You receive it – the infamous “hey” after you text your recent date a “hey sweetie.” On the other hand, maybe you receive no response all day. You might be driven crazy by these acts, just some ambiguous behaviours daters display. Don’t fret, though. You may discover that the motives behind these actions aren’t as negative as you may think.

You mustn’t draw conclusions when dating. Your doing so could lead to negative assumptions on your part, which are most likely untrue. You, like most people, probably find it easier to be negative than positive. While on the dating scene though, you should rationalize and think positively. Your doing so could allow you to keep your sanity and perceive situations realistically. Of course, you could possibly be correct by being cynical. But if you are contacted by your crush after a night out, it’s safe to be optimistic.

Note the following behaviours daters commonly misinterpret:

1) The ignored text. Perhaps you text your honey, and he or she doesn’t respond. You need not dissect this situation. Accept that he or she is most likely busy. You may be justified in assuming a lack of interest, however, if he or she doesn’t reply for a week. At the same time, you should not be offended, as your recent date could be busy. In addition, if you and your potential partner recently got into an argument, your admirer is most likely ignoring you until he or she is in a better mood.

2) The missed date. You may be disappointed when your date cancels, doesn’t show up to your proposed destination or doesn’t answer your “are we still on for today?” text. Rather than assume he or she is uninterested or shady, you should consider that he or she may be unreliable. You must also realize that one’s unreliability has nothing to do with you and that he or she is most likely busy. Also, be careful not to assume your date doesn’t have his or her priorities in order, as unreliable people usually have good reasons for cancelling.

3) The lack of affection. You address your love interest by a sweet nickname, to which he or she replies with none for you. You may find it easy to deduce that he or she is uninterested. You will most likely find, however, that this is not the case. In situations like this, you must remember three things:

• A complete stranger you went on a date with will usually not talk to you if he or she is uninterested;
• Withholding affection is a form of passive aggression; and
• Some people do not always reciprocate pet names.

With these points in mind, you can see that the person you’re longing for is most likely angry. Find out the reason he or she is angry, solve it and watch the influx of flirtation. Note also that many shy people will revert to this tactic when they want you to ask them on another date. Bear in mind your love interest is most likely not flirty, if that doesn’t work. You should also consider the possibility your date has a significant other and is contacting you while with him or her.

4) The lack of initiation. Don’t take it personally if your once-proclaimed fan doesn’t initiate conversations with you or ask to see you again. If you receive responses to your texts to him or her, he or she is most likely interested. Thus, in this circumstance, you may discover that your crush is shy or waiting for some sign of interest from you. Start conversations and initiate invites, and you may be rewarded.

5) The forgotten call. Don’t fret if your sweetheart does not call if he or she promised to do so. Know that many people are too forgetful, busy or shy to call. Note that this behaviour is common and has nothing do to with one’s level of interest in you.

You may have heard the saying “It is when we all play safe that we create a world of utmost insecurity,” first said by Dag Hammarskjold. Now that you’ve read the above, you may know this statement to be true. You may also notice that many daters’ behaviours confuse their admirers, who insecurely give up on them. Don’t play it safe in 2012. Escape your comfort zone by responding to perceived problems with security. Await the possible rewards.

1) Rest. After all the Christmas preparing, dining and cleaning, you may be exhausted. You should rest thoroughly tonight, meaning going to bed early and sleeping in Boxing Day morning. After all, if you put it off until later, you may be too drained to enjoy the rest of your holidays. And if you don’t want to be away from your sweetheart for too long, you can always nap together.

2) Shop. You probably think Boxing Day deals are worth the lineups, claustrophobia and sweat. If you miss them, you just may regret it. If you have a bit of spending money this year, probably a holiday present you received, take advantage of the current mind-blowing sales. You and your partner may delight in shops on Orfus Rd. in North York, which are known for their amazing Boxing Day discounts. And if you want to avoid crowds, shop later during Boxing Week.

3) Get Together. You may have a few days off work. In order to spend them wisely before returning to the dictatorship you call your office, you should try to have as much fun as possible. This means attending holiday parties, hosting get-togethers and/or visiting local bars, with your other half. As actress Jacqueline Bisset said, “Being around people with whom you feel a connection, on many levels, not just a professional one, is very relaxing. Your ears are more open to someone who is not a cantankerous bastard.”

You may be overjoyed that you have time off for the holidays. But if you don’t spend this time in ways you like, you may be severely stressed when you return to work. Enjoy your holidays through rest, shopping and entertainment, accompanied by your honey.

If you wish to please your sweetheart this Christmas, try any of the following while holiday shopping:

1) Browse. If you’re stumped about gift ideas for your significant other while at the mall, the best thing to do may be to stop thinking. Sometimes by walking into stores with nothing on your shopping list, you may discover interesting, useful or coveted items you’d have never considered.

2) Be thoughtful. Remember something s/he said s/he wanted or needed. Get something you think s/he’d like based on his or her interests. Even something your partner said was “cool” in conversation may work.

3) Be romantic. A scrapbook, a love letter in a bottle, a dog tag with your face on it. When you go out of your way to make a gift special for your partner, s/he may be impressed. In addition, s/he may relish the sweetness of such a gift.

4) Get something extraordinary. If you stumble upon an object that is innovative and unique, think about whether or not your sweetie will like it. Though such items have mass appeal, it best to consider whether your romantic companion will find it desirable or not. After all, you don’t want to hear complaints or realize your honey threw your Christmas present in the back of his or her closet.

5) Get something useful. If there are certain objects you know your partner will use, they may become gifts that aren’t abandoned. Such items include objects your partner needs newer versions of, objects his or her interests indicate s/he’ll like, something she needs to restock on or a gift card. For instance, you could purchase your sweetie a phone if his or hers is damaged, an E-reader if s/he is an avid reader, makeup if s/he is running out or a VISA gift card that can be used anywhere that accepts VISA.

6) If your other methods fail, give something safe. Stray away from items that involve your honey’s personal taste unless you know his or her taste well. Fragrances are just one of the items on the bad list. There are usually items you know your partner will like. Edible body paint, model cars, sequin heels. If you stick to these, your partner may just rejoice on Christmas day.

You may know 17th century writer Baltasar Gracian said: “The great art of giving consists in this: the gift should cost very little and yet be greatly coveted, so that it may be the more highly appreciated.” You should always put effort into the gifts you give to your honey, as Gracian recommends. Even if your significant other dislikes your Christmas present, s/he may appreciate the energy you put into choosing it. And at least you can’t say you didn’t try.

The physical activity involved in snowboarding prevents conditions like clogged arteries, cancer and osteoporosis. Moreover, those wishing to skip their daily workout can burn calories by trying this winter sport. In addition, the fresh air a snowboarding date provides may please city folk, who are accustomed to inhaling toxins. Not to mention, the setting is beautiful: tall evergreens and rolling hills blanketed in milky snow.

The endorphin rush that occurs shortly after snowboarding may allow one to bond with a love interest. Each of a duo may share a “Wow-I-can’t-believe-I-did-that” story and appreciate the other’s positive encouragement while they snowboard. In addition, some may laugh at their own snowboarding errs, causing their partners to chuckle as well. This ripple-effect laughter is not condescending but out of mere contagion of the former’s giggling. Furthermore, this “I-have-to-laugh-because-you’re-laughing” humour can make a date more enjoyable.

Snowboards tend to cost between $99 and $600 but can be rented at ski resorts for $25-$40. Snowboarding admission is typically $45-$60, depending on the time spent on the slopes. No, this is not a cheap date. But occasionally, it is worthwhile to splurge on a fun activity. And of course, some may just make memories snowboarding that will cause them to overlook the price.

Some snowboarding resorts in Toronto include:
• Blue Mountain
• Chicopee
• Dagmar
• Devil’s Elbow
• Hockley Valley

Of course, not everyone has snowboarding experience. Lucky for rookie snowboarders, each snowboarding resort has snowboarding instructors. Moreover, one can begin by skiing down bunny hills, which are small hills intended for those inexperienced in Winter sports. Then, he or she may move on to the greater challenge: snowboarding.

Snowboarding may make the ultimately memorable first date. Not only is it out of the ordinary, it is also thrilling. In addition, it allows daters to exercise. Moreover, it allows pairs to get fresh air. Furthermore, it is easy to learn. One who wishes to impress a love interest may need only to say: “Let’s go snowboarding!”

Don’t know what to do this holiday season? Can’t think of any great date ideas that are a little off the beaten path but still in the Toronto area? Well, search no more.

On Saturday, November 26, 2011 at 7pm, the Cavalcade of Lights, a spectacular 45-year Toronto tradition, returns to Nathan Phillips Square.

The night will feature the lighting of the City of Toronto’s official Christmas tree and live musical performances by award-winning artists Jarvis Church, Kellylee Evans, JRDN, rising star Justin Hines and singer Victoria Duffield.

If that’s not cool enough for you, the festival culminates in a spectacular fireworks display at 8pm, followed by a skating party on the Nathan Phillips Square rink.

Lights, fireworks and ice skating, what could be more romantic? Best of all, the festival is free and so is the concert. It would make a perfect, stress-free first date, or an affordable night out for those saving for Christmas.

You and your date can also meet champion figure skater and sports icon Jamie Salé at the Burt’s Bees tent for autographs and pictures.

There’s sure to be vendors of all types and a variety of food to choose from. Have fun and relax in the crisp night air, try some new cuisine, and listen to a variety of artists all in one night. Sounds like the perfect date to me.

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.

At-home get-togethers are relatively inexpensive. Even if one chooses to make the event a formal affair, the cost of the occasion may be equivalent to a night spent at a restaurant. Guests may have bought new outfits for the night in the city and have paid around $30 each for dinner anyway. In addition, those partaking don’t have to worry about parking or coat check fees. All hosts need are meal ingredients, dashing outfits, appetizing liqueur and pleasant music, meaning they have to purchase relatively little.

A dinner party at home offers a pair some of the comforts of home coupled with the exhilaration of city night madness. Individuals get to consume healthy, home-cooked food that gives the satisfaction of catered cooking. Tired guests also have the option to nap. In addition, attendees may find one’s home cozier than a cold, institutional banquet hall. Moreover, hosts may make use of television programs, board games, karaoke machines and card decks, should they crave such activities. At the same time, visitors to a dinner host’s home get to dance endlessly, drink heavily and dress formally.

Another plus of a couple’s enjoying dinner with their companions at home is the heating this indoor event promises, as opposed to the cold these couples would have to face waiting in line outside a club. Moreover, if the hosts can’t fit much cooking into their hectic schedules, they can always choose to make the event a potluck. Guests are also able to hear each other better in a home setting rather than at a bar or club, allowing them to bond deeply. Furthermore, one’s living room may be a more romantic, intimate setting than a restaurant environment would be.

If a duo is seeking added entertainment, however, the pair may wish to turn an at-home get-together into a masquerade ball. Couples get to feel mysterious in their luxurious costumes. It is not every day that people get to disguise themselves, meaning that when dinner guests get a chance to do so, they may get a thrill from it. Guests may take off their masks if they make them uncomfortable eventually, but the initial wear of the feathered, bedazzled or slinky masks may lend the experience a Medieval feel.

One’s staying at home doesn’t have to be boring. Many couples can enjoy themselves at home by dining with friends. Not only is this date inexpensive, but it is also fun. Guests at a winter dinner party have the chance to ingest healthy, scrumptious food in a warm, cozy environment. One’s making the occasion a masquerade ball may also add more excitement to an already great date.

One benefit to a drink date at home is that you get to create drinks in flavours you enjoy. Similarly, you could customize a drink to reflect your personality. For instance, if you’re a wildcard, add many, different flavours to your drink – such as banana, chocolate, mango, kiwi and just a touch of vanilla icecream – then blend, and a bit of liquor. In addition, you could impress a love interest by mixing a drink with flavours that s/he enjoys. You could make smoothies and then add alcohol to them or simply mix juice – or milk – with vodka, Kahlua or rum. If you’re concerned about finances, you could always mix each drink with the same, one alcoholic beverage.

Your playing drinking games is a good way to get your guests excited. Not only will you have more fun than sitting on the couch, but you and your guests will also remain amused by doing outlandish things or simply using your energies toward a game’s goal. If you and your social circle enjoy chuckling and using your intellect, you may enjoy King’s Cup. You could also look up other, entertaining drinking games using a search engine

What’s even more fun is your creating your own drinking games. You and your pals could give the game exciting challenges or consequences depending on the rules you create. For instance, you could create a game in which one person and the person on his or her left would be required to take a shot of vodka every time the original person said a word beginning with the letter “P.” On the other hand, you could make it so that one person and the three people to his or her left could be prohibited from drinking when the first person uses the word “like” until one other person, not in the same group, uses this same word. Your completing more passive activities, like watching a hockey game or playing Monopoly with your other half and buds, while drinking is always enjoyable, too.

Your spending a night in does not necessarily have to be boring. You can make it fun – by inviting friends and/or a date to enjoy some alcoholic beverages with you. Sip on beverages you have just concocted, well-known drinks that you enjoy, play drinking games or simply recline while gulping down fluids. Whatever you choose, you will spend unforgettable moments with friends.

Not to mention, the servers are excellent. They are not careless, nor do they check up so often that they become nuisances. Moreover, the bistro is comfortable – pillows cover the couches outside, and there are cozy booths inside. In addition, Vagabondo is far from an eyesore – its dim, romantic interior, bright, lavish patio and modern, happening lounge will make diners crave interior design makeovers for their own homes.

With a wide variety of Italian food, including seafood, pasta, meat, salad, vegetables and antipasti, Vagabondo will satisfy a couple’s and all their fellow diners’ appetites. The eatery’s beverages are absolutely delectable as well. In fact, Vagabondo’s Coco Banana cocktails will delight one’s tongue to no extent. Some other alcoholic drinks Vagabondo offers are red and white wine, Caribbean Breeze cocktails, daiquiris, martinis, beer and champagne.

For a limited time, Vagabondo is offering a four-course meal, known as the Summer Fixe, for only $35. This scrumptious array of food consists of a starter bruschetta; a raspberry, strawberry and goat cheese salad or salmon served atop assorted vegetables as a second course; a choice between chicken breast, veal, ravioli and salmon next; and cheesecake for dessert.

Vagabondo is located near Toronto’s Lakeshore, just moments away from the Toronto Sculpture Garden, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Berczy park and the St. Lawrence market. Couples can fill their bellies with top-notch food and sip a few tasty drinks before catching a show at a downtown theatre. Meanwhile, singles and their love interests could enjoy the music played by the DJ anytime between 6pm and midnight on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday night.

All in all, Vagabondo is an eating place that is both upscale and inexpensive. The quality of food is outstanding, and this venue triples as a bar, lounge and restaurant. Vagabondo is a cozy place for a date or a friend’s night out. Visitors will be astounded by the excellence they receive for the low price they pay at Vagabondo.

Vagabondo is located at 32 Wellington St. East, near Wellington and Yonge St. For more information like menus and hours, visit www.vagabondo.ca. To make reservations, call (416) 862-1999 or click here.

Although it may be hard to believe, there are many signs that a duo will bicker regularly when paired up in a living arrangement. Generally, if one is annoyed by his or her partner before the move-in, these slight nuisances will only heighten if the pair lives in the same quarters. Sometimes chemistry is just not enough to allow a pair eternal bliss.

Some things a couple planning to move in together should take into consideration are:

• Each person’s individual neediness: If one’s partner demands more attention than s/he does, then the more secure individual may be turned off or even annoyed by his or her sweetheart’s extra affection. Such combinations of people don’t mix. If such a twosome choose to live together, the person desiring more space may become frustrated with the person demanding more of his or her time.
• Each person’s patience level: Anger issues are a serious thing, and if one cannot control his or her internal rage, then s/he is a person to avoid, especially as a roommate. Because arguments can escalate to physical violence, especially with someone whose temper flares more often than not, one should steer clear of living with a partner who is easily irritable. In fact, perhaps the relationship should end when one’s angry ways are discovered, unless the often-irate person agrees to attend anger management seminars.
• Each person’s level of common courtesy: Will one’s partner volunteer to wash the dishes? Does s/he have to be coaxed into doing the laundry? Does s/he sit on the couch and never help out? These are things to consider, unless one can handle doing all the housework. If one’s other half is not very helpful around the home, then a couple may argue often because of it. In addition, a person’s level of respect for their sweetie must be thought about before the pair move in, because a person’s blasting loud music while his or her mate is asleep is bound to cause a ton of upheaval, as well.

While some couples could take the hands-on route of determining their agreeability, why spend the time and energy? All a person really needs to know is that if a partner gets on his or nerves before the move-in, one will only be more aggravated seeing his or her significant other on a daily basis. And it is best to keep these nuisances to a minimum so that a couple experiences little to no verbal or physical abuse over the course of their relationship. Besides, relationships where pairs are always fighting or complaining are no fun. Alan Herbert said, “The conception of two people living together for twenty-five years without having a cross word suggests a lack of spirit only to be admired in sheep.” While it is correct that one’s living with a partner can be difficult, it can be easy – and enjoyable – if done with a suitable person.