The Dating Game

The Dating Game

So you’re in a bar and someone catches your eye. Wow, she’s the girl of your dreams! You begin chatting her up, and soon you realize you’re crazy about her. You want to get together the next evening and go out on a date.

No, no, no! We’re not talking about the fruit kind of date, or the what-day-is-it kind of date. We’re talking about the romantic kind of date. How do you ask her? Where do you go? Well, don’t ask us. It seems like hundreds of years since we’ve been on a date, and we’ve completely forgotten what to do. A date for us is a trip to the local supermarket. But our sources tell us there are many options to suit any pocketbook. How about cocktails at the local bar? Make sure you both have ID; you will probably be carded. How about a romantic stroll in the park? And, just to be on the safe side, make sure you know whom you are going with.

What if you never seem to meet anyone? These days, many people try dating services on the Internet to find Mr. or Ms. Right. Watch out for those blind dates, though. That 20-year-old stunner whose picture you saw may turn out to look more like your great-grandmother . . . or worse! Some people prefer to go on a double date at first until they feel more comfortable. Watch out at night; cougars could be prowling the streets! No, we’re not talking about a big cat that has escaped from the zoo. Cougars are older women looking for younger men to date. (We think men must have come up with that comparison, haha.) And for you ladies, sugar daddies are not giant candy bars. These are older men looking for younger women to date. Be careful that you don’t turn out to be some guy’s trophy wife. Some rich old men just like the idea of going to events and parties with arm candy.

For kids in high school, one of the most important and exciting dates is prom night. This is a special evening with a very fancy dance that has music and food. If you’re a parent, you’d better start saving. This can be an expensive time, with kids going all out to make it a perfect night. Girls spend lots of money on a special dress, a fancy hairstyle, and lots of makeup, and yes, some parents even rent a limo for the night. Here’s the funny thing about prom night: however carefully you choose a dress and do your hair, you can be sure that in 30 years you’ll cringe when you look at the pictures of yourself —and probably your date, too!

ALAN: Hi, Lia. What’s up?

LIA: Oh, nothing much. Just trying to get ready for midterm exams.

ALAN: Mmm. Me, too. I’m feeling a little stressed.

LIA: Yes! I can’t wait ‘til they’re over; then I can let my hair down a bit.

ALAN: Well, I could really use a break right now. Do you feel like catching a movie tonight? Crazy Weekend with the Zombies is playing at the multiplex.

LIA: Hey, that’s a great idea! I’m dying to see that. I hear it’s hilarious. Why don’t we grab something to eat beforehand? I’m sick of dorm food.

ALAN: Sure. How about if I pick you up at about 7? The movie starts at 8:30, and we can grab a quick bite before we go.

LIA: Sounds great! See you at 7.