Standing on the Edge: Planning My First “Proper Date”

Last night, I was texting with my new “interest” about possibly going camping with my sister and brother-in-law, Belinda and Brian.

He told me he didn’t feel comfortable meeting my family yet — not until we’ve gone on a proper date.

A proper date.
The words kind of stuck with me.

It made me realize… I don’t think I’ve been on one in over 25 years.
Honestly, I’m not even sure Kerry and I ever really had a proper date. Maybe that’s part of why things ended the way they did. LOL.

So here I am — trying to remember how dating even works.

Do I need to “play my cards right”? Plan something thoughtful? Something romantic? I even offered to pick him up at his place this time — since, up to now, he’s always been the one coming over to mine. Seems only fair to return the gesture.

But what is a proper date these days?
Dinner and a movie?
You can’t really talk in a movie — and I want to talk. I want to get to know him.

Maybe bowling? That could be fun. Or a concert? A play?
Hell, maybe I should bring flowers — that would probably shock him.

The truth is, I’m kind of enjoying this. The thought of planning something, of feeling those butterflies again.

I feel like a little schoolboy trying to plan his very first date.
And honestly… it feels kind of wonderful.

— Standing on the Edge