Photography And Half-Thoughts By Mitchell Hegman

...because some of it is pretty and some of it is not.

Saturday, June 21, 2025

Practical Advice for People in a New Relationship

For no particular reason, I’ve been thinking about the struggles couples often encounter when first entering into a relationship. Specifically, I’ve been considering how grocery shopping together can solidify a couple’s bonds.

For example, if your new partner reaches for the bacon before you do, that’s a solid win.

I was dazzled the first time I shopped for produce at a grocery store with Desiree. She is capable of literally opening the plastic bags she pulls from the dispensing roll on the first attempt. That’s a remarkable partner right there.

Potato chips are tricky. You don’t want a partner who insists on a full-throated ban. But, at the same time, you don’t want to see the cart filled with chips. If you find that happy medium early on, you may be set for life.

When it comes to dessert, your ability to compromise may make a difference. You may need to trade raisins for coconut shavings. On occasion, you may need to accept sherbet instead of ice cream. Approaching this with grace may be a winning strategy.

The impulse purchase of flowers or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups to share provides a firm foundation for deeper commitments.

And if your partner doesn’t judge you for pressing every avocado on the display like you're interviewing it for a job, you may have found true love.

—Mitchell Hegman

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