Date Night

Date nights are usually defined by going out with some one you are interested in romantically or someone your are involved with already. Date nights can also be girls and guys nights out. But what do you call it when a girl and guy who are just friends decided to go out? Its a little unusual to see but in this day and age there are more people with friends of the opposite sex that really are just friends. Guys and girls who have known each other for a while that are other wise romantically involved that really just want a night out that has a predetermined ending. No awkward silences, first kisses or drunken mistakes, just a hug good bye and a definite call in the next 3 days. This is something that can be very tricky and must only be attempted by people who are friends all around (all people involved are already friends).

I call this the Friend Date. Having a night to just catch up with a friend in a setting that's not someones living room or a random party. And I know what many of you are thinking, and yes this will usually be your girlfriend/wife's idea but I promise it will be mostly painless and after the first few times you may begin to enjoy yourself (NO ONE SAY THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!). You may be worried that the first time around might be awkward and I'm sure at first it will be. Not knowing what to say or how to dress or even where to go so I have decided (with Dave's help) to make a list of rules that will hopefully help any of you who decide to try this a bit easier.

Friend Date Rules
1. Pick a place that is comfortable and affordable. You're not trying to get laid so don't break the bank.
2. Make arrangements to meet at the restaurant or if its 2 couples meet at one house go out from there. 
3. (ref to #1) dress casual. No plunging necklines or muscle shirts, just nice enough so your comfortable out is public (break out your dress sneakers guys!)
4. Paying is always awkward so "go dutch" or swap. "dutch" paying for yourself, and swapping is you pay this time i pay next time. Dutch is probably better for the first date because a second may not be in the cards. 
5. Conversation is going to be the hardest thing. And if you are friends that see each other often the normal talking about work isn't going to fly. Pick some topics on the drive to the restaurant and hope that it picks up its own momentum through the night. If it doesn't than talk about the food, or the weather and know that the second time around it will get easier. 
6.  The best day to do this kind of date is a week night. Usually no waiting, less traffic, and for those who drink better specials.
7. What happens after the date is all up to you. You and your friend may decide to hang out for a while longer if the conversation strays strong. Or you can meet up with the others and end the night together.




These rules are more guidelines than a defined code. The Friend Date has not been tested or approved by the FDA and will be used at your own personal risk. Because there is no label all use if off label and should be used with caution. Side affects of this product include: dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, deepening of friendship, anal leakage, and erectial dysfunction in men. Exceeding the recommended dosage could result in life long friendship, happiness, and/or brain damage. If this product has no effect try try again.