Before my wife and I joined the "lifestyle", we had some misconceptions about swingers and those with open relationships, mostly because of some really bad role-models for swingers and people who have open relationships.

What I didn't realize is that there would be moments of profound euphoric joy, excitement, and warmth from being "open", honest, and swinging with my best friend, my favorite lover, my wife.

For example:

The last time we were headed out of the house to play with another couple, the excitement was palpable. There was electricity in the air and we were both elated to be going somewhere together as a couple. This was different than our normal "out-on-the-town" date, this had a different feel to it that reminded me of something. As I packed a few things (condoms, strap-on, lube) it dawned on me...

The same areas of my brain that tingle when we travel, or are going on vacation, were humming. We were just going across-town, and yet it felt like we were about to get on a plane and fly somewhere completely new together.

Other moments have been talking to couples (that we'll hopefully play with soon) that enjoy the same entertainment we do. I'm looking forward to talking to new friends about music, film, tv...while naked, holding my wife after she's orgasmed for her 5th or 6th time.

While all of these things can happen without the swinging component, I do feel like swinging opens the opportunity to express yourself, enjoy more out of life, and really connect with other people.

What have you experienced in your journey?