Dating 101: The Boy Does the Asking

When I became single, everyone and their dog suddenly had "the perfect guy" to set me up with. Don't get me wrong, I HEART this! It's so much easier than having to get my own dates. Also, my dating experiences have made for some extremely humorous stories. I thought I'd share one with you today.

One of my dear friends and roomies from college, KEP, wanted to set me up with a friend of hers. We can call him Boy. KEP lives in Austin, but was in town to celebrate a friend's birthday. When I arrived at dinner, I met Boy for the first time. As we sat down, I tried to engage him in playful conversation, but he seemed tongue-tied. I completely understand this and thus didn't hold it against him. When I first meet people, I either overtalk or become mute - I probably implemented the former in this situation. However, as the night progressed, I found him to be a super nice guy, but the chemistry didn't really develop. Consequently, I didn't think I would ever hear from him again.

About a week later, he called and asked to meet up for drinks after work. We went to Benjy's for cocktails and appetizers and had a great time. (plug for benjy's pinnapple champage cocktail...its to die for). This surprised me after our first meeting, but hey - I'm game. For our next date, he took me to dinner at a great new restaurant in The Heights. The conversation flowed, we had many things in common, and he made me laugh. Laughter is key for me. The attraction wasn't amazing, but it was a great date nonetheless. I had no doubt there would be another - he even mentioned "our next date."

I never heard from him....but here's the clencher.

I ran into Boy at a party about a week later and he says, "Hey stranger, where ya been - I never heard from you." As the conversation progressed, I learned he expected me to call him. Direct quote from Boy: "I asked you out twice, I figured it was your turn to ask me." WHAT??? My mama taught me right....no calling boys. Maybe I'm old fashioned, but when dating someone - I want him to do the calling and asking, at least in the beginning. I'm pretty sure I'm not alone in this way of thinking. Don't get me wrong, texting is fine and I did my (appropriate) fair share to let Boy know I was interested.

Oh, and lest I forget to add, Boy is 31. This is not his first dating rodeo.

Anywho...the conversation at the party escalated into a bit of an argument (very wierd). After this, I felt 100% sure I would not be going out with him again. Honestly, this was fine with me. I had no desire to continue dating after being semi-yelled at by him. A guy who so adamently demands to be asked out is not exactly my cup o' tea. Sidenote: he was wearing acid washed jeans. Welcome to the 21st century! I think we can all agree: acid washed for men is a big fashion "don't."

Let's use our heads, gentlemen. Girls don't ask boys out. Any guy requiring this should re-think his expectations.

Next, please!

Love, Me

Ooh Valentine's Day. As Hallmark fabricated as it may be, I adore this holiday. Its not so much that I expect grand romantic gestures, but more the giddiness of the whole day - complete with all the chocolates I can consume (which is probably the source of my giddiness). And, who doesn't love a good prix fixe meal? Dessert included? Yes please!

I think its fairly accurate to say most girls love Valentines Day. Or, at least enjoy being told they are adored and admired by someone they care for. If you're not one of these people, perhaps you're simply not admitting it, all the while secretly wishing someone special would send flowers or a sweet card.

I remember the V-Day when I was a senior in high school. My sister was on the couch with her Dominos pizza while I primped to go out with my "very serious" high school boyfriend. I told her, with all the authority of a 17 year old, "You're single. This holiday doesn't really apply to you." Talk about arrogant big sister moments! I'm not sure she's ever fully forgiven me for so candidly pointing out her singleness. Sorry Squirt!

Earlier this week, I was beginning to feel the karma of that particular comment. This year, the holiday "doesn't apply" to me. No doubt about it, I would love to be wooed with flowers and a box of chocolates or maybe some sort of sour gummy candy, but alas I will settle for a card from Dad. (which I always love, don't get me wrong!)

I dutifully sent cards to all my friends and family members, but quite frankly- I'm not feeling the "love." While this was moderately depressing at first, I think I've gained a new perspective. Instead of wishing for someone else to say "Be Mine," I am saying "Love, Me." I intend on doing this in the form of a good bottle of wine, my own pizza, a girly movie, and a freezer full of frozen mini-Snickers. Who's jealous?

I feel peachy about this. I realized, I am happy just to be happy. I have amazing friends, a loving family, a job that pays, and some fabulous shoes to cap it all off. Its a warming thing to look up one day and find that right now, life is simply good. Other than the occasional lonely moment that comes with being single, I am perfectly content - flowers and chocolate be damned. There's no doubt Mr. Right will come along soon, but until I find him, it's just me and my wine.

Happy Valentine's Day to ME, from ME!!

Hallmark, where's your card for that?