Going on a date with someone new can be thrilling and invigorating. But it's important to keep that rush in perspective and to always be alert and prepared. Don't assume that Mr. New Guy will be Mr. Nice Guy just because your coworker knows him from the gym. So put your safety first, and tell a friend where you're going and with whom. Promise to call your pal the minute you get home.

 

Rubber, prophylactic, sheath, blob, scumbag, Frenchie, flunky, glove, Johnny, raincoat, safe, condom. Whatever you call it, pack one in your pants or purse before embarking on your rendezvous. You just never know what you'll feel like doing.

 

Nothing worse than that first in-person encounter that gets off to an awkward start with, "So, what do you want to do?" Followed by, of course, "I don't know. What do YOU want to do?" The solution, says Colleen K. from Seattle, is a few minutes of prep: "I always check concert, event and movie listings in case there's nothing to say and you need something to do." It doesn't have to be set in stone (spontaneity is much more fun and doesn't run the risk of you looking too eager or of feeling disappointed because things didn't go as you'd expected), but it's good to have an idea or two in waiting.

 

Looking your best ensures you feel your best. Make sure to set aside enough time before your date to work through your body prep routine -- trim, shave, pluck, wax, exfoliate, moisturize… whatever it takes so that you feel sexy. My friend Lina G. from Toronto once gave me the following great advice: "Take one close-up look and one from-afar look in the mirror before stepping outside." In the hours leading up to your outing, remember to eat foods that you know agree with your tummy and don't cause uncomfortable bloating and gas.

 

No one likes a tooter.