Dinner and a Movie Again? By Heather Jaillett
Are you tired of the same old routine first dates?
Need a change from the dinner and a movie routine? Why
not do something that gives you some insight into each
other’s personality and is interesting? Not that
I’m totally against dinner and a movie as a first
date or even a tenth date. There is the benefit that
you don’t have to think about what you’re
going to say next for at least 90 minutes (even longer
if it’s a Kevin Costner epic). I just think that
a change needs to occur when I’ve seen all of
the movies playing this month at the local megaplex.
Another downside to dinner and a movie is that it can
be inconvenient for those of us who work the nightshift.
So I am offering the following ideas to inspire you
to get out of the dating rut, whether it’s your
first or tenth.
For the romantic, a picnic is an ideal choice as long
as the weather cooperates. For inclimate weather you
may have to get creative in your location, but don’t
give up hope. Traditionally, picnicking is something
that established couples do, but don’t be afraid
to suggest it early in your romance. In addition to
having as simple or elaborate meal as you choose, you
can bring along a Frisbee or ball to play catch. You
can also take a walk. For the less ambitious or weather
bound, you can people watch or share a paper (Sunday
papers work especially well). Another benefit is that
daylight dating adds a little bit of safety, and you
can always have an escape excuse if things aren’t
going the way you planned (Examples: I’m babysitting
for a friend, I’m having my teeth cleaned, I have
to have dinner with my parents – you get the idea.).
People also seem to be more honest about themselves
in the cold light of day, which is always refreshing.
Finally, there is the benefit that you can always continue
the date into the evening if things are going exceptionally
well.
Another great date place is a theme park. If you live
near one of the larger ones, like Disneyland, it can
be expensive. Call and ask about local resident discounts,
and if you have friends that work there ask if they
can get you a passes at a reduced rate. Don’t
overlook the smaller carnivals and festivals in your
area. It can be significantly less expensive and equally
entertaining. These sort of places have a little of
everything, so you should be able to find something
the two of you can enjoy. This is also a great choice
for that first date with his or her children.
Sports and hobbies are also excellent dating opportunities.
Are you a member of a club? Invite your next date to
a club activity. Mountain biking, hiking, in-line skating,
tennis, or any joint hobby can be excellent first date
material. They provide an activity that you both have
a common interest in. Also, there is no better way to
bring out the dark side of people than competitive sports.
Wouldn’t you like to see that up front? You can
also impress your date with your skill, or get a few
pointers from him or her.
The whole point though is to do something that is interesting
and allows for you to get to know each other better.
Even if you don’t click on a romantic level, you
can always have an enjoyable afternoon that won’t
leave you feeling like you should have done your laundry
instead.
Heather Jaillett is a freelance writer from Washington
State. After extensive dating she finally found her
soul mate. She still advises many on dating solutions,
and is constantly researching relationships and romance.
Exploring ways to add romance to electronic communication
is also another pursuit she enjoys.
Heather Jaillett writes for DrDating – a web
site for anyone looking for love online. We have hundreds
of articles, E-Books and links to some great dating
and love sites all over the world. DrDating also offers
reviews of some of the most popular dating sites and
books.
http://www.DrDating.com
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