If you’re going to eat, at some point, you’re going to have to go to the grocery store. Why not save money while you‘re there? There’s no reason it has to be a wallet-draining chore — just follow these ten easy tips on saving money at the grocery store.

1. Make, and stick to, a list

 Photo Credit: JennKstep
Money Saved: from $10 up to $100 per week
Additional Time Spent: 20 minutes
Additional Trouble Level: 3 out of 10
Before you shop, make a list of the things you want to buy. Check your cupboard, fridge, and freezer to see what you already have, check the circulars from your local stores to see what’s on sale, and look in your coupon bin to see what you have in there, too! Only buy what you need, bonus if it’s on sale, and double bonus if you have a coupon AND it’s on sale! If you don’t make a list, you’ll end up buying things you already have, and you’ll forget things you really will need.

2. Don’t shop when you’re hungry

 Photo Credit: -Sunny- *in hospital*
Money Saved: from $5 up to $60 per week!
Additional Time Spent: … minutes
Additional Trouble Level: 0 out of 10
If I’m hungry when I go grocery shopping, I spend almost twice as much as I do when I shop after I’ve already eaten. When I’m hungry, everything looks delicious, and I just have to buy it! Fruits and vegetable, snacks, junk food, everything gets piled into the cart, and I regret it when I get home and have to balance my checkbook, and explain to my sweetheart why we have six bags of chips, four boxes of cereal, and seven varieties of apples.

3. Shop locally if you can

 Photo Credit: *Cinnamon
Money Saved: from $0 up to $60 per year
Additional Time Spent: 0 minutes
Additional Trouble Level: 2 out of 10
Every dollar you spend at a national chain or big-box store goes directly to them and their shareholders. You might save a little shopping there, but your local economy will benefit a lot more from your weekly grocery dollars than super-mega-ultra-Walmart, trust me. Also, when you buy your perishables, like dairy, meat, or produce from a local vendor or grower, it will be fresher, which means you’re a lot less likely to have to throw it out because it spoils before you’ve had a chance to eat it. Fruits and vegetables that are going to be shipped across the country are picked early, sprayed with a chemical that ripens them a little over time, sprayed with wax (to make it shiny and attractive), packaged, then driven for up to three days before it arrives at your store. Ick! Buy your produce locally, and it might be picked that same morning.

So you’ve noticed that the man in your life starts to act strange when you talk about your family, friends or co-workers. Making plans with others and not including him usually seems to end  in a fight about your priorities or about you not having enough time for him. You catch him going red every time you get a call from a friend whether male or female. You are at your wits end and you have no idea how to deal with this.  Could he be dealing with a bit of jealousy from inside?  It’s possible since most people won’t come out and say “I’m jealous!”!  Here are 13 secret signs that indicate that he is indeed jealous….

12. He gets angry easily

Photo Credit: Memmè

Everything you do seems to make him angry. And most of the times, you don’t think you’ve done anything wrong. It could be the simplest of things from spending a night partying with the girls or staying late at work. He doesn’t give you a chance to explain or even talk for that matter and usually you find that a night of fun is followed by him screaming away and ends with a major argument.  A sure shot sign that he could be harboring feelings of jealousy.

11. Not happy when you talk about someone

Photo Credit: shmilebliK

You’ve noticed that every time you talk excitedly about someone, he is visibly unhappy and uncomfortable. It doesn’t matter what gender but you see that it is worse when the person you talk about is of the opposite sex. Now I get why he would get mad if you spoke about a certain someone ALL the time but if a simple, one off thing like describing how good a person is at what he does or what fun you had with him/her should not upset him. I know a lot of you like to employ the strategy of making your man jealous just for kicks or to revive your relationship but this would be a good time to say use it in moderation!

10. He’s possessive about you

Photo Credit: HalfLight .

Does he want to know where you are and with who all the time? Does he call incessantly when you are out with your friends? Does he insist on knowing what time you will be done?  Agreed that a relationship comes with a certain amount of answerability  and I see no harm in informing him where you are going to be. But if too many questions follow, it may be a sign of jealousy.

If Super Bowl Sunday always leaves you wondering whether you might need a bigger TV, another recliner, or just an update for your menu, worry not! Here’s a list of my ten favorite Super Bowl foods… all of them simple, delicious, and sure to please everyone, Saints and Colts fans alike!

1. Chips and dip/salsa

Photo Credit: prettywar-stl

It’s some kind of unwritten law: everyone, everywhere must like chips and salsa (or some other dip). There are so many kinds of chips, and so many kinds of dip, there’s certain to be something for everyone. There’s tortilla chips with salsa, there’s Lay’s with French onion dip, there’s Doritos just plain by themselves. Pour some crisps into a bowl, choose two types of dip or salsa, and there you go. Super Bowl treat number one complete!

2. Chili

Photo Credit: C.Mariani (mostly away)

It may seem a little messy for the Super Bowl crowd, but it’s delicious and filling. Here’s what you need: one pound of ground turkey or ground beef (browned), three cans of diced tomatoes, two cans of pinto beans (drained), one can of dark red kidney beans (drained), one can of condensed tomato soup (and one can of water), and one packet of McCormick’s chili seasoning. You just throw everything into the crock pot, set it on low, and let it simmer all day! Voila a delicious crock-pot meal!  Top with sour cream, fresh diced tomatoes, grated cheddar cheese, onions, you name it… a real crowd-pleaser! And you know, they do sell plastic bowls and spoons, so clean-up is easy, too!

3. Pulled pork

Photo Credit: a_w_taylor

Men like meat. They do! So here’s a Super Bowl food that will make them happy. Just add one pound of pulled pork, one cup of water, and your choice of how much of your favorite bar-be-que sauce to the crock pot, stir well, and simmer until you can’t help yourself, you just have to try it! Load a pile of pork onto a bun and top with whatever you prefer. Set out a side of coleslaw and let the fellas make their own sandwiches… yum!

In this day and age all we ever hear about as women is that we need to have firm little tummies and keep them that way. But how do you know what’s effective in order to lose that stomach fat and get that toned little ab area? That’s what I’m here for ladies, to tell you what top 7 exercises are the most effective to get those abs toned at home!

1. Crunches on an Exercise ball

One effective exercise to try are crunches on an exercise ball which are a lot more difficult than they sound. Not only do you have to keep your balance but you’ve also got to flex and work your abs. Your lower back should be near the top of the ball when doing this exercise. Then slowly roll your shoulders forward towards your hips. 16 to 20 reps a day for 3 weeks and then add a weight for added resistance and you’ll have firm abs in no time!

2. Captains Chair Exercise

Here’s what you have to do, be ready because it’s very difficult. Hold on to the handles and let your legs dangle. Then, very slowly bring your knees up to your chest. Drop and repeat. If you don’t have a captain’s chair it’s ok. Just put your arms on each side of a corner part of a counter and bring your knees up to your chest. You’ll work and lose  that nasty arm fat and tone your abs with that one!

3. Full vertical Crunch

To do a full vertical crunch you need to bring your legs up straight so that your body makes a 90 degree angle and then slowly crunch like you normally would without moving your legs at all. It is relatively easy to do and you’ll only need to do about 20 reps a day in order to start seeing some results! This is also a great little addition to your “getting back to exercise after a break” routine.

You know how men think that we spend too much on clothes/shoes/bags? As sad as it is, they might be right, unless… we are talking about iconic fashion items, like Louis Vuitton Mongram Canvas Bag!

If you consider buying a designer bag and haven’t yet decided which one to splurge on, here are 6 Reasons that’ll make you run for that Speedy Bag to the nearest Louis Vuitton boutique :)

1. It’s a Classic

Audrey Hepburn with Her LV Monogram Speedy 25

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag with it’s notorious monogram canvas and classic silhoette has been in style for years and years now, so once you get it, you can be sure it will look fashionable and stylish as long as you have it (which is not always the case with “it” bags of the season).

2. Pick The Perfect Size

Louis Vuitton Speedy 25

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag comes in 4 sizes, which means you will definitely find the very right size for you ( I personally think Speedy 30 is the best as it is neither too small, nor too big).

Louis Vuitton Speedy 35

One of my New Year’s resolutions this year was to travel more. Another one was to spend money more wisely, and it seems that most of the time, those two resolutions might work against each other. But there are a lot of simple ways to save money for travel, or while traveling, even while commuting! Here’s how.

1. Go off-season

Photo Credit: nature55
Money Saved: from $100 up to $2,000
Additional Time Spent: 30 minutes
Additional Trouble Level: 8 out of 10
If you love to travel, but have a hard time paying for hotel and airfare, you may want to consider going during the off-season. If you travel when everyone else is at home, airlines and hotels will be hungry for your dollars, and will offer you savings and other incentives. Why would they offer deals to travel to Florida or Mexico for Spring Break, when everyone will be going anyway, regardless of how much it costs? It’s much less expensive to travel there when no-one else is going, say, during the summer months.

2. Shop around

Photo Credit: lomokev
Money Saved: from $59 up to $2,000
Additional Time Spent: 90 minutes
Additional Trouble Level: 8 out of 10
With the internet at your fingertips, there’s no reason you can’t shop around for the best deals on airfare, rental cars, hotels, cruises, and more. Feel free to compare packages, prices, and amenities. And haggle if you can! Some sites will allow you to offer a price if you think theirs is too high!

3. Go obscure

Photo Credit: lovelydesign
Money Saved: from $200 up to $4,600
Additional Time Spent: 0 minutes
Additional Trouble Level: 4 out of 10
If there’s a place you’d love to visit, but it’s just too expensive, try a nearby alternative that may be less expensive, because it’s not a tourist trap. Besides, wouldn’t it be fun to send vacation postcards from places no-one’s ever heard of? Again, the internet, or a trustworthy travel agent, can help you choose a unique destination, one that you might have difficulty locating on a map, but that will be the trip of a lifetime!

1. Express Your Love with Gratitude

The boyfriend and I thank each other even for the littlest things we do. We mean it every time. Saying “thank you” and these amazing suggestions via Dani will help you express your love.

2. Single? Give Yourself Some Love, too!

These are perfect gift ideas for yourself if you have no one special this V-Day. I’d go for the jewelry. “Go and buy your own damn ring.”

3. Love Songs

When was the last time someone gave you a mix tape? I have never received one in my entire life. For real. This gift is perfect for a perfect combination of vintage and whimsy.

4. For Your Man

Closet Therapy gives us amazing ideas on what to get your guy this Valentine’s Day. From super fancy to low-key, you’ll love her suggestions.

5. For Your Lady

I’d go for the jewelry as well. However, that red and black lace number is tempting as well. Send the link to your guy and drop obvious hints regarding what you want.

Top Image by We Heart It

I’m clumsy, seemingly always injuring myself in some stupid, careless way. That’s one reason I keep a stockpile of first-aid supplies in my medicine cabinet and in my handbag. What does a normal, non-clumsy person need? Here’s my list of the seven things you should absolutely keep in your medicine cabinet…

1. Peroxide or Betadyne

 Photo Credit: Robert m Williams

Even if you’re not accident-prone, you’ll still probably cut yourself at one time or another, so it’s a good idea to keep a topical cleanser in your medicine cabinet. Use peroxide or Betadyne for cleaning wounds, but avoid rubbing alcohol. It stings and doesn’t offer any other real benefits.

2. Band-Aids

 Photo Credit: cattycamehome

Once you’ve cleaned a cut, you’ll want to protect it with a bandage. Keep a box of all different sizes handy, just in case, and make sure they’re sterile.

3. Analgesic (pain reliever) like Tylenol, aspirin, Motrin

 Photo Credit: J. Forger’s FlickPics

There are different over-the-counter pain medications for different types of pain. For muscle inflammation and pain, try Motrin. For headaches, try Tylenol or Excedrin. Aspirin is another great choice, but try not to take any of these pain relievers on an empty stomach. Also, make sure to throw away expired medications and replace them with new bottles.

I love oversized bags for the infinite space they offer but every once in a while, you need the perfect sized bag that will fit your essentials and look fab at the same time! Enter the Gucci Bamboo Medium Top Handle Bag!

What’s so Fab about It: It’s leather and bamboo. It’s Gucci. It’s fabulous. I especially love the turn lock closure. And if like me, you’re not a fan of tassels, just detach it. And let’s not forget the neutral color that will go with almost anything! Perfect? I think so!

Where Would I wear It: I’m thinking a fancy brunch Upper East Side style ;)

How Many Tall Lattes It’s Worth: 597

Where to Look 4 It: gucci.com

You may be all about large bags like me, but would you buy this gorgeous Gucci Bamboo Medium Top Handle Bag? Pray tell!

First Dates have the potential to be seriously awkward when you don’t have the right activity to do or place to go. This is where I come in. I’m here to give you ladies a few ideas about what to do, 10 to be exact. Just call me the fairy godmother of first dates ;)

1. Have a Picnic:

Photo Credit: Sílvia Leite

Weather permitting, picnics are a great idea for a first date. There’s food, you’re outdoors, and best of all you can speak to each other without worrying if other people in the area can hear you. Just pack up a basket full of food, a blanket, and head off to your favorite little stream or park and get ready for the perfect first date.

2. Go Skating:

Photo Credit: The Flooz

Skating can be done anywhere, outdoors, at a skating rink, around an empty basement (on second thought an empty basement might NOT be the best place for a first date). It’s great if you stink at it because then you have to hold on really tight to your date *swoon* And if you fall, handle it with grace and laugh at yourself. He will love you for it and my darlings will definitely increase your chances of getting a second date!

3. Go Bowling:

Photo Credit: Zakiah Ali

Bowling is another first date idea that’s good even if you stink. If you’re good you’ll impress your date with your cannon of an arm, if you stink then do a victory dance (even if you only knock down one pin). Either way, even in the loud atmosphere of the alley, you’ll have a good time. Just don’t walk off with the bowling shoes.

People who entertain often know that finger foods for a party are key in keeping the guests from getting bored or too hungry too soon. These can also be the talk of the town if they are fairly exotic.  When I host a party, sometimes I might spice things up a bit with something fancy, but for the most part I have my tried and true favorites for parties. The finger foods listed below are easy, not expensive at all, and can be dressed up by simply placing them in a crystal bowl or on a fancy platter.

10. Chips and Salsa

Photo Credit: Abiona

While these seem to be the standard at most parties, they are also the appetizers that seem to receive the most attention. Not many people complain about chips and salsa as they gab over a plate full of them. They are so many varieties of chips and salsa today that everyone should be able to find something they like.

9. Veggies and Dip

Photo Credit: amanky

The vegetable platters that I see in the stores usually have baby carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower on them. These finger foods for a party are a much healthier alternative to chips and salsa. They aren’t always enjoyed quite as much, but are a great snack for those dieting. French onion dips, spinach dips, and even a bottle of ranch dressing can be the perfect dip for these.

8. Fancy Crackers

Photo Credit: skrockodile (www.cookbookcatchall.b logspot.com)

There are crackers made in just about every shape imaginable. I try to get a variety of shapes, since it makes it interesting when they are placed on the platter or sitting side by side in bowls. Boxes of large round crackers can be purchased and decorated with cheese spreads and garnishes for something a bit dressier and yummier. The only thing about these large crackers is that they are harder to eat. Small crackers can be eaten in one single bite so I usually prefer those.

College is one of the most expensive, but most important, investments you can make. But how will you come up with the money to pay for it, and how will you live cheaply while you’re in college? As someone who’s both a college student, and the mother of another college student, I can help! Here’s my list of the top 10 ways to save money for college, and how to spend less while you’re there!

1. Start as soon as possible

 Photo Credit: LeighTaylor
Money Saved: from $1,200 up to $80,000
Additional Time Spent: 30 minutes per month
Additional Trouble Level: 5 out of 10
It’s no secret or mystery — we start college after high school. So we all know when that expense is coming, right? Then why do we always wait until the last year or so to start saving for college? The sooner you start saving, the more you will save. If you can’t start any earlier, at least start saving when you’re a freshman in high school (grade 9), which will give you at least four years to save. If you can start sooner, then do it! If you only sock away a measly $25 per week, which is what you would spend on one night at the movies, you can save $1,300 in one year, or $5,200 in four years. That doesn’t even include any of the other ways you can save money, detailed below…

2. Open a tax-free account

 Photo Credit: nikkinoguer
Money Saved: from $100 up to $8,000
Additional Time Spent: 90 minutes
Additional Trouble Level: 6 out of 10
If you know for certain you’ll be able to put away a certain amount of money each month, then you should consider opening a tax-free 529 college savings account. Any interest you earn is tax-free, and you won’t pay any penalties when you withdraw the money to use it for school expenses, like tuition and textbooks. You will need a sizeable amount to start off with though, and you will also have to commit to a monthly minimum deposit, but the deposit can sometimes be as low as only $50 per month. Shop around to find a savings plan that works for you.

Whether it’s the middle of a freezing cold winter or a piping hot summer, you’ll need a few things in the trunk of your car in case of disaster in the form of an untimely break-down.  So for those “just in case” situations, here is my list of the top ten things you need to stash in your trunk, and keep in your car at all times.

1. Spare tire and jack

Photo Credit: dog byte

Whether there have been signs that you need a new car or car or even if your car and tires are brand new, it’s very likely that at some point, you’ll get a flat tire, one that you’ll have to change (gasp!) yourself. So make sure there’s a spare tire and a jack in the trunk, and that the spare is viable. Make sure you know how to take the flat tire off and replace it with the spare, too. It’s a lot easier and safer to check before you get stranded in the middle of the night, in the middle of winter…

2. Jumper cables

Photo Credit: .: sandman

You or someone else may also have a dead battery at one time or another. If you leave your dome light on by accident, or if something goes wonky with your battery or alternator, make sure you have a set of working jumper cables, and that you know how to use them properly.

3. Flashlight with batteries

Photo Credit: illum

If your car breaks down or gets a flat at night, you’ll want a flashlight (torch), one that actually works! Make sure you have a good-sized light and that the batteries work, and, just in case, that you even have spare batteries for it.

If Holly Golightly was a biker chick, this Gucci Biker Jacket is exactly the kind of jacket she’d wear! Move aside boring black leather and chains! It’s time for the rule of baby blue!

What’s So Fab about It: This jacket combines the rugged appeal of the biker look with a girly, charming color making it tres fab. I love how structured it is. And while I’m usually all for bohemian, loose fitted comfort, I don’t mind the occassional tailored jacket in my wardrobe.

Where Would I Wear It: Capri pants, platform shoes, oversized sunglasses and I’m off for an afternoon of shopping with the girls.

How Many Tall Lattes It’s Worth: 1533 cups

Where to Look 4 It: gucci.com

Sure, this Gucci Biker Jacket is more of a splurge than a necessity but if you could, would you add this to your wardrobe?

No matter how hard we try, there are still some common mistakes parents make when dealing with their kids. And I’m not only talking about teenagers but children of all ages. I made up a list of the 10 most common mistakes. I know I’ve made a few of them and some of them are more of a habit that needs to be broken.

10. Too Controlling

Photo Credit: extratony

This mistake is common with first time parents. We want for out children to be protected from anything and everything that could possibly have a negative effect on him/her. Due to this, we feel that if we control every little thing our kids do, all will turn out well. The intentions might be good most of the time, but they need to make their own mistakes sometimes. Afterall, our mistakes make us who we are.

9. Pointing out only the negatives

Photo Credit: Neato Coolville

I find that I really have to think about what I’m going to say sometimes just to make sure that it isn’t going to be an unnecessary negative comment. Some people are born pessimists. If  you can’t have a positive and happy outlook about your life, it might be difficult to not pass it onto your children. Try not to be a ‘the glass is half empty’ person. Focus on the good things and give a little bit of positive feedback from time to time. Think of how good it makes you feel when someone compliments you or your work!

8. Lack of Consequences

Photo Credit: just.K

I’ve seen this as one of the common mistakes parents make when they have a lot of children or have children at a much later stage in life. Many times they are just too tired to give punishments when their child does something wrong. If this is done too many times, then often the child thinks that he/she can do anything he/she pleases. How will your child ever learn responsibility if this is the case?

No matter where you go this time of year, you’re sure to hear the people around you coughing and sneezing. It’s winter, and we’re right in the throes of another cold and flu season. The last thing you want is to get sick right now, and aside from wearing one of those surgical anti-germ masks, how else can you prevent getting a cold? No worries! I have a list of the top ten best foods to boost your immune system to keep you, and your family, from getting the sniffles! Notice that most of them are healthful foods anyway, loaded with free-radical busting anti-oxidants and all sorts of fantastic vitamins!

1. Yogurt

Photo Credit: prima_stella

Yogurt contains a host of “good” bacteria, called probiotics, that help your immune system fight off nasty bacteria and germs. Add some diced fresh fruit and it’s a tasty, healthful snack, or part of an ideal breakfast for a gal who’s dieting. Make sure the yogurt you’re eating is low-fat, and that it’s labeled as containing “live” or “active” cultures.

2. Garlic

Photo Credit: Seattle Photographer ~ Jackie Baisa (Donnelly)

Aside from warding off vampires, being a great aphrodisiac to get your sexy back and making your spaghetti sauce delicious, garlic can also boost your immune system with its smelly sulfur-related compounds. That’s right — the same compounds that make garlic super-stinky also make it ideal for fighting bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral infections. It’s also chock full of antioxidants. It may leave you reaching for your breath mints, but it’s really something of a wonder food!

3. Oregano

Photo Credit: JoelDC

Another food we add to our spaghetti sauce is also valuable in fending off the cold and flu viruses — perky little oregano. Didn’t know that little food secret did ya? Suffering from indigestion? Try a little oregano to help cure that too.

Is there anything better than coming home from a long day to a nice, hot, home-cooked meal? If you have a crock pot, then it’s possible to throw a few things in each morning, and come home to a yummy meal. Here are my eight favorite crock-pot meals, all of them delicious, and all of them perfect for the long, cold winter!

1. Turkey Chili

 Photo Credit: C.Mariani (mostly away)

This is a classic, and everybody loves it! You can add all sorts of toppings, and you can even make it as hot or as mild as you want. Here’s what you need: one pound of ground turkey or ground beef (browned), three cans of diced tomatoes, two cans of pinto beans (drained), one can of dark red kidney beans (drained), one can of condensed tomato soup (and one can of water), and one packet of McCormick’s chili seasoning. If you like, you can also add a small can of diced green chilis, or a small can of corn. You just throw everything into the crock pot, set it on low, and let it simmer all day! Top with sour cream, fresh diced tomatoes, grated cheddar cheese, onions, you name it…

2. Beef Stew

 Photo Credit: t.sullivan photography

Why buy Dinty Moore beef stew from a can, when you can make your own? All you need is: one pound of diced stewing beef, two large potatoes (diced), two large carrots (sliced), one stalk of celery (diced), one-half of one small yellow onion (diced), two cups of water, and one McCormick’s Beef Stew seasoning packet. Toss everything into the crock pot, turn it on low or medium, and let it simmer for at least five hours, or more if you have time. So delicious!

3. Navy Bean and Ham Soup

 Photo Credit: Roger Smith

The U.S. Senate Café serves something similar, and the recipe hasn’t changed for 150 years. It’s so delicious! Here’s what you need: 1 cup of cooked ham (diced), 2 large potatoes (diced), 1 large carrot (diced), one quarter of one onion (diced), 2 cans of northern white beans (drained), one can of pinto beans (drained), 2 cups of chicken broth, and two tablespoons of ground black pepper. Just put everything into the crock pot, give it a good stir, turn it on low, and let it simmer for at least five hours, more if you have time. Serve with a chunk of warm bread… so tasty and satisfying!

Trust Tiffany to satiate a woman’s appetite for diamonds. Presenting the Tiffany Oval Diamond Ring, a ring so divine that I would sell my soul for it!

What’s So Fab about It: Now I don’t understand diamond specifications like a pro would, but I do know fabulous when I see it. I’m not one for giant rocks on my finger so what I like best about this ring is its simplicity. And while the simplicity element does not extend to its price, I can’t help but fall in love with this ring. With a carat total weight of 3.86, this gorgeous oval diamond ring in platinum is perfection!

Where Would I Wear It: Hopefully when the man of my dreams says “Marry me”, this is the ring that will adorn my finger.

How Many Tall Lattes It’s Worth: 67,500 *gulp*

Where to Look 4 It: tiffany.com

Need I even ask what you think about this ring? I know the price is insane but this is the 2 Die 4 section afterall and like I said earlier, I would actually sell my soul for this. Would you?

1. The Dating Blog

Can’t possibly get any clearer than the blog title. Just like All Women Stalk this site has very helpful posts on dating and relationship advice. And if too much love and dating talk can get too boring for you, The Dating Blog also has the latest on celebrity engagements, celebrity divorces, and other love situations in Hollywoodland. Informative with a touch of my obsession (celebrities, in case you don’t know). I like it.

At times, it can be frustrating to try and break the ice with someone new. The worst part of meeting someone for the first time or going on that first date is the awkwardness. Sometimes it’s better to have a plan in mind . Well, I have some tips for you, so it is time to get that ice pick ready and break the ice!

10. Choose the right activity

Photo Credit: ‘SeraphimC

The activity you choose should inspire conversation. I have found that plays, concerts, movies and anything else related is not the best choice simply because the two of you will be sitting there in silence. I think galleries, museums and festivals are the best places to inspire conversation.

9. Make jokes

Photo Credit: Cisco Kid 71

It is fine to make jokes, just make sure it is not self-effacing humor. Avoid sitting there and making fun of other individuals. You should also avoid telling jokes about religious beliefs along with politics. If you are not comfortable with being funny, then just skip this one. It is important that you are comfortable and natural.

8. Show an interest

Photo Credit: Matilde B.

When you’re trying to break the ice with someone new, it is important that you show an interest. Just make sure you are careful and don’t get too personal too quick. Some safe topics include work, hometowns, pets and music. I like asking questions that will show personality.