Ryan ChartrandEveryone needs one. For those playing the game, it would actually increase the possibility of scoring. I’m not talking about an amazing jump shot, a gorgeous golf swing, or a 50 million foot vertical. What I’m referring to is something I would like to call a Handy Dandy Score Kit. In layman’s terms, it is a box, basket, or collection of things that could not only increase pleasure during an experience but create a much more romantic evening.
Personally, I tend to be a fan of romance. In fact, Romance and I are on a first-name basis. Friends would tell you that I am the largest sap in the entire world and never pass up a moment to say, “Aww,” when the opportunity presents itself.
This kit that I present to you is a list of items that a special group of people, along with myself, deemed worthy enough to share. If you use the items correctly, there is no way your partner, however tough or cool he or she acts, could pass up the “aww” moment. It is a demonstration of your romantic side as well as your capability to plan something out more than your weekly date with “The Office” on Thursdays.
Prepare yourselves, as I will be handing you the keys to the perfect evening. Just don’t forget the “Do Not Disturb” sign for the door.
The Location (a.k.a. the Bed)
This is quite possibly the most important item in the kit. During your evening of romance, I’m pretty sure your partner doesn’t want to engage in physical activity on bed sheets that haven’t been washed in months. If stains are visible, I suggest either changing them or at least washing them. Pretty much, the cleaner and more comfortable the bed looks, the more likely your partner will be comfortable. This goes for the rest of the room as well; even if your room is clean, five months worth of laundry in the corner is not going to do much for libido.
The Candles
You have the option of candles or incense. While candles present that more romantic, soft lighting, incense can provide you with a smell to raise your desire, excitement, etc. An important thing to remember is to not put the candles too close to your bed. In the heat of the moment, catching your bed on fire or spilling wax everywhere might not be so fun.
The Drink
To be used as a prelude to the sensual excitement of the evening, a glass of wine or champagne can be used as a first step in the right direction. Did you hear me right? I said “a” glass, not an entire bottle. A glass can loosen you up without leaving you feeling like you aren’t in control of what you’re doing. But it allows you to be more liberated but
still completely enjoy the love affair of the evening. Plus, it tastes good!
The First Course
Speaking of tasting good, having a snack to go with your wine as an appetizer to an amazing night is always a good idea. Some of the foods that can be seen as sensual and enticing include, but aren’t limited to, chocolate-covered strawberries and others types of fruit, such as grapes, chocolate, or something with whipped cream (DUH). If you pick a specific kind of food, you can incorporate it in your excitement. Such an example, though not to this extreme, could be the whipped cream bikini in the movie “Varsity Blues.” While maybe no one wants to eat that much whipped cream, in subtle, similarly erotic doses, it can be used for good. Just be sure to keep it away from direct contact with certain locations (you know which ones I’m talking about) to avoid any kind of infection.
The Music
Throughout time, music has been used to inspire emotions, bring back memories, or have some type of spiritual connection with people. Music can also be used as a backdrop for an amazing romantic, sexual rendezvous. I’m pretty sure none of you want to be enacting a fantasy and hear Hannah Montana, the Jonas Brothers, or even Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl and I Liked It” breach your iPod mix of slow jams. This points out that putting your music on shuffle is most likely a bad idea, and that creating playlists prior to the evening is a good one. Some music that would be beneficial to such a playlist could include Marvin Gaye, the classic Barry White, or anything else that’s slow and doesn’t distract from what you’re doing.
The Protection
You should know me well enough by now to know the importance that I place on safe sex. Having a stash in your room of condoms, latex dental dams and lubricant can ease your partner’s mind away from risks and towards fun. As a side note, even if you’re not currently sexually active, having a stash of condoms is always a good idea. They last for at least two years and if you don’t need them, you can share because you should want our friends to be safe too.
The Other.
This last category is the compilation of all other possible things to have in your kit to guarantee amazing lovin’. Ok, maybe not guarantee it, but pretty darn close. Extensions of locations include a possible form of light dimmers if you will not be performing the candlelight service, and a clean shower. A clean shower or tub is key as it would kill that loving feeling to see your partner’s repulsion and refusal to step into that mold infested thing you call a bathtub, though bubble bath could help to soften the blow. Other essentials include massage oils (can’t forget those) and mints for that kissable fresh breath. If you’re feeling more risqué, options such as a video camera, handcuffs, or a blindfold could become essentials to your kit for a good night in.
Overall, it comes down to you and your partner, and what your view of romance is. Don’t get me wrong, those nights of “I want you, I need you, I have to have you now” sex aren’t bad, and in some instances are actually preferable, but sometimes people just need a slow down to appreciate the amazingness of the person laying next to them. By putting the time in, it shows you care. And I promise you, the “aww” moment will turn into another exclamatory moment. and you will be repaid for all your hard work. Good luck!
Melissa Norman is a psychology senior and Mustang Daily sex columnist. You can contact her at cpbetweenthesheets@gmail.com.