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.

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!

Sex and the City is a movie that allows its viewers to escape the boundaries of the rule-oriented dating scene that has become dominant in recent times. It helps one to think outside the box, coming up with all sorts of possibilities, rather than jumping to conclusions. Instead of thinking, “Because s/he’s not doing x, it must mean y,” the plot of Sex and the City causes us to think, “S/he could not be doing x for a lot of reasons. I won’t rush to assumptions; I will find out why.” I feel this film promotes healthy thought in adults who are involved in the dating scene. This optimistic film will come as a refreshing release to the cynical few out there who think negatively about their love lives.

Sex and the City tells the story of a woman who thought she’d never fall in love. She ends up surprising herself by getting wed to her boyfriend of 10 years – and being thrilled at the anticipation of married life. Sex and the City follows the lives of the commitment-phobic, the happily wed, the dysfunctional family, and the skeptical, so everyone can relate. It teaches us about forgiveness and understanding and asks us to challenge our opinions on cheating. The viewer steps outside the black-and-white perspective she sees through the lenses placed on her by North American society. She realizes there are gray areas that exist. Is cheating acceptable if one has been physically and emotionally distant in a relationship for months? Is it forgivable if you feel your partner is genuinely a good person and a trustworthy mate?

That’s not all that we can learn from Sex and the City. This movie is great to see on a date, because it demonstrates effective ways of problem solving with a partner. Not only does it challenge common opinion, but is humorous as well. Certain outrageous scenes will make it impossible for you not to laugh your pants off. You will cry, chuckle, and gasp throughout this movie.

I highly recommend that couples rent this motion picture and curl up to watch it. Even though it may be considered a chick flick, the most macho of men will appreciate its comedy and in-your-face moments. Have your tissues ready! Sex and the City is the perfect romantic comedy. It deserves a 10/10.

The intimate nature of a date such as this allows a couple to bond not only physically, but emotionally. Massages, bubble baths, and foot rubs make this date sizzle. Aphrodisiacs such as chocolate-covered strawberries or wine are a great touch. He or she is sure to be moved by your selflessness and romantic side. By treating each other like royalty, a pair practices the “give-and-take” nature of relationships in an enjoyable way. It also can illustrate the fact that the two are always there to soothe or console each other when they are having rough days.

What materials does one need to make this dream date come true?

• Massage oil
• Bubble bath/Mud bath
• Candles (to create a peaceful atmosphere)
• Wine
• Chocolate-dipped strawberries
• Exfoliating cream

*Please note that these items are just suggestions and you can choose from many spa treatments to make this date unique such as manicures, pedicures, face masks, and mud baths.

Although idealistic, an at-home spa date is very practical. Not only is it inexpensive, but you don’t have to leave your home! This means you don’t have to spend extra money on gas or public transportation and that you and your mate get to enjoy this wonderful date indoors in a warm, dry environment. There could be no better place for a date in the winter in Toronto, when the temperatures hit the negatives and the snow is violently blowing about.

Sometimes the best idea is the oldest, most cliché idea. I find myself quite often enjoying an activity that has been around for many years, so it has been tested with time. An excellent example is skating. Skating is an activity fit for many purposes – from transportation to community-wide events, to family expedition, and of course a romantic outing. Whether out on a lake or in a recreation center, a skating couple can feel that special bond even as being a part of the public. After skating, of course, one must drink hot chocolate – it’s traditional, it’s sweet, and it gives a couple that extra chance to bond. And hey, it’s inexpensive.

Skating as a dating idea is quite romantic, even though not overbearing. This sort of romance is the type that is not premeditated, but comes naturally – perhaps when the couple joins hands on the ice or skates synchronically with elegant movements. It is a sort of an art form or dance that is public, yet dear and intimate to those skating.

Skating also allows the couple to bond in a way that life in an urban city does not always allow. Supporting each other on ice shows a sign of trust for each other that is not always expressed with words. And if you’re beyond being wobbly on the ice, you can always show off some impressive moves.

After a day outside in the cold wintry air, warm up with your date by drinking a hot beverage, such as hot chocolate, cocoa, or tea. The warmth of the drink is all the more reason to wrap your arm around your date while taking sips. Not only is this date private, it is also sweet, both romance- and taste-wise.

Use this coffee date as a chance to get to know your partner’s true identity. Find out who he or she really is through long conversations, humorous stories, and the revealing of personal secrets. You may even discover romantic ways to surprise your significant other in future instances. You may uncover hidden facts about your companion that will help you plan such romantic encounters.

It is easy to see that skating and the drinking of hot beverages make a great combination for the ultimate romantic winter date. Both are inexpensive and allow a couple to create a deeper bond with each other. They also learn to develop trust for each other by skating together and keeping each other from falling. Secrets about your date can be revealed over hot chocolate or coffee that can be turned into tools to appeal to their romantic side. Take your significant other out for skating and hot chocolate and you are guaranteed to be pleased.

For information on public skating rinks in Toronto, click here.

Hot chocolate is available in your local living room or coffee shop.

Written with the help of Olga Andriyevska

Playing board games with a date is always thrilling, because it allows a couple to compete with each other in a non-threatening way. Not only are these games amusing, but they are intellectually stimulating, instead of the typical movie date which may cause a duo to be passive. For the ultimate challenge, try playing a trivia game to test your IQ levels. One perk about this date is that one gets to see his or her sweetie’s relatives’ personalities come to life as the competitive juices flow.

Another great way to pass the time on New Year’s Eve is by baking sweets with your other half. Baking with a significant other gives one an opportunity to act silly with him or her, such as by put some cookie dough or icing on one’s partner’s nose just for laughs. It also is a chance to exchange humorous stories with a love interest or for your companion to discover more about you by asking your family to reveal something about yourself. Finally, by baking together, a couple will produce many tasty treats they can enjoy with the happy memories of making them on their minds.

As the night goes on, watch the countdown to midnight at Nathan Phillips Square on the Tube to build up your and your date’s anticipation for the new year. By doing this, one gets to snuggle up with a date and couples get to bond by sharing their resolutions for the New Year. For a traditional touch, serve your date champagne once the clock hits twelve. The stroke of midnight gives couples who haven’t had their first kiss yet the opportunity, and couples that have been together for ages a sweet moment together.

The holidays are a time to fill one’s house with chatter and celebration. what better excuse to indulge on a large quantity of delicacies than on a holiday? Also, a holiday potluck will allow a large group of people to enjoy multicultural foods at the same time as relieving the hosts from making most of the food, leaving more time for hanging up mistletoes in the most unexpected spots.

Having a potluck dinner with friends is a great opportunity to see one’s pals in a fun, relaxed environment. Not only do you get to mingle with a large festive crowd, but you also get to introduce your lovey-dovey to all your friends, and meet all your honey’s friends yourself. Finally, you must already know what your significant other acts like one-on-one, but this is a great opportunity to see how he/she behaves in a large group.

Being hosts of the party with your significant other is also very romantic. Arranging an event with your significant other not only shows organizational skills, but it is also a good way to work on a fun project together, and then enjoy the fruits of your labour in each other’s company. Before the holiday potluck party starts, you can spend alone time with your partner decorating the rooms and lighting the candles together. Watch out, there will be mistletoe!

There’s a time when every couple needs to host a party, and a potluck party is easy to set up and fun to hold. The winter holidays are a great opportunity to distract everyone from the yucky snow outside with a fun party inside. Get closer with your loved ones, wear that horrible sweater your aunt got you last year, decorate your house, and beware of the smooch-inducing mistletoe.

Try something different by surprising an interest or a significant other with a chocolate fondue date. Something lovebirds can try at home, making chocolate fondue is cheap and definitely delicious! Not to mention, it is an interactive way for a couple to remain entertained, while enjoying each other’s company. Chocolate fondue can be enjoyed as a duo or with other couples on a group date.

As most of us know, a great way to hook up with and maintain a partner is by showing respect for him or her. One of the ways to show respect for a guest is to offer him or her food. In doing so, one acknowledges the fact that he or she may be hungry and the guest realizes that his or her needs are being considered. The tasty treats produced by dipping fruits into chocolate fondue can be used by couples to curb their appetites.

Making chocolate fondue is simple. It only requires one to boil some chocolate and marshmallows – or whipping cream, whichever you prefer – together and to dip a banana or some strawberries into the mix. This makes it easy to impress a date with one’s crafty ideas, without having to worry about slipping up.

A chocolate fondue date is great for couples with sweet teeth! You can also make this chocolate fondue unique according to yours and your sweetie’s preferences. Add in some ingredients you think will blend well with chocolate, such as almonds or cherry brandy, and you two will have your own secret recipe. This is a fun, non-intimidating way for couples to develop their skills at working together as a team.

One last benefit to this date is the romance that it holds. If you’re the playful type, this is the perfect opportunity for you and your other half to feed chocolate-covered strawberries to each other. It is also a chance for couples to embrace as they devour the mouth-watering desserts they have created. If this is a group date, partners can hold hands as they savour their chocolate-dipped fruit.

For some intense chocolate fondue recipes, visit http://entertaining.about.com/od/chocolatefondue/Chocolate_Fondue_Recipes.htm