Hi Everyone,

I have been in contact with this guy over the past 4 months via the internet, (he lives locally) and he has now asked me to meet with him. We spoke over the phone last week and it was difficult to talk to him but on the other side he was quiet funny when we started chatting. I have agreed to meet with him (in a public place) next weekend, however I'm worried if there is going to be silence between us because that would make things really awkward. Is there anyway that I can avoid this happening or not? I'd apprecaite someone's advice on this one.

As someone who met his first proper girlfriend through the Internet, and one of my best friends is engaged to someone he met off the net, let me try and help...

Don't be worried that there may be awkward silences... That's quite natural and it shouldn't make a difference that you're meeting him through the Internet. Most people on dates have moments of awkward silences, so if he seems quiet and nervous, take my tip that's got me far in life. PRETEND to YOURSELF that you're full of confidence and ask questions. Music, literature, art. He answers but doesn't ask the question back or a different question? Then simply agree/disagree and elaborate why.

Awkward silences are nothing to be worried about and are easily combatted.
I would also like to give you a thumbs up on meeting in a public place. Very wise!

That is kind of hard to say. A lot of the time when you are first seeing someone in person it is silent. Ask him if you can bring some friends along and go bowling or to the club or something like that. I dated this guy (who was well known by family) on the internet for 3 years. When I seen him I turned away but my brother made me go back outside and then it was all fine. Find a conversation you know a lot about and continue to talk. If you feel it getting awkward change the subject before it comes to the silence part. Hope I could help if any a little.