That's it!, I swore under my breath while practically running to my car. I've had it! No more blind dates, Internet or otherwise. How could a man be so rude, so uncouth, so...so...disgusting?! Especially on a first date! He's just taken bad manners and tackiness to a whole new level. The Emily Post Institute would have a field day with him.

Chip (I should have known by the name this guy would have issues) contacted me on line several weeks ago via one of the more popular dating sites. The Internet, it now seems, has become the in way to meet people. Gone are the days of chance encounters in the Produce Department, eyes locking across a crowded room, or crafty introductions by well-intentioned friends. Nope. Now it's just a few simple clicks of the mouse, and poof! you've got a date.

Following several rounds of 'email interrogation' and the mandatory photo exchange, 'ol Chipper and I agreed to meet for a quick cup of coffee that following Saturday morning. After several lo-o-n-g agonizing years of Internet dating, I have learned the hard way that a simple, brief first date usually proves to be the least painful. And while the proverbial coffee date works well, my preferred choice is the Drive By. My date-to-be stands on a nearby street corner and I drive by and stop if interested. Sadly, no one has yet to find my suggestion palatable or amusing.

Early Saturday morning Chip emailed to say he would like to bring along his buddy, Harold, and wanted to make sure that was okay with me. I've never agreed to meeting more than one guy at a time, but I figured the odds were definitely in my favor so sent an email back to Chip encouraging him to bring Harold along.

Fortunately, Saturday turned out to be sunny and warm. I say, fortunately, because warm weather meant we would be able to sit at an outside table - most efficient and expedient should a fast get-a-way be necessary. And it almost always is, I winced to myself as I donned my Jackie Kennedy sunglasses and headed for the car.

Squinting into the sun as I approached Jake's Java Hut, I spotted Chip and Harold? sitting at a table near an outdoor trash can. Nearing the table I moaned to myself, Darn. Chip looks just like his photos. Tall, gray, and average. Oh well, I sighed, while trying to look at the bright side, at my age one out of three isn't bad, and summoned up a happy wave as Chip stood to greet me.

Polite introductions were made and I was left alone with Harold, while Chip went inside

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Dating horror stories?
We want to hear your view. Write now!