I think all little girls grow up with preconceived notions of what romance should be.
We form those beliefs based on how we see our mothers and fathers interact, television and movies (skewed as they may be), and the world around us.
Since I grew up in a very affectionate household, it wasn’t unusual to see my mama and daddy openly express their love for one another. My sister and I used to squeal with delight when Daddy would spin Mama around in his arms followed by a romantic dip and a soft kiss.
“Kiss her again! Kiss her again!” we’d urge, amidst fits of giggles.
And Daddy would.
It was a scenario that was played out again and again during my childhood and one that I fondly remember to this day.
I knew even as a little girl that someday I wanted the same kind of love my parents had. The kind that speaks romance because of the strength of the foundation.
Being raised in a passion-filled environment fueled my belief in Cinderella and happily-ever-afters. Not only did I want to read (and write) fairy-tales, but I wanted to live the fairy-tale, as well.
Idealistic as it was, I believed it was possible. (And since my husband and I have been married almost 28 years, I’m not about to start thinking otherwise. I’m rather fond of my glass slippers.)
As I write, I consciously try to include elements of romance that would appeal to today’s women. I call it the goosebumps and Godiva factor. I’m not talking about the blow-by-blow, over-the-top love scene descriptions. Since I write faith-based romance, I’m referring to the more subtle, yet equally effective, descriptors: a tender embrace, a soft caress, the well-timed kiss. If done correctly, even moments of intense passion can be depicted without shocking language or mention of body parts. In fact, I believe it only serves to heighten the romantic tension when an author utilizes the less is more theme.
Naturally, there’s a vast difference between the newly blossoming love and the more mature, ripened-on-the-vine kind of love. In the preliminary stages of awareness, people experience a unique giddiness that’s unparalleled. Our senses kick into high gear then as commitment and genuine affection take root and love begins to grow. It’s a fun process and one that should include plenty of goosebumps and lots of chocolate. (I used the illustration of Godiva because it’s pricey and quite deelish. In other words, true love should know no bounds and it should never fail to satisfy.)
Granted, television and the big screen don’t often get it right where romance, commitment and marriage are concerned, but there are those occasional pleasant surprises. The Hallmark television channel often shows some of those. One that I thought they did a superb job with was The Magic of Ordinary Days, a wonderful movie adaptation from Ann Howard Creel’s novel. It’s the sweet story of Livvy Dunne who is forced into an arranged marriage during 1944 because of an unplanned pregnancy. It’s a poignant tale with just the right blend of humor, romance, and hope. (I believe Amazon still sells it online.)
Though life can’t always be a fairy-tale, and romance and love are rarely picture-perfect, I think it’s quite possible to envision our pumpkin as a coach and to realize that the possibilities are endless when God’s the one sprinkling the “fairy dust.”
******
What speaks romance to you?
Care to share a “goosebumps” moment? (G or PG only, please.)
Photo Credit: photostock/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Blessings Always,
Comments 10
Well told! My husband playing his guitar and singing Brown eyed girl to me, gets me all goose bumped up every time! 🙂
And less IS more! 🙂
Author
Jess, I love those kind of goosebump moments! I can just picture it. *blushing* Now, everytime I hear that song, I’ll think of you.
(Oh, and I tried to comment on your post again today. But you know the story. Blogger is not kind to me. For some reason, Blogger and WP just aren’t meshing. So sorry, friend!)
While there’s something to be said for the heady rush of early love, there’s much more to be said for the sweet fulfillment of a life-long commitment. I’m not super-romantic myself–it’s usually my husband who remembers our anniversary first. But when he says something meaningful to me, it’s as wonderful as the mushy stuff of young love. He recently told me, “With your hard work, you can’t NOT be published someday.” Those are words I won’t forget, b/c it shows that my husband believes in what’s important to me.
Author
Heather, what an encouraging thing for your husband to say! Just goes to show how unique our “love language” is.
I’m all about romance. I read it, write it, watch it, and–thanks to my wonderful Gwynly– live it.
The Magic of Ordinary Days is one of my all-time favorite movies. I own the DVD and watch it 3-4 times a year. It’s a sigh-worthy romance.
Author
Keli, I so enjoy your frequent posts on the subject of romance. I’d definitely say you’re all about the “goosebump factor.”
And Ann Howard Creel’s movie adaptation is certainly a gem. I’d heard talk of a sequel one day in the future.
I’m going to have to see this The Magic of Ordinary Days.
Lately, I get goosebumps when hubby calls me – out of the blue – at work. I’m so happy to hear from him while we are apart.
This year, we are married 25 years.
Author
Loree, congratulations! For our 25th, we spent a week in the Eureka Springs, Arkansas area sightseeing and soaking up the rich history. You must plan something special!
It’s so touching that your husband calls you “out of the blue.” Those are indeed goosebump moments.
I love Hallmark movies, will have to look for this one.
Author
Patti, you won’t be disappointed with TMOOD. It’s an uplifting movie perfect for the whole family. Enjoy!