Dating 101: My Own Perspective

A couple of years ago, my aunt has bugging me to date this one person she knew from a friend.  It was really hard for me to agree because I really don't like dating strangers.  But since she is my favorite aunt and I am her favorite niece, I let her set up this date agreeing that it won't be just the two of us.  She and some other friends will have to come! Har har har! (So it wasn't a date actually...it's more like a typical night out with family and meeting new people kind of date).

On that night, we went to a bistro bar to see acoustic band playing and have some nice dinner.  Also, my aunt wants to show me off and have me sing a song on-stage.

We ordered crispy pata, fries, pizza, chicken, beef salpicao and some other appetizers.  We ordered ladies drinks and beers.  We also had free shots from the bar because we knew the bartender that night.

While waiting for the food we ordered, I was finally (formally) introduced to that person my aunt was talking about.  He is a Filipino-Australian Citizen, divorced, not so old, with long hair.  He was wearing "porontong", t-shirt and slippers.  At my first I thought, is this the guy my aunt wants me to date??? I have no problem with his outfit, but OMG, he didn't even put some effort to impress me.

We sort of talk about things but not a lot because the band playing is kinda loud (thanks to that! one reason to not have a long conversation with him. hehehe...sorry, I was not really interested to the guy.)

When the food was served, I was relieved because then, mouth will be busy eating than talking.  The next moves he made was really a shocker to me!

The waitress  served the food with serving spoons in it.  Then I saw him getting his fork and put some salpicao on his plate.  After finishing the salpicao, he put the fork in his mouth, lick it to clear the food residue and then use it to get another food! Dear Lord! This guy doesn't know how to use serving spoons!

Right at that moment, I lost my appetite and just drink my Tequilla Sunrise.  I watched the band and became busy counting the clock hands and wishes the night to end!  On the process, I noticed also that his fingernails were dirty.  Lucky that it is my aunt who introduced me to him.  I have so much respect to my aunt.  If it was one of my friend's idea, I would've kick my friend's ass to the point that she won't feel anything but pain for weeks!

Glad that the worst night out was over.  After that night, the guy kept in touch with my aunt asking if we could have another date.  This time...I said NO! I told my aunt that I would hate her and will not be my favorite aunt if she forced me to go.

That guy is history!

Now, for you to be able to avoid that kind of dating nightmare, I have some dating 101 to share to have a not-so-perfect but wonderful date with someone specially for those who are going to have their first dates.

Number 1: This applies to both person whose going on a date.

     >Put some effort to impress your date.  Put on some nice dress or clothes but do not overdress.  In my own opinion, your physical appearance gives another person an impression of what kind of person are you.  It will show your personality.

For men, get a clean haircut or put on some gel so that hair won't cover your face.  For women, you don't need to go to the salon to have your hair fixed.  Just a simply pony tail, hair clip or let it down not covering your face.

Fingernails! Cut your nails dude! You don't need to get a manicure-pedicure. Just keep it clean.

Put on some shoes.  Don't go on a date with your slippers on! Come on! It doesn't matter if your wearing Havaianas...shoes is much preferred by ladies!

Number 2: Be A Gentleman/Gentlewoman

     >Nowadays, the opening of the car door for the date, or the assistance in crossing roads, or pulling chair for her has not being practiced by anyone anymore.  Does anyone still know which side of the road should a man be when walking on the sidewalk with a woman?  Does anyone still know who rides first and go off first on a public vehicle? I believe, it was taught to us when we were in high school.  Review those lessons.

Number 3: Table Manners

     >Again, it was taught in school. Table manners.  The "how to use serving spoons", the "chewing without sounds", the "talking with your mouth full". The "leaving the fork and spoons together when done with your meal". Those kind of manners.

Number 4: Who Pays???

     >It is such a stereotype that men always pay the bill on the first date.  Who should really pay on the first date?  As for myself, I prefer sharing the bill or atleast offer.  Since I am no man, I would like to know men's point of view about paying.  Would it make them feel less of a man for that kind of gesture? I don't know...and I am willing to know more about it.

Number 5:  Kiss on a First Date *wink wink wink*

     >Would you or would you not...it depends on you girls if you would allow that.  As for me....NO COMMENT!!! HAHAHA!!!

The do's and dont's on a first date is actually given.  Nobody needs a reminder on what should or should not do.  But still, there are few who is so careless.  Dude! Come on!!!

First date is all about impressions and getting to know each other more.  This is where you are letting another person to take a peek of who you are as a person.  Remember, first impression lasts.  If you would show up on your first date with less care, the other person would see what personality do you have.  Yes, sometimes first impressions can be too judgmental, you would say, why change who you are for the sake of others? or "why would I care what others may think of me?" But let me ask you this...wouldn't you really care???

It's not easy to please everybody.  We can't change just because they asked us to do so.  But sometimes change is for the better.  We need to learn to adjust with our surroundings and with people surrounds us.  We don't want to push people away from us, right.  It sucks but..it is what it is!

Happy dating!

*Just shared this because I don't want you to experience such horrible date like i've experienced! peace!*