When I first joined FDS I found the whole concept of dinner dates terrifying. I’ve turned down multiple dinners in favour of drinks over the years (partly to do with anxiety, my stomach seizes up and I can’t eat) but also because I was worried it was too intense.

But I’m just back from my second first date over food (from online dating) and I’m a huge convert. I’ve eaten lovely food, drunk so much good wine (he’s Italian so it’s to be expected) and sat outside a beautiful restaurant taking in the atmosphere.

The man before this took me out to a beautiful restaurant on our first date (and second, and third and cooked for me on 4th. I dumped him on 5th date).

There’s not a question mark over who pays the bill, I came back from the bathroom today and it was done. And now I’ve skipped home feeling all content and full knowing I’ve had a lovely day regardless whether I see him again or not. He’s asked to see me again tbf but I’m not that fussed.

A drink date is always at least 1.5 hours long, no different from dinner if you want to make it quick. Because of this sub and a change to my mindset I don’t feel like today was wasted in anyway, I put my make up on, he bought me dinner. I had a fun afternoon in good company and now I’m home cuddling my cat. It’s taken 38 years for me to realise that I’m amazing (and very attractive) company. I’ve spent so many years selling my self short, I didn’t even think I was worth a dinner date (how sad). Thanks for showing me the way.