Posts Tagged ‘Dating’
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Thursday, May 24th, 2012
Although the meaning of our flirtations might be the same, how we flirt has changed over the years. I used to get hand-written letters and poems on a daily basis back in middle and high school. Nowadays, sending a one-liner via text messaging is the most convenient method for people worldwide. And according to “flirtexting” experts, familiarizing yourself with flirting etiquette is essential since it is easy for text messages to get lost in translation.
For example, flirtexting is OK, but there comes a point when you should pick up the phone and call the other person if you’re interested in them. This was true when texting first hit the dating scene and it holds true today.
A tip for ladies is to avoid abbreviating words too often when you’re flirting with a man via text. Experts say too many ‘abbrevs’ can turn men off. In other words, know your audience and adjust accordingly.
Check out 10 signs that your date is a gentleman, flirtextiquette, sexting, deal breakers, game playing, do’s and don’ts for Facebook, and much more.
E-mail me your dating or relationship hang ups, anecdotes, and questions at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
-Katie
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Monday, May 21st, 2012
We’ve heard the cheesy pick-up lines such as, “Your legs must be tired because you’ve been running through my mind all night” and “Was your father a thief? ‘Cause someone stole the stars from the sky and put them in your eyes.” My friends and I heard plenty of one-liners on penny beer nights and at Breakfast Club back in college at Purdue University. They never worked on us, but we managed to learn a new line or two every week. (I suppose you get what you pay for. Now it makes sense why I never had a boyfriend during college.)
Flirting is playfully fun and marks the beginning of a romantic relationship. To take it to the next level, relationship expert, Rachel DeAlto, advises men to use the following five tips to flirt successfully.
First, initiate conversation. Flirting from across the room should only last up to one minute. Second, let her know you like her, but play a little cat and mouse game along the way for the thrill of it. Third, give your full attention to a woman when you are getting to know her. Listen to what she is saying and ask follow-up questions. Fourth, you may be successful and drive a fancy car, but stay humble. It is a complete turn off when men boast and brag about themselves. Lastly, ride solo. We know you love your friends, and one day we might too (hopefully)! Until then, keep your boisterous buddies at bay while we flirt. Otherwise, you might have competition!
Check out more pick-up lines at www.pickuplinesgalore.com. How successful or unsuccessful are you at flirting? What techniques work for you? E-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com or comment below.
-Katie
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Thursday, May 10th, 2012
According to USA Today (gathered from 2010 US Census data), “Among opposite-sex married couples, one in 10 are interracial, a 28 percent jump since 2000.” And percentages are even higher for unmarried couples. Our nation is a bigger melting pot than it was 10 years ago, and pop culture reflects it. For example, reality shows–”Kloe and Lamar,” “Ice Loves Coco,” Kendra”–increasingly feature interracial couples. Race lines keep blurring. (Side note: according to Census data, Arlington, Alexandria and DC account for three of the top 10 cities with the highest percentage of one-person households.)
“In my previous relationship, my girlfriend also received the same treatment that the reader is experiencing and she is also Vietnamese. What she did to overcome this problem was she offered to help my mom cook or chop onions or dice carrots. After we ate, instead of sitting there and hanging out with me she helped my mom wash the dishes to lighten her workload. When she started coming over to my house more often she would try to talk to her and ask her what she likes to do in her free time and get to know her more. By being persistent and helping around the house she was finally accepted and my mom adored her in the end. The most important thing was that she did not give up even though she knew my parents were not fond of her.” – Thien
“I am currently in an interracial relationship, and I have enjoyed it very much. We have been dating now for six months and this has been a great time for me. I haven’t had the problems that many people said I would encounter. Overall, I don’t really see a difference from dating someone of the same color compared to someone from a different color.” – Dilan
“I am and have been in a few interracial relationships. Some were trickier than others. I learned to learn about their cultures and abide by them. For example, my boyfriend’s mom is Polish and very traditional. Whenever I go to her house, I dress in ways that will please her, more reserved. I also offer to help prepare lunch or dinner, or anything she may need help with. I was the first girlfriend she liked. Be yourself but adapt to the place and the people you are with. That always gets you many points. And if it doesn’t work, just hope that by learning more about the culture and loving your boyfriend, his family will come around.” – M
“I have helped my boyfriend clean the house before. When I hang out with him at his house, his parents want us gone by the time they get home from work. They work at their shop most of the week, so I never get the chance to help cook anything. They don’t seem to want me there when they are home. His mother is also OCD when it comes to her kitchen. She does not like anyone touching her stove. She just recently started letting my boyfriend, who will be 20 this September, use the kitchen and do his own laundry. His mother is a little up tight and his father just goes along with her. So far the only people who seem to accept me are an aunt and uncle and some cousins.” – Crea Hope
Share your dating and relationship anecdotes, questions, and dilemmas. E-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
-Katie
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Monday, May 7th, 2012
Dear Little Red Book,
I have been with a man I met at our college orientation for eight months now. My parents and my little brother love him. This past Christmas I even had my extended family ask what he wanted for Christmas. Where my family loves him, his family has not yet really tried to get to know me. Except for about two weeks shortly after my boyfriend and I started dating his mother hated my guts, mostly because I am white (my boyfriend’s family is Vietnamese and Chinese). My boyfriend is nervous to leave me alone with them because he is afraid they will interrogate me and frighten me. Now his mother has stopped insulting me, but still won’t get to know me. His father asks my opinion on different cultural dishes I have tried; we talk very little but at least he tries to get to know me. His mother has many stereotypes for a white girl. How can I get them to not think of me as the stereotype and try to get to know me as me because I want a future with this man. - Crea Hope, 19
Matchmaker Kristen: Unfortunately, cultural differences can be difficult to overcome for some very traditional parents/families. Their acceptance SHOULD come with time. The more time you spend with their son, and they see you truly love him and he truly loves you, they should accept you. You can prove the preconceived stereotypes wrong through your behavior. I will say, your boyfriend needs to be a man, and has to stand up for you to his parents and not let them insult or interrogate you. If you two truly love each other, and want to have a future together, he cannot allow this behavior from his family. If he refuses to have your back in this situation, it can be an indicator of things to come. Something to consider…
Little Red Book: Many couples share your struggle, interracial or not. Parents envision a “type” of person they think their child should date, and your boyfriend’s parents may want him to date someone of the same ethnicity. Family is a special bond, and it is important that you keep the line of communication open with his parents and focus on your commonalities. For example, acknowledge them for raising a great son and explain how special he is to you. You will all agree on this. Further, don’t go empty-handed when you visit them. Bring a planter for his mother or a new Vietnamese recipe for her to try. You may even ask her if you could watch her prepare a traditional Vietnamese dish. This will show that you are interested in her family’s heritage. Always speak positively and avoid causing a division between your boyfriend and his family members (i.e. complaining to him about his parents). Negative talk usually never ends well and only places him in the middle.
Share your opinions and thoughts, readers. Provide Crea with advice. E-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Thursday, May 3rd, 2012
Reston, Fairfax, Arlington, Sterling, Vienna, McLean, Manassas, Chantilly, Centreville, Ashburn. These Northern Virginia areas all include dating hot spots. Readers say whether it’s a rainy day or you’re outside getting your bronze on, you’re guaranteed a fun date out of the ordinary with the following recommendations.
“If you are thinking about “hot sports” for a date, I strongly recommend Aikido, a Japanese martial art. (http://www.aikido-nova.org/ or http://www.novakiaikido.org/index.html) Aikido can teach you more about your partner (i.e. what they are thinking, whether or not they are happy, do they have problems at school, work, or family). Everything will show up when both of you practice it. Aikido requires both partners to know and understand each other. If one partner is distracted, they will not be able to concentrate and will make a lot of mistakes. Or maybe you did something wrong but you do not know what; you will figure out when your partner tries to “kill” you. I see a lot of couples come to Aikido class over the weekends; it is a great martial art for couples.” – Khang
“I live in Sterling and I can’t believe I still haven’t gone to Rebounderz! Another great place to have a good, fun night is at Laser Nation in Sterling. You can play laser tag with other adults and have a fun time as if you were a kid again. Also, Lake Fairfax Park in Reston, is a great place to take a walk with a date and go on a petal boat around the lake.” – On the Rebound
“I’d like to recommend Alf Laylah. It’s in Vienna, on route 7 by the Mercedes-Benz Dealership. This place is great if you enjoy different cultures, especially the Middle East. I met many people from different cultures here. Alf Laylah is a small restaurant during the day and in the evening they have loud music, a dj, and a spacious dance floor. On Wednesday evenings, they have international nights, where the dj plays songs from different cultures and people dance to songs from different cultures. I am an Asian-American and learned how to dance to Arabic, Turkish songs at Alf Laylah. Overall, I thought this place was a good spot for people who enjoy groups of friends from different backgrounds.” – Yessuu
“One thing I see as a perfect date is attending the Rosslyn Outdoor Film Festival that’s offered this summer where you can enjoy amazing warm nights on blanket. You can bring your own picnic basket or grab a bite from one of the restaurants nearby and enjoy the movie. Movies that are offered aren’t always the most recent but there are a couple of movies that everyone can love. And this summer the theme is “Every Night is Election Night” and is offered ever Friday from June to September, perfect weather for an outdoor movie/picnic date.” – Britta
“Great Falls National Park is a great place to have a good time. Going to different places in different environments lightens up the mood and you don’t get bored.” – Sana
“When you’re getting to know someone, you want to make a good impression and do something unique. I think mini golf is a good first date option. Everyone knows how to play mini golf; it’s straightforward and easy. At the same time, it can also get competitive to a certain level if you or your date like competition. If it’s a nice day outside, you can follow up with ice cream or snow cones.” – Ashwin
“I like competition, so great first dates would include Nerf gun fights, going out to a shooting range, playful sparring, or bowling. This can build up the adrenaline between two people and may create some laughs during the date. If you’re looking for something creative, buy a canvas, tarp, and paint, wear all white, and have a mini-paint party. With the paint, you can use your hands and paintbrushes to splatter paint on the canvas and create an abstract masterpiece with your significant other.”
– Jacinta
“Call me old fashion, but I think people should re-establish the picnic idea. Something about lying in the open sun, relaxing with your love interest, and feeling that open breeze makes your body quiver with excitement. On top of that, you get to feed the ducks, play Frisbee, go kite flying, or fishing. But if nature doesn’t appeal to you, try an amusement park or rock climbing. It’s about the thrills! It’s about that sense of danger! It’s a good way to excite the mind and get that rush of adrenalin. Just be careful; not everyone likes to be scared.” – Mike
“Another great place for a date after having dinner is taking a nice, long walk at National Harbor in Maryland. The area is very lively at night, especially in the Gaylord National Resort. The lighting and indoor environment of the resort is very inviting. On the top floor of the resort there is a wedding area for those couples who want to act out their wedding ceremony just for fun. There are plenty of activities if you do decide to go there during the daytime ranging from outdoor concerts to wine and food festivals.” – Thien
“I take my girlfriend to Fairfax Corner or the 29 Diner in Fairfax.” – Dilan
“The best first date I’ve ever gone on was to the National Zoo. We used the metro to get there and spent the day in D.C. Because the weather was so fantastic, it was great just walking around, talking, and really getting to know each other. It was a great time!” – Christina
“…doing certain things that get you out of the indoors is adventurous, out of the box, and shows you want to have a good time with your date rather than just sit there and listen to each other talk for hours. Mini golf, basketball, or throwing a baseball are all simple things that are fun and easy. It’s old news to just go to dinner and watch a movie; it’s simply too boring and not as much fun anymore.” – Ricky
“I agree with Thien. National Harbor is such a wonderful place to enlighten your date and the surroundings are amazing. Not only are there a lot of different spots where you can take pictures, there are amazing restaurants.” – Aira
E-mail your relationship and dating ideas, anecdotes, and questions to me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
Katie
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Monday, April 30th, 2012
Between happy hours, wine tastings, coffee shops and sports pubs, Northern Virginia does not lack hot spots for dates. But let’s face it, sometimes you’re looking for a fresh and more playful activity.
Venture into Sterling and jump your way into: Rebounderz, an “Indoor Trampoline Arena.” My date and I jumped for an hour last week and bounced off walls (literally) and played several rounds of trampoline dodge ball with a group of people we met. I was a kid again. It provided laughter, liveliness, and fun exercise, which made a great evening.
Take advantage of the “Daily Dealz” such as Jersey Night Tuesdays, Bogo Wednesdays, and College Night Thursdays for discounted rates. If you are married with kids, turn it into a family night on Munchkin Mondays.
E-mail me your dating ideas and share your favorite NoVA hot spots at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
-Katie
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Thursday, April 26th, 2012
Northern Virginian, “Z,” is not adjusting well to the modernization of his homeland, Bangladesh. He yearns for the days when villagers sat around a radio bonding and laughing together, which he says no longer exists. According to Author Maya Angelou, “If you don’t like something, change it.” Take this opportunity to initiate new activities with your friends, Z, while continuing the same activities you enjoyed in the past.
“I want “Z” to know that he is not alone. I used to feel exactly the same when witnessing the changes in my hometown in Vietnam, Dalat. It was a small city with a cool climate, just like autumn in Virginia. It had so many kinds of flowers, as well as little cozy wooden houses. Dalat was called “The city of love” or “The city of flowers.” People were really nice and kind back then. I was there last August, just before I moved to NoVA and had seen a lot of changes. The flowers disappeared, the wooden houses were broken down, meadows and valleys were replaced with modern buildings, shops, bars, and clubs. The city’s residents became more practical, more “material,” and they rushed to richness. I was disappointed and realized that it was a part of modernization and development. We cannot avoid it or get rid of it. It is inevitable. Sometimes I ask myself whether it was a feeling of selfishness and jealousy that I didn’t want Dalat and its people to develop as fast so that I still have an ordinary place to hide away from my busy, full-of-responsibilities life. Or was it my real nostalgia? The only thing I could do was learn to adapt and accept reality. We should foresee these changes and be prepared. Sadly, the scenario repeated with a love relationship when I came to the U.S. My long-distance relationship ended. I was extremely upset but there was nothing I could do. I realized that I am young and there are still plenty of good people out there for me to make friends with. I think “Z” should keep his memories deep in his heart but live in the present. Talk with the locals, take part in their daily activities, and ask for their contact information to stay in touch with them. Being active will definitely help you feel less depressed about the changes.” – Khanh
“I went with my mother on a business trip to Cochabamba, Bolivia about two years ago. My mother had a nice house in a decent neighborhood in the city. Sadly, the neighborhood was not how I had remembered it. An apartment complex was constructed in the area as well as a salon. The few houses that remained were up for sale. I treasured that area because of the many memories I made. And I believe that my next visit, that little neighborhood that I cherish so much shall be another avenue claimed by the city. So yes, it is natural for you to feel this way. Just the mere thought of your “Garden of Eden” brings back nostalgic memories. And to see that garden leave is a most painful feeling.” – Ricky
“Change is inevitable, and usually occurs at difficult times in one’s life. Despite the difficulty of adjusting to an unwelcome, unknown environment, it can also transition into profound growth. It is natural for humans to stay within their comfort zone since it provides familiarity and security. Especially with Z’s story; his home in Bangladesh was his place of refuge, a place where he could come to relax, and recover from life’s adversities. Today, we live in such a fast-paced, technological world where the ultimate goal is to maximize revenue with the least amount of resources. It truly is rare to find a place of paradise where an individual can indulge oneself in Mother Nature’s beauty, and escape from the stresses of the modern world.” – John
“Change is hard for everyone. There are moments in everyone’s childhood that are missed. An example of change in my life is that I’ve lost my imagination. I used to be amused by everything because I would make up a story about anything. I was never bored. Now that I’ve grown older, I’ve lost most of it. It just doesn’t come to me anymore. It’s hard to get used to, but it’s not gone forever. The village you wish you could go back to is still within you. It’s in your memory. If you can’t go back to that place directly, go back to it in your memory.” – Ryan
“I think your relationship with the villagers is normal and unavoidable. Six years is a long time, and you can’t expect everything to remain the same. Technology changes everything. Even my hometown in Central Vietnam has changed significantly. When I visit I notice everything has changed. It’s not the same as the “hometown” in my memory. You may feel like you have lost parts of your past. Second, even two or three years can cause relationships between you and the villagers change. However, those memories will never be forgotten.” – Tim
“I was born and grew up in a small town in Vietnam that was not heavily populated and it was really humble and quiet. We did not have a supermarket, big buildings, or shopping centers. Everybody knew and cared for each other. If something happened such as an accident or fire everybody was always ready to help because they knew that person. We did not have traffic jams because we did not have too many cars or motorcycles. (I could stand or walk in the middle of the road.) We had a huge park for children with a lot of games and flowers. Since then, the development of Vietnam’s society has changed. I visited last winter break, and I realized that my town was no longer a humble and quite place. It had a big supermarket, high office buildings, and shopping centers. My town became a city; people now visit for work and business. It means more cars and motorcycles than ever before, and I could not walk on the road or cross the street like I used to. One of the things that made me most disappointed about my town was the way people live. They like to judge each other now by their cars, expensive handbags, and clothes. People do not look out for each other as much and tend to live for themselves more.” – Khang
“I can relate to what “Z” is saying; it is sad when the things we cherish most slip away despite what we do to stop it, but the harsh truth is that it is for the best. I do not mean that you should not feel sad about what has changed, but I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and although the reason isn’t clear, there is one. When I was in 6th grade my parents got a divorce that literally changed everything I knew – a new school, a new area, and new adjustments were made. I could not find a reason for this to have happened; it’s an event that I would never wish on anyone. But after awhile I got used to the way things were, and by the time my parents were ready to start over with other people, I was open to it. As hard as it was to adjust to all the rapid changes, I had to believe that better things were to come. It turned out that their divorce was one of the most defining moments of my childhood, but not all for the worse. For if it had not happened I would have never have become who I am today or met my new step-parents. Change can work against you, but if you use it the right way, you can make the best of any situation.” – Zach
“Whether it’s changing from high school to college, changing from old habits to new ones, or changing from location to location, change is something that we constantly have to deal with on a day-to-day basis and it isn’t always easy. It is not unusual to feel the way you feel, Z. When you’ve grown up in a particular way you become used to the customs. You have a daily routine and you carry out particular tasks and become truly comfortable, so change can disrupt this comfort. Things, with time, will improve for you. Right now it may seem strange to not be able to go back to the old times and live through what you did when you were a child. However, you can take the step forward and change your future how you want it to be; make it yours. Adapting to change can be difficult. You will in time, and there is no doubt in my mind about that, so stay optimistic and keep your hopes up for the future.” – Ashwin
“We can easily adapt, but that doesn’t necessarily mean we want to since we are also creatures of habit. I can understand the feeling. My grandparents live in China, but since the city they live in is ever-changing, my experience is always changing when I visit. You miss the good days. Get used to the new “village” and cherish your memories and good times. Don’t let it get you down! It’s completely normal.” – Mike
“When I moved to the United States, it was a little scary – a completely new country with a different language and people. But I learned that you need to embrace change, even when it may be hard…I met my best friends here who are wonderful people that have been with me through good and bad times. I had new opportunities and learned many things about myself. If I decided that I didn’t like change or didn’t try to make the best out of it, not only would I have been miserable, but I would of have never met the great people in my life today. Plus, I probably wouldn’t have achieved as much or enjoyed the opportunities in my life. Change can be scary, but it can also provide you with great opportunities if you make the best of it.” – M
“A man once said, “The only thing constant in our world is change.” I can remember having to move from my hometown when I was 11. It was not an easy move since all of my friends were in my hometown, so I had to make a new set of friends. Although it was not easy, it was well worth the transition because of the experience I gained from making new friends and ultimately establishing a new “hometown feeling” in my new home.” – Said
“As someone who has to visit relatives abroad, I think it’s unfair for you to feel that way. How can you deny the villagers of running water and electricity and cell phones and television? You implied that people no longer work as hard. Even if it’s true, how can you say that the villagers should be out there doing more tiring manual labor? Be appreciative of the progress the village has undergone and happy for the villagers who have helped see it through…After you go back home, everyone in that village still has long-term hopes and dreams for the village’s future. You’re very lucky to have great memories that you can cherish! Though it may take more effort now to talk to villagers, make it happen! Show them they don’t have to be gathered at the radio drinking tea for you to spend time with them.” – Anonymous
“The time we notice change is probably when we do not like change. I can understand and relate to it because of my past experiences. I really think time heals everything. When I moved to Northern Virginia it took time to adjust. I was missing my family and everything related to them that we used to do. But now I am really satisfied and happy living here on my own. I would suggest that you think about the positive memories of Bangladesh.” – Sana
“Getting used to something new can be difficult, especially in a new place. I would feel the same way, too. I remember the very first day I moved to Virginia. I didn’t like it because of the climate changes and it took me a while to make friends. But then I decided it was time for me to socialize with people, and I am now able to communicate with people anywhere I am at. It just takes time.” – Aira
“My father was in the military throughout my childhood. I have moved six times in my whole life. Two of those times were halfway through the school year. You’d be surprised how different Northern and Southern states are. After a few years I got used to it. As everyone says, change is normal. It just takes time to get used to the change. I hope all goes well for you and your family. Treasure those memories you have.” – Crea
“Now that the village you once love has changed you cannot be negative about it but just continue living your life and doing what’s best for it.” – Jim
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Thank you Northern Virginians for your thoughtful responses! NoVA is truly a melting pot. Share your stories and ideas with us. E-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
–Katie
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Monday, April 23rd, 2012
Dear Little Red Book:
“I am a Northern Virginian and a student at George Mason. Therefore, I am used to transition and change. However, I am intolerant of certain changes. For example, my grandparents live in a village in Bangladesh, and it used to be such a nice place for me to visit but it has changed significantly. I used to wake up every morning to the aroma of Pitha and the sound of roosters. Those days were like a dream at my grandparents’ house. My grandfather, who is 80 years old, owned a farm with fish, cows and rice. His two sons and people in the village would assist him on the farm. There was a sense of camaraderie. For him, life was simple back then. In the evenings, we’d go to a shop in the village where we’d drink tea while listening to the radio. I really want to go back to that place in time, but it’s no longer possible. The village now has electricity and running water as well as a factory that produces farm products. The village is more “civilized” and modern. The gatherings in the shop to listen to radio no longer exist. That form of entertainment has been replaced by television, cell phones and computers. People no longer work hard in the field every morning thanks to the automatic watering system and plant cutter. Instead, they work on the farm to mass produce crops. All these changes have happened in last six years, which I have had a hard time getting used to since my relationships with all the villagers has changed as well. Am I normal to feel this way?” – Z
Thanks for sharing your story and dilemma. You’re not alone. Change affects us all whether it’s getting a new job, beginning or ending a relationship, or making a moving. You even experience change within the various stages of a relationship. At times, change requires us to distance ourselves from the people we know and love. Readers, provide “Z” with feedback. Can you relate to him?
Share your stories and ideas with us. Comment below or e-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
-Katie
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Friday, April 20th, 2012
Whether it is dancing the two-step, playing sports, or camping, you’re in the perfect season to try new activities with your partner and friends. Below, LRB reader, Zach, says he stepped out of his box last summer when his girlfriend pushed him to try something he feared. His trust in her was put the test. Did it pay off?
“There comes a time in each person’s life where they are forced to give up control and put their trust entirely in another person. For me, that time was last summer when my girlfriend, Sam, and I decided to go on a camping trip to a place called “The Rock” in North Carolina. It was not a traditional campsite, but rather a private retreat along a huge lake that had rocks 30-40ft tall. This was the main attraction of our retreat, for these rocks were the right size for jumping right into the lake. Unlike Sam, I am not one for heights, and I most certainly was not a fan of jumping from them. Sam knew this, and despite her constant nagging, I was extremely reluctant to give it a try. Eventually I gave in and agreed to go to the top of the rock with her and decide from there. Upon reaching the top, I looked out upon the beautiful scene in front of us and realized how lucky I was to be there. At the moment Sam and I looked at each other and came to the same conclusion: we had to take the plunge. Taking my hand, Sam walked towards the edge with me and let out a calming breath that told me she was ready. It was then that I put aside all my reservations and put my faith in the girl I cared most for and would gladly take a plunge for. As we stepped off the rock, her grip grew tighter and my fear subsided. Before I knew it we were in the water, safe and sound. After the initial jump, we repeated it many times, enjoying each time more than the last. It just goes to show that no matter how in control you feel that you are, it’s sometimes best to put your faith in another and let them take the lead. Had I not done this, I would have missed out on an amazing opportunity with the girl I loved.” – Zach
“A good way to get together with friends, partners, or loved ones is to pick up recreational sports. It’s really fun to get a good group of buddies and go out bowling, mini golfing, or go carting. A cheaper way to have fun though is finding an empty field or court and playing a sport there. Beach volleyball is a great coed sport and there is a court right by Nottaway Park in Vienna. Another fun option is tennis or racket ball. All these are fun social sports, where you’re not as competitive and you get a great workout. It’s a great way to spend time with friends without spending money or getting bored.” – Schwandt
“Although I am not the best dancer around, dancing is certainly a way to socialize with another person. It can lead to getting to know that person better and maybe even having them become an important part of your life if things flow well in conversation. I think going to a club in DC, being that it isn’t so far from NoVA, is a great way to practice socializing. And if clubs aren’t accessible, then there are sure to be parties around the NoVA area, sometimes high school and college. All of these scenarios provide the ability to get to know someone through dance. If you’re lucky enough and have the right moves, you may even be able to get a few numbers.” – Ashwin
“Lately, my girlfriend and I have been looking for more things to do together. It’s hard to find fun things to do that don’t cost a lot of money. This sounds like something fun to do reasonably. It would be a good way for us to open up to each more since both of us are rather shy.” – Ryan
“Although I dance with my friends and go to parties, I still have not danced with my boyfriend. I have in the past when we had a small thing but now that we have been together for a longer time, I have become a bit shyer. I have no clue why, but I avoid going to those sorts of places with him. I have stepped out of the box by changing in other ways. I have now been able to sing in front of him, which is something rare since half of my friends have never heard me; I am HORRIBLE! But we have our singing moments and I am trying to break the ice when it comes to dancing. He has asked so many times but I do not feel comfortable with him yet, at least not in that sense. I might take your suggestions of taking those dancing lessons with him; it would be such a great thing! I look forward to it!” – Gladys
“Dancing is a good idea for couples or friends and I like it although I don’t know how to dance. You can take a boat ride in DC, which combines dance and dinner and music. It gives couples a sense of romance. I am very exciting to have enjoyed it even though I didn’t dance that night.” – Minh
“Any social gathering event is a good place to interact with others. Dancing can really show your compatibility with another. It also allows you to have a good time and start opening up. Going out to a hookah place or joining a zumba class is always a great way to socialize. I went to a zumba class and made many new friends.” – Sana
“…Another good idea for a date night or a friend’s night is to go out to a club as a group. The great thing about being able to go out to a club is that you have the ability to socialize with the friends you brought and the others all around the club. It is practically a win-win situation for everyone considering everyone should be having a good time. Another good idea for a date night would be to go to someone’s house who has a karaoke machine or a dance game and get some food going, have some friends over, and get your karaoke going!!” – Said
Share your stories and ideas with us. E-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
–Katie
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Tuesday, April 17th, 2012
Last Friday I replaced my sandals for boots and headed to Nick’s in Alexandria with my beau for Couples’ Line Dance lessons. I hadn’t taken lessons since gym class in middle school, but $5 and an hour later and I was two-stepping my way to country music. It was a new experience under my cowgirl “belt.”
Since I was dancing backwards, it was up to my partner to control the direction and spacing of the number, which made me realize that trusting my partner and allowing him to lead were essential to our success. This was an unexpected feeling to me since I am used to taking the lead in my relationships. But it served as a good reminder to me to loosen the reins.
An uplifting element about the class was that it did not discriminate against those without a partner. Both couples and singles participated. After all, being able to get on the floor and dance – no matter your relationship status – is an essential social skill with a collective feeling.
Take your partner or go with a group of friends or by yourself. The class gives you the opportunity to dance with others in the group. For information about Couples’ Lessons, Line Dance Lessons, and Swing dance Night, visit Nick’s weekly calendar at http://www.nicksnightclub.com/calendar/weekly-calendar.
Have you “stepped” out of your box and tried something new recently? Maybe you have an idea for date night or friends’ night out. Share your stories and ideas with us. Comment below or e-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
-Katie Greenan