By BARTON GOLDSMITH, Scripps Howard News Service

One of the most romantic things you can do with your partner is to surprise him or her and go on a one-night vacation. This is also something you can plan together, or you can take turns doing the planning if you decide you want to go back there again sometime.

When you have toxic people around you, it's hard to feel good about life. They tend to wear you out with their negative actions and words. Judith Orloff, M.D., author of "Positive Energy," describes them as "energy vampires." The term makes sense, since toxic people can suck the life out of you.

The diagnosis of a serious illness hits you and your loved ones like a fist to your heart. Shock and denial are common initial responses. Then the reality sinks in. There are going to be more tests, many more. Surgery could be part of the process as well.

Summer comes with its own set of problems. Kids being out of school and bored, coping with the heat, and the desire to take time off are just some of what we all deal with during this season. Here are a few tips to help make it wonderful as well as warm.

Many people mistakenly think that sex is the most powerful force pulling us into relationships. Science tells us that romantic love, a biological urge distinct from sexual arousal, is actually more powerful.

As our nation continues to melt down financially as a result of foreclosures and rising food, gas and health-care costs, millions of people are facing overwhelming emotions.

On this Father's Day, many people enjoy being able to celebrate the love and the lessons our fathers gave us. Even if, like myself, you were adopted or mentored by a gentleman who was not your biological father, the blood coursing through your veins was influenced by this man who raised you.

Much of what life and love have to offer may be old hat to you and your love. Here are some new things you can do to enhance your connection while having fun.1. Mirror exercises. Stand side by side and look into the mirror and simultaneously into each other's eyes. Mirrors increase light by about 30 percent, so you will see deeper into the soul of the one you love.

Communication is the greatest and perhaps least-used tool we have to connect with others. Here are 10 reasons we don't talk and how to make a correction when necessary.1. Actions that you don't agree with can be conversation stoppers. Talk about what you would prefer and try to find some balance and a way for you to get more out of what's going on.

I have come to the conclusion that, when it comes to finding happiness, I need to have four things in working order. Everyone's different, but here are my priorities. Perhaps they will help you discover and keep yours in order. I call them my 4H's.