Hot chocolate covered in whipped cream

Couples’ making gingerbread houses and savouring seasonal drinks is pairs’ having crumpets and tea in Heaven while being dubbed angels. This date allows duos who are too tired or sluggish to venture outdoors, to entertain themselves at home. All it requires is a gingerbread house making kit and egg nog. People who’d like to keep the gingerbread house should be careful, however, not to eat the entire creation. In that case, it may be desirable to purchase multiple gingerbread house making kits, gingerbread cookies and/or other decadent treats.

Such a date is inexpensive. It does not add up to the cost of purchasing movie tickets, popcorn, candy and drinks. It is not near the cost of skiing admission and gas. Moreover, it does not equate to the price of a play, dinner and parking downtown. Ingredients, the only cost of this cozy date, should ring up to about $25.

This activity also takes place in a comfortable setting. One gets to sit by the fire drinking egg nog with one’s sweetheart rather than sitting in a rigid seat in a restaurant, which may be chilly due to doors frequently opening and shutting. In addition, this date involves no waiting outdoors for admission, in the cold. This environment may be suitable for romance, too; there are no servers checking up on the duo constantly, no noise and no distracting media, allowing the two to bond without interruption. On the other hand, if a pair wishes to watch a Christmas movie during their time together, this date allows the twosome to do so.

Furthermore, this date allows participants to please their taste buds. Pairs can add jellybeans, chocolate chips, icing and whatever else they’d desire in the candy department, to their delectable houses. Not everyone has a taste for egg nog, but there are many other scrumptious beverages twosomes can enjoy. These include: coffee topped with froth, milkshakes, mochachinos, hot chocolate, cider, caramel cocktails and chocolate-mint martinis.

The following are recipes for drinks couples may wish to enjoy this holiday season:

• Frothy coffee
• Hot chocolate
• Milkshakes
• Mochachinos
• Apple cider
• Caramel cocktails a.k.a. “Liquid Caramel”
• Chocolate-mint martinis

In the movie An Affair to Remember, Terry McKay says, “Winter must be cold for those with no warm memories.” This is definitely the case. Winter does not have to be drab. Slush, snow and cold are factors that won’t bring down one’s mood if he or she doesn’t let it. Couples’ making gingerbread houses and drinking seasonal beverages is one enjoyable date the weather should not ruin.

The following are examples of ways couples can enjoy themselves while learning new skills:

Pottery Classes – Your learning to spin clay with your sweetheart can make you feel proud – not only of your new ability, but also of the new art piece you have created. In addition, your giving your freshly-made pottery dish to your sweetheart may even earn you brownie parts.
Toronto Potters | Toronto Pottery Classes | Throwing a Fit Pottery Studio

Dance Classes – Your adrenaline will pump as you cha-cha across the room, hand-in-hand with your other half. Your learning how to dance may boost your confidence levels while allowing you to bond with your partner.
Toronto Dance Salsa | Arthur Murray Toronto | Joy of Dance

Writing Classes – If you’re seeking to improve your writing abilities or simply for an outlet for your literary passion, then your taking a writing class with a mate is an enjoyable way to do so. Moreover, you will learn new modes of expressing your creativity.
Creative Writing Help | The Moving Pen | Toronto Improv, Sketch Comedy and Screenwriting Classes

Acting Classes – Acting classes are fun stress-relievers. You may giggle at your mate’s silliness or become completely absorbed by your own monologue lines. Whatever the case, a theatre class will allow you two to let loose and have a positive experience.
Toronto Academy of Acting | Armstrong Acting Studios | Toronto Association of Acting Studios

Art Classes – Painting, photography, drawing, you name it – anything that involves visual art is sure to provide an entertaining time. If you want to do something really creative, I suggest splattering paint across a canvas with your significant other. You could also fill balloons with paint and toss them at a blank painting. If the mood gets too serious, however, you can always throw paint at your partner.
Toronto School of Art | Avenue Road Arts School | Academy of Realist Art

Taekwondo Classes – Taekwondo classes are just one way to learn an age-old skill, as well as get some vigorous exercise with your mate. Not only will taekwondo classes leave you feeling refreshed and energized, but you will also feel a sense of pride at your learning self-defense.
Master Tommy Chang’s Black Belt World | Beaches ITF Taekwondo Schools | Jong Soo Park

Kickboxing Classes– Your taking kickboxing classes is one more way you and your sweetheart can get a thrilling work out together. The blood will flow and your hearts will race as you two learn this exhilarating sport!
Toronto Kickboxing and Muay Thai (TKMT) Academy Inc. | Toronto BJJ | Kickboxing and Fight Club

As you can see, dates don’t always have to involve an upscale restaurant and a romantic comedy. You also don’t constantly have to wear the latest brand name while out with a partner. You can get sweaty, sporting track pants and a tee, and still have a good – or even more exciting time – while out with your sweetie. After all, your new skills may just redeem you for your outfit.

Tash recently visited Say Tea II near Yonge and Eglinton (2496 Yonge Street) to meet Sue and talk about the fine teas that she has in store. New for the season are Crab Tree and Evelyn, Marks and Spencer boxed Tea bags, Fancy Oolong tea, Oolong Ti Kuan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) tea, China Oolong tea, and Milk Oolong Tea (coming soon). We had the pleasure of sampling some Vanilla Chai tea on our trip and loved it. Around the colder months, I usually prefer spiced teas over green teas so the spiced Chai flavor coupled with vanilla gave the tea a smooth but spicy flavour. The vanilla also removes the rough after taste of Chai tea and leaves a silkier finish. It’s one of my favorites at the moment and there are lots more in store to choose from! Will be seeing her soon!

Check out their website at: www.saytea.com/

Many possess the notion that dating has to be expensive. This belief is not necessarily true; while people do require funds for the occasional outing, one can still be frugal while spending enjoyable, quality time with a romantic companion.

Good times do not always have to be over the top; they merely rely on change of scenery, good company, and exciting activities in which to partake. If you and your honey are tired of your typical routines and attempting to save some cash, try any of the following:

- Baking. Cooking scrumptious treats is not only fun, it also provides a duo with delectable desserts on which to munch. Moreover, couples can purchase baking ingredients at a low cost. Packages of cookie dough and dough for making cinnamon rolls typically range from $4-$7.

- Friendly Get-Togethers. If a pair begins to consider their date ideas tedious, their having a small gathering of pals may uplift their spirits. There does not necessarily have to be alcohol involved, as it will only increase the pricetag of such an event; however, a double-date at home wouldn’t require much alcohol anyway – a bottle of wine, and/or a few coolers. Cards, juice, board games, and perhaps even some snacks, however, are viable, inexpensive options for a small group gathering at home.

- Homemade Dinner. Want to romance your other half without dipping too far into your savings? Look no further than preparing a home-cooked meal for your sweetie. The act in itself is romantic, as it chivalrous, and one’s partner may appreciate the spontaneous nature of such an evening.

- Dancing. Contrary to the views of some, clubbing doesn’t have to be costly – if you do it right. Forget bottle service; forget the booth; keep your coat in your car when the weather permits. You’ll save tons of money that way. In addition, many Toronto nightclubs have low admission prices. Some include:

Bar 244- Admission: $5

On the Rox Nightclub – Admission: $10-15

The Annex Wreck Room- Admission: $5-$10

Mansion Nightclub – Admission: $10-$15 if you add your name to the guestlist

Blue Suede Sue’s- Admission: $5-$10

- Mini-golfing. Mini-golfing usually costs between $10 and $15 – at Putting Edge, it’s $10.50 – and it’s an activity that allows a duo to be active, playfully compete with each other, and get out of the house.
Putting Edge | In Play

Therefore, it is unnecessary to spend heaping amounts of money in order to see a love interest. Moreover, less costly date options can be just as pleasant as the more pricey locations. After all, fun dates require creativity, not money.

Although it is true that one can make any day special for their sweetheart, the approach of Valentine’s Day just holds so much excitement! Here are some tips to make this Valentine’s day -or any day, that is – memorable:

• Surprise your other half. Plan something thoughtful, whether it’s a romantic fantasy they’ve mentioned, or simply something spontaneous. An evening full of romance, out or in, or a getaway weekend for two are just some examples.
• Do something out of the ordinary. If the two of you are used to a routine, break out of it. Try pampering each other. Giving each other massages with oil or feeding each other fruit dipped in chocolate are just some ideas.
• Make your significant other feel appreciated. One can do this by writing a meaningful card or letter for their mate. (To add a surprise effect, place the love note somewhere they are guaranteed to look, and have them find it. It makes the gesture even more sweet.)

Remember that gifts on Valentine’s Day are not necessary to show your love for another. However, if one or the two of you feel like giving gifts, remember that presents don’t have to be expensive to be heartfelt. A simple box of chocolates often suffices; something home-made or something thoughtful are also good options.

My Recommendations:

This eatery provides exquisite dining for an inexpensive cost. Not only is the food tasty, the atmosphere is intimate and cozy – a perfect place for a romantic date.
7225 Woodbine Avenue
Markham, ON L3R
(905) 940-1900
www.FrankieTomatto.com

This adorable little café serves both delectable desserts and scrumptious meals. This is a great place to indulge in mouth-watering foods and make memories with your lover.
255 Bass Pro Mills Drive
Vaughan, ON L4K
(905) 738-9198
www.CafeCache.ca

Some may think that a duo cannot have an enjoyable time at home, but I beg to differ. Each other’s company is what’s most important. If a couple cares to do something entertaining indoors, there are many options available; these include back rubs, baking decadent treats, playing trivia games, ordering in food or making food for each other, painting, and so on. Not to mention, this option is the least costly and most intimate setting.

‘Hope these tips bring some spark to your Valentine’s Day and/or overall lovelife!

 From the official Toronto.ca website:  “The WinterCity Festival wouldn’t be complete without Toronto’s favourite winter gastronomic celebration. Now in its eighth delicious year, Winterlicious again offers two popular programs for you to savour.

Winterlicious Culinary Events
10 mouth-watering culinary events featuring some of Toronto’s diverse cuisine and notable chefs.

General Reservation Date: Thursday, January 14, 2010

Please remember… You MUST cancel your reservation at least 48 hours in advance if you cannot keep it.”

Beat the cold with a spectacular fire installation, gravity-defying aerial dance performances, ice sculptures and themed skating parties.”

I recently attended my first burlesque show.  The show was really interesting and worth the price of admission, and it’s an interesting option for a date.

A show like this probably isn’t the best choice for a first date, but once you get to know your potential significant other, if you’re looking to guarantee a fun, sexy atmosphere between the two of you, burlesque might be just the thing.

If you’re taking in a show staged by a local group, it’s likely that you’re in for an evening of blue collar humor.  The gags, both visual and verbal, will be things you probably wouldn’t demonstrate for your grandmother, but they will demonstrate to your date that you’re comfortable with sexuality, both yours and that of other people.

Depending on the group and the boldness of the performers, the level of nudity can vary, so make sure that you’re either aware of what to expect or can handle surprises.

Above all, have a good time.  A burlesque show is meant to be enjoyed in a light spirit and an open mind.  Show your fun, accepting side and take it in.

Gelato photo by: Samuraijohnny

Some of the best gelato in the city can be found at Hollywood Gelato over at 1640 Bayview Avenue.  My bebe and I had the chocolate mint chip gelato (i used t love Baskin Robins, but this is the new winner) and fruity ice shavings (which STILL tasted creamy!?).  I think the biggest surprise was that the ice shavings had a creamy texture to it that you may not immediately recognize like you would a Slushy at 7-Eleven.  Great place for a pick-me-up and snack while you go out for a walk or after a movie.

Check out Toronto Life’s website for more details on Hollywood Gelato.

Rivoli. Upstairs at the pool hall

This is one of Toronto’s most popular pool halls, Upstairs at the Rivoli.  If you enjoy pool and want to get into a more sophisticated and laid back mood, check this one out.  I’ve been told from one of our readers that this place is home to a lot of pool sharks too!

Here’s the letter we got:

“Hey Love In Toronto!  Love the website, thought you might want to know that there’s a great pool hall that my girlfriend and I met at called Upstairs at the Rivoli.  It’s a great place, friendly staff (we’ve been going there for a bit now and got to know some of the people) and it’s a great social activity between me and my girl.  Anyway, thought you should know.  Oh, there’s also some great food there too, which we like to stop by once in a while for brunch.

Pool Lovers”

Thanks for the tip, Pool Lovers! We’ll pass that on to our readers!

Check out Upstairs at the Rivoli’s website for more details.