Samantha's Summer Couple Pick-Will They Sizzle or Fizzle?

Leighton Meester and Justin Long

The Gossip Girl star and funny guy were first spotted together in May, but now things are really heating up between the two! Sources say they have been spending a lot of time together in the city this summer; after filming, Meester has been spending her off hours at Long's apartment on the lower east side. The couple met in 2010 when Meester had a small role in the romantic comedy, Going the Distance, starring Long and Drew Barrymore, who he dated on and off for many years. Things seem to be going well for the two but how long will it last? What do you think? Will this relationship sizzle or fizzle?

Samantha's Book Pick-Steamy Beach Read

Overbite

Some of you may know Meg Cabot as the author of the Princess Diaries. But this summer, Cabot has a new book that is sizzling on the shelves. Overbite is the second book in Cabot's own vampire series. This steamy story is about Meena Harper, a mortal with the gift of knowing how everyone she meets is going to die. She is hired by a secret demon-seeking unit in the Vatican, along with New York City's most charming and attractive priest. However, Meena doesn't seem to trust him. As she begins to unravel the truth, she discovers her true feelings and the fact that she cannot resist vampires even though she previously swore them off. This book is filled with mystery, suspense and steamy vampire and human sex scenes that make Cabot's newest work a true page turner and the perfect summer read. Make sure to pick up your copy today!

Samantha's Dating Ponder-Can You Love More Than One Person at Once?

Whether you want to admit it or not, reality TV shows make for a great guilty pleasure during the summertime when a lot of shows are on hiatus. One of mine this summer is The Bachelorette and at the moment, all of America, or at least those who are watching it, is anxiously waiting for Ashley Hebert, the newest bachelorette, to give away her final rose in just a couple of weeks. Many sources have confirmed that she walks away from the show engaged, but to whom? She seems to have such a strong connection with all three of the final contestants; Constanine, Ben F, and JP. Is it possible to have such strong feelings for more than one person? It sure seems this way with Ashley as she thoroughly enjoys spending her time with each of the final three men. But, we all remember bachelor Jason who proposed to Melissa, only to take back her ring and reunite with Molly. My question is, is Ashley really in love with one of these men or is she just "in like" with all of them?? Have you ever been in love with more than one person at the same time? What do you think? Who will she choose?

Samantha's Movie Pick-Crazy, Stupid, Love

Crazy, Stupid, Love

Going out to the movies makes a great a date during these scorching summer days. Next week, a romantic comedy starring cutie Ryan Gosling, funny-man Steve Carell, Julianne Moore and Emma Stone makes the perfect date movie. The story is about Cal Weaver (Steve Carell), who seems to be living a perfect life until he finds out his wife, Emily (Julianna Moore), cheated on him and now wants a divorce. Cal then meets Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling), a successful player who helps Cal get back on his feet again. But while Jacob is supposed to have all the right answers, he finds himself struggling as he starts to fall in love with Hannah (Emma Stone), the one girl who resists his charm. This movie is all about the ups and downs of love and will have something that everyone can relate to their own crazy love-lives.

Samantha's Event Pick-A Taste of Two Forks

This past weekend, I attended the first annual Taste of Two Forks in Bridgehampton. The night was a sold-out success with over 1500 food lovers wining and dining on samples from more than 40 restaurants and 20 vineyards from across Long Island. The event raised money for Have a Heart Community Trust. With so many places from which to sample, it was hard to pick a favorite! But there were definitely some that stood out to me. Here are some of my top choices that you should try...

The chardonnay from One Woman Vineyards was rich and delicious. It would definitely be a great bottle to impress someone with on a first date or to romantically share with your long-time beau. The Beachhouse served a savory fish ceviche with a citrus sauce that gave it an extra kick and zangy flavor. The tuna tartare from Savanna's was outrageous and would make a great dish to share on a date. Dessert is always a favorite at any event and Nick and Toni's did not disappoint with their fabulous dessert selection. For those with a sweet tooth, Dylan's Candy Bar created a booth full of sugary delights to take home including large lollipops and plastic bags where you could grab your own penny candy selection to make your own goody bag.

The delicious food and drinks that were served all night gave people something to talk about and provided excellent icebreakers for all the single people in attendance. I saw lots of people mixing and mingling with new friends and old; you could tell that everyone was very happy with what they were tasting and that a great time was had by all.

Samantha's Dating Thought-Is living apart the key to loving together?

These days, more and more couples who are in long-term relationships are choosing to live apart even though they could very easily choose to live together. Think of Carrie in Sex and the City 2 when she thinks about keeping her old apartment just in case she needs some time apart from Big when he starts to get on her nerves. Sure, moving in together can be a powerful way to strengthen your relationship, but if you take this big step before you are both ready, you could potentially harm the strong bond you share.  If you are thinking of moving in, start slow; keep some toiletries in his cabinet or put some clothes in his own drawer and vice versa. This way, you can see whether the two of you are comfortable sharing the same space. Or, you can think about living apart and seeing if having your own space is the key to making your relationship last. There is no rule that says that you have to be a part of every single thing your partner is doing.

So, what do you think? Is living apart the way to keep a relationship fresh and long-lasting?

Samantha's Beauty Pick-Go for the Gold

This summer, smoky eyes are taking on a sun-kissed twist. Instead of using dark shadows to create a sexy look this season, use a gold shadow for a sultry daytime or evening look and you will attract all the men. This trend looks perfect on anyone on a date; the key is to finding the right shade for your skin tone. Ebony and olive skin tones are best paired with dark metallics similar to a bronze color while fair skin looks stunning in a light, yellow gold. Use a gold color to line just your bottom lid, highlight your brow bone or on your entire eyelid paired with dark mascara. My favorite is MAC's Goldmine. It stays on all day and night so you won't have to worry about reapplying. The best part is that splurging for this eyeshadow won't make a hole in your pocket. To really brighten your look, rub a little bit on your cheeks and lips to look extra healthy and beautiful especially when you are at the beach frolicking in the sand with a new love interest.

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick-Sizzle or Fizzle?

Everyone deserves to be happy and find love again after a tough divorce. Tiger Wood's ex-wife is doing just that. Elin Nordegren has been seen with a mysterious man but, now his identity is finally revealed...Jamie Dingman, a wealthy investor and son of a billionaire. Elin was spotted enjoying a cozy rendezvous with her then-unidentified honey at her apartment in Stockholm. A friend confirmed that Jamie has never been so happy and they have strong feelings for each other. Luckily, he isn't into golf! Do you think Elin has finally found somebody to treat her right? What do you think? Will this new fling sizzle or fizzle?

Samantha's Book Pick- Exciting Beach Read

Women, Work and the Art of Savoir Faire

Best-selling author Mireille Guiliano does it again with this insightful guide to navigating the working wold, living the life you want to live and cherishing every minute of it. Although this book is old, every women should pick it up and read it if they have not already. In this book, Mirelle draws on her personal experiences in the business world to give women realistic advice that will lead them to making work a part of a well-balanced life. With energetic and vivid lessons and anecdotes, she teaches every reader to identify her own passions, improve her communication skills and balance work with everything else to lead to a happy and successful life. The quirky stories and feel good nature of the book will leave you feeling happy with yourself and ready to conquer any challenges that lie ahead.

Samantha's Dating Thought-Avoid the Baby Blues

This past week, it seemed like every celebrity had a baby! Over the weekend, David and Victoria Beckham welcomed daughter Harper Seven into the world while Kate Hudson and finance Matthew Bellamy gave birth to a baby boy. Yesterday, Jewel and husband Ty Murray welcomed a baby boy named Kase. Of course, a couple is always so excited when they welcome a new child into their family, but what I always wonder is if they remember that they have to keep their marriage and love alive at the same time as they are adoring their new baby?? Here are a few tips so you and your honey don't suffer from the baby blues...

1. Plan multiple date nights. Leaving your newborn at home may be the last thing you want to do in the early months of giving birth. However, once your new baby develops some steady sleeping habits, take that time to do something with your honey. You don't have to go far or have an extravagant date; just get out of the house for a little with only the two of you. Make it a habit to have one date night a week, whether you go out to dinner, catch a movie or just take a stroll around the neighborhood, make sure it is just you and your beau. If you are nervous about hiring a babysitter, keep in mind that grandparents are always eager to take care of their new grandchild.

2. Take turns. It is important to alternate who gets up when the baby cries during the middle of the night or who will get to have their girl/guys night out each week. By taking turns, you will relieve some of the stress on your partner and vice versa. When you both feel more stress free and get an extra hour of shut-eye, you will see that appreciate what your partner has done for you, which will keep your marriage strong.

3. Help each other. Although starting and raising a family is hard work, there is nothing more enjoyable. Couples should work together to raise their family. Sharing this experience together will make you love and appreciate your partner so much more. You should do small things to show how much you appreciate your spouse-helping them make their favorite dinner, buy them flowers, write a card, etc.

4. Have fun with sex! Remember what it used to be like before the kids? The spontaneity and excitement of sex with your spouse? Well don't let that disappear! Keep things fun and alive. Just because the kids are around, doesn't mean you have to stick to the "same old same old" routine. If you are having trouble, get away for the weekend! Leave the kids with a babysitter and hit up your favorite weekend vacation spot with your honey so you remember what it's like to truly appreciate and love one another.

Samantha's Event Pick-Love Heals

This past weekend in the Hamptons was one of the biggest party weekends of the summer because Love Heals held their 12th Annual Benefit at Luna Farms in Sagaponack, NY. Over 600 people showed up including a host of celebrities, all to benefit this amazing cause. Love Heals, the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education, empowers young people in the fight against HIV. Since its launch, the foundation has reached more than 400,000 young people across the NYC metropolitan area. All proceeds raised at the event were donated to this cause to raise awareness and gather more people in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

The Coney Island theme had everyone involved in carnival-like activities like skeeball and ring toss where  gigantic stuffed animals were the big prizes. There was a photo booth set up by Patron which was my favorite thing of the evening because it made you look like you were on a roller coaster with people screaming in exhilation. Party hits spun by DJ M.O.S had everyone dancing the night away including Russell Simmons, model Hilary Rhoda and hockey player Sean Avery. The party was an absolute blast and Love Heals should be proud of all of the foundation's amazing accomplishments.

Samantha's Movie Pick-Friends With Benefits

Friends With Benefits

Most of the time, a "friends with benefits" relationship never works out because someone always ends up falling in love. One of the summer's most sizzling flicks follows just this story-line starring sexy duo Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis. The pair give it a go at this type of "no strings attached" relationship. The trailer and even the videos on the Friends With Benefits website will leave you laughing out loud, so check out this movie to see which sexy star falls in love with the other! Whether you are seeing it with a date or your gal pals, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Samantha's Dating Thought-Get Active Together!

Summer is the perfect time to do outdoor activities with your honey. And even if you are not  the "outdoorsy" type,  how about a round of mini-golf on a warm, summer night? Mini-golf is a fun activity for getting to know each other and catching up with your special someone, whether it is a first date or you are in a long-term relationship.

 If it's a date and you are a little nervous, bring your friends along; mini-golf makes for a great group date as well! It's okay if you aren't a real pro like Phil Mickelson at this game because your man will just appreciate that you are making the effort. Plus, the really bad shots make for some great laughs that the two of you can share all the way home.

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick- Will they sizzle or fizzle?

This couple fizzled once before but now they are at it again, in hopes of making it sizzle. Since their break-up in March, sexy stars Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel kept in touch, trying to remain on good terms. Well, now the terms are even better and the once 'off' couple is very much back 'on' again. Multiple reports say the couple is trying to reconcile out of the public eye. But this past holiday weekend, the pair spent quite some time together in Toronto, where Biel is on set shooting a new movie. Will they make it last this time? Or will their relationship fizzle out once more? What do you think?

Samantha's Dating Ponder-Does Fear and Uncertainty Make People Fall in Love?

Ever find yourself cuddling real close with your cutie when you're watching a scary movie? This could be because when people are frightened, they seem to bond and want to be closer to that special someone to seek protection. NBC is taking this dating thought to the extreme in the new series, Love in the Wild. This new dating show gathers 20 sexy and single contestants in the Costa Rican jungle in hopes to find true love. It is too soon to tell whether this new series should be set to automatically record in your DVR each week, but the concept is truly entertaining and really makes you think; does fear make people bond and fall in love? What do you think?

Samantha's Dating Tips- Your ex or not?

Rumor has it that Pippa Middleton and boyfriend Alex Loudon are back together after reportedly splitting shortly after the Royal Wedding in April. Have you been thinking about trying to get back together with your ex like Pippa? Here are a few tips if you are...

1. Don't fall into old patterns: Make sure you both really believe things will be different this time around and you won't fall back into old patterns. The last thing you want is for your relationship to be exactly the same as it was the first time you two were together with the same problems arising.

2. Take things slow: You can't rush love. Take things slow and don't hurry right back into a full-fledged relationship. There is a reason why things ended badly the first time around. Take time to work out all your issues so during the second go around, your bond will be much stronger.

3. Make sure you are getting back together for the right reasons: Think about the other aspects of your life and make sure you are getting back with your ex for the right reasons. Rekindling an old relationship will not solve all of your other problems. It is not beneficial to get back with an old flame just because you are lonely or because things aren't going well at work. Before getting serious, make sure you are getting into a relationship with your ex because you actually want to be in a relationship with that person and not for some other reason.