How Not to Date

Thought I'd collect love karma when I arranged a blind date between my theater friend and my cousin. It was supposed to be an easy night. I mean, these kiddies were in their mid-30s already and were (probably) no strangers to these awkward social situations.

My cousin, a decent-looking guy (if I may say so), was looking for a date and a potential relationship. A friend, who is talented and pretty, belabored her non-existent lovelife. As I can truly connect with their plights, I quickly rang them up and scheduled a date.

Then comes the lesson on dating dont's:

#1 It is okay to have someone arrange your blind date. But for goodness' sake, don't bring the Arranger along.

Especially if it would mean an odd numbered group. I tagged along (yes, I know, I shouldn't have) but it was because of my friend's strong request to keep the date informal. But because I am the last person who would be smooth in these matters, I sometimes felt like a jewish matchmaker... (you know, my cousin is a singer blahblah... my friend is a great dancer... ). I am also grateful for my two lovies but when I am the person addressed by both parties, tis not good...

#2 The Arranger will not arrange the whole thing.

Yup, I coordinated the date like a meeting. Date, venue and activity. Even if this was effective, this was not a good way for the two prospects to get to know each other. I wished that I could've just given my cousin her number so he can contact her in his style. Also the Arranger, though armed with good intentions, cannot make up for lapses in her taste for movies.

#3 Do not pick a vague-titled movie like "Snakes on a Plane".

I take partial responsibility for presenting the movie, but the choice was left to my friend. You know that she's quite profound because she thought that the movie was about traitors in flight! I thought that the film would be a winner as B-movie gore is always entertaining (to me, at least) but my friend covered her eyes each time she would hear snakes hissing or slithering... Sayang naman ang movie ticket niya! What could have been shared sympathy for the poor pathetic passengers was lost.
Anyway, one good thing with this movie date was that I enjoyed it!

#4 Do not schedule a date with a sleep-deficient call-center agent.

That's my cousin. Although he tried his best to be valiant and carry an energetic conversation, alas, he was a bit low-bat and reserving his energy for his 1am shift. Also how can he communicate intimately when my friend was not looking at him!

#5 Eye Contact means a lot.

It just doesn't mean "I-cant-take-my-eyes-off-you" but it also means interest, however polite. I feel sorry for my cousin when my friend was not looking at him and addressing him as she told her stories.

I got a lot of dating tips alright. I just don't know if I will be able to use them though. But if all dates have "Snakes on a Plane" and salmon something as appetizer (at Segafredo!) in the agenda, then I can't wait!!! Bring it on!