OK, I'm just getting back into the dating thing and I'm 53! I have a date Sat and he said what do you want to do? Ok - we can go out to eat of course, then what? Movie or bar or where? I'll most likely go to sleep in a movie and we can't talk and get to know each other. I'll go to a bar, but all the ones around here are loud and rowdy; and I'm not comfortable with that. He's a friend of a friend, so I'll be meeting him for the first time. There are no coffee houses or book stores in the area. Any suggestions? I told him we could decide tomorrow. Anybody out there with ideas??

What time of day will your date be?

I would recommend a mid-afternoon lunch, at a nicer restaurant that is open all day. In the afternoon as opposed to the normal lunch time the restaurant will be more calm and relaxed. If it is a casual sit-down restaurant then you will have plenty opportunity to talk and get to know each other. Being open all evening will be nice if you find yourselves absorbed in conversation because the staff won't be trying to get you out. The problem with the same scenario at dinner time is that during the weekend the restaurants are more likely to be busy, with people who might be more rambunctious than you would care to deal with. Maybe choose a down-town location that is within walking distance to a theater or some other attraction. Walking together is very relaxing and if things are going well then you can take all the time you want.

Hopefully this will be useful to you, good luck with everything, I'm sure all will go well.

Bowling, shopping, karate class, dance class, nature hike, Alamo, Hearst Castle, Yosemite, horseback riding, laugh, politicking, feed the needy in a shelter, yardwork, chaperoned weekend trip (with another couple)... lots to do!

What about a wine tasting? Or, a nice romantic dinner? Theatre shows, concerts, even a walk in the park.

I don't really think age has anything to do with the dating process... you find what you two like to do together and do it. It could be playing board games or guitar hero! You never know!

Good luck finding your perfect date! :)