Happy Thanksgiving is the first thing to say today, in proper company, so I have said it to you. You’re welcome.

Holidays are generally a hard time to start dating someone new. The protocols are all mixed up with who does what, asking a “close stranger” into a hectic family gathering or sad little lonely 4lb turkey you microwave up for your Thanksgiving meal.

The real first rule is this: if you asked them for a first date you also ask them to join your holiday celebration, no matter how crowded or sparse the company will be that you keep. If the invitation for a dinner is made for a meal you do not prepare yourself make sure you are allowed to bring a guest with you. Forcing the host to provide another plate may make for uncomfortable dining for you and your guest.

The second rule is: no gifts are to be exchanged, unless it’s something non-committal as in a box of candy or a bouquet of holiday blossoms.

The third rule of holiday dating is: no booze. While you may give the host of the meal a bottle of something “wine-ish” boozing it up while your date sits in a corner blocking unwanted advances from Uncle Ted while you reminisce with family isn’t a good date memory. So no drinking to the point of being illegal to drive your date home after the meal/gathering.

The fourth rule is: there is no fourth rule, I just wanted to know if I have held your attention this long. Thanks.

My dating profile headline I’d like to offer for your use today is:
“Why are you not holding my hand?”

Have a great day!