Not afraid of trying things out the second time around, former Real Housewives of New York star Kelly Bensimon, has officially stepped back into the dating scene. After ending her marriage with ex-husband Gilles Bensimon, the new author is being urged by her daughters to search for Mr. Right again. “Both her daughters, Sea and Teddy, are encouraging her to get out and to find the right guy. Kelly would like to marry again,” a source told UsMagazine.com. Taking heed to her daughters’ advice, she stepped out to dinner with Good Morning America anchor Josh Elliot April 27. Though they appeared to hit it off over dinner, a source close to Elliot, 40, explains that their outing was a one-time thing and that the pair are not “dating.” The two met on set while she was promoting her new diet book, I Can Make You Hot.

How do you know when it’s time to start dating after a split?

Cupid’s Advice:

Breakups can be tough, and sometimes it can be even more difficult to jump back into the dating pool. But, how do you know when it’s time to dive back in after calling it quits with your former flame? Cupid has some signs that it’s time to get out:

1. You’re feeling lonely: Your ex no longer considers you a factor in their life and your friends barely know who you are anymore since you’ve secluded yourself in your bedroom listening to Beyonce’s “Me, Myself and I” on repeat. The split probably hurt, but you’ll hurt even more if you continue to isolate yourself.

2. Lesson learned: After any breakup, there’s always something you should mentally take from it. Things may not always work out as planned, but the important thing is to realize what mistakes you made and how not to make them again.

3. Time: After you’ve given yourself some time to regain your strength and you’re no longer feeling vulnerable, then you should step back into the dating scene.

How do you know when it’s time to start dating after a split? Share your comments below.

By Amanda Martin

There’s nothing more romantic than lying with your significant other under a big, fluffy, cashmere blanket while stargazing in the great outdoors.

Since the best stargazing begins about an hour after sunset, you can have an early dinner and then head to your area’s best location for admiring the bright lights.  If you live in a populated area, try to get to the outskirts of town so you and your honey can admire the brilliantly-lit night sky.  If getting out of the city is impossible, you can try moon gazing instead.  For some added romance, bring along a bottle of chilled chardonnay, music and light fare to nibble on.

As the sun sets, the stars will become more visible and you’ll want to have binoculars in order to get a closer look.  Another good idea is to invest in a constellation map so the two of you can tell the difference between Zenith and Polaris.  You could even make a game out of figuring out the different patterns.

In the midst of enjoying the starry night together, be sure to communicate openly.  Look out for shooting stars, and don’t forget to make a wish.

What’s your idea of a perfect starry night?  Share with us by commenting below.

An excited six-months-pregnant Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi officially announced this week that she and fiancé, Jionni LaValle, will be having a baby boy, according to UsMagazine.com.  The Jersey Shore star was thrilled to share her good news, having said in the past, “If it’s a boy, I would dress him like Pauly D.” The newly engaged couple have a lot to look forward to between marriage and parenthood. Choosing not to live in the Jersey Shore house for Season 6, is one of many preparations they will have to make before their first child, and youngest guido-to-be, arrives.

How do you prepare for having a son versus a daughter?

Cupid’s Advice:

Whether or not a couple chooses to know the gender of their unborn child is entirely up to them. Some prefer the surprise, while most of the time, people find it easier to prepare for the baby if they know they are expecting a boy or girl.  If the doctor tells you those fateful words, “It’s a boy,” here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Blue, blue, blue: You may or may not have been secretly envisioning pretty pink bows and dresses, but tuck those ideas away for the meantime and get ready to see a lot of blue. Luckily, there are plenty of other boy-friendly colors, such as green, yellow, and gray, but those bright pinks and purples are probably out for now.

2. Barbie won’t make the cut: You may still have your doll house from when you were a little girl, but unfortunately that’s probably not going to be of much interest to a growing baby boy. Toys are relatively universal up to the first year or two, but after that, anything  that has wheels or goes fast will be in your son’s hands at all times.

3. Father-son bonding:  The relationship between father and son is certainly a special one. Every man fantasizes of their first catch together or teaching his little guy to ride a bike. Boys will always be boys, but don’t feel like you can’t join in on the fun.  The rough facade won’t be on all the time, and your son will need and want his mommy time just as much.

What major effects has gender had on your new-baby preparations?  Share your experiences below.

Is it a romance too good to believe? Former American Idol Kelly Clarkson told UsMagazine.com that she’s incredibly pleased with her relationship with talent manager Brandon Blackstock. “I’m too happy!” she said. “He’s ruining my creativity!” Clarkson may be known for her unlucky love life and sad songs like “Behind These Hazel Eyes,” but she says that her feelings for Blackstock are keeping her from writing other breakup melodies. As Clarkson said, “It’s an awesome problem to have.”

What are some signs your relationship is too good to be true?

Cupid’s Advice:

It’s easy to be head-over-heels in a new relationship, especially if it’s been a long time since you last dated someone. However, keeping your relationship grounded makes it last longer. If your relationship has any of these signs, it might be time to take a step back into reality:

1. You stop wanting to see other people: It’s always great to spend a lot of time with your partner, but it’s important to maintain your own personal friendships. If you find that you don’t want to see or hang out with anyone else, your relationship might just be too strong to last.

2. You lose interest in things you used to enjoy: Your interests and talents are important parts of who you are. If you feel like these are being stifled by your partner, it’s possible that you’ve gotten too close for comfort. Make sure to take time out for yourself once in a while.

3. You can’t envision yourself not being in the relationship: Of course, we all want a good relationship to last. But focusing too much on it can be difficult and straining for both of you. Try to remember who you were before you began dating in order to keep your partnership in perspective.

Have you ever been in a relationship you couldn’t believe was true? Tell us below.

With her upcoming roll in Snow White and the Huntsman, it looks like Kristen Stewart is like the Disney Princess in more ways than one. Not only does the actress have an 8-year-old cat named Max, but she also helps care for her boyfriend, Robert Pattinson’s, dog Bear, according to People. When asked which animal loved her more, Stewart said, ”They both love me in very different ways. Bear is literally a child.” In reference to her cat Max, she stated, with an unpleasant face, “I mean, we live together. He’s like my roommate.”  In 2010, the actress even said, ”I’m going to be a crazy cat lady one day, I’m sure.”

How can caring for a pet together bring you closer as a couple?

Cupid’s Advice:

Caring for an animal with your beau can really bring you together as a couple. Here’s how:

1. It enables you to watch your partner in action: How your mate treats an animal is a strong indication of how he will treat you and your potential future family. If he couldn’t care less if the dog has enough food or water, or locks it up in a cage all day, chances are he will become a self-centered father and husband.

2. It is a symbol of commitment: Adopting an animal together is a serious thing. It shows that you are willing to form an emotional bond together revolving around another life. It shows that you are not intending on leaving anytime soon.

3. You are responsible for a life together: Caring for an animal the two of you both love is the first step to being accountable to someone other than each other. This can be the first step in deciding whether or not you want a family with this person.

How did your pet bring you and your love closer together? Share your thoughts below.

By Sujeiry Gonzalez

We’ve all had our share of bad dates. Even gorgeous celebrities like Katherine Heigl have dished on terrible romantic encounters. She admitted to once having an awkward date with a personal trainer, who not only gave her his headshot, but also shaved his legs. Total turn off!

My latest bad date was with a Miami artist who was new to New York City. I met him at Bryant Park and demanded dinner, as opposed to sitting on a bench with a basket of fruit. He obliged, and we ended up at BBQ’s in Times Square. As he discussed his career goals in a monotone voice (I thought I was on a date with Ferris Bueller’s English teacher), I realized I was on yet another bad date.

So, what can we do in this common situation? For my survival, I decided to find the funny in the ever present bad date. Here’s how you can, too:

Related: Spring Cleaning: 5 Types of Guys to Dump

1. Imagine yourself on a deserted island.

If you picture this, you can appreciate your date’s company even when he chews with his mouth open. Besides, wouldn’t you rather have someone to laugh at with than be alone?

2. Chow down as if you’re with a girlfriend.

You don’t need to impress a bad date, so why not unbutton your jeans and order a real meal? On my date with Miami Monotone Man, I ordered a quarter chicken, French fries and a piece of warm cornbread. Leave the salad for the one you want to impress!

3. Drink yourself into a tizzy.

Drinking will make your date seem funnier, hotter and much more pleasant. When he slurps his soda, slurp your drink. When he picks up his cell phone to text, take a shot. It’s like your very own drinking game! That said, don’t let it get too out of control. Bad decisions, anyone?

4. Make a mental list of things to tell your friends.

This won’t be difficult when you’re on a bad date. Just make sure to jot down what’s funny. You could focus on the bad, but that’s less challenging. Plus, what fun is that?

5. Test out different dating techniques on your bad date.

You’re already out, so why not use him like a guinea pig? You can flirt in different ways or ask questions you wouldn’t dare ask a man you want to impress. This experiment can be a fun twist to a dud of a night.

Related: Five Conversations to Avoid on the First Date

Next time you’re on a bad date, remember that it’s supposed to be fun even when you’re not hitting it off. Try these tips and have a laugh while you’re out with Ferris Bueller’s English teacher.

Sujeiry Gonzalez, often referred to as the “Latina Carrie Bradshaw,” is a funny and vibrant relationship (non)expert that tells it like it is – with just add a little more sass, a lot more Bacardi and ton of laughs. Recently she penned her first book,  Love Trips: A Collection of Relationship Stumbles, a poignant and witty collection of personal essays in which she chronicles her relationship stumbles.  For more information on Sujeiry Gonzalez, visit lovesujeiry.com or lovetripsbook.com.

Half of Hollywood’s hottest pair, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, attended the Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday. Pitt was there, and he took the time to discuss his recent engagement to his leading lady. According to People, Pitt said the engagement was “something that made sense.” Although the actor was in France to promote his new gangster movie, Killing Them Softly, he also put to rest a rumor that he and Jolie were planning to marry in August. Pitt concluded, “There is no date. We’re still hoping for marriage equality in the United States before we get married.” With that said, Hollywood may just have to wait a little longer for the Jolie-Pitt ‘I do’s.’

What are some ways to tell it’s time to pop the question?

Cupid’s Advice:

Engagement is one of the most important steps in a relationship. The biggest question is choosing when to make the move. Here are some tips to avoid keeping her waiting:

1. Constant hints: If a girl is ready for that next step, she will let you know. She may start to discuss her dream engagement ring or a recent friend’s wedding.

2. Talk of the future: If your significant other always includes you in her future plans, it may be time to take the next step. The word “our” rather than “my” may mean a lot more than you think.

3. 100 percent commitment: If you are crazy in love, completely faithful and can’t imagine being with anyone else, show her you want her in your life forever.

How would you show your man you’re ready for him to pop the question? Share your ideas below.

By Dr. Tranquility – Lydia Belton, PhD, Ct. H.A.

Everybody experiences some anxiety in dating, whether it’s simple butterflies or anticipatory anxiety. Even a super stars like Russell Brand believe that we can find our soulmate and learn to relax through meditation.  Meditation and relaxation exercises, major areas of my practice, all help to reduce anxiety. But for most of us, all we need is to follow a few simple steps to have a stress-free experience:

Related: Reduce Stress and Maximize Romance

Step 1: Prepare. If this is going to be your first date, take time for a “get to know you” phone call before you set out. Find out what hobbies your date enjoys, whether or not their primary focus is work, and explore common interests. Bring up current events and ask for their opinion. This will stimulate conversation on the date and allow you to get to know one another better.

Step 2: Plan Your Outfit. Ladies, you will feel much better if you are not hiking in stilettos. Guys, wouldn’t it be great to know that you are going to need a tie and coat before you get there?  We all like a surprise, but let’s get real. Jennifer Lopez always knows where she is going and how to dress appropriately. You will both have a much better time with each other if you’re comfortable.

Step 3: Be Confident in You. People who are confident and comfortable in themselves are attractive, because they are at ease  – not stressed!  So, take the time to be comfortable and confident; give yourself time for hair, make-up and nails. Pick out what you are going to wear in advance, and make your favorite outfit suitable for where you are going. The same thing goes for the guys, as both of you should amaze each other. Have fun channeling your inner Brad Pitt or Angelina Jolie.  It’s better for both of you when you feel as good as you look! Here is a little secret: have some strawberries and a bit of chocolate before you go, because they kick up the positive-relationship-brain chemistry, and your date will notice it in your eyes.

Related: Relax With a Spa Day at Home

Step 4: Just Breathe. Dating with tranquility means dating without stress. This really comes down to a little pre-planning, a bit of self-confidence and investing some time. Is your date the person you’ve been searching for, or maybe the person with whom you’ll spend the rest of your life? It’s too early to tell, so relax and have a good time. As they say, there are plenty of fish in the sea, so allow yourself to live in the moment and remember – you are wonderful.

Developed by Lydia Belton PhD, Ct.H.A. of DrTranquility.com, Date Therapy® is an effective protocol that helps people get in touch with their criteria for an ideal mate. DrTranquility’s protocols® have been featured most recently on Forbes.com & Yahoo, ABCNEWS.com, ABC’s the View, KISS FM, CupidsPulse.com, Metromix for the Chicago Tribune, British Glamour, REDBOOK, Cosmopolitan Magazine & promoted by Match.com.

Season 8′s Bachelorette Emily Maynard recently talked about her tough decision to send home hopeful bachelor, Joe, in her blog for People. Maynard discussed her date with Joe, mentioning how fun of a time she had with him. However, she said, “I knew that we were just in different place in our lives.” So, even though she had a blast with fun-loving bachelor, she knew they weren’t a good match and let him go.

How do you know when to cut ties early in a relationship?

 Cupid’s Advice:

1. Know both of your intentions: If one of you is just looking for someone to go on dates with and simply keep them company and the other wants marriage, that’s an issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Like Emily Maynard, you have to recognize when the person you’re dating is in a different place in their life than you. You can’t keep a relationship going if the two of you have battling goals.

2. Don’t make the same mistake twice: If you notice something that your new lover does that ruined your relationship, talk to them and see if this is a problem that can be fixed. If not, it might be time to cut your losses. There’s nothing worse than repeating a bad relationship.

3. Accept that not everyone is your perfect match: Too many people cling to a relationship even when it isn’t working just for the sake of “seeing how things play out.” If it isn’t working now, chances are it won’t work in the long run. Why waste your time?

How do you know when it’s time to cut your losses on a new relationship? Share your stories in the comments below.

What are some cultural date ideas?

Cupid’s Advice:

Spend some quality time with your loved one while getting a taste of culture at the same time. Here are some ideas for a great cultural date:

1. Attend a festival: Look up some great cultural festivals. You’ll probably meet a lot of great people together, as well as get a chance to experience a little bit of another culture.

2. Eat at an ethnic restaurant: Literally get a taste of another culture by going to a foreign restaurant and try all the different foods.

3. Take a trip: Instead of choosing somewhere close to home for your next vacation spot, take a trip somewhere unique. There’s no better way to experience another culture than by actually visiting the country.

What are some ideas you have for a cultural date? Share your ideas below.