: It's voting time in America, folks. If you haven't yet, please get your hind end out there to the polls. Too many people have sacrificed so much so that we might have this right and privilege. The upside? You can hit the other kind of polls after that. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 3,  2008: Falling in love is the easy part. Especially in comparison to the staying, getting to know a lot more about each other, and growing there together parts. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 31-November 2,  2008: Halloween is a great chance to jump outside your own box. Even if it's just masquerading for one night. One never knows the false courage, surprisingly encouraged by a mask. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 30,  2008: Schedules are a funny thing. Mixed with obligations, things we want to do, and usually crammed with so much, our possibilities can sometimes become less, rather than more. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, October 28,  2008: Usually it's not important where we meet, but who we spend time with talking with. Of course finding some interesting, out of the way new nooks, are always an adventure in fun. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 17-19,  2008: Loving a new show called, "The Ex List." The premise: woman is told by psychic that she will either marry in a year or not at all. And it's someone she's already gone out with. That'd make for damn good comedy, for almost all of us. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 16,  2008: There's a new television show called "Valentine" on the CW network. Apparently the Greek gods of love are a family living in the Hollywood Hills. Sounds like an upbeat cotton candy kind of show. Sure beats watching forensic dissection as entertainment after work. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, October 15,  2008: Ever wonder if there's a good relationship board game out there? No fair calling it Monopoly. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, October 14,  2008: Here's the positive spin on being stubborn or pigheaded: at least you're using your brain. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, October 13,  2008: Do you have a mentor? These kinds of folks can come from any walk of life. And they can teach you all kinds of things you can improve on, from career to relationships to home projects. It doesn't have to be fancy or official.  Just someone who's been there, done that, or does it better than you...and can give you some tips. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 10-12,  2008: Is it comfort zone time or jump out of your shell time? Only you can decide. One keeps you where you are and the other helps with growth and learning. Maybe not an easy process, but perhaps gaining in some great laugh-at-yourself lessons along the way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 8,  2008: Talk about relationship mysteries. If you tried to follow the connecting dots of the US economic crisis, you'd almost find your personal relationships a piece of cake to understand, in comparison! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, October 8,  2008: The Golden Rule of doing onto others as you'd want done to you, is a high ideal we should all strive for. Here's hoping that the missed niceties that we don't always get the chance to, adversely affects our karma account. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, October 7,  2008: Dad's serve many roles in our lives. It's hard to acknowledge some of them, until we get a little older to understand and appreciate them. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Birthday Dad! Love Ya! Monday, October 6,  2008: The hard part of getting to the end of your rope isn't hanging on. It's swinging to another vine. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, October 3-5,  2008: The weekend is an ideal time to keep up with the most important to-do-list item: your relationships.- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 2,  2008: What can we learn from the political debate process? The method could be helpful on a personal level with your partner.  A coin toss decides who speaks first, each person gets a set amount of time to state their case uninterrupted, other side gets time for rebuttal, and maybe even a little concluding commentary. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, October 1,  2008: Have you Googled yourself lately? Although not fully comprehensive, you can have a little idea of where you are represented in the world. It's a breather from the economy with oxygen from a little narcissism. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 30,  2008: A local radio station is trying the publicity stunt  called "Drive by Meat Market." The theory is to put a bunch of single folks on a street corner and give their location. You drive by and see if you're interested. Back in the day, that was called prostitution. But apparently these days, it's called, "ratings." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, September 29,  2008: Nothing says scorned relationship quite like an e-mail that gets forwarded to all of the friends. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 26-28,  2008: When your vocabulary "Word of the Day" is "Celibate," then perhaps it's time to do something adventurous. Like get off the word of the day e-mail list. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 25,  2008: Careful what possible photos may exist of you. Thanks to ex's, acquaintances, web sites PhotoShop and YouTube, you may not have a choice in whether they're floating out there for public consumption or not. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 24,  2008: Remember the days when you could crank call or just hang up on someone? Ah, between *69, caller id and cell phone received call logs, mystery now has a digital footprint. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 23,  2008: Have a personal e-mail to send out with some emotions attached to it? Leave the "send" address field blank so it doesn't accidentally get sent out before a thoughtful edit. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, September 22,  2008: There is a new television show in the works called, "Arranged Marriage." That mixes all the best of everything: mind-mushing reality t.v. and the most sacred of commitments. All when I thought people were moving away from things that were once forced on them. Now you can volunteer. On the bright side, maybe their percentage of success will be more than the current 50/50 shot. Nothing that a few publicly televised personal moments can't improve, eh?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 19-21,  2008: Ah, the conundrum of aging...when your paradigm shifts from sex to sleep. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   *****Please VOTE for us! El Rancho Trading Post is in the running for Denver's "A-List" for Best Gift Shop***** We so appreciate you taking a couple of minutes to put us in the running--Thank YOU! The deadline is Friday, Sept. 19, 2008, by midnight (mountain time) Thursday, September 18,  2008: Isn't it great to discuss things with your friends? Especially when you disagree?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 17,  2008: It's often the joys in life that we crave most. But some of the most meaningful moments, when experienced together, come from things that may seem tragic or challenging at the time. That's when the bonds between people forge in the strongest ways. And with a little distance of time, we can find a few things to laugh about. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 16,  2008: The internet can do so many positive things. You can find love, appliances, concert tickets, advice and yes, even humor. On the dark side, there is a proliferation and anonymity to a growing and extremely disturbing trend of sexual material available online. Consenting adults is one thing. But what is happening with infants, toddlers and underage children is beyond the criminal and morally unthinkable. Currently only 1% of known leads are being investigated. There is a bill with funding that will help law enforcement with the much needed resources and people they need to catch the predators in this statistic. The littlest victims need our help immediately to pass this bill by Sept. 26. Oprah can get a lot of us to act. Please be one of the voices needed to get our senators to pass Senate Bill 1738-The Protect Our Children Act. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, September 15,  2008: Ever think you don't make a difference? Your actions. Your choices. Each of us has a profound ripple effect in our personal actions. You may not see it, but every once in a while, you might hear a positive thing that was benefited by what you did. When the tide rises for one of us, it rises for all of us. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   This ran on this site just past the political election... Here's how comedy can make a difference. I laughed and applauded as I listened to one of USA's newest citizens smacked us upside the head with how important it is to vote. Thanks to YouTube, you can check it out for yourself. Funny and true! Weekend Edition, September 12-14,  2008: Can your relationship survive house projects together? It's a fine line between getting help from your partner and wanting to kick the ladder out from underneath them. If you know it's going to destroy you, save the money and hire out. But if you can get through the frustrating spats and get the project done, that pizza and beer will taste so much more victorious at the end. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist God bless all of the folks lost on 9/11 and may their families, friends, colleagues, and all the emergency workers be continually blessed in their healing. We remember and reflect. Thursday, September 11,  2008: It's great book-reading weather. Of course it's hard for most busy people to find any time to read.  There's commuting time though, if you don't carpool. The kids may even get interested in some new things and spark discussion, if not already occupied with texting, ipods and the like. All face time counts, even if it's in the rear view mirror. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 10, 2008: Don't you love fall? As the weather gets brisker, it makes you want to grab a hot chocolate and call an old friend for a good catch-up chat. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 9, 2008: Who would have thought that spending time with my pets would teach me to be a better human? Care for others, being social, playful, exercising, learning that discipline sets up a good structure, and being nicer--no matter how my day is going. Not to mention, walking very gently, so that fewer feet, tails and other fragile objects get smooshed. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, September 8, 2008: This should be a fabulous presidential (and vice presidential) election for America. All bets are off as to how the candidates and the American people choose to discuss our new history. Especially since there isn't an "ism" that hasn't been brought up. From feminism, racism, ageism, etc., the conversations in all of our relationships are being tested and challenged. While both major sides tout "change," the real switch may come from each of us wanting things to be different, and doing something about it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 5-7, 2008: Holy Motion, Batman! Libda makes a rechargeable vibrator. That taking "green" to a whole new, ahem, level. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 4, 2008: Now here's the ultimate way to love the planet and yourself...Libda makes a solar power vibrator. Yeah, I haven't heard Al Gore promoting that one, but he should! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 3, 2008: It's funny how we have more ways to communicate with people, but in actuality, often connect with folks a lot less. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist **** New: Cool Chic's Club-first social outing to see new movie, "The Women" Lakewood, CO 9/27/08 Tuesday, September 2, 2008: It's so much easier to give advice, than to take it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Holiday Weekend Edition, August 29-September 1, 2008: Ah, the Democratic National Convention has concluded in Denver. A week of frenzy, politics, media, stars, protests, police and speeches. No matter which political party you support, it has sparked individuals to talk, discuss, debate and share in historical significance, together. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 28, 2008: I am amazed at the courage of our military troops. Strength to endure life away from their families on several tours of duty, injury, recovery, losses of comrades. To be able to march with many who want to get the US out of Iraq was and honor and privilege. Thank you for defending our freedom and rights to stand up with you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wed. p.m. Report from the Democratic National Convention in Denver: I just participated in the DNC today. Got tickets to the Rage Against the Machine concert and did my first protest march-from the show at the Coliseum. It was a peaceful and eventually successful demonstration lead by US soldiers back from Iraq to get us out of the war. We walked it all the way to downtown Denver-3 miles on foot-about 4,000 of us-all with help from the police-a LOT of them. Even ran into one who's a friend of mine. It is non-stop stuff for the DNC this week. This was my one day to partake. Had tix to the Ralph Nader event. Guess Sean Penn and others were there. Oh well, instead quenching a deserved thirst with a beer at the Denver Press Club and watching Bill Clinton's speech and resting my feet before the long walk back to my car. Wednesday, August 27, 2008: Sometimes it's hard to say, "I love you" at the end of your conversations.  But if those were the last words you got with that person, you'd know you always did your best. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 26, 2008: It's nice to celebrate together-even if it's politics. Even if we sit on different sides of the fence. At least it gets us talking together.   - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Welcome Democratic National Convention to Denver, Colorado, USA! dc Come visit a Colorado icon... El Rancho Restaurant Celebrating 60 years! ...and El Rancho Trading Post Che' & Cam's family run gift store for 22 years! Weekend Edition, August 22-24, 2008: There's a drink called "Sex on the Beach." Yep, we all know that one. There's another called, "Sex on the Beach Without a Condom." Yikes. And we thought the real thing was itchy and stupid enough. (check out www.Barmeister.com  for the recipes) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   14th Annual (Now infamous) BBS Party* Sat. Aug. 23, 6pm. details & invite: Contact Ché cd This year's theme: Circque du Ché Circus Carnival Caravan dc Wednesday, August 20, 2008: Couples should get into the Olympic spirit and add some new sports to the 'home games.' It might not reach international recognition, but I'm thinking ring toss would be mighty fun. (Use your imagination.) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 19, 2008: It's nice to reconnect with old school friends. For some it's a mile marker of how far we've come. For others, it's a reality check. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 18, 2008: No matter how busy you are, it's good to carve out some time for the important people around you. You're "to-do list" will always be there. Your friends and family will not. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, August 15-17, 2008: I've found an odd occurrence: many straight men have a really tough time seeing naked male bodies. Funny how the human nude form has been portrayed in art for years-especially women. Most females have no problem looking through a Playboy magazine. But somehow guys think they'll catch something if they look at portrayals of their counterparts. Jealousy, rivals, or just not comfortable with their own masculinity? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 14, 2008: I just met two individuals who were so adamantly mad about not meeting nice people. It never dawned on them that if they changed their attitude in a positive direction, people might enjoy extending friendship to them more readily. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, August 13, 2008: There's a certain point in a plan when perfecting the details gets thrown out the window for getting the overall project accomplished. That "what the heck/que sera" moment is such a stress reliever. We should grasp that point more often. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 12, 2008: *Another great thing about throwing a party? It's quite the motivating deadline to get projects done. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 11, 2008: *The nice thing about party planning (besides the mental challenge of figuring out how to get everything done in time)...having a good reason (and doing it), to reconnect with family, friends & colleagues! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   14th Annual (Now infamous) BBS Party* Sat. Aug. 23, 6pm. details & invite: Contact Ché cd This year's theme: Circque du Ché Circus Carnival Caravan dc Weekend Edition, August 8-10, 2008: Thank goodness for the Olympics-the one time where people can compete for the human race. And the world can unite in support. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 7, 2008: You can plan all you want, but the domino project effect will rearrange your schedule. That's when, to get to the thing you want or need to do, there's a list of things to do first to even get there. And usually there's more that pop up along the way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, August 6, 2008: A guy came in and said, "Oh, you sell antiques!" He was pointing to the computer I was currently working on. He'll be so happy to celebrate future occasions with his family, as I did not reach over the counter to smack him upside the head. Careful what you say to others. Because even jokes can land the wrong way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 5, 2008: A six-figure earning wedding planner had a bit of unusual advice for brides: Don’t leave your fiancé with the wedding planner. He might hit on her for one last fling. The planner vows that the invitation/advance is an extremely common occurrence. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 4, 2008: Monday is a great motivational day to start projects. It's mentally that pristine clean chalk board, before everything gets written on it. Like Pythagorean theories...and life. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, August 1-3, 2008: A friend of mine has one of the best technological achievements ever. Whenever her hubbie, or anyone is looking for something and comes to her for location assistance, she tracks and finds with the greatest of ease. Her secret? As she calls it, her "Uterine Homing Device." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thanks Tina! You always crack me up with your great humor! Thursday, July 31, 2008: I love to ask long married couples what their secret is to a successful relationship. Funny thing is the answers are all different. Some are what you think, but most aren't what you'd expect. Which goes to prove it's a little different for every couple. What works in one relationship may not be the same success ingredient that works for another couple. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist New TOUCHÉ! Cartoon In PLAYGIRL Magazine Wednesday, July 30, 2008: Accomplishments are a great thing. Even better when celebrated with those who helped you get there. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 29, 2008: What's the nicest thing your partner has ever done for you? Maybe it involved something expensive, but bets for most memorable, tend to favor the thoughtful and creative romantic gestures. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 28, 2008: Life takes some interesting turns on the way to our goals. Some are hurdles and others are happy surprises. Make a conscious effort to see the challenges as growth opportunities. Maybe with some overall learning purpose, they can be a little more bearable to get through.  Humor helps. Not just for you, but also those around you who don't enjoy the sob story. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Tuesday, July 22, 2008: It's amazing how talking is a such a successful way to solutions. Sometimes when complaining about a situation, the other person offers up ideas you didn't think of. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 21, 2008: We don't always get it right. We are humble hapless humans who can screw up royally. Sometimes the best place to start, is with a sincere apology. Great for personal relationships, and business ones, too. It's amazing how you can turn a very wrong situation into a stronger bond, or a best customer (especially one who gives recommendations). - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 18-20, 2008: Ah...the weekend. Time to kick back and relax. Or cram in way more than you could possibly do during the week. Have fun! Don't kill yourself all in one sitting, dear. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 17, 2008: Ever get up and say, "It's a beautiful day?" Truly, everyday that you get up, have the chance to breath, be with your family, plus have opportunities, choices, and free will, is a good day. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 16, 2008: Have you ever noticed that acting or deciding on something, is less work than all the stress that leads up to it? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 15, 2008: There are two contradictory theories. One is if you need help, delegate. The other is if you want a job done right you have to do it yourself. The trick in life is to somehow find the balance between the two. Mainly so you get the stuff done, but also so you don't kill yourself in the process. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 14, 2008: Isn't it amazing how life can throw you such great joy and sadness at the same time? Who knows if it's bittersweet, or just irony, but someone upstairs must have a blueprint the rest of us mere mortals aren't in on. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Brothers from a different mother...my bud Boca and mom's beautiful Brave Heaven has 2 new angels... Braveheart-(white pooch on the right) my mom's gorgeous stoic, and eventually playful (only with us), wolf-blend dog; rescued from abuse to a ranch, to her home, and of course into our hearts. He left us Friday July 11th to be in a place to walk and play without the restrictions of an ailing body. Bless his Brave Heart! Johnny Schou-(2nd from left) a young bassist from the local band Tickle Me Pink out of Fort Collins. Tragically found dead on the morning the band was to celebrate it's first record's nationwide release and signing to a major record label. He'd just celebrated his 22nd birthday and the band performed at the huge Vans Warped Tour 2 days before at Invesco Field in Denver. Their album release party turned into his memorial. Rock on Johnny and TMP-thoughts, blessings and healing.   Weekend Edition, July 11-13, 2008: Are you living life or just visiting it? All seasons are a great reason to get out there for whatever you find fun or adventurous. Summer is a bonafide excuse: more light, warmer, and more people in the mood for fun and frivolity. Need more convincing? Fun is back to being socially acceptable. So GO! Do something! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 10, 2008: Why is it that many men interpret or assume women call for sexual reasons? Especially when it's either personal as just friends, or business? If it were gals calling each other, they wouldn't automatically assume it's a date inquiry. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 9, 2008: There is something extremely sexy about a man in the kitchen. Maybe he's just boiling water for your tea, but the gesture and the effort always count. Not to mention watching him move...all for you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 8, 2008: Sharing space with someone can be hard. Each has their own idea and way of doing things that may be polar opposites of the other. If each person has a little territorial section of their own, sometimes that can be the sweet spot so you can remain neutral in the shared ones. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 7, 2008: I asked a guy how he was doing and he responded, "Great! At least I'm not getting shot at." His point: be grateful for the big things and quit stressing over the small stuff. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Holiday Weekend Fourth Edition, July 4-6, 2008: Holidays and heat: a great combination for starting all the wrong kinds of fireworks with those around you. Remember, this stuff is supposed to be fun. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 3, 2008: There has been a lot written about the differences between men and women's communication. Luckily we all have brains to disseminate what may and may not work for us. Because everyone is a little different, everyday. And even more so when combined with another human being. Find what works, and be open to what else might do. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 2, 2008: Only a woman’s phone would have the following real prompt: “Please leave me a brief, but detailed message.” Demanding, snappy & opposite sides of the spectrum, all wrapped into one! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 1, 2008: We are officially halfway through the  2008 Calendar Year. It may be time to reconfirm your life goals, or create new ones. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 30, 2008: Welcome to "attention spam" Monday. That's where you spend so much time on all the useless crap, that the important stuff, gets waylaid. (word from Urbandictionary.com, interpretation by... - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 27-29, 2008: Have you kissed in the sunset lately? Chances are you can fit in a few minutes with that extra seasonal daylight. Who knows? You might even want to make it a habit. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 26, 2008: Some folks like photos. And some are not yet ready for their close-ups. Most times, sitting out will not catch too much flack. But sometimes you may miss out in the greater history and context of not only your life, but the lives of those around you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 25, 2008: Parents and kids are excellent agents in button pushing. With years of training, it takes a much more special agent to move away from the trigger of an easy fight. Try it every fourth time and put that stress energy that would have been expended into something useful for yourself, and maybe even the other potential combatant. Ice cream may be a nice step to peace. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 24, 2008: Warmer weather equal "project time" for you? Of course it's in our nature to overdo it, but give it an attempt to go a little easier. Smaller chunks, lower the expectations or the to-do list a little. Or better yet, hire some help. It's not admitting defeat. It's choosing to do other things. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 23, 2008: If you were a vegetable, which one would you be? It's fun to compare notes and food stylings. Besides, it adds a healthy food group to the water cooler discussions. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 20-22, 2008: Guys often think it's all about the money. Listen up boys, for most of us women, we'd rather get a little creatively worked face time than grand pricey events and objects. Not that we don't like, appreciate and want those things (keep 'em comin when you can!). It's just that most of us have a little more substance and desire for the true sentiment of your heart. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 19, 2008: It's often a great relationship de-balancer when someone demands something of you, that they are not willing to offer themselves! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 18, 2008: Do you know the difference between French tarragon and Russian tarragon? Who cares?! As long as someone else says they'll cook for you, and you're not allergic. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 17, 2008: Life throws us a lot of things we never could plan for. It's amazing how creative we can get to adapt to the crisis' and changes. And it's often surprising to see who comes out of the woodwork to assist in your strength. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 16, 2008: One of the really nice things about summer: crappy television shows. So get out and bond with your family, friends, pets, etc. Enjoy more light, physical activities, fresh air and rollicking fun! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 13-15, 2008: Happy Father's Day to all the dads, grandpas, and good role models (with or without power tools), celebrating fatherhood in whatever format, to help raise healthy, happy and productive kids. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 12, 2008: Don't you love parents? You could be retirement age or a genius in your field, but still have to take a technical knockout in any lively debate. Because you will always be, the "kid." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 11, 2008: It's a nice reversal to see younger men with women. Men have been dating younger for years (many for trophy reasons). Perhaps women are doing it for someone who can keep up with them: intellectually, physically, and emotionally. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Birthday Mom! Tuesday, June 10, 2008: We all know the right things to do: eat better, get enough sleep, exercise your mind and body, spend time with those you love, and take care of things before they become a crisis. Alas, most of our schedules (of our doing) throw us up against the deadline curve of urgency. Try a tiny improvement system: each week try improving one thing, just a little. 5 minutes or one better decision a day, could have a nice cumulative effect that might make you want to stick with it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 9, 2008: Remember when the weekends were time for catching up on sleep? Now it's time for catching up with life. Not such a bad idea if you include your friends and family. Much more rewarding than just a cram session of errands and to-do lists. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades   Weekend Edition, June 6-8, 2008: Want to supercharge your relationship? Add a Taser. (Of course don't try this as a sex toy at home, unless you are a complete idiot.) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 5, 2008: Are you using your relationship as therapy? True that being with someone else points out your issues. A partner is quick to notice and call you on them. But that doesn't mean that that's the best person to help you work through complicated stuff. Sometimes you need a little professional help. That way your home couch can be for entertainment, rather than your own personal reality show. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 4, 2008: Now here's one person's mind-boggling historical achievements...at age 68, with 63 albums, has sold more concert tickets than any other solo performer. Who is this you ask? Why it's none other than Proud Mary herself: Ms. Tina Turner. And she's been with the same sexy, younger man for many years in Europe, to boot. Or should I say heels--since she's well-known for the having probably the most gorgeous female rocker legs in the biz. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Tuesday, June 3, 2008: Ever think about using a match making service? The downside might be cost or services that don't pair you up well. But the upside? Finding someone who's really serious about the process, and perhaps getting a little reality check and feedback along the way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 2, 2008: The new "Sex and The City" movie has everything the true fans could want: comedy, drama, fashion, gay guys and gal pals. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades   Weekend Edition, May 30-June 1, 2008: Welcome to the national holiday for women...the opening weekend for the highly anticipated "Sex and The City" movie. Ladies, start your cosmos. And set your bejeweled cell phones to taxi speed-dial. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist *martini photo from www.martinipic.com custom sterling silver martini pics for the prettiest cosmo ever! Wednesday, May 28, 2008: If you have kids, enjoy that little girl "pink" phase. Soon enough, she'll hit the black phase, possibly with a vengeance. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May 27, 2008: What's the "perfect storm" of happy? A positive perspective, even on the little things. A little progress review. Some in-the-moment positive shifting. Maybe a more thankfulness. And smiling more.  What's the worst that could happen if you give it a try? Someone might get jealous that you're happier, and they're not? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May 23-25, 2008: Now here's a way to grab your audience: title your book "Sleep to be Sexy, Smart, and Slim." Who knew sleep could be sexy? Do you think it's the jammies? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May 22, 2008: Now here's a great recently advertised grad gift: a stationary/thank you note set. No pressure kid. (But to the giver, expect a text reply.) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May 21, 2008: They say "you can't take it with you." They never stated, "They can't take it from you!" - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May 20, 2008: Ever disagree with your parents? Apparently, age and obstinate role entrenchment continue to be the trump cards in winning debates, no matter who has good points for consideration. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May 16-18, 2008: I just read a bit of a book that promotes one day of cooking, for an entire month. Of course that piques our interest.  The theory makes sense as you combine chopping, prep work and pans for several items. Crock pot, freezer, and a 9 hour day are required.  The nice part about slaving one day, is that it may free up some time for other healthy relationship pursuits, like cuddling. A great twist on "comfort food." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May 15, 2008: It's hard to give someone a second chance. Especially when they have taken that liberty exponentially in the past. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Wednesday, May 14, 2008: Welcome to the weird world of "science." There's a study out that suggests eating cereal around the time of conception, might help produce a boy. Gee, what happens when you eat something more obvious, like cucumbers...or chocolate? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Tuesday, May 13, 2008: We all have issues to work through (big or small). Perhaps yours are from childhood or developed over time. If your theory is 'not dealing with them makes it all fine,' think again. To you it's hunky dory. But other's around you might not fare so well. And if you have relationship patterns in your life, the only constant factor is: ________ (fill in your name here). - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May 12, 2008: What's the best thing that can happen on a Monday? Whatever that is for you, see if you can achieve a little bit of it. You may not read the whole book or win the big lotto, but getting a chapter done or a small investment opened, is a nice progressive start. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May 9-11, 2008: Mom's always think you're not listening. Good thing they have eyes in the back of their heads. Because then they can catch you actually doing what they said. Happy Mother's Day--in whatever format that may take for you! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May 8, 2008: Are you're in the past with all this t.v. stuff? During the analog-to-digital switch-over, you could just switch off. Think of how much time you'd add to your life, even taking back one hour every day. It's like going for a masters degree, even if you just spent that time reading in one subject. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May 7, 2008: Singles: Ever try a romantic friendship? Most people know about having a booty call, but what about something a little more lighthearted? If the chemistry is good and you enjoy spending time with someone, why not just appreciate it for that? More simple and fun than a full-blown "relationship." And as adults, we can make up whatever rules we want. And agree upon. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May 6, 2008: Sometimes we forget how important a hug can be. That human connection  amongst the busyness, we didn't even know we needed. But when you get one, you just might realize, the healing power you can give and receive in it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May 5, 2008: One of the reasons a new relationship is so exciting  is that it offers the opportunity to rethink what's up and down. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May 2-4, 2008: Many people get sick immediately following the completion of a huge project or event. Probably because they red-line themselves all the way to the finish line, until there's no energy left. Without adequate rest,  the immune system cannot properly recharge to prevent illness. Call it the body's little payback for pushing it to the extreme.*** - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades***I've been hard at work with a handful of folks to put together probably our biggest Colorado Alliance of Illustrators Shows ever! We have over 40 artists with over 80 pieces displayed in 2 galleries! (Whew!) You can join us for the gala kickoff on First Friday at Belmar in Lakewood, CO (with food & drinks). The show will be on display for the month of May. I have 3 pieces on display: two cartoons and a magazine cover. Here's a sampling of the amazing variety of CAI artist's works.And here's the show info link. Wednesday, April 30, 2008: Isn't it nice to have people's help sometimes? Isn't it even nicer if you don't kill them in the process? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Monday, April 28, 2008: Why does it usually take getting sick to realize what's truly important? Funny how the essential somehow gets done, and the rest doesn't really matter. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Weekend Edition, April 25-27, 2008: Here's another funny thing I'm finding about having laryngitis: when I either show a note or do a gesture to let people  know, they whisper to me. It cracks me up!  I can hear just fine. What I'm guessing, is that this is their way of showing empathy and connection.  Kind of like talking in a high voice to a baby. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Thursday, April 24, 2008: One thing I'm finding out about having laryngitis? How little eye contact people actually make in their communication (or lack thereof).  I either have to wait a while, or tap someone on the shoulder to get their attention to read a note, so I can considerately greet them. The nice thing is that the non-English speakers can relate to my hand gestures just fine. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Wednesday, April 23, 2008: Did you buy organic yesterday? Or did you just chomp green M & M's and call it something other than a little (ahem...) horny indulgence?! Happy day after Earth Day. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Tuesday, April 22, 2008: More and more people are jumping on the "green" train. Funny thing...if you asked your grandparents about this, they'd tell you this is what they did normally. Reducing, reusing and recycling. Try opening one of their doors and find it's loaded with rubber bands. Happy Earth Day-May everyday be a conscious effort. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Monday, April 21, 2008: Isn't it interesting how a major event can mirror the stages in a relationship? The new excitement of finding out. The plotting and planning. The anticipation and build up. Then the actual event (which seldom goes as planned). And the conflicting rush of satisfaction, relief and slight melancholy when it's all done. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Weekend Edition, April 18-20, 2008: Plan, save and follow your bliss. And don't forget to enjoy it- not only when you get there, but also the character-building path along the way. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Thursday, April 17, 2008: Now here's an interesting animal shelter statistic: big, black dogs have a much harder time getting adopted. There's a misconception that they are scarier. This includes black labs, retrievers, rottweilers, and pit bulls. Of course dogs are like people in the sense that if they have a loving environment, they will have a much happier and safer existence. And some good dog training goes a long way. (Not just beneficial for the dog!) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Wednesday, April 16, 2008: Did you have a happy tax day yesterday? Not stressful if you filed earlier, or pressured til the witching hour? Everyone is different in their approach, from from details to timing. It's great if your partner shares your style. It's funny how that Zen philosophy of simplifying your life, can do the same for your tax returns. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Tuesday, April 15, 2008: Humans are not the only the casualties of the U.S. housing market these days. People are literally leaving their pets behind in their foreclosed homes. Sometimes with heart-breaking notes. Many have to move to places that won't allow animals. Hopefully more will turn them in to shelters, in faith that they may have a better chance with a new family, and ultimately survival. If you have the ability to adopt or foster, please consider it. Specific donation funds have even been set up to assist in the great need of foreclosure pet help. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Monday, April 14, 2008: Are you in a whiney mood today? Seek out the very inspirational online talk and book called, "The Last Lecture." From one man with an infectiously bright attitude, who happens to be dying from terminal pancreatic cancer, you will instantly gain a new perspective on everything. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl   Weekend Edition, April 11-13, 2008: And you thought YOU had a good proposal?! A student at Columbine High School in Colorado came out to her car at lunch and found it confettied with sticky notes saying, "Prom?" She accepted. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Thursday, April 10, 2008: A New Year's resolution/goal I set was to try to make 10 people a day laugh (or at least smile). This had nothing to do with my cartooning work. Just my goal to bring humor to the world. Thought I'd start with the people around me. There's been an unexpected benefit: when I get others to laugh more, so do I. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Wednesday, April 9, 2008: Every picture tells a story. If you take a look at the photos and the real expressions, you can tell so much about a relationship. Of course there is a lot more to the story and circumstances. But it's surprisingly a good indicator. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Tuesday, April 8, 2008: How important are finances to you? Since it's the number one thing couples fight about, it's good to have clear, open and honest conversations about your money. It's easy to mix up feelings, goals and perspective, with different expectations. Ultimately, sleeping together is more fulfilling than pillowing with your purse. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Monday, April 7, 2008: Funny how I've always listened to my mom. It's just taken many years to hear. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl   Weekend Edition, April 4-6, 2008: No one needs to have a problem with getting older. Although it's a wee unfair that celebratory alcohol can kick our butts a lot more than it used to! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl Birthday Edition!* Thursday, April 3, 2008: Since it's my birthday, I plan on treating myself well. Maybe getting some stuff done. Maybe not. As long as it's enjoyable and important to me, that's all that matters. Of course it helps to have a wonderful family, pets, friends and great colleagues all over the place to celebrate with me in person (or fur), and in spirit. Have a great day everyone! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist, Birthday Girl *Birthday Alert! April 3rd is a big deal for this giggly girl. Celebration lasts for the whole month. Feel free to send happy greetings. I'm psyched that the birthday fete has included: óI Hate Kate (cool band) at the Bluebird 4/3 (they sing the hip tune: I'm in Love With a Sociopath-soon to be a belly dance I'm choreographing) óAlvin Ailey Dance Theater with mom 4/4 ó(hopefully) improving my doumbek skills at drum practice on 4/5 óA bunch of really pretty (and perhaps healthy?) single-size desserts from Whole Foods. Not much of a cake person (except for cheese cake and ice cream cake)...but those exquisite little pint sized pretties like tarts and berries and maybe some handmade gelato too delectible-looking to pass up! Tuesday, April 1, 2008: Serious most of the time? Today's your day to cut loose. Might as well laugh at yourself, before someone gets you good today for a practical joke. Happy April Fool's Day. We're all one at least one day a year-some more than others. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 31, 2008: We all know the right things to do: eat better, get enough sleep, exercise your mind and body, spend time with those you love, and take care of things before they become a crisis. Alas, most of our schedules (of our doing) throw us up against the deadline curve of urgency. Try a tiny improvement system: each week try improving one thing, just a little. 5 minutes or one better decision a day, could have a nice cumulative effect that might make you want to stick with it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 28-30, 2008: Who knew that the theory of high school popularity could follow you. Check out MySpace or FaceBook online. Wow, parents, teach your children well...or at least how to Photoshop OUT the youngin's cleavage. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 27, 2008: Do Good. Be Good. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 26, 2008: Does an accent make you swoon? You may love the one your with, but eves-dropping in foreign territory, might be a bit fun. Just keep it in fantasyland, or let your partner in on your foreign fetish. And if you're single, go get cultural! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 25, 2008: One of my New Year's resolutions was to be 50% happier. I had no idea what that would look like or how to go about it.  I just tried to change my outlook to be a little more positive on a lot more things. Something clicked. And I'm happy with the results. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 24, 2008: I saw a book I wanted to read: Stop Complaining. I didn't even need to read it to get the message. The author's bracelet trick was a nifty idea on putting the practice work. As long as you stick to the positivity, you wear it on one wrist. And the minute you whine or complain about anything, you switch the bracelet to the other wrist and start all over. That'll get you noticing how you react to things, a lot more consciously. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Happy Hoppin' Easter Weekend Edition, March 21-23, 2008: The male counterpart for the "Orgasmic Diet" book* is "The Hardness Factor." Again, making you healthier improves your sex life. If you read it for nothing else (yeah, right), it has some awesome recipes. *See the daily from yesterday. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 20, 2008: Ever hear of the "Orgasmic Diet?" Funny how anything that makes you healthier, makes everything better overall. (Book: The Orgasmic Diet by Marrena Lindberg; nutshell version: "four things women need for optimal sexual function: good brain chemistry; good hormone levels; good circulation; good muscle tone.") - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 19, 2008: Getting more action these days? I meant sex life, not Visa bill. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 18, 2008: Winter turns to spring this week. One quarter of our yearly seasons, done for the year. Any chance you're sticking to any of your New Year's resolutions? If you wrote any down, you have a much higher chance that they're still in play. If not, spring into a new action. Even one little improvement is still better than expecting change while doing nothing different. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 17, 2008: Did you ever think that no matter what state you are in right now, you are "lucky at love?" If you are out of a relationship, you are lucky to have your own time and schedule; if in a partnership, lucky to be in or explore the path of love. You get the picture. It's all about perspective. Now go have a "lucky" day! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy St. Patrick's Day! Weekend Edition, March 14-16, 2008: Ah, arm candy. Great for a photo op, but will the conversation last beyond the cheese tray? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 12, 2008: Doing good: our rent for being on the planet. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 11, 2008: How are your politics these days? If you want to instantly unite or alienate any conversation, bring up an opinion on any political issue. At least you'll immediately know where you stand...whether on the other side of the line, or holding hands on the same cliff edge. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 7-9, 2008: Is the passion waning from your relationship? Since taking up knitting or an affair aren't viable options, why not hit your local sex shop? There is always new stuff to learn, and perhaps try. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 6, 2008: Why is it we think relationships should be "instant?" Perhaps the desperation of the wanting, or expectation of McLove. The truth is that time and real living and loving experience build the most solid foundation. You can run at it or stroll to it. Remember, either way, it's a moving target. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 5, 2008:You only get one chance to make a first impression. And if that doesn't work, you can always get a second opinion. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 4, 2008: Do you think highly of yourself? If you want a fun experiment, have others introduce you at parties, or networking events. You may hear some wonderful perspectives that you'd never say or not know about you otherwise. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 3, 2008: Are you falling for bad people or stuck in a relationship history rut? Maybe your radar is off. Choosing something different that breaks the pattern, can be the change catalyst for a new future path. If it doesn't work, you're welcome to relive whatever rut you like. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Holy Cow! This site has received 9,000 hits in February. Thank you for coming out to play, learn and laugh. Leap Year Weekend Edition, February 29-March 2, 2008: Try something out of your comfort zone. If authority questions you, just blame it on the leap year frenzy. Hey, if the 'full moon' and 'Twinkie defense' can work... - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 28, 2008: Sometimes you've got to draw a relationship line in the sand. On a beach. At high tide. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 27, 2008: I figured out I don't "do lunch" very well. It breaks up my day, my focus and project-getting-on-a-roll time. Perhaps you value your chunks of valuable time. P.S. it's o.k. to tell others. They might enjoy a more creative meeting alternative, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 26, 2008: Ever try a relationship sabbatical? Maybe the best person to fall for is you. You might even bring some more to the table with others, if you have more confidence and knowledge of yourself. That and a good bottle of wine. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 25, 2008: Interested in finding something personal out? Do your homework. Better yet ask that person directly. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 22-24, 2008: Going red this month? It's national heart month. So take care of yours-whether through exercise, good nutrition, or stress reduction. And combining them. A little healthy love life living is a great boost, too! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 21, 2008: It's "Love Your Pet" day, so give Fido and Fifi a hug. Endorphins for everyone! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, February 14, 2008: Are you spending at least a little part of Valentine's Day with the most important person you know? (BTW, that would be some 'you' time.)  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Valentine's Day! Happy Valentine's! Favorite holiday of the year!! Need extra time? Celebrate it this weekend. Wednesday, February 13, 2008: Planning a romantic evening by candlelight? So the firefighters and paramedics aren't a part of your romantic experience, watch the curtains.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 12, 2008: You know all those epic "go-get-the-girl" run-through-the-airport, romantic movie scenes? Ever wonder how they get the correct flight/terminal/airport information (so they make the blockbuster ending reunion just in the nick of time)?  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 11, 2008: I used to think money and gift cards made terrible, thoughtless gifts. Then I learned that no one can shop for me, as good as me. Funny how I appreciate that thought more.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, February 7, 2008: If you're slacking on your new year's resolutions...here's take two. Go with today as your new year. You've already had a practice run, so get to it and do a little better! Just a tiny bit constitutes progress. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Chinese New Year! Wednesday, February 6, 2008: Are you a little cynical about Valentine's Day? Well get over it--and help someone else. Check out the Save the Children Valentine's you can send (and help with self-sufficiency, literacy, nutrition and other good stuff--for your heart and others). - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Super Tuesday, February 5, 2008: Wouldn't it be nice to "caucus" more at home? Talk about "playing a real part in our futures." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Mardi Gras!   Weekend Edition, February 1-3, 2008: Ah, Superbowl weekend. High-def and big screen t.v.s are on sale: for all that scratching in detail, and spitting in surround-sound. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday,  January 31, 2008: Of course opinions matter. But you have to consider the source. And also their motivation. And ultimately, you may want to rely on what feels right. Time will be the ultimate judge. And maybe a little guilt. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday,  January 30, 2008: A friend commented tenderly on how hard it is to lose a pet. He said sometimes it's harder than losing a family member, because we pick our pets, and they offer unconditional love. I've found that to be a bit true, as my "furballs" are my "kids." - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist *****  Please forgive the intermittent humor, as I've been spending more time with my pets Aspen, Boca and Capri. Aspen started slowing down on runs and walks in the fall. It was important to me to spend Christmas with her, since I had a sinking feeling it might be our last together. She started collapsing on a Saturday. I brought her to the vet on Monday (when they were open) and had one more week with her. But she went downhill health-wise so fast. The following Saturday, I had the opportunity to spend one last day with her. On A Sad Note: My sweetie girl Aspen, border collie mix and pound puppy of 11 years passed away 1/26/08. She is deeply loved and missed. Hopefully, she is running and playing off leash, with no fences and all the squeaky toys and treats she can possibly enjoy. Her wings are well earned. Weekend Edition, January 25-26, 2008: You gotta love fantasies. Where else could you play the role of Fabio, without getting laughed at? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday,  January 24, 2008: Have you heard of the new web site for dis abled folks called disaboom.com? You gotta love the eye-catching advertising with an image of a tattooed gent in a wheel chair daring you to question his sex life. Just goes to show you that sex sells practically everything. The upside is a change in the perception of folks that have some extra challenges. And it's bridging several communities with knowledge and understanding. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday,  January 16, 2008: Now here's some interesting fyi morsels to ponder...white eggs come from chickens with white earlobes. And red-lobed chickens lay brown eggs.  I suppose people are just as easy to read. If you only you knew to get past fuzzy/feathery indicator.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday,  January 15, 2008: Sometimes, you only get one chance to make a last impression. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday,  January 14, 2008: Balance is a brilliant concept. But like anything worthwhile, it may not be the natural state of things. A little effort and some successful planning, can help life be a little more fruitful in more areas. They may not all be perfect, but trying is a better way to get it to happen. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition,  January 11-13, 2008: When you ask "What are you thinking," be prepared to hear an answer you weren't anticipating. Since telepathy might not be in your repertoire, your expectation could be totally different than the actual truth. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 9, 2008: What would happen if you smiled 10 times more each day? I've been trying 50 in the morning as an experimental exercise, and something good has definitely clicked. Better positive reactions with others, a better day, and I'm  just a little bit happier as a result. I dare you to try it for a week. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Weekend Edition,  January  4-6, 2008: Wouldn't it be nice to keep up with family, friends, colleagues and people who make your life work better? Obviously that could take all of your time. The next best thing is to make the connections we can, the best that we can. Maybe it's only an e-mail, or a quick voice mail to say, "Hi, I'm thinking of you. Hope you are doing well." Sometimes those small connects can make the difference in yours or someone else's day. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January  2, 2008: Wouldn't it be nice to keep up with family, friends, colleagues and people who make your life work better? Obviously that could take all of your time. The next best thing is to make the connections we can, the best that we can. Maybe it's only an e-mail, or a quick voice mail to say, "Hi, I'm thinking of you. Hope you are doing well." Sometimes those small connects can make the difference in yours or someone else's day. Happy New Year-May you accomplish much with love and laughter. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January  1, 2008: There's a southern tradition that sounds brilliant: Do on New Year's Day what you want to be doing for the rest of the year. Funny how tradition and new age thinking kind of intertwine sometimes. Be blessed & prosperous in your new year. Remember relationships can hold the greatest riches. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 31, 2007: It's the last of the the old year. But it's not "old" until you give up or the time passes into the "new" year. With the time you have left, you can review your progress (yes you made some) and tweak the course, if you're not heading in the right direction. Perhaps you can adapt the "right" path... to your actual life. Happy New Year's-May you have accomplished lots, with love and laughter. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Monday, December 31, 2007: It's the last of the the old year. But it's not "old" until you give up or the time passes into the "new" year. With the time you have left, you can review your progress (yes you made some) and tweak the course, if you're not heading in the right direction. Perhaps you can adapt the "right" path... to your actual life. Happy New Year's Eve-May you have accomplished lots, with love and laughter. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Holly Days Weekend Edition, December 28-30, 2007: Who knew so many people were "bi?!" Turns out about half of all dog folks also house a cat. There goes the neighborhood. Meow. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Holly Days Weekend Edition, December 21-23, 2007: Catching up or falling behind on your holiday preparations? Just remember, it's always about the people and not the perfect stuff. The most memorable times can come from what gets creatively done in a pinch. And who knows? It just might start a new tradition. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 13, 2007: It's a great idea to get the kids electronic toys this Christmas. And if your value your brain cells, just leave the batteries out. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 12, 2007: Isn't it about time women got to be with trophy hunks? Wouldn't it be really great if they had a brain, and a sense of humor? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 11, 2007: Ever go near one of those cars with a voice alarm that says, "Step away from the vehicle?" Don't you just want to step in and mess with it, because you were told not to, and that's a pompous thing for a car to say anyway?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 10, 2007: I have  a great eco-friendly gift wrap idea: fabric bags. I made a bunch of them once, so the deal is, if the person wants a gift again, they have to give the little sack back. Except for mom, who after every opening, annoyingly eggs, "Can I keep the bag?" - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 7-9, 2007: You just never know who is going to touch your life. It may be a best friend, a work colleague, or a person known only briefly.  But to have known that person, may make you a better one. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist In loving memory of a wonderful cartoonist and human being: Dan Gibson. Dan Gibson gets his own characiture on the Denver Press Club walls, after creating a third of the infamous wall for others (and having served as president and longtime member.) Thursday, December 6, 2007: Meeting someone for the first time? Here's some quick tips: keep it in public, preferably daylight, casual, and with your own transportation. And have a buddy check-in person who knows where you are and when you might be back. You may meet the love of your life. With a little forethought, it won't be from the trunk of a car. Or in front of rolling Dateline cameras (legal age is a no-brainer, folks. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 5, 2007: Welcome to the age of "giving to yourself" gift cards. You spend money on someone, and then you get a credit as well. Nothing like a little Christmas kickback to get you in the spirit of the season. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 4, 2007: It's easy to fall for a good personal, and perhaps misleading, sales pitch. Especially when your ego is down and the compliments flow from what appears to be the heart region. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 3, 2007: Life is short. Write out the holiday cards as you see folks, and pray you get to the rest. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 30-December 2, 2007: It's officially cuddle season. Try some wearable sexy textures like velvet, satin, and silk, to encourage the touchy-feely fun. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 29, 2007: Need to make an uncomfortable phone call? Don't do it by text or e-mail. Bad news is never fun, but humans deserve a little courtesy. Be a better person, even if the other one might not deserve it. Err on the side of integrity or at least a little better karma. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 28, 2007: Why does the diet industry bother pushing their products near the holidays? Food. Alcohol. Temptations galore. Besides there's a whole breed of folks called "Chubby Chasers." So you shouldn't have a problem finding a date to your company party. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 27, 2007: Feeling a bit alone for the holidays? Why not buddy up with someone else who could use some cheering--like some soldiers based in a war zone, or some orphan kids. Go through reputable sources you can verify. As opposed to something like Nigerian royalty scams via e-mail. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 26, 2007: You think you're having a tough day? It could be worse. You could be on the body count list for the Sopranos. (Yep, a real wacked web page: http://www.the-sopranos.com/db/bodycount.htm) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 23-25, 2007: Enjoying the holidays yet? It's a feast for the senses. And you don't even have to go too crazy. Food that's a little richer or eclectic and new are such fun to sample. Why not try a little? Besides, you can work off the extra calories on the dance floor, or under the mistletoe. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 22, 2007: Really bored? Check out Movifone's 25 worst movie sequels ever made. Hours of your life you can never get back. Especially if on a date. And my pick wasn't even listed: Miss Congeniality 2. Seriously bad, like chunky out of date milk. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 21, 2007: Did you know that reading the descriptions in the personal ads is kind of like decoding a house or job ad. In real estate terms, "cozy" means tiny.  And "Not a 9-5" translates into you will be working 24/7. For the personals, there's all kind of tweaking of the truth, from weight to age, and all the life details in between. Do read with caution. It's easy to spot some, like "discrete" meaning married. Anyone can represent anything. If you start with honesty, you'll be amazed at the positive way you can be treated in return. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 20, 2007: Ever watch "Entourage" on HBO? Manager Ari has a saying he's fond of, "Hug it out." (For accuracy, there's a bit more to the phrase.) Although it might not be appropriate in the workplace, it sure does come in handy with family and friends. Remember it over the holidays. Especially when you may have the urge to do the opposite. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 19, 2007: Ah, a short work week, if you celebrate Thanksgiving. Funny how the to-do list doesn't shorten, just the days to accomplish it does.  Remember to appreciate the people around you. And if the list still looks like it has no end in site, you might want to sit and relish the spiked cider. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 16-18, 2007: The holidays are starting to roll in. No pressure. Parents, friends, & colleagues mix with parties, food and alcohol. Ah the story bombs that are fun to drop when stuck at the kiddie card table. Therapy bills for years. 'Tis the season! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Missed Ché's big belly dance debut? Vampires and all? See the encore performance LIVE , Sunday, Nov. 18th in Boulder, CO... Details below!   Need an excuse to get wild? Don a costume? Celebrate the Fall Harvest? Or carpool to Boulder? Nov. 18th--Boofest Bash Holiday Show  Evening Show:  at Trilogy Wine Bar on 13th St in Boulder Tickets $12.00 at the door or $10.00 in advance at http://people.tribe.net/selayma/blog/7510c771-f00f-494e-93c3-a8c58a0f32a2 Doors open at 6:00 pm- show starts at 6:30 pm (food available) A delightful and diverse dusk, brimming with wonderful & unusual performances of the belly dance and beyond. Featuring "Countess Rafi'ah & the Daughters of the Night" performing their chilling vampire story...in a special encore performance! Thursday, November 15, 2007: Sometimes when you are sick or injured, it's the universe's way of telling you to take a little break. We take almost no time to sit and think about what we really want, how we are going about it, and who and what are truly important to us. Besides, a little personal down time for rest and reflection is better than watching the lawyer and laundry ads on daytime t.v. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 14, 2007: Sometimes when you are sick or injured, it's the universe's way of telling you to take a little break. We take almost no time to sit and think about what we really want, how we are going about it, and who and what are truly important to us. Besides, a little personal down time for rest and reflection is better than watching the lawyer and laundry ads on daytime t.v. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist (Lovingly dedicated to our CAI VP Cherish, who is not only an amazing person, organizer, coordinator, web hostess, illustrator and a zillion other great things, but also a wonderful human being and friend. Rest and be well! You too, Benjamin :) We value you both so much!) Tuesday, November 13, 2007: Ever feel like some dates are more like therapy sessions than romance? Some are textbook, with all of the lingo. And some are free association with a captive audience. Once these get started, it's hard to get a good gage of what the other person is thinking. They'll usually be tactful. Perhaps tuning out. Or never calling back. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 12, 2007: Sometimes it's really fun to be right. Even if you don't use it. Because sometimes, to get along, you need to give the other person a graceful exit strategy. No one likes to be on the uncomfortable side of a chastising. Unless it's from a bet that has a fun payback. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 9-11, 2007: Sex can be like ice cream toppings. On different days, different things sound good or interesting to try. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 8, 2007: Ah, dating. It's like an intimate job interview process sometimes. Ever get sick of telling even the nutshell version of your life story? The interesting part is learning about someone else's life and experiences. Tends to broaden your horizons, if even vicariously, to learn of skydiving in Peru, or having a special needs child. You just never know how much your heart can open up, when the right person gets you interested. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, November 7, 2007: You know a really bizarre way to have a drug test come up positive if you aren't a user? Have sex. According to Dr. Drew Pinsky of the Loveline show, semen has a 7 times higher concentration of substances (like drugs) than in the bloodstream (although rare-something to consider). Remind you of the old Seinfeld episode where Elaine tested positive for drugs because she had poppy seed bagels?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, November 6, 2007: Since when did everyone need a reality show to find love? It's taken over network television and blossomed big time on cable. Surprisingly enough, they'll probably be the few shows that might survive the Hollywood writer's strike. Even more reason for either them to resolve royalty issues or for us to read more books. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, November 5, 2007: Last time I checked, brain power (on most days) ruled the world.  I heard no mention of how important cellulite was on the ecosystem. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Weekend Edition, November 2-4, 2007: Ooooh, The Loving Lothario. Superman of Seduction. Romantic Rasputin. Unrequited sexual tension may make it in classic literature.  But the only place most modern romantic happy endings happen, is trashy fiction. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, November 1, 2007: Ever have RRRS? Repetitive Relationship Reclipse Syndrome. It's where you you go back to retry a romance that went south at least once before. Symptoms can include: stupidiy, forgetfullness and sudden memory recall. RRRS can be fatal: check with your therapist for terminal ego and self esteem issues. In very rare cases, it can work if partners have committed to and acted on changes in patterns and personality. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Rockies Rally Wednesday, ROCTOBER 31, 2007: It's fun to dress up for Halloween. You can experiment with anything, not have to call it a disguise, and get away with it. So let your freak fetish flag fly. Besides, the more original you are, the better your odds for winning the costume contest. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, ROCTOBER 30, 2007: When was the last time you played hookie with your partner? Maybe you skipped out on a whole day. Remember 'nooners, or leaving work early to follow up a sexy office phone call? Or getting in late, looking a little ruffled and flushed. Your co-workers may give you the evil eye, but they're really just jealous. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, Roctober 29, 2007:    World Series 2007  We're Proud of You ROCKIES!!!  You Made HISTORY! Congratulations on winning the National League Pennant! The World Series scoreboard may have said Red Sox, but the Colorado Rockies baseball team won our hearts. You united our city and state with positive energy and integrity. Thank You! So proud to wear purple! Monday, ROCTOBER 29, 2007: Sometimes it's not whether you win or lose, it's the miracles you pull out of the hat to get there! In Colorado, you don't have to be an old woman, to wear purple. (With all due respect to Maya Angelou.) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Sunday, Roctober 29, 2007: World Series 2007  RALLY ROCKIES!!! Go Ahead and Make HISTORY!  Rally Caps on People! I just learned this from a fellow fan at Coors Field last night-turn your baseball cap inside out and upside-down and put it back on. The logo still shows. Yeah, it's goofy and superstitious. Welcome to baseball. I did it first and we scored. Others around did it and we scored and the team made more great plays. Try it. We've got a World Series to WIN and nothing to lose! Weekend Edition, ROCTOBER 26-28, 2007: There are a lot more fans than tickets to see the a lot of major events live and in person. Thank goodness for the miracles of technology and our local pubs.  Improving our community relationships, one brew at a time. Colorado bonding has never been this much fun! Go Rockies! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, ROCTOBER 24, 2007: Can you love opposing teams and each other? Whether it's sports rivalries or political ones, disagreements can get pretty heated. If you realize you can have personal differences, maybe that heat could be saved for the non-competitive (i.e. "makeup") time. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, ROCTOBER 23, 2007: Just because you see a couple who doesn't fight, doesn't mean that they have a great relationship. Sometimes bottling problems to avoid confrontation can lead to other issues. Or build them up to breakup capacity. We all communicate in slightly different ways. Figuring each other out is half the frustrating fun. Those big breakthroughs can make your bond stronger. Not to mention how much fun make-up sex is! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist  (details below!) (pictured: Countess Rafi'ah) O.K. Folks! Here's the belly dance show video of just our "Evening in Transylvania" piece, posted on YouTube.com-it's in two parts, so watch them both (about 11 minutes total) Part one Part deux   Dance, Dance, DANCE! Weekend Edition, ROCTOBER 19-21, 2007: Every thought of taking up dance for your partner? It could be a couples kind of thing like ballroom, or line dancing. Or perhaps one of the more sensual, and perhaps, solo nature, like belly dancing. Or you can get really exotic and get some pole training. By the way, all that dancing isn't restricted to just ladies. We all like a good show, so shake it if you've got it! * - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist *Dedicated to my fellow belly dance vampires: Countess Rafi'ah, Saira, Naia, Laura, & crypt-keeper Kendra, for our show performance Saturday night. (pictured: Countess Rafi'ah) O.K. Folks! Here's the show video of just our "Evening in Transylvania" piece, posted on YouTube.com-it's in two parts, so watch them both (about 11 minutes total) Part one                   Part deux Wednesday, ROCTOBER 17, 2007: It's amazing how wonderful someone can look on paper. When it comes to relationships, though, chemistry is one of the most unstable, unknown elements. If someone could bottle the formula for instant chemistry, there'd be more money in it than White Out, Velcro, and Post-it's...combined! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Purple Tuesday, ROCTOBER 16, 2007: The celebration at Coors Field in lodo Denver last night was so unbelievable! Great fans, great police, very few problems and a whole lot of celebration for an amazing home team. My favorite was all the folks with decorated brooms, sweeping and high-fiving each other overhead with the broom heads.  I never realized how much sports can bring people together. From my belly dance class, to artist friends and fellow Rockies baseball fans around the field, we're all celebrating the "Miracle on Blake Street!" Congratulations to the Colorado Rockies--the Cinderella team who just won the National League Championships! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Stay Tuned For Celebration Pics...including a fun one with Carl Bernstein of Watergate reporter fame. Weekend Edition, October 12-14, 2007: You know one of the great revolutions that Playboy Magazine started? The Hef helped society realize that, yes, the girl next door can and does enjoy sex. Turns out you don't have to be male, or promiscuous. Just have a brain and some hormones. Yay . Everyone wins. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 11, 2007: Ah, to be young and in love. Oh, to be older to know what's possible, and how it really can and does go. Wow, to experience both, consider yourself lucky. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, October 10, 2007: Studies suggest men with lower voices have more children. And men prefer women with higher voices. I'm thinking, in the attraction factor, grammar and spelling might count as well. It's just not that sexy of a study. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, October 9, 2007: How many times a day do you tell someone you love them? One time? One Hundred times? Zero? If you aren't getting the cold shoulder, maybe it's enough. But why not experiment with the odds...and the outcome?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, October 8, 2007: Have any hypnagogic hallucinations lately? They're those really vivid visions that happen just before you fall into a deep sleep. If you have one right before you wake fully up, that hallucination is hypnopompic. Funny how some of the most frustrating ones relate to sex dreams. Bad alarm clock. Bad, bad alarm clock. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Happy Birthday, Dad! Weekend Edition, October 5-7, 2007: Time to break out of your shell this weekend? Come on. Get out there. Do something new. You can get snowed in and do the laundry later. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, October 4, 2007: It's that gorgeous fall time of year. While you are winterizing your house and car, why not try the same with your relationships? Check the seals, under the hood and maybe patch what ever might need it, before it costs you much more in the long run. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, October 3, 2007: In the animal kingdom (like birds), the males have the colorful plumage, to attract a mate. The females are instead almost camouflaged, in order to protect the nest. On the other hand, their human counterparts go in the opposite direction. Is it any wonder why dating seems nerve-wrackingly not natural? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, October 2, 2007: Who knew that sports therapy could keep couples together? A little play by play knowledge, some over priced snacks and drinks, and wearing the team colors in face paint. And afterwards you get to continue the bonding at a few wedding and baby showers. They're basically the same things, but with pastels and bows. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist GO ROCKIES!!!  Monday, October 1, 2007: Sometimes it's o.k. to be a sports widow. Although if you are in Denver right now, then it might be in your best interest to don the purple and black team colors of the Rockies baseball team. And an added bonus? Maybe little couple's time might go more than 9 innings, if you share the joy. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 28-30, 2007: Really, has anyone gone to war over wrinkles or cellulite? Maybe more for a little "size matters" competition. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 27, 2007: Just because you’ve been with your partner for a long time, doesn’t mean you know every thing there is to know about them. Each one of us hopefully grows and develops a little every day. So keep checking in before they slowly morph into something very different, so you can track progress. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 26, 2007: Ever visit a web site, only to see an "under construction" sign? Wouldn't it be nice to have a portable version of that some days?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 21-23, 2007: Weekends are great to catch up on your "to-do"  list. And it's a great time to torch it so you have something left to do on Monday. Go hang out with someone you love. Could be a pet, yourself, or someone else significant. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 20, 2007: Why should you wait by the phone (or e-mail, laptop, blackberry, whatever)? You have a life and your very own busy schedule. Your friends know you are a fabulous person. Besides if that person truly is in crisis, you’d read about it in the daily paper, right?  If you had time to read it.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 19, 2007: There are so many great things to find out and keep up with. Like I always say, “You learn something new every day, if you’re paying attention!” - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 18, 2007: Have you taken your dog for a walk lately? Sometimes getting out for even a little bit is the best lift for both spirits-your’s and Fido’s. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, September 17, 2007: Who said you had to get everything done on your “to do” list today? If you took a real look and estimated the time each task takes, you probably have overbooked yourself. Do you like when the airlines do it to you? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 14-16, 2007: Don’t you love the throws of a new relationship? Not eating, not sleeping, not doing laundry. Luckily hunger, bill-paying, and deodorant needs eventually kick in. Welcome back to the rest of our realities. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 13, 2007: It’s interesting to see the variety of birthday reactions. Some folks would celebrate it with the world if they could. Others would rather have root canal work done than anyone thinking they are older. And for some, it’s just another day with a personalized office card that says, “Happy Birthday, fill in your name here.” - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 12, 2007: It is so wonderful to see happy, successful couples together. The new ones are sweetly romantic, but not battle-tested. A long-term couple has put in a lot of time, tenderness and tenacity. Ask any one of them if it’s been easy. Then ask them if it’s been worth it.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 11, 2007: Some days are good for planning. Some are good for action. And sometimes the best use can be in reflecting. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, September 10, 2007: Poetry is the language of the soul. The classics can be revisited, or contemporary voices may be more to your liking. The greeting card section is a place to start, but only if baby steps and an aversion to libraries are your only options. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, September 7-9, 2007: When was the last time you went to a drive-in movie theatre? They are disappearing across the American landscape. But I’ll bet you have a laptop or perhaps can get a little portable dvd player. Bring a blankie, and hit your backyard, or the park. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, September 6, 2007: What music is the soundtrack of your life? Is it changing as you move through your life? Like hair (if you’ve got it), clothes and relationships, most things move forward. Not that you can’t revisit them on a nostalgia bender. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, September 5, 2007: Are you are a winter, spring, summer, or autumn? It may be your wardrobe/skin tone color palette. Or which season you enjoy for activities. Hopefully it’s all year round, when you have a good attitude with others who spend time with you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, September 4, 2007: Welcome to your life. An overwhelming list of to-do’s, work obligations and everyday crisis situations. Remember why you are really working so hard. To spend time with the people you like or love. Money and things are great, but they can’t reciprocate a warm embrace when you need one. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Holiday Weekend Edition, August 31-September 3, 2007: Concert season is almost over. The outdoor part, that is. So grab your sweetie or a gaggle of friends and head out under the stars. It’s always a good idea to partake of life, especially when it is going on right around you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 30, 2007: The kids are back in school. No relationship excuse for date night, now, is there?! (And no, you can’t make up another one.) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, August 29, 2007: Some of the best times are the ones where you get lost or things veer way off the plan. Your laughter and how you got through it will make the most memorable tales later on. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 28, 2007: Do you need a major medical emergency or life crisis to realize what’s essential in life? Telling people around you that you care or love them could be the most important thing you do in a day. We don’t always have tomorrow, so make today count. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 27, 2007: Sometimes you just need to let someone vent. It could be a total stranger or your most intimate partner. If there’s a release valve in a safe setting, that emotional buildup will have a safe outlet. It usually helps to clarify that the rant is a vent, so you know how to listen better and not take it to heart. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   BBS Weekend Edition, August 24-26, 2007: Parties are great fun. Sometimes just getting out the invites is the best excuse to catch up with people’s lives, whether they are coming or not. R.S.V.P.  (French for “Respond if you please”) is not only a courtesy, but sometimes the only chance we get to connect in our busy lives. Don’t make Miss Manners slap you with the velvet glove twice. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 23, 2007: Don’t you love hearing from an ex? They wax wonderful about something from your past. And that little thing is sneaky dangerous, like carbon dioxide in the room. Unless you are really that bored or available, just recall the moment with a smile, and then remember what broke you up in the first place. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, August 22, 2007: I had a friend who rarely watched t.v. Preferred to live life rather than watch other’s on a small screen. Not a bad perspective. And it’s certainly easier in summer with longer light for outdoor activities competing for lame reruns. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 21, 2007: It’s hard when you walk away from something to not feel a little guilt, especially if the hurt person is applying it. But there’s a good reason you walked away in the first place. Revisiting the past doesn’t create a great future, but it’s a great way to rediscover some well-worn ruts. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 20, 2007: There is so much to do in any given day. It’s really nice when you take a few moments to be grateful. Even though it seems like chaos sometimes, it’s still a blessing to get the chance to experience it while breathing. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, August 17-19, 2007: The heat makes us do some funny things. Where your brain might make good decisions normally, some not-so-great ideas may pop to the surface. Take a breather, grab a glass of ice water and do the old-fashioned pro and con list on a piece of paper. The same goes for alcohol or other things of that mind-melting nature. Unplug the phone, don’t get next to your computer, and rest your texting hand. It’d be nice to say the next morning, in the most boring way, and without adverse consequences, “Nothing happened.” - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 16, 2007: We’ve got one month left of summer. Are you getting out and enjoying the people, opportunities and fun events that come up? They may not be in your schedule, but may be the best thing when you make your mental “how I spent my summer” notes. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wenesday, August 15, 2007:  It’s a whole lot easier to pour your heart out on e-mail. It makes a great written monologue. And that editing feature makes for very specific ways of saying things. But missing that face-to-face connection, leaves communication missing a lot of the layers that help understanding. Besides, do you really want your e-mail sent world wide for analysis? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 14, 2007: Are you sick of being the bad guy trying to wake your partner up? Meet Clocky. It’s an alarm clock on wheels. It jumps. Seriously. It gives you one snooze button free pass, then it’s a free-for-all to find it and shut it off. That should help marriage counseling. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 13, 2007: I have a neighbor with a dog who insists on barking when I’m trying to sleep. Funny, but I’m sympathetic for the dog, with circumstances that promote that kind of behavior. It’s just like people who bark a lot. You never know what is happening in their life that creates that demeanor. But sometimes a little compassion, as well as the no-brainer of communication, helps—on both sides of the barking fence. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, August 10-12, 2007:Do you ever find yourself saying you’d never want to meet someone in a bar? Have you ever gone to a bar? Then, you are one of those people. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 9, 2007: Paint yourself. Yep, a self-portrait. It doesn’t have to be museum quality, or even seen by anyone. But it may make for a novel MySpace picture. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, August 8, 2007: Space is a funny thing. We need a little to feel comfortable in a relationship. And yet, not too much, otherwise we’re back out in the field. The real trick is to time that changing need with a little communication. Easier said than done, but worth it if you think the relationship is valuable. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, August 7, 2007: What are you saving for a rainy day? Money, the best time with your partner, or that special bottle of champagne? Why not break into it a little now, while you actually have a chance to enjoy it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, August 6, 2007: Sometimes it’s easy to reminisce about a past relationship and want to be there again. But if it didn’t work out, there’s usually a good reason why. Even if the breakup was not your doing, would you really want to be with a person who thought it was bad? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, August 3-5, 2007: It cracks me up when people think I should be fabulous at relationships because that's my topic specialty. Helloooooooo…I do humor! If I were that perfect relationship person, would you believe or relate to a word I said? I am great at giving advice to others, though. From the feedback, it seems that function of mine seems to work great! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, August 2, 2007: Remember the days before computers and texting? We actually took pen to paper and wrote...notes! In class they still got "forwarded," but at least it wasn't instantaneously circling the globe. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, August 1, 2007: You know that the neighbor kids can help your relationship? Yep. They need chores to keep ‘em out of trouble. And they need cash to get the latest tech gadget to keep them up with their friends. Give them something to do. Help them help you. And you can get out for a bit with your mate and have your own play date. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 31, 2007: Pets are good for the soul. It’s that thought for something other than yourself. And the funny thing is, they really do give back unconditional love, plus a good heart rate, albeit along with a few roving hairballs. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 30, 2007: Meet Assumption and Expectation—they’re the evil twins who give bad communication a good rep. Hang out with them, and you can kiss almost any relationship goodbye. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 27-29, 2007: Here’s a reason why people fall for each other so easily: when we first meet, we talk and talk, and maybe some other things. Staying up unusually late, we’re too romantically charged to even know we’re sleep deprived. You can overlook a lot of things in this state. When we finally do get some zzz’s, we might have a freshened perspective. Sometimes that pheromone-based lust does develop into a deeper relationship. Or perhaps we can compromise on a friendship. If a nap or No-Doz doesn’t do the trick, we might see what's not working, and move on. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 26, 2007: Trying to define a relationship? Good luck. Getting two personalities with diverse experience to be at the same level at the same time, it quite the trick. Sometimes the best we’re able, is to meet in the middle, when we can, with a little honesty and a lot of understanding for the other person's differently fitted emotional shoes. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, July 26, 2007: Trying to define a relationship? Good luck. Getting two personalities with diverse experience to be at the same level at the same time, it quite the trick. Sometimes the best we’re able, is to meet in the middle, when we can, with a little honesty and a lot of understanding for the other person's differently fitted emotional shoes. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, July 25, 2007: It's great to have new ideas. Sometimes you're the only one who appreciates it though. If you’re trying to change another, it may not be as illuminating for them as you think it is. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, July 24, 2007: Can there be too much truth? Perhaps. A little mystery keeps you wondering. Telling all may leave little to the imagination or benefit in interpretation. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, July 23, 2007: Insomnia? Try opening up a college textbook. Professorial writing will have you snoozing soundly by paragraph number two. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, July 20-22, 2007: Ever listen to “Loveline” on the radio with Dr. Drew Pinsky and Ted Stryker? They had a fabulous revelation that every woman should come with her own sexual handbook. That is one of the best observations I’ve heard from the men’s team. It is really that different from person to person. Just because your last girlfriend/wife/partner liked x, doesn’t mean that your current one will jump for joy by that very thing. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday July 19, 2007: Age can have it’s communication rewards. An older person can say the wackiest things and no one will call them on it. As body parts go, it’s a justifiable reward to show you’ve earned your opinionated rights. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday July 18, 2007: It’s interesting how the littlest occurrence can be the deal breaker in a relationship. I’ve seen people dismissed by the oddest things: teeth, car, allergies, manners, driving, and the list goes infinitely on. The reality is no one’s perfect. And sometimes we have to look behind the hard shell to find the true nut inside. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday July 17, 2007: Don’t you love adulthood? It’s a great time to learn how much more you still need to know. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday July 16, 2007: The things you surround yourself with subtly say a lot about you. Family pictures, solo achievements, honors, mementos. And sometimes not showing things is just as revealing. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition July 13-15, 2007: When was the last time you went out for ice cream. Come on. It's summer. Time to go relive your childhood for a half hour and loiter at an ice cream shop. If you try it on roller skates, make sure you bring your insurance card. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday July 12, 2007: Do you know the language of love? You may think it’s French or Italian. Those are nice, but it’s the words that are said and the ones that are truly meant that fuel the fire of the heart. Although a good accent, is not a bad accelerant. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday July 11, 2007: Just because it's summer, doesn't mean you can't enjoy a nice relaxing bath. Although, it is the season to bring in bath toys into play. Rubber duckies especially count. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday July 10, 2007: Need a kick in the creative kiester? Grab an old friend you haven't made contact with in a while. Set a play date at a museum or festival. Conversation, catch-up and painless creativity that multi-tasks with fun!  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday July 9, 2007: It’s funny what we draw attention to. Sometimes it wouldn’t be noticed at all if not mentioned. And yet we wave the flag, thinking it’s a glaring flaw. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition July 6-8, 2007: When was the last time you asked someone to dance? It may take some guts you didn’t think you had, but it just might be worth the rejection risk. And if you’re turned down, so what? You can always hit the Hip Hop Abs dvd at home. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday July 5, 2007: Don’t you wish that all the positive changes you’ve ever made, stuck? Getting to that change might have taken 80% of the effort. But 20% has to go to maintaining that. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday July 4, 2007: We’ve politically corrected ourselves into a corner. All the forms of communication are at constant risk of outcasting or litigation, in jokes, comments, banter and off-cuff remarks. Half the time people just want to fill the silent space with something to make it more comfortable. It’s interesting how some well-intended words may have the opposite end result. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday July 3, 2007: Daydreaming of someone special? Sometimes it comes as a great compliment to let them know. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday July 2, 2007: You think school is it for learning? If you’re paying attention, you can learn the most amazing things from all of the people and situations around you, daily. Life may not be a frameable document, but at least you won’t owe student loans. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 29-July 1, 2007: So you’ve been dating for a while, or just getting back out in the field. How to make that date the most magical, mystical, memorable encounter, ever? Relax. Be yourself and understand that reality can be more fondly remembered than polished perfection. It’s those stories that will get handed off to future generations, so make ‘em good and geeky. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 28, 2007: Have you ever heard anyone say, "I'm a really bad driver?" Well, that goes on with a lot of things we're not great at and think we are. It's good to keep a check on over-confidence, as well as self-criticism. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 27, 2007: We all need a little human contact. Technology is a nice thing that does help connect, but nothing replaces the time and care that in-person connection creates. Besides, your tech toys need a break so they don’t overheat.  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 26, 2007: It'd be nice if there were no game-playing in relationships, but apparently it's human nature. Most times one or the other is changing up the rules, during the game, just to keep it interesting. If you're really lucky, you'll find that person who challenges you enough, and still wants to win with you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 25, 2007: Here’s a positive step: instead of saying how you’ve been in the past, verbalize how you want to be. My big example to prove this to myself was changing saying the phrase, “I’m terrible with names” to “I’m getting a lot better with names.” And you know what? I actually am. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 22-24, 2007: E-mailing at night is about as smart as drunk-dialing. Helpful hint: pull the e-mail address from the “send to” line. That way, you can look at it and review it in the fresh light of a logical morning. Plus, if you type something that didn’t sound as appropriate as it did in the p.m. hours, accidentally hitting “send” doesn’t create an awkward communication issue. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 21, 2007: I like asking long-married couples what their secret is. You know what? I rarely get the same answer twice and it is usually a bit surprising. The wife of a couple with 41 years together said, "We don't give up easy." And the husband replied, "And, I kinda like her."  - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 20, 2007: Ever hear of the “Door Knob Question?” Doctor’s see it a lot. But it’s prevalent in other relationships, too. It’s that really important inquiry that should have been asked first, but embarrassment or unease prevents it. Communication warm-up can ease the comfort level.  And awareness can prepare us for the real motive which initially necessitated the conversation. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 19, 2007: Do you say nice things about people, in front of and away from them? Wouldn't you like the same done for you? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 18, 2007: When one door closes, another may open. But you still have to get your foot unwedged from the first one. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 15-17, 2007: Happy Father's Day! Did you grow up with comic books? Pretty good chance you are a guy. The world of comic and animation art is brining around some better female superheroes, though. Some with values—and clothing. Not bad for the inspiration of some young female minds. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June 14, 2007: You think married life is easy? Try this little exercise: Name 5 couples who have a successful marriage that you would personally use as a role model. Kinda tough. You might know 5 working relationships, but what would work for you might be very different than what works for them. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June 13, 2007: No matter what a person says in the heat of the moment, there has to be a bit of time apart to process it. Sometimes, “me too, me too,” turns into, “wait a minute, I don’t think so,” on further thought. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June 12, 2007: Being well-read is not only good for you, but also enhances the relationships around you. When you know more, you have more to talk about.  You’re more interesting if you can hold interest in a conversation. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Happy Birthday, Mom!Monday, June 11, 2007: Relationship building is a tricky timing game of telling exactly what, exactly when. Past life, kids, convictions and habits can all be a deal breaker, or points earned in the honesty category. Each person is different on their levels of acceptance and relate and react according to their past experience, and level of relationship interest. Honesty can be a buffet, but it helps to know what the other person's hunger is. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, June 8-10, 2007: Have you ever had someone sing to you, read poetry about you, or dance for you? It’s about the most flattering thing in the world to have someone open up a vulnerable creative side for full view and interpretation. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, June  7, 2007: Careful on your storytelling. Just because you leave the details out, and tell the rest of it right, doesn’t mean it’s accurate. And leaving big chunks out is downright deceptive. Omission of truth can bite your rear as much as rearranging the truth into fiction. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, June  6, 2007: Just think how many things need to align just right for a relationship to work: both single—at the same time, goals the same, situations the same. It’s a miracle we give wedding planners any business. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, June  5, 2007: You've gotta give someone credit for making a move. It takes guts to put yourself out there. Yes, rejection is possible. But not ever knowing the outcome is a no-win "what if" game. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, June 2, 2007: Ah, the games people play. Sometimes it’s an all out coliseum epic.  And other times it’s romantic repartee. Whatever the style, agreement to the rules will keep the replacement team from tagging in. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, May 31, 2007: Now here's a personal ad that should be out there: "Looking for next wife. Legal team provided."\ - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May 28, 2007: “I was so busy, I didn’t have a chance to call.” As someone with a brain just reminded me, it takes a few minutes to pick up a phone, especially if you are a priority. Surprisingly, not communicating speaks pretty loudly. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, May 24, 2007: “I was so busy, I didn’t have a chance to call.” As someone with a brain just reminded me, it takes a few minutes to pick up a phone, especially if you are a priority. Surprisingly, not communicating speaks pretty loudly. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, May 21, 2007: Picking out the perfect dress? How about picking the best relationship first. It’s more important and it stays in style better, as you alter it with time. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, May 10, 2007: Who says you have to give a gift only on a special occasion? You can make any day instantly memorable (and therefore an "occasion") with an unexpected surprise. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May 9, 2007: Internet dating: a delicate balance of truth, timing, and the pursuit of a recent picture. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May 8, 2007: No great relationships ever had it easy. You may not see the challenges from the outside, but there is a heck of a lot of work going on from the inside. Hopefully, each person steps up for the overall good of the union. And from the other side of the curtain, it appears to be magic. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Monday, May 7, 2007: The global economy is an amazingly complex miracle. Your computer alone may have parts, technology and service represented from all over the planet. Doesn't it make sense to rethink that "let's all just get along," theory? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, May 4-6, 2007: Problems in bed? Hold the conversation until away from the mattress. That way you’ll have a chance to get invited back. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, May 3, 2007: It’s good to laugh a lot. It’s like drinking water. We mean to do it, it just doesn’t always fit in. But if you increase by a couple of giggles a day, your blood pressure and those around you may circle ‘round the healthy bandwagon. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, May 2, 2007: The thought of a “soul mate” is really a fantasy idea for many. There are a lot of different people out there, so special connections are inevitable with many. It’s whom you choose to work on a commitment with, that counts. OOOOh, look...A full moon!- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, May 1, 2007: What is one positive thing you can do to improve a relationship today? It can be small. Whatever it is try it. And if you like the results, see if you’ve got about a month to continue with it, and make it a new habit. Happy May Day! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 30, 2007: Friendships may be the next best thing to therapy. But your friends aren’t professionally trained and they may have different agendas, especially if they are close to you and your situation. Plus, for the therapeutic money, you get to discuss your favorite subject: you, you, you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, April 27-29, 2007: There is something about a garden in spring that makes the birds and the bees seem relevant and interesting. Maybe because we hope we will be part of the hormonal flutter. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, April 26, 2007: Did you bring flowers to your last apology? Make sure you give them on nice occasions, too. Otherwise floral scents might cause some negative twitching. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, April 25, 2007: Honesty is a tough policy, even if it is the best one. But if you have the guts to put the truth out there, it could be appreciated much more than you can imagine. Even if the initial hearing feels like an attack, a further mulling can prove that there’s actually a care to make things better. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 24, 2007: The “law of attraction?” If that works, I really hope they are on the same wavelength, and species. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 23, 2007: Can you change your spots? Habits are engrained patterns of behavior. It’s possible to change nearly anything. The constant challenge is sticking to the new route, instead of hitting the comfortable known groove of the old. Besides that worn way, is pretty darn dusty. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, April 18, 2007: The rules to fight fair…do you know what they are? You may want to discuss them before engaging in communication battle. Or you can make them up as you go along, and duck accordingly. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 17, 2007: Sometimes outside forces can be pretty taxing on a relationship. The best we can do is cut each other a little slack. That way a little stress doesn’t cause such a huge mess. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 16, 2007: Isn’t it funny how the seasons influence our moods? Spring is fun when the blooms start appearing, the allergies start itching, and mother nature gives you a couple of slaps of winter, just to remind you to be appreciative. Kind of like life. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, April 13-15, 2007: Weekends can be such a nice time to relax. That is unless you cram as much into your down time as you do your up time. You can run your mind, body and schedule to the red line. But eventually all will give out. Might as well take that time voluntarily. No one ever says, “You know, NOW, would be a great time to get really sick!” - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, April 12, 2007: Hmmm…do you think a web site called catchaliar.com is out to prove anyone innocent? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, April 11, 2007: Some think relationships are like onions. I think, as we get older, we’re more like artichokes: kind of prickly on the outside. And sometimes, you have to pick through the thick thorny leaves to find the tender heart inside. (Dedicated to a very special culinary person of 9 years) - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 10, 2007: There’s a philosophy equation that goes: if a=b and b=c, then a=c. Well if we play that out that Mary likes Joey and Joey likes Lisa, then Mary likes Lisa. Maybe they do. Or maybe a catfight ensues. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 9, 2007: Treat your relationships like a bank account. They’re readily available when you’re in a good place. But when you really need them and haven’t regularly contributed, there’s nothing in the reserves to pull from. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Weekend Edition, April 6-8, 2007:  Another holiday weekend is upon us. A fun time to juggle relationships, partners, families and all the regular stuff that needs to get done. If possible, take a few minutes for yourself to center and breathe. That way, when life comes at you, you have some reserves and don’t have to rely on the Easter basket candy for energy. Happy Easter!- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, April 5, 2007: Remember your regular friendships? Call, e-mail, and put in those tiny connecting moments. Regular maintenance will help insure that you don’t hear, “and you are…”- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, April 4, 2007: Actions speak louder than words, right? But if misinterpreted, you may want to let the other person in on your true intentions. If they know the why behind the what, you may not have to throw your ring in the ring. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, April 3, 2007: Special Birthday Today-Cartoonist Ché Major milestones are great to share with friends. Sometimes we can be that for ourselves, because we know who we are and don’t have to ask or coordinate. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, April 2, 2007: The buddy system can make a difference in adulthood.  Sometimes another perspective can shine light in corners you forgot to look at. And you can earn a real life merit badge. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 30-April 1, 2007: What really works? You should talk incessantly about your relationship to your mate. Happy April Fools! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 29, 2007: Remember mood rings for childhood? Wouldn’t those be a great idea for relationships? You might not have to guess on your timing again. You’ll just have to convince the others the jewelry goes with their outfits. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 28, 2007: Midweek getting to you? Too much to do and not enough of you to cover it all? Sometimes it helps to take a total break. Don’t even think of the list. Give it a healthy 20-minute break in the form of a nap, meditation, stretching, or just sitting outside. After that healthy dose, one pick from the list won’t seem so daunting. As long as your boss sees progressive movement on projects, repeat as needed (as long as the breaks aren’t consecutive—like a whole afternoon). - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 27, 2007: It’s great if you’ve found your soul mate. But don’t take for granted that things can’t or won’t change. People develop and mutate. Besides relationships care and tending is usually easier than breakups and keeping lawyers in business. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Monday, March 26, 2007: Where’s your wingman? Flying solo is good to stretch your adventurous independence. But sometimes it’s cool to have someone to bounce your ideas off of, before you run out in the world naked with them. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 23-25, 2007: Run your feet along the carpet and then go touch your partner. Now try that mentally. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 22, 2007: You want to be depressed about your body image? Open any American entertainment magazine and you’ll see what seems to be the social norm. And yet it’s not accurate, healthy or even real. Photoshop and plastic surgeons have created walking Ken and Barbie dolls, and we buy into it.  So have a personality with your next gelato, and perhaps a little fresh air walk around the block. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, March 21, 2007: Spring is here. You know what that means…let the hormonal romping begin. Be safe. And if you need to wake your comatose partner out of winter hibernation, new sexy undies might get the season off to a whimsical start.~ Happy Spring! ~ - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 20, 2007: While winter is taking a trip out the door, why not throw in an old habit that needs to go as well. Something simple. Perhaps one of those forgotten items from your New Year’s Resolutions List? One positive change could influence other areas of your life. And when you’re doing better, people around you treat you better. Happy magnetism. Now go test the theory for yourself. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 19, 2007: Creativity in a relationship doesn’t have to be so hard. Remember the days before technology? We had paper and pencils. Add a few brain cells and you have: a love note, a silly made up game, or a list of things you like about the other person. The wackier the idea, the more memorable it could be. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 16-18, 2007: Want to get “lucky?” The inebriation beverage may give you liquid courage, but it may come with a side effect of liquid stupidity. Your brain may stand a better chance of flirting without the beverage backup.~ Happy St. Pattie's! ~ - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 15, 2007: Whatever is on t.v. or the computer can wait. The human in the room is more important. Remember, “interactive” wasn’t originally a technical term. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 14, 2007: Chemistry is a fascinating relationship ingredient, wherein one person’s jerk or psycho woman can be another person’s soul mate. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 13, 2007: Keep vigilant your bits of character. They are the breadcrumbs of trust. Your small actions show just what kind of integrity you have. Hopefully, it’s not the moldy crusty stuff. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 12, 2007: Sometimes we slip in our training to grow and develop. No one ever trained for a marathon in one day. There will be days when motivation is abundant and other times when it seems like it’s hiding next to the donut tray. Each step is important, even if it’s just one away from the jelly glazed. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, March 9-11, 2007: Here’s a blast from the entertainment past: women’s roller derby. It’s popping back up in more places and is as campy as ever. Date night hasn’t been this fun in a long time! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 8, 2007: Put your partner on your “to do” list. In whatever format that may occur. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, March 7, 2007: Turn the t.v. off for a little while and have a conversation with eye contact. It’s good for your relationship and the environment. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, March 6, 2007: Just because you said something once, doesn’t mean it was engraved on a mental stone tablet. Especially in regard to change, it may take a few more breaths as a reminder. No need to make them huffy. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, March 5, 2007: Mondays are fun for a personality test. Folks with a 9 to 5er are giddy on Friday afternoon. But Mondays are the “hit the ground running and get out of my way” days. Take a breath between double espressos and throw in a few compliments. That way you don’t have to buy all the rounds to make up for it on Friday. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend (HBO Aspen Comedy Festival) Edition, March 2-4 2007: Vaudeville may have made an exit, but burlesque never died. Check out the risqué comedy and sideshow carnival acts at a stage near you.  If you’re lucky, there might even be an emcee with a ukulele. Sure beats Nickelodeon and burnt microwave popcorn. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, March 1, 2007: Denver got huge Forbes Magazine marks for singles. Any place is really valid with some fun activities and interesting people you don’t know if you are willing to give it a positive try. If not, you can always use your city for practice, and come to Denver when you’re ready to try big league dating! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 28, 2007: Most people think they have “relationship security” much like “job security.” The truth is that life is always changing for everyone. It’s not enough to think you’ll keep what you’ve got with little effort. The good news is upkeep and regular maintenance is much easier than major repair or overhaul. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 27, 2007: Sometimes we need a little escape from our regular lives. NASCAR is pairing up with the famed Harlequin romance novels in their story lines. Now you can have your lust, and sports, too. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 26, 2007: If you have a goal, go for it. The best relationships in your life will be positive and supportive in your pursuit. Any that can’t hang in there with you, or will sabotage your actions, are boomeranging your efforts back to base camp. Make sure to tip your sherpas! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 23-25, 2007: Fascinating FYI: According to Dr. Drew of “Love Line” fame, women aren’t likely to get the big O from intercourse. It’s the foreplay, or overtime actions, that have a better chance for achieving her ultimate pleasure. So rethinking that sensual strategy may accomplish more than just one happy goal. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, February 22, 2007: Little actions reveal character just as much as the big actions. Sometimes even more so. Most might make the assumption, if that is how the little thing is dealt with, then the big one must be that magnified. Plus actions are all mentally noted subconsciously.  No security camera needed when the brain is keeping score. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 21, 2007: Facial hair…Yay, or Nay? Some women like and some don’t. A good conversation could lead to a really understanding kiss. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 20, 2007: Mardi Gras is the feast before the fast. A little like how the equivalent of general dating is to the commitment of a relationship. Picking one person to deepen your faith and function with focus. Because really, do you need all of those beads? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 19, 2007: Good news for the late V-birds. When Valentine’s Day falls on a week day—you can hit the post holiday sales and celebrate on the following weekend instead of the prior one. Beware of the picked over selection, though. Otherwise your “sweetie” card may just be a scratched out niece/nephew sentiment. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Weekend Edition, February 16-18, 2007: Words come out of our mouths so fast. And yet it takes many more to reel them back in when the first ones didn’t come out right. Apologizing may be one of the most gracious and hardest things we ever learn. That act may just salvage a relationship that didn’t need to be so easily damaged. If that doesn’t work, you could try groveling, or dropping it. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 15, 2007: Google yourself often? Why not just put up a web page and join MySpace, facePage, etc., and get the ego over with. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 14, 2007: Do aphrodisiacs actually work? Who knows? But the research might be damn fun to test out. Happy Valentine's Day! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 13, 2007: Men, if you turn up the thermostat she just might wear something other than flannel p.j.'s-like something from the Victoria Secret's Catalog. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 12, 2007: Sometimes not actually fighting is the worse than hashing it out. Because then, you're not communicating or getting anything resolved. Just stewing, solo. Give into a few minutes arguing. Even if you do go to your corners to stew, at least you'll be thinking with some new information. Better to have a bit more perspective from both sides, to make progress. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 9-11, 2007: Hey, when your sex life is down…try a web camera. Youtube.com is always gathering new comedy material for the rest of us. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 8, 2007: Locks of Love (an organization that make human hair wigs for kids with alopecia, cancer and other hair loss) taught me a lot about giving from the heart. I’ve donated time and money before, but never something so personally valued and of something that is such a part of my identity. For as much as it means to me to lose it, I can only imagine the joy someone else might feel to get a sense of normalcy or happiness back. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, February 7, 2007: What to get for Valentine's Day? Jewelry, candy, and flowers are all very nice. How about going a step further in the creativity department. What's their favorite music? How about a personal ad in the newspaper? A collage book or something handmade? Careful with the scissors. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, February 6, 2007: It’s so easy these days to have secrets and addictions. It’s also much easier to be found out. No doubt, there’s a group out there to support what you do, and one who could take the opposite stance. Use a sense of inner balance and honesty, and there should be nothing damaging to hide. You’ll feel better about yourself. If others are uncomfortable with your information, is that who really has your back when you need it? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, February 5, 2007: I once gave an ultimatum for Valentine’s Day. That was a dumb move on my part. A little tact and understanding, and mutual communication would have gone a long way. Live, learn, then go buy yourself the thing you really want if it’s that important. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, February 2-4, 2007: Did you hear about the guy who wants to put a marriage proposal ad on during the Super Bowl? Can you think of all the sponsors who want to jump on that bandwagon? The Fox network (ca-ching on a new reality show), dating service, or any jewelry dealer would work. But it might make a good beer commercial, or even a "built Ford tough" spot, if it’s spun it just right. Let's hope she says yes, as going down in flames at 2.5 million dollars isn’t as funny on an internationally televised sports event, as one might think. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, February 1, 2007: Valentine's time isn't just for couples. Think of all the people you can appreciate who help you get through your day a little better. Your postal carrier, the bank teller, your friend who calls just to say hi and brighten your day. A little acknowledgment for the everyday kindnesses is so appreciated. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 31, 2007: Sometimes you’ve got to let another person spend money on you. You might feel uncomfortable with being the receiver, but you play a giver in the circle of giving satisfaction back to that person. Say a gracious thank you, like your mom or grandma taught you. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 30, 2007: We all handle sad in different ways. For some, it helps to talk and share. For others, they need a break from others to process their feelings. Ask what they prefer and respect their wishes. When the emotions shift back in time, then you will be that much more appreciated. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 29, 2007: A friend of mine was famous for saying, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, come sit next to me.” That’s one way of looking at it. Or you can think if you’d want the same stuff said about you. No? Then find another oral fixation for your commentary, like a nice pack of sugarless gum. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 26-28, 2007: My favorite song line ever: "And we'll fill in the missing numbers in each other's paint-by-number dreams." (Jackson Browne's The Pretender) Wouldn't it be nice if it were that easy? It would be even nicer if we were working on the same painting. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 25, 2007: How about a little drive-by niceness? Put down the cell phone. Make eye contact, smile. Stay on the road. You just might make one less person explode with road rage at the next light. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 24, 2007: Sure opposites attract. We’re all fascinated with someone unlike ourselves. They represent the risk we don’t take.  There’s a natural yen for yin to yang, drawing what may bring us balance; If not for change, then at least insight and understanding. Like playing with your alter ego. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 23, 2007: Just because someone answers the phone doesn’t mean they have eons to chat. Ask at the beginning, ‘did I catch you at a good time,’ or ‘do you have a few minutes to talk?’ Everyone is busy. Even relaxation needs planning. You might get a few minutes not given without the courtesy of asking. Keep your time promise and you won’t get the ‘I have another call’ or the infamous dropped signal excuse. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 22, 2007: Sponge is not a good quality to have when it comes to human emotion. When you suck in the very life force of others like a black hole, then you’ll find fewer and fewer occasions to do so, as people disappear. Share the floor. Then, you might just have a dance partner with other interesting steps to add. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 19-21, 2007: “I love you” may not seem like a big deal to say. But the words do mean a lot. Don’t wait until an emergency circumstance or the regret of not having said it. Actions sometimes speak louder than words sometimes, but don’t leave the words out. Besides, it’s easier than saying supercalifragilisticexpialadosish. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 18, 2007: If you’re expecting someone else to meet your needs, better hire someone. Most of us expect so much in a relationship, most unspoken, that no one could possibly live up. If you want something, you can get it, learn it, or figure out a legal way to acquire it for yourself. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 17, 2007: Make eye contact when you speak to someone. You might be surprised at how much more attentive, cooperative and positively they communicate back with you. A little more eye time and it could be the beginning of a beautiful stalking or love relationship. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 16, 2007: How you say something is just as important as what you say. If you use a tone that contradicts your message, the other person will catch on. Bottom line is you don’t come across as trustworthy. Might as well wear those happy/sad theatrical masks and really put on a good show. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 15, 2007: New Year’s resolution you can actually keep: laugh a little more. That makes all the other one’s possible like losing weight, making more money, getting organized, swearing less. At least you can admit laughing at all of the above. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 12-14, 2007: It’s no fun to constantly “work” at a relationship. Into every life, a little food fight must come. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, January 11, 2007: Be adventurous—buy a “blank” card. You have a brain and can come up with your own sentiments without the canned categories. And you might be surprised at the reaction from a little handwriting and original thought. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, January 10, 2007: So you know your partner’s favorite color. Great. Now, do you know why? There might be an interesting little-known life story that goes along with the simple selection. Maybe they just look good in it…but inquiring minds might want to know more.- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, January 9, 2007: The “it” factor is so prevalent in our lives. In your youth, you don’t want to be “it.”  Adulthood is all about the chase of “it.”- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, January 8, 2007: A dab of cologne or perfume is nice. Save the “dollop” measurement for sour cream. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, January 5-7, 2007: Whatever happened to handholding, the guidance of a man’s hand on the small of a woman’s back, or slow, deep wet kisses that last for days? Oh, wait, it’s only a fantasy monologue in by Kevin Costner in the Bull Durham movie. Damn. Happy New Year!- Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Weekend Edition, December 29-31, 2006: Some relationship things, in retrospect, are only a good idea in theory. I call it the “sombrero effect.” That’s when you go to Mexico, get the hat then get on the plane and realize—not such a good idea after all. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 28, 2006: The same principles for couple’s relationships work with parental ones as well. Try compromise, mutual respect and seeing things from the other person’s shoes. Even if they are several sizes different. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 27, 2006: What did you not get the message right? Sometimes the communication is off because one person is more auditory and the other is visual or even kinesthetic (touchy-feely). Or perhaps you just prefer mind-reading to notes, voice and e-mail. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 26, 2006: So he got you a year of oil changes for your car. You’re ticked because it’s not personal. But if you think about his perspective…it’s probably because he cares that your car doesn’t break down and leave you stranded somewhere. You can explain that if you had that lingerie, you wouldn’t be broken down or stranded for long. But maybe ask for a nice card with his feelings to go with the “sensible” gift. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   DH&G Strategic Tip of the Day Weekend/Christmas/Blizzard Edition, December 22-25, 2006: I know you think it’s flattering to get her clothing in smaller sizes. That’d make sense from the “does this make me look fat” discussions. But then she’s got to return things and get the right size. That makes for busy added to overload, which doesn’t equate to happy female camper. Merry Christmas--may all of your relationships go well & brim with laughter! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 21, 2006: What did you not get the message right? Sometimes the communication is off because one person is more auditory and the other is visual or even kinesthetic (touchy-feely). Or perhaps you just prefer mind-reading to notes, voice and e-mail. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 20, 2006: Just because you know he’s a sensitive guy, doesn’t mean you need to bring it up in front of others. Even if complimentary, it could embarrass him. Perhaps he prefers to be seen as hard core rather than a big softie. Besides, you know where the teddy bears are buried. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 15-17, 2006: The holidays bring out the best and worst in us: The ability to show generosity one moment, and biting peoples heads off of those who don’t deserve it, another. Take a moment to look at your behavior from the viewer’s shoes. If that doesn’t help, ask to be cut a little slack, and tell the person why. It’s surprising how revealing a little of our own humanity, can bring about more understanding and courtesy from others. Your own little “one-step” program. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 14, 2006: This time of year is crazy hectic for most people. Take two minutes. Literally, when you get to your destination, close your eyes for two minutes and breath deeply, think about the positive things you want to do or say. If you are the one person who shows up looking relaxed and smiling, just think of the chain reaction your influence may have. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 13, 2006: According to the Hebrew Bible, Wednesday is the day when the sun and moon were created. –From Wikipedia.org Ah, to give your partner a Wednesday, now there’s a precious gift you just can’t wrap! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 12, 2006: Why is there such a soap opera following? Keeps us humans away from the bell towers, and off more prescriptions, when we see our lives aren’t that far out of wack. Besides, how many babies can you have, from that many people, after coming back from the dead eight times? - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 11, 2006: Aren’t “wanting” and “expecting,” almost the same thing? Nope. Just ask anyone in a long-term relationship. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 8-10, 2006: You don’t have to be Casanova to be appreciated by a woman. A couple of thoughtful gestures can be pretty romantic. Think loving Post-it note or picking up the dry cleaning. Even a home-cooked dinner works, providing she doesn’t have to reach for the Tums. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Thursday, December 7, 2006 When a man fixes something for a woman, it’s not because she’s incompetent or can’t get it done on her own. It’s most likely his way of showing he cares. Changing your car oil means you don’t break down on the highway. Time not spent with AAA could be time more romantically re-invested. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Wednesday, December 6, 2006 The way to a woman’s heart could be through her stomach, just like the cliché for men. Most women enjoy good food, and even more—the process of him preparing it. Besides, you make that apron look good! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Tuesday, December 5, 2006 Relationship issues are like bunnies in the clouds, once someone points out the obvious, it's really easy to see. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist Monday, December 4, 2006 Rule of thumb: take a few things off of a woman’s “to do” list and guess what? Less stress. That could equal a grateful few points in your favor. And those can be fun to collect on. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, December 1-3, 2006 You want her to dress up as a “French Maid?” Fine. Either you dress up as Fabio, or try the high heels on yourself. Enjoy! And, by the way, you missed a spot. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, November 28, 2006 Just because you made dinner, may not land you in canoodle heaven.  If you leave the kitchen a disaster, you may get a reception colder than the sherbet dessert. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Tuesday, November 27, 2006 What to get for him? Find out what matters. Maybe it’s a massage, or maybe it’s a doggie day care date for his bud Fido. Or perhaps a gift certificate to get his car detailed…after all, he puts you in it, right?! - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   T-Day Holiday Weekend, November 22-26, 2006 You know someone's going to egg on the easy dispute at the holiday gatherings. There's the stress of travel, preparation, plus the very people we are with the easy buttons that are triggered. What if you just reacted differently, rather than the way you usually do. Maybe you might set off a chain reaction of...understanding. If not, just duck when the Jello mold comes flying. You can go back to your regular self, the gym and the cleaners tomorrow. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Tuesday, November 21, 2006 It's hard to pull back from the role of mother for women. It's guiltily ingrained to say "yes" to everyone but ourselves. Make a pact: one thing-just one thing-is strictly a treat for you. After that, you can get back to the hundred things for others. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Weekend Edition, November 17-19, 2006 Uh...”Manscaping”…a delicate topic to discuss, but yes, most women do like a gentleman’s trim*, so to speak. *And bonus* it gives a whole new depth perspective to the “size” issue. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Thursday, November 16, 2006 There are so many ways to say I love you. From sky-writing to sticky notes. In this case, it’s not the thought that counts, it’s the communication. Not exactly what romantic the legal team would deliberate. - Ché Rippinger, Dating And Hand Grenades Author/Humorist   Wednesday, November 15, 2006 Arctic man and tropic woman? Try a dual control electric blanket, for the sake of your sleeping relation