Of an Actual For-real Date

I debated long about this post. Since I am on a journey, I will be going on dates. Some will be really good and some potentially will be really bad. (who am I kidding - I only intend to do good dates!). I want to be able to continue to write about my experiences and learning.So, with the permission of the lady concerned, I am going to write about an actual for-real date with an actual for-real woman. I sent this to her to read and edit before posting it.The date was set down for Friday. In the week leading up to it I was in a planning headspace. I was considering options and ideas, thinking through every aspect. It was not a first date, but it was a first date date. What would be appropriate or inappropriate. What would work from a cultural perspective. Knowing as little as I knew about her and her family, what would she like? What could she eat? What gifts would work?I really wanted this one to be memorable both for her benefit and mine. So me being me, I went into complete over-thinking mode. And I loved every second of it.The only information I gave her ahead of the date was the time I would be picking her up and an indication as to what attire she would be comfortable in. I also had a bit of fun with planting suggestions: “so, do you like ice-skating?”. Yes, I am that childish.I evaluated a number of different restaurants. Assessed, considered and discarded. I went so far to the point of visiting them to have a look at their room, staff and menu. The restaurant I ended up choosing, by happy coincidence, happened to have an acquaintance working there who I suspect organised our table for me.The day arrived. I shaved my moustache off. Yes, for her. As I’ve noted previously, it was totally worth it. I arrived at her door at 7pm (punctuality is very important, guys), and she looked absolutely gorgeous. I gave her a gift - a Jo Malone candle - something small and memorable. I didn’t feel that flowers were quite right for this date.We drove in to the city and she still had no idea where we were going. I asked her if she enjoyed ‘Zorbing’... At this point in time she really had no idea of my sense of humour. Dress? Heels? Zorb? Not really ever going to happen. (well... maybe next time).We got to Hotel DeBretts Kitchen at 8pm. Our table was nestled in the corner for a degree of intimacy not available to any other diners. Nice! Thanks Sarah! I do recommend it as a destination.The meal was excellent but we were actually a little distracted. The conversation flowed easily and time passed quickly.I had planned a couple of options post-dinner which were dependent on how the meal went. Happily, the first option was the most appropriate.We got back to my apartment (yes!) where I had earlier prepared a platter of food - apricots, strawberries, dipping chocolate, bread sticks with olive oil, olives, cashews, blue cheese, aged cheddar and wine... a row of tea-light candles completed the scene.I have it on good authority that the date went well. The only thing I was disappointed in is that I ran out of time to get my car groomed. Guys, if you go out with a girl who likes you, they generally spend a lot of money and time on hair, makeup, grooming and clothes. The least we can do is clean our cars.I absolutely enjoyed the process of thinking about the girl and the date and planning for it, and then making it happen. I can’t wait until I get to do it again. What next? Such fun. Feel free to make suggestions!Simon.