Thursday, May 26, 2011

D.I.Y Dating Cocktails

Home for the Holiday

Don’t have a “boo” to call your own?  Well, then do the next best thing -- get a fill-in.  A visit home is, you might say, a moment of sexual opportunity.  You’re in town for the weekend.  He or she is available, and the sex is, well we hope, worth your time.

I always thought going home for the holiday was a time to visit friends and family.  However, I’m learning a new purpose.  It’s a long-distance version of a “booty call.”  But who, where, when?  It’s been so long! 

This D.I.Y Cocktail is for those singles that are visiting home for Memorial Day and in pursuit of the “Big O”!

The Ingredients
1.      Options: the ex, a friend, new acquaintance, former fling
2.      The Invite: call, text, facebook, face-to-face
3.      Passion Play:  flirt a little, play shy, be direct
4.      The Location:  your place or theirs, hotel, wherever you land
5.      The Vibe: get it and be gone, cuddle for a bit, stay all night and get more in the morning

Here’s A Possible Recipe:
A Friend, Facebook, Be Direct, Their Place, Get It and Be Gone

Tip: Hey, it’s ok if you’re craving an amorous encounter with a desirable playmate.  Have fun!  Enjoy yourself.  Remember, safe sex is the best sex!!!

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Follow That Single

Celebrity Dating Trends – Shagging the Hired Help

There are cheaters, and then there are philanderers who deceive in such a fashion that their infidelity is tailor-made for the gossip columns.  They are so blatant with their cheating and so obvious in their choice of accomplice, one can only assume that they wished to be caught.  Shocking and truly appalling don’t begin to describe the situations that have led these celebrities to be embroiled in scandal.

Nooners with the Nannie
Who:   Jude Law
What: Cheating on the Fiancée  
The tabloids went wild over the news that the actor cheated on his beautiful actress fiancée, Sienna Miller with his child’s Nanny.   The nanny blabbed all to the press, and soon after the scandal broke, Sienna ended the relationship.
Current Relationship Status:  Since the scandal, the two thespians have been involved in a recycled relationship.  They reunited briefly, but soon parted ways once again.  Currently, the twosome is off, but don’t be surprised if you see them out holding hands at a movie premiere.


Hiding a Love Child in Plain Sight
Who:   Arnold Schwarzenegger
What: Impregnating the Maid

The announcement of the separation of Maria Shriver and Arnold Schwarzenegger was not a complete surprise.  The stunning revelation in this tale of celebrity and politics is that a child was conceived with a household servant of 20 years.   Accusations have surfaced that this boy, now thirteen-years old, may not be the only illegitimate child that the Terminator has fathered.  If the reports are true, we may have to refer to Arnold as the Sperminator.
Current Relationship Status:  Arnold was in the midst of announcing his comeback, but due to personal matters, this tarnished star is postponing his return to acting.  Maria has hired a high-powered divorce attorney.  And another star-studded marriage bites the dust.


Who’s The Boss?
Who:   David Letterman
What: Sexual Relations with Female Staff Members
Still a newlywed, David Letterman announced to his Late Show audience that he was a victim of an extortionist plot, and then he revealed the reason for the blackmail.  He had been involved in affairs with various female members of his staff.
Current Relationship Status:  Dave’s wife Regina Lasko (ironically, a former Late Show staffer herself) requested a public apology.  David complied.  Addressing his wife directly,  he said, she had been “horribly hurt by his behavior” and stated flatly that his affairs “are in the past.”  He vowed to repair the relationship.  To date, there have been no additional reports or accusations.  We can only assume he is a man of his word.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Come Go With Me

Red Mapleååå½ out of 5
930 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 547-0149
930redmaple.com


The Scene:
If you’re not paying attention the classic gray stone entrance could easily be missed.  However, this posh Mount Vernon restaurant is packed with cosmopolitan ambiance.  The cocktails are refreshing and the tapas are a global-fusion of delectable selections.

The Vibe:
The Red Maple combines urban lair with sultry lounge.

Best For:
Close Encounters
Flirtatious Banter
Chic Night-Out

Highlights:
Happy Hour (Tues - Fri) – 2 for 1 Drinks & $4 Small Plates
Salsa – Tuesday Nights
International Dance Party – Wednesday Nights

Table Manners:
Service could be better.  The hostess was missing-in-action, but the wait staff and bartenders’ are cordial.

The Tab:
Moderate – The Spring Menu ranges in cost from $3 to $12 and drinks range $7 to $15. 

The food is tasty.  The service is adequate.  The ambiance, however, is off the charts mesmerizing.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Online Romance -- a 21st Century Scam?

With the emergence of the internet as a mainstream alternative to traditional ways for singles to meet, the customary parameters of dating are fading away.  Along with the expansion of the use of online dating comes the threat of being scammed.  I’m not trying to discourage anyone from using the internet as a tool for dating.  Instead I want to education you about possible frauds and prepare you on how to avoid them. 

As the number of users increase, there is an ever-increasing rise in the number of bogus profiles and romance scams.  A recent study on online dating statistics shows that over 163 million American singles are using online dating services.  In 2009, the Better Business Bureau received 2,660 complaints about online dating services, this number does not capture the countless number of cases that go unreported each year.  While you might be tempted to think that this couldn’t possibly happen to you, a look at the horrifying stories that are posted on the web daily of unsuspecting singles should make you reevaluate your level of vulnerability when it comes to smooth-talking con artists.  Here are three warning signs that you may be dealing with a scammer:
  • Presents model quality photos
  • Discusses the costs and requirements of a US visa
  • Claims any costly emergency, e.g. travel, financial, illness - these frauds will have you so convinced by their lie that you will offer the money freely.
The appeal of online dating sites is the implicit promise that they will do all the work when it comes to finding you suitable companions.  Rely on your instincts and common sense, if you decide to try an internet dating service.  Play detective.  Only use sites that are reputable, read customer reviews, talk to friends or family that have tried dating via the web.  Use the internet to do a background search on the people you connect with before the date.  Adequate research reduces the chance that your bank account will be drained and your heart broken.


Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Midlife Singles in Prime-Time TV

After the phenomenal success of Sex and the City, the small-screen has begun to show an overwhelming amount of love for the plight of the middle-aged single.  Before you can say “and the Emmy goes to” copycat shows popped up on network and cable channels.

Television heroes and heroines of singlehood are finally offering glimpses of a spectrum of middle-aged single experiences.  Current shows feature endearing divorcees, persevering single parents, life-long bachelors, and work obsessed cougars.  Television executives should be applauded for their decision to explore the bittersweet reality of living single in the midlife years.

Check out these shows with characters of distinction.

NBC’s, Parenthood, Sarah Braverman
Sarah’s a thirty-eight year old single mother of teenagers, a son and daughter.  Her divorce from a rocker husband leaves her in financial distress, and she moves in with her parents.  The show delves into her attempts to mend a broken relationship with her out of control daughter, and her reinvention from bartender to playwright.

TNT, Men of a Certain Age, Terry Elliott
This struggling actor/temp is in his late 40’s and is the quintessential bachelor still waiting for his big break.  Terry is the classic commitment phobe when it comes to relationships with women -- as demonstrated by his involvement with a steady stream of twenty-something beauties.  Yet, he is totally dedicated to his longtime male friendships.

TNT, Southland, Detective Lydia Adams
Detective Adams is in her late 30’s, an outstanding investigator who is totally dedicated to her job.  Her priorities are clear -- she serves, protects, and seldom dates.  However, priorities shift dramatically when she starts secretly dating her partner’s twenty-three year old son.

The rules of the dating game have changed drastically, especially for those in the “prime” of their lives. As middle-aged singles begin to redefine themselves and their personal commitments, television is finally starting look beyond the fairytale and tell their extraordinary stories.

Friday, May 6, 2011

Come Go With Me

Crush åå½ out of 5

510 East Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21212
(443) 278-9001

The Scene:
With its glass windows and contemporary decor, Crush, located at Belvedere Square, offers an attractive and appealing environment, even if its menu and service are somewhat uninspired.  On arrival, you have your choice of seating.  The bar is visually attractive and very open.  Downstairs seating offers a private retreat.  For the bourgeois, the upstairs seating has an upscale feel to it.  The drink and food menu don't offer any surprises, but there are a few delectable choices e.g. shrimp & grits and beef filet.

The Vibe:
The atmosphere is stiff depending on the night you visit.  On the other hand, spring and summer months bring a lively ambiance.

Best For:
Drinks & Conversation

Highlights:
Brunch – Apple and Red Velvet Cupcakes
Prix fixe (3) courses for $37

Table Manners:
The hostess’ greeting was warm and inviting.  The bartenders and wait staff, however, aren’t attentive.   At times, it feels as if they have forgotten you (and it’s not because they’re busy with other customers).

The Tab:
Pricey - An entrée will cost anywhere from $28 to $45, and the drinks range from $8 to $15.  Certain entrees are tasty, however, they lack interesting presentations.   If you want to see for yourself, I suggest trying it out during Restaurant Week.

Food, drink, and service is mediocre.  The desserts, however, are absolutely scrumptious. 

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Hit The Spot Solutions

There’s a line from the song “Melt My Heart to Stone,” by Adele, says, “And I hear your words that I made up/You say my name like there could be an us/I best tidy up my head I’m the only one in love.”  It’s difficult to admit that the person you deeply desire doesn’t desire you.  It’s never easy to accept rejection.  When someone’s words and actions indicate that they are not interested, there are only two healthy choices – attempt to remain friends or move on.  And remember “love less, date more.”

Q. I am a 44-year-old father of two and I want to be married.  I have a female friend that I have known for almost 10 years.  My friends and family are convinced that she is the one. I also believe that we would be good together.  However, she has rejected my attempts to turn our friendship into a relationship.  What can I do to convince her that we would be good together?

   A. If this woman said that she doesn’t want to pursue a relationship with you, there is nothing that can be done.  When we choose to listen to what you want and not what the person is saying, you will run into all kinds of emotional problems.   Why would you want to be in a relationship with someone that doesn’t want to be in a relationship with you?  You should move on and find someone that has similar feelings and relationship goals.  In your case, remaining friends with this woman is not a good option.  Clearly your feelings for her will interfere with your moving on and establishing another relationship.  Besides, your future mate will not likely accept your “friendship” with this woman.

Q. I am 38-years-old, recently widowed, with no children.  I recently reconnected with a former lover.  When we were involved years ago, he was married, and he still is.  As far as I can tell, he has no plans for a divorce.  This was the main reason that I married my husband.  Now, that he has returned to my life, I have enjoyed having a companion again. But am I setting myself up for disappointment?

   A. The short answer is “YES.”  You said it yourself -- he has no plans to leave his wife.  Coping with a loved one’s death is never easy.  If you are having trouble managing the loss, you should seek counseling or join a support group.   It’s natural to want to fill that void with someone familiar, but being with someone who is married will hurt more than it will help your already fragile state of mind.

Don’t be afraid to date again!  If possible, change your routine.  Place yourself in situations where you will go to new places and meet new people.  Get comfortable initiating conversations with men and women.  Recognize that people, places, and things that you enjoyed as a couple may not help you develop a new routine as a single.  Most importantly, avoid dead-end relationships.  While they may provide a temporary reprieve from your grief, they will only lead to heartache and disappointment.

Friday, April 22, 2011

D.I.Y Dating Cocktails

Peace Out! Predicament

Someone didn’t get the memo that this was meant to be a date.  You endure thoroughly disrespectful behavior – lateness, foul language, flirting with the wait staff – all around deplorable.  Has this every happened to you?  Even more surprising is if this behavior is exhibited by someone you know, or at least, thought you knew.  Obviously, you would want to scream or hit something!  And who would blame you?  But, remember that it’s a date, and we are not immune from bad behavior, this can happen to anyone.  Luckily, if this should happen to you, my advice will allow you to plan a free-as-a-bird getaway.

The Ingredients

1.      Essentials:  bad behavior -- foul language, unwanted sexual advances, wandering eye, intrusion by your date’s past or present friends or lovers, texting/talking on the cell, drunkenness
2.      Timing:  lateness with no excuse or apology, no-show
3.      Who’s joining you for this date: new acquaintance, friend, former or current sexual partner
4.      The atmosphere:  awkward silence,  uncomfortable, tense, distant
5.      Interaction with each other: combative, utter silence, annoyance
6.      Avoiding a confrontation: honesty, make-up an excuse, get up and walk out, end the evening early
7.      Transportation: alternate transportation, extra cash for a cab,
8.      The getaway: friend-on-call, backup activity with friends, backup date

Here’s A Possible Recipe:
Wandering Eye, Unapologetic lateness, New Acquaintance, Awkward Silence, Utter Silence, Honesty, Cab, Back-up Activity with friends
Tip: When things like this happen the best refuge is people and places that give you comfort and allow you to re-group.  I do not recommend going directly home after a bad date.  Instead, shake it off.  Try venting to a good friend, or pulling up a stool at your favorite bar.  Dating disappointments have less of an impact mentally when you move on quickly and don’t allow them to fester in your psyche.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Come Go With Me...

Grand Cru  åååå out of 5
527 East Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21212

(410)464-1944

The Scene:
Grand Cru, located in Belvedere Square is a swanky neighborhood hangout spot for wine and beer lovers.  It serves up fancy small plates and even fancier cocktail concoctions.  Too trendy to be a bar, and too laid back to be a lounge, this place has upscale swagger.

The Vibe:
The vibe is a bit yuppie-ish, but the atmosphere is great for conversation and drinking.  The musical selections will range from WuTang Clan to Adele.  You can either sip indoors or outdoors.  But if you are looking to be in the fresh air, you better get there early.

Best For:
After Work Get-Together
Before the Movie Drinks
Blind Date Preview
Laid-Back Conversation

Highlights:
Great Wine Selection
Tastings
Creative Cocktails
Fridays during the Summer  - live music

Table Manners:
The bartenders are friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable when it comes to beer and wine selection. 

The Tab:
Moderate - The small plates and drinks are reasonably priced.  If you bring your own wine there is a $5 uncorking fee.

If you enjoy your liquor and a friendly atmosphere this is a neighborhood bar worth visiting.    

Monday, April 18, 2011

D.I.Y Dating Cocktails

Catching Up Over Cocktails

Reconnecting with a former love interest can provide a thrilling opportunity for sharing familiar memories while sipping a few cocktails.  For some, the reunion provides a chance to consider what might have been and decide if another go-round is worth it.  Fortunately, technology makes it easier than ever to reconnect with those from the past.

Undoubtedly, some will use this occasion to indulge in frisky, but hopefully not risky, sexual behavior.  But there are other options to this scenario -- new beginnings, closing that chapter, reminiscing about days gone by and handling unfinished business. Take a cue from a pro; this situation is all about timing.

The Ingredients

1.      Romance: green light, off limits
2.      Time: a quick drink, a few hours, all night long
3.      History: old flame, secret admirer, friends with benefits
4.      The location:  lounge, club, bar, your place or theirs, hotel
5.      Interaction with each other: strictly conversation, frisky, sexual, combination
6.      The vibe that night: not interested, wait and see, start off easy, time to make a move
7.      Finance: free, going Dutch, splurge

Here’s A Possible Recipe:
Green Light, All Night Long, Old Flame, Your Place, Combo, Make A Move, Splurge
Tip: Be cautious when reuniting with an old flame.  If you were emotionally, physically, or financially scarred because of the relationship, I strongly advise against the reunion.  Further, if it is not the right time, or you are not in a good “place” avoid the temptation to relive past mistakes instead of past glories.  If the prior relationship ended on good terms, however, then I say enjoy your night and safe sex is the best sex!!!!!

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Come Go With Me...

Mr. Rain’s Fun House  åååå out of 5
800 Key Highway
Baltimore, MD 21230

(443) 524-7379
mrrainsfunhouse.com

The Scene:
Mr. Rain’s Fun House, located inside the American Visionary Arts Museum (AVAM) is a magical feast for the eyes -- mosaic animal heads greet you when you first walk in the entrance.  Walls are painted in vibrant colors like pink and orange, and the aroma of fresh spices waft through the air.  The restaurant is just as it is named a fun house!   Foodies: you will enjoy this hidden gem.  The bold menu is extremely inventive and meant for those who have a unique palate.  The cocktails are referred to as “elixirs” and that is for good reason.  These drinks are otherworldly concoctions that are deliciously potent. 

The Vibe:
The vibe is quirky and unusual to say the least.  The food, the staff, the menu, the décor and the location is like something straight out of Alice in Wonderland.

Best For:
Evening Mischief
Whimsical Meet-and-Greet
Tempting a Tease
Private Moments

Highlights:
Cocktails on the Terrace – begins April 20th
Meet the Artist Series
Brunch

Table Manners:
The bartenders and wait staff are just as eclectic punk funky as the restaurant’s décor and extremely helpful when you have questions about the unique menu.

The Tab:
Pricey - The food and drinks are on the splurge side of entertaining, however lunch is an affordable option if you want a preview.

Mr. Rain’s Fun House is fun, funky, and a total culinary experience, if you are looking for something completely out of the realm of mundane dining.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011


Follow That Single!
Celebrity Dating Trends - Cougars
These cougars are likely to have fun and garner lots of attention because of their good-looking companions.  When seen in the arms of a younger man, there is no need for shock and awe.  They are simply flexing their dating muscles.  And why not, their male counterparts have been doing it for centuries.  Ladies, if you do decide to become a cougar to a cub find someone that will not only lift your spirits, but one who is a brilliant compliment to your effortless elegance or ferocious fearlessness.

AVOID
Who:   Linda Hogan
What: Girls & Their Boy Toys
Linda Hogan and Charlie Hill
After finalizing her divorce from wrestler Hulk Hogan, how did this cougar celebrate?  She paraded her 19-year-old boyfriend in front of the paparazzi.  The sorted details of the marriage, the divorce, and the new love were played out like a soap-opera for the media. The boyfriend a former class-mate of her daughter Brooke is living quite lavishly thanks to the former Mrs. Hogan.
Why: There is a right way and a wrong way to show off your newly single crown.
If you feel the need to flaunt your new love than do it, but not at the expense of others, especially your children.


EMBRACE
Who:   Janet Jackson    
Janet Jackson and Wissam Al Mana
What: The Pop Star & the Billionaire
Ms. Jackson has an eclectic list of exes:  Jermaine Dupri, Rene Elizondo, James Debarge, even a rumored brief affair with Justin Timberlake.  And we know how most of these ended.  Let’s hope she’s finally met her match with Billionaire Wissam Al Mana.  He is fine, 10 years her junior, and seems to treat her with the respect that she is due.  Not bad for a 45-year-old Diva!
Why:  Regardless of the missteps in your past, stay hopeful.  Given time and clarity there will be someone who will bring the pep back to your strut and the smile back on your face.


EXPLORE
Who:  Madonna
What: The Classic Cougar
Madonna

At the age of 52 this mega superstar is the mother of reinvention -- not only does she take risk with her career, but her love life gets a rebel make-over as well.  The latest young one to grace her list of paramours is 24-year old French break dancer Brahim Zaibat.
               Why:  In the end, it all boils down to living and loving the way you choose to -- don't let others dictate when, how, and who to love.  If you natually accept your choices to date outside the boundaries of age so will others around you. 

Friday, April 8, 2011

Hit The Spot Solutions

Many midlife singles want to date, but between raising children or busy careers most are convinced that they don’t have time to date.   Some singles aren’t sure how to approach dating or where to turn for help.  To make the most out of your super sexy single life, check out my expert advice and remember “love less, date more.”

Q. I have tried on-line dating with very little success, and now I am considering the assistance of a matchmaker.  Are matchmakers worth a try?
  A. It sounds to me like you are having trouble finding your dating niche; i.e. an approach that is well suited to your interest and social nature.  Are you dating for recreation or to find a mate? 

One of the main reasons I created the Dating Cocktails blog was that I felt that a lot of singles were being left out of the discussion.  Singles have varied reasons for dating, and all should be included in the conversation.  All daters should be able to carve out their own paths for happiness and find the best ways to showcase their personalities.

The main goal in using a matchmaker is to find love, possibly marriage.  They can be extremely pricey, ranging from $100 to $6,000 or more, and there are no guarantees that you will find the perfect mate.  So do your research and interview a few before you decide to use one. 

If, however, your main objective is casual dating, then forgo the matchmaker, save yourself the extra expense and try an interactive ice breaker party for singles, i.e. speed dating, lock and key parties, or join a local meet-up group.  These events range in cost from $10 to $50 and are great beginner steps when it comes to the dating process.

Q. In addition to running a successful business, I’m a single mother of 9-year-old twins and a toddler.  I just started dating again, but I’m having difficulties finding time to date when I already have an extremely full schedule?
  A. The simple answer is to closely examine your schedule for times to carve out an hour or two for dating.  Take advantage of the flexibility that comes with owning your own business.  Just as you schedule important events for your business, schedule important events for your dating life.  Abandon the misconception that dating opportunities just happen.  You have to be available for them to happen.  If it’s important to you, plan for it so that it accommodates your business and your children.  Consider non-traditional dating hours.  For example, if you work evening or weekends, you may need to look at early morning or mid-day for dating.  If you work a more traditional 9 to 5 schedule, lunch or happy-hour dates would work best for you.  Don’t be shy about calling in a favor from a relative or friend who’s willing to baby-sit or if necessary pay for childcare.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

D.I.Y Dating Cocktail

Nightlife Oasis

Dancing the night away and getting my drink on at a club used to be the perfect idea of a fun night on the town.  However, there comes a time when what was once an exciting nightlife, just isn’t as much fun as it use to be.  The crowd isn’t as lively, available cuties are nonexistent, and the DJ isn’t rocking any good booty shaking music. 

So, why has something that use to bring so much pleasure lost its zest?  Turns out it’s not the club, it’s you!  It isn’t that times have changed, it’s the fact that you have.  The key to getting your groove back is reinterpreting your new idea of fun to match the lifestyle and attitudes you currently possess. The flavor of fun is so much sweeter when you know what activities satisfy your appetite!


The Ingredients
1.      Figure out the essentials:  music, dancing, food, alcohol or all of the above
2.      Then factor in time: early night, late night, after hours
3.      Whose joining you for this outing: solo, friends, acquaintance
4.      The atmosphere:  lounge, club, restaurant, outdoors
5.      Interaction with others: yes or no
6.      Your personal vibe that night: lively or subdued
7.      Finance: free, bargain, splurge

Here’s A Possible Recipe:
Music, After Hours, Friends, Outdoors, Yes, Lively, Free

If you live in the Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia area try The Vigil (All Night Music Festival), Friday April 8th, 8pm to 7am outdoors at Maryland Institute College of Art.  FREE EVENT fyi.mica.edu/event/the_vigil

Tip: If you plan to pull an all-nighter, wear the proper clothes and shoes, bring snacks and water, bring a chair, and charge the cell.  If you’re looking to mingle, have quick, easy, on-the-spot hygiene boosters – e.g. hand sanitizer, wipes, single-use toothbrushes, breath spray, gum and mints.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Hit The Spot Solutions

People often fixate on the wrong things when planning a date, when all that matters is that you show up to have a good time.  Often it’s the novelty of the location, the small details like opening the car door, and stimulating conversation that make for a richer experience.  To reap the benefits of the Dating Cocktails method, add a little creativity, stir in some flexibility, avoid the madness and remember “love less, date more.”

Q. About a year ago, I lost my job due to the recession.  Is there any way for me to have a social life with the few pennies I still have left in my pockets?
  A. Definitely, all you need is a few hookups and a little research!  Check out the internet and the local city paper for free events in your area.  If you are looking for cheap eats, timing is everything.

No frills dining – If Mother Nature is smiling upon you with great weather, take a drive to the farmers market, a festival, or visit a gourmet food truck. 

Concerts in The Park – You don’t have to pay top dollar to see an eclectic mix of national performers.  During the spring and summer months many cities will offer free concerts at outdoor venues.

Happy-Hour – If you desire fancy fare cheap, then visit the trendier restaurants during happy hours (usually 5pm to 7pm).   Appetizers and cocktails are usually 50% less than what you would normally pay.

Movie Screenings – Winter or spring, summer or fall, we all can enjoy the cinema.  Search the internet, call the radio stations, and look in the local papers for complimentary tickets for movie premiers.

Q. I have an extremely bad habit of talking about past relationships when I’m on a date.  I try to avoid talking about my past all together, but when the subject comes up and I hear the other person divulge personal stories, I feel obligated to share as well.  I think I say way too much because I never seem to get asked out for a second date. 

   A. You are not alone! I actually get asked this question a lot.  The best advice is to choose activities that aren’t conversation driven.  For example, if you are at a romantic dinner with low lighting and a quiet atmosphere, sometimes we feel the need to talk, and talk, and talk.  Before you even realize it, you have told the person all the dirty details that have led you to be single.   And on a first date that is definitely not appropriate!  Instead plan or suggest an activity that is interactive and busy.  For instance, many bars will hold game nights or try a pajama brunch.  Imagine rolling right out of bed and driving straight to breakfast, all the while still in your pj’s.  This comfy and deliciously themed brunch alternative is something fun that restaurants offer, you will be so busy participating in the festivities that you won’t even think about discussing the past