Rules of out-of-town first dates

1. When you get a really nice note from a gentleman (mind you, at this point you don’t really know that he is one – a gentleman, that is) who lives on the other side of the continent (or the world, for that matter) and he is trying to woo you, let him.       

2. Even if he wants to meet you in Tulsa, Oklahoma. 

3.     Consider whether he has a “long-term” potential.

4.     Find out how often he finds himself in your town.

5.     Tell yourself it’s OK to familiarize yourself with the flight schedule to and from your city to his or the suggested rendezvous spot.

6.     Engage in shameless virtual flirtations.

7.     Probably good idea to obsessively watch America’s Most Wanted.

8.     Let him gently nudge you to visit him as soon as humanly possible.

9.     Confidently book a flight for your first date in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

10. When the date is three days away, figure out which outfits to pack.

11. Do not stuff your suitcase.

12. Remember to conveniently forget to pack a few little items which could be easily procured (note: most men love running simple errands for women, underline “simple”).

13. The day before the date, review your correspondence with your date.

14. Dress comfortably for your flight (I like the simple shirt, paired with black yoga pants.

15. Do not dismiss the yoga pants – they are fantastic for showing off your ass-ets.

16. Leave the house early enough to allow ample time for a decent breakfast before your flight.

17. Do not panic when you realize that you forgot to book a car to take you to the airport.

18. Smile at everyone when you are the last one to board your flight (after they’ve called your name a several times on the airport PA system).

19. When the airplane food doesn’t mesh with your first date jitters, it’s ok to order a drink, even if it’s before noon.

20. If you are self conscious about drinking before noon, ask for a mimosa or a dash of rye in your coffee.

21. If you are still nervous after your first drink, it is ok to ask for a second.

22. Make sure you have enough fight time left to let the buzz wear off.

23. Tell yourself it is normal to be nervous – after all, you are flying to Kansas to fall into the arms of a stranger.

24. Drink water.

25. Drink more water.

26. Brush your teeth.

27. Fight the urge to pile on the makeup (he’ll appreciate the Au Naturel look).

28. When you get off the plane, head straight to the rendezvous point.

29. Do not linger – he knows when you land. 

30. When he greets you as you exit the security area, naturally fall into his arms.