tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80676556693760316012024-03-05T11:23:11.714+00:00Grab a SpoonThe Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-57899231488646910642013-12-11T20:10:00.000+00:002013-12-11T20:10:06.586+00:00Looks or Personality- which is the worse Rejection?<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was just wondering about being... </div>
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Would you prefer to be rejected on just your looks, or your personality?</div>
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I was on the train and this guy approached me and started talking to me. No problem, I'm a nice person, I wasn't going to embarrass him on a train. Well, I could immediately tell that I wasn't into him, he just wasnt my type looks wise. After asking me a couple of questions he asked whether we could meet up soon. So I decided to ask him a few questions. He wasnt an ugly person, perhaps his personality was "my type". Well, turns out he seemed kind of boring and I was no more interested in him than before I met him. However, it had gone too far, we had a conversation, and now it would be really rude for me to turn him down.</div>
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I took his number to save face, but as I got off the train it occurred to me- would it have been rude to reject him due to his looks or because of his personality? What would the every-day Joe (or Josephine) take worse?</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Notebook- a serious tear-jerker for Owl and I...</td></tr>
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I came home and consulted a friend, who seems to share my view. She felt that once you started talking to a person, it made any subsequent rejection or turn-down would now be taken very personally. At the end of the day, we all want to be liked (even the those who act like they don't). If a person doesnt like us because of our looks, then whatever, we're not everyone's cup of tea. But if someone doesnt like our personality, or the other things we have to offer, well, that kinda sucks.</div>
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What's your opinion? Would love to hear your views on the blog, or Tweet us @grabaspoon.</div>
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So when we broke up I was kinda relieved that I didn't have to go through that anymore. Love isn't planned but I had a fairly good inclination that I wasn't going to put myself through that again.<br />
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ELB doesn't exactly live minutes round the corner, but a minute trip isn't too bad at all. (It'd be even less if I was a driver) My definition always was "If there was a crisis could you drop everything and get to them easily?" If the answer was no then it was a LDR.<br />
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So I consider myself very fortunate, ELB and I see each other pretty much every week, spending weekends together and the occasional weeknights at pub quiz's.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMK3NzGiRiRwjp_t7gz4WTn6BFISX1NN5Ka_ebAlZRNqchuR1e2_j2cufq4GidOh2a5RTWlQWNxyLYkGgBd2dTL2_q_5OsSV7IAtGrmLKQL0GTjwmbENcMmsz1nHLJ6kCimChTkzCGUHLj/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMK3NzGiRiRwjp_t7gz4WTn6BFISX1NN5Ka_ebAlZRNqchuR1e2_j2cufq4GidOh2a5RTWlQWNxyLYkGgBd2dTL2_q_5OsSV7IAtGrmLKQL0GTjwmbENcMmsz1nHLJ6kCimChTkzCGUHLj/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a>When we first started dating I had a big work event that meant I didnt see him for a while, but we'd only been dating a few weeks and it was actually very exciting to know at the end of it we were spening a few days together during our first "sleepover"<br />
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But now I'm on another work trip. In Scotland. I made the most of having travel paid for and am also seeing a close friend for a few days. Meaning I'm away from home for 9 nights - two weekends. And it SUCKS! I know I know I really shouldn't moan. And it's not that I'm majorly clingy or co-dependent. There's just something about this trip that has me feeling those familiar LDR feelings.<br />
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I've got a hoodie that smells of him, the teddy he bought me and I'm texting him non-stop.<br />
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I know there are many people much worse than me - I've been there. But it's all relative I guess. I'm used to seeing ELB all the time, and snuggling up with him on my precious weekends relaxing. So after working my ASS off doing 10 - 12 hour days for the last month it doubly sucks to be away from him.<br />
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I don't really know what else to say on the subject. I just wanted to comment on how weird it was and how much its making me feel a bit rubbish. So that's that.<br />
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<br />The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-38125459148429473162013-10-12T15:29:00.003+01:002013-10-12T15:30:22.707+01:00Over-thinking being nice? THIS is a problem...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Just a quick post. I realise we haven't posted in a while. As with everyone in this crazy jungle of life, things just gets away from us sometimes. Owl has a lot going on with work etc and I was off everything "dating" for a bit, trying to mentally recharge.</div>
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Well, I'm back again, trying to navigate this scary and often frustrating world of dating. In fact, I just started seeing this guy, and we seemed to get along for the first few dates. However, he recently told me that his parent has been taken seriously ill. </div>
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I have given him space because he seems to be completely focused on that (understandably!) The thing is, I want him to know that I am thinking of him, and I want to be supportive. However, how supportive can I really be? I don't know him so well to visit his mum (I've never even met her- its only been a few dates after all!) And I don't want to bombard him with supportive texts and phone calls, I just don't know whether that would be useful.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I made this just for you- hope your mum feels better"<br />
I don't think this will work...</td></tr>
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This is not a "shall I give her a mix-tape or house key?" dilemma. I want to show him that I care, but I don't want to bother him, or become overbearing. There is also the small nagging voice in the back of my mind that tells me that this would be a good excuse for him to use to back out of seeing me again. </div>
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(No, I haven't used this excuse before... nor anything like it... ahem...)</div>
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Its a possible "He's just not that into you" kind of situation. I hate those. They have you second guessing the smallest things. They even have you second guessing second guessing.</div>
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Well, after a few days over-thinking it, I decided not to over-think it. I will send him a message, letting him know I'm thinking of him, then take it from there. There is nothing wrong with me letting him know that I care. That's meant to be a good thing. And if he doesn't appreciate it, if he's too busy to get back right away, if he decides that he thinks I'm overbearing well, that's fine. Because no matter what, I am being true to myself, and the man I will end up with after all this dating malarkey will understand that.</div>
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Until then? Well, I have plenty going on to pass the time. Overthinking is no longer on that list.</div>
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Panda x<br />
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The more I meet people, the more I realise that having the right chemistry with someone is important.Two people need to have an unspoken connection between them for their relationship to work. But what about when only the chemistry is right? What happens when its the stuff surrounding the chemistry that causes problems?</div>
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A couple of days ago I was out with some friends, and got talking to a friend of a friend (you know how it goes). I think it started when I quoted a film quote (to be honest I'm still pretty proud of the reference!) and he got it immediately. A great spark was lit. It was great, we found out that we liked the same books, we enjoyed the same movies, we even had the same sense of humour (you guys know me well enough now to know that this is top of my list!) Even some of my friends commented on the energy between us.</div>
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There's just one teeny detail that could potentially get in the way. His wife.</div>
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Now, I just want to make clear that other than chatting, nothing happened at all. As it stands, I draw a thick, red, poisonous line when it comes to wrecking someone's marriage. But we got on so well, so instantly, it was scary. </div>
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This phenomenon has been happening a lot for me recently. I reconnected with a friend on Facebook (again, from a previous work role) who I get on with like a house on fire (btw I've never understood that phrase... no one gets on with a beloved burning home). We went to dinner and to the cinema, just as friends, and had a great time. Again, our tastes were similar, and the humour was on par. Unfortunately I'm just not attracted to him. Not even slightly.</div>
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It leads me to consider the opposite- what about relationships when everything is right except the chemistry? It isn't usually easy for me to find the right connection with a guy. Many of the men I've dated over the past 2 years haven't quite had what I was looking for, and yet, I have tried to compromise anyway, because they're "a nice guy". Each and every one of these relationships has died a rapid, sinking death. Clearly for me, chemistry is supremely important.</div>
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The universe has been playing some divine tricks on me recently when it comes to dating. Great guy, no chemistry. Great chemistry, married. What the heck?! This is probably some sort of message, or part of a greater plan of some kind. What I have surmised so far is that perhaps I need to be a teeny bit more specific about what I'm looking for in a man. Like, can I have chemistry and be attracted to the guy too? Oh, and also (if its not too much trouble) can this guy be SINGLE and AVAILABLE (although you'd think this would be a given!)</div>
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<i>Dating history tales</i></div>
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<i>Sometimes you just need to hear about the sad, wonderful, inspiring and often downright WEIRD dating experiences of others. This series of blog posts will recount a tale from our pasts - purely for your own amusement. Enjoy and feel free to <a href="http://owlandpandabear.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Dating%20history%20tales" target="_blank">read more here</a>. </i></div>
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So, I will begin by saying that I have NEVER been the type of girl to be concerned about money. It is important that a guy has ambition, and isn't afraid to work. My longest term boyfriend was unemployed when we met. However, there is a difference between having a lack of money and being downright cheap.</div>
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I met this guy in a club when I was in my very early 20's. He was really funny and made me laugh, and as you all probably know by now, this is the quickest way to my heart. So I gave him my number. Our first date was a quiet walk in the park. Nothing happened, but we got to know each other a little better. Turns out, he was a comedian (hence the funniness) and he was in his early 30's. No real problem there (I have never had a real issue with age) and the date was nice.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What are you, 12? <br />
This is a date, not an outing!</td></tr>
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So, second date time and we're planning on going to the cinema. I'm dressed nicely, in a cute skirt and top, nice handbag, hair done to perfection. He turns up in a baggy T-Shirt, baggy joggers and one of those pull-string Nike bags on his back. Erm, why did I bother even doing my hair?</div>
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We meet and he asks me if I want anything to eat, so I say that I fancy some Chinese. So we walk around and I pick a decent looking restaurant (I use the terms "decent" and "restaurant" fairly loosely here) and we sit to choose food. He says he's not eating anything, which I find a bit strange, why would you go to a restaurant and not eat? So I pick my meal and eat, and he practically watches me do so. Then, when the bill comes (it cant be more than £3.60) he stares at me and says "I'm paying for the cinema, so you can pay for the meal."</div>
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Now, please allow me to reiterate, I am not a money grabbing type of girl, nor do I expect a man to finance my existence. However, if you are trying to impress me on a date, the least you can do is pay for my meal. Especially when it is so cheap! A simple gesture I think, especially since we are both adults (one of us more than the other). To add insult to injury, the cinema tickets cost about £3 each! What sort of horrible budget date is this?</div>
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I didn't have any money on me at the time (I assumed I was being taken out!), so I had to go to the cash point, and I'm telling you, I had the urge to jump on the bus and just go home, leaving him with the bill. But I just cant do that to a person (plus, I don't want to bump into him at a comedy club and I end up in the firing line of some stupid joke). So I come back and pay for the meal.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://news.topmotors.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/londons-bendy-buses-no-more.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://news.topmotors.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/londons-bendy-buses-no-more.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A free ride in London <br />(providing you don't get caught!)</td></tr>
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It gets better. So, we need to get to the cinema, and we have to miss a couple of buses because he has no money on his Oyster Card and he needs to jump on a bendy bus (remember London's brief fascination with bendy buses?) Are you freaking kidding me? By now, I just want to get to the cinema to see the film (it was Idlewild and I had a crush on Andre 3000 and a girl crush on Paula Patton). The bus was packed, so I spent 10mins with his arms around me (**shudder**).</div>
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Needless to say, I saw the film, but didn't see him again. I have my standards. Being so horribly thrifty on a date is a complete turn off. </div>
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To this day I feel like I was part of a horrible social experiment, or recorded skit or something. He's been on TV before, and if I mentioned his Comedy name he'd come up straight away on a Google Images search. But I'm not going to, its too embarrassing for him (and I'm not a bad lady really). However, if you see this story played out on TV let me know and I'll happily show you a mugshot...</div>
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So, I'm going through my daily trawl of the dating website, of messages I have received. Don't be happy for me. Most of the messages I receive are daft one-liners, usually "hi" or something just as meaningless to me. I was feeling a bit lonely and thought I'd have a look at what the site had to offer.</div>
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I came across one guy who seemed interesting, and the site said we were pretty much a good match (based on all the statistical factoring and data configuration no less- Friends Bods will know what I'm on about). Anyway, I thought I'd take a mini leap and send him a message. Turns out, he had already messaged me last year.</div>
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<i>"I like your breasts".</i></blockquote>
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Hmmm. It was a frustrating one. I had read through his profile, looked at his statistics and thought this would be a mature person I could at least have a conversation with. I was wrong. Feeling a little affronted, I replied:</div>
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<i>"Hmmm. Just read through your profile. Seemed a decent profile, then, as I opened up the message, I realised you messaged me last year. 'I like your breasts'. Well, most people do. Not the kind of opening line I cherish though."</i></blockquote>
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He was quick to reply:</div>
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<i>"Well when it comes to honesty I don't hold back. This site is full of people doing the equivalent of 'talking about the weather'. :) </i><i>Good luck with your search!"</i></blockquote>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this what I'm searching for? Is this what I expect?</td></tr>
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That got me thinking. What the hell am I searching for? I mean, in the grand scheme of things, I know what I want- a decent guy who treats me well, ambitious, funny, loving and caring blah blah. But do I really believe I am going to find it on a website?</div>
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He is right, the site is full of people "talking about the weather". I have met a couple of guys on there, those who were "highly matched" who ended up annoying the hell out of me after a couple of dates. I'm sure the site's master computer would argue that I have entered some details wrong, or that I am not being authentic online, or something. The long and short of it is, there is only so far I can go when "meeting" someone online.</div>
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At the risk of sounding like an old bag, I miss the days when I would go out and just meet guys. There were times when I would meet 3 or 4 guys on the same night, go out on dates with them, and then the following week start the process again. I know, this was when I was a little younger, and I had a different type of energy. And yes, I am probably looking for something different in a guy than I was 7 years ago. But I still miss meeting guys when out and about, using my instinct to judge his character, seeing his reactions to me, reading body language and so on. What happened to that?</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many a face I have made at an online message</td></tr>
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As technology advances, are we doomed to hide behind laptops and smartphones, using computers to pick out potential mates, spend months "talking" through texts and messages before having any actual face to face contact?</div>
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On the flip side, I know a few people who have met their current partners online, and they aren't complete dullards, or douche-bags This is only a teeny ray of hope for me though, because for everyone I know that has found someone good for them, there are 10 who make that "what the actual f*ck?" face every time they check their messages.</div>
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This is why I'm taking a stand. I'm making it my mission to be out there more. And I do mean out there- just like Charlotte in SATC. I want to see and be seen again. I want to be approached and have actual conversations with guys in real life. Remember those? Yes, its nerve wracking and frightening, and yes, its a tad awkward at first, but you know what? I got less "I like your breasts" comments face to face when I met guys the old fashioned way. That's got to mean something.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: purple;">An Owl in a meringue...</span></b></td></tr>
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I'm sure this sounds familiar to most. We've all been there in the heart of a breakup at least once. I'd like to think my situation was a little unique. Not only were we in a long distance relationship, but he was a "recovering" alcoholic and ex convict that I had supported emotionally (and financially) for the last 2 years. Jeesh you write it down like that and it suddenly sounds so awful.<br />
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But at the time, I was madly in love. And not only that, I was subject to my own worst flaw - always seeing and believing in the best in people. That didn't get me very far, but thankfully he showed his true colours before it became legal and he moved to my country, to my flat, to burden me and my loved ones with the rest of his problems for the rest of our lives.<br />
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Back to 18 months ago and me on my couch broken hearted. I could tell you "I didn't think it would ever get better" But that would be a lie. You see, I also believe in the strength of myself. And I refused to ever allow one pathetic excuse of a human being to decide the state of my mental health.<br />
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Because to be perfectly honest with you, it very nearly did. I had poured so much into that man. So much of my faith in humanity, of my belief in love, of my firm unchanging foundations of knowing someone can always change for the better....and had that torn up, spat on and destroyed in front of my eyes. Many <b>many</b> times over during the longest month of my life.<br />
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So there I was....the very soul of everything I had every believed in in tatters, and that could've been the end of it. I could've given up on love and trust and all of that right there. I don't think anyone would've blamed me. But I didn't. I refused to, My own pigheaded stubborness kicked in! That and my loved ones...<br />
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/169518373443554026_0DohGQuM_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Wise words from Albus Dumbledore" border="0" height="213" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/169518373443554026_0DohGQuM_c.jpg" width="320" /></a>To this day I don't think I would've made it without them. My friends and family reminded me every single day exactly why my belief system is one of the goodness in humankind and of love.<br />
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At the time I couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel. I didn't know when it would stop hurting, or when I would be able to close my eyes and not see his face. I didn't know when the day would come when I wouldn't break down whilst washing dishes and I had no idea if I would even be able to love someone again for certain. But I knew it was coming....and that it couldn't be rushed.<br />
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It sounds so cliché but time <b>is</b> the biggest healer. But only when you accept what is happening. As I once told Panda, you have to "feel the feelings". Don't block them away, the quicker you accept them and work your way through them, the easier it will be.<br />
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Look at me. 1 year from the day I was supposed to marry that guy and I didn't even remember the significance of the date until 10:30 at night! I can't even picture his face or hear his voice properly any more.<br />
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I won't rehash all the clichéd advice. But I will repeat the piece of advice I can give to anyone.<br />
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<b>Feel the feelings.</b> </div>
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That and never, EVER let anyone mess with your ability to love and care and cherish for another. Those things come from inside you...and if the ex wasn't smart enough to see those things in you, well, that's just all the more fortunate for the next isn't it?<br />
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<br />The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-2308859265661554592013-03-15T16:53:00.002+00:002013-03-15T16:53:33.229+00:00A question about Online Daring Etiquette...<br />Just a quick one guys. It's all about online dating.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRSx-GfdkHOq1xmG8E0KMLeu8STUCsblIenK3wqVgF_iDUHqGwoMw"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRSx-GfdkHOq1xmG8E0KMLeu8STUCsblIenK3wqVgF_iDUHqGwoMw" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm not brand new to the activity, and I know how to sift through the horny and the hungry. I read men's approaches and decide whether they are worth messaging back, based on their profiles and pictures (sorry, I'm not going to pretend that looks don't matter!) Of course, I try to be outgoing as well, so I have made the first contact with guys I thought had a decent profiles and / or were cute.</div>
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So, I made contact with a guy who met both the criteria points, responding to some personal information on his profile to start a dialogue. It was about a day before he replied:</div>
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"Hi... Glad you liked my profile and you sound lovely. But you're not really my type of girl. Good luck finding someone! Take care."</div>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQC915tAf8vmybQ_EW-SbqQGCJMA_9vBllBKmnJhYH2E-pEckCMrA" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQC915tAf8vmybQ_EW-SbqQGCJMA_9vBllBKmnJhYH2E-pEckCMrA" width="200" /></a>Hmmm.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
Now, rejection of any kind is never easy to swallow. I appreciate that he was polite, honest and direct. But that made no difference. I was offended. I know I shouldn't have been offended... Or at least that didn't appear to be his intention. But it felt crappy, really crappy.</div>
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So, what's the general feeling around Online Dating etiquette? Is it better to ignore the person you're not attracted to or interested in, or send them a psuedo-polite message of rejection?</div>
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(Can you tell what side I'm on?)</div>
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<b><i>Dating history tales</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Sometimes you just need to hear about the sad, wonderful, inspiring and often downright WEIRD dating experiences of others. This series of blog posts will recount a tale from our pasts - purely for your own amusement. Enjoy and feel free to <a href="http://owlandpandabear.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Dating%20history%20tales" target="_blank">read more here.</a></i><br />
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I was "sort of" dating this boy who was not my normal taste but a much needed 'palate cleanser'. He was my polar opposite in every way but that made it all the more interesting. I drew the line at this one though:<br />
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First time staying at his new place, I knew it would be sparse as he had only been there a week. However I did not expect the sleeping arrangements. Floor, duvet, 1 pillow - no covers.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: purple; font-size: small;">This would've been luxury!</span></b></td></tr>
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Let's just take the time to think about this for a second. 1 pillow - between 2 for a girl who's used to sleeping with 4 in various combinations. and 1 duvet to be both base and covers...just not gonna work!<br />
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But I put my 'big girl panties' on and made the best of it. "I can do this for a night - it could be fun!" (It wasn't)<br />
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It was even less fun the next two times I stayed over, including once after I had just worked an event all weekend and just wanted a bath and feather bed, and once when he was ill meaning neither of us got any sleep.<br />
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I mentioned it - several times. He honestly didn't see the issue. It was "bohemian" he said and even had the nerve to mockingly call me "Princess" (for wanting a bed? A hells yeah then I'm a Princess!)<br />
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Needless to say I stood by my guns when I said "Get a bed or I'm not staying here again"<br />
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-11993296711898975522013-02-20T16:32:00.000+00:002013-02-23T22:33:57.829+00:00The Tate Modern (Date spot review)<a href="http://www.tate.org.uk/sites/all/themes/tatebase/images/tate-head-logo_4.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgb4T7neUN1Rr-h3Fcnde8HQPMtX7OULBxWOeEPLMkf9TIgiBMo-0e9KHkkWt2oDPIj2GTGKKcfI5FNk4bcrtCe8h_YI2zc_BbDS9GSEnUHFbziuPPo-M9lXGEuhaYmBHfmk_ZVzSjDNzTdcc84ZS4MdtqPvCIESxtrKeI_IVZVvcn0l-sqMEhyphenhyphenGNiZGg=" width="320" /></a><br />
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<b><b>Tate Modern</b></b></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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http://www.tate.org.uk</div>
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Call +44 (0)20 7887 8888 </div>
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Bankside</div>
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London SE1 9TG</div>
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United Kingdom</div>
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It was my first date with a guy I'd met on a dating website, and we'd spoken via text. I asked him to plan the entire date, and he was happy to. He told me to meet him at Southwark Station, and then we could take a walk to the Tate Modern.</div>
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It was about a 10 min walk from both Southwark and London Bridge Station, along the river and right opposite St Paul's Cathederal. I am very comfortable walking in heels, but if youre not, it may be best to walk in flats.</div>
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I cant say that "into" modern art. I dont know much about what is going on, and I cant always "read into" the connotations of a slash in a sheet of canvas, or a host of metal coils dangling from the ceiling. However, I didnt let that get in the way of my fun! We chatted about what we thought each piece of art could mean, then compared it to its actual meaning, and spent most of the time chatting away about our general likes and dislikes.</div>
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When we decided we'd had enough, he led me up to the 6th floor, where there is a darling bar. I didnt even know it was there! They have stools that face a window, giving you a view of the river and St Pauls.</div>
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I had two cocktails, and my date had a beer and then a glass off rum. It was comfortable and ever so fancy, with the option of dining at the restaurant. We were the until about 11pm, chatting away and enjoying a nice, casual evening.</div>
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<b><b>Pros</b></b></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Free to enter</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Food and drinks available in the bar</li>
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<b><b>Cons</b></b></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Drinks were on the pricey side (cocktails typically £9)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Lots of walking involved</li>
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<b>Great Date for?</b></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Good first date- get to know each others likes and dislikes</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Something different</li>
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Cost</div>
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Although it was free to enter, the food and drinks were rather pricey.</div>
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Romance rating<br />
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I have seen many a post talking about how to be single on Valentines. All well and good - if I were single I'd be reading the crap outta those!</div>
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However the only other posts I've seen are the gooey, slushy, cupid-ey...vomit inducing posts. Now this is coming from a life long romantic. But even I am starting to get sick of the sight of this over-forced "romance". It feels forced and completely fake - as you may have seen on my previous post it's about the <a href="http://owlandpandabear.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/everyday-romance.html" target="_blank">everyday romance</a>. </div>
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So where does that leave me on Valentines Day? I dont want to reject it on principle because I do like to mark it and remember that romance is important - but guys, I will totally be judging you on your originality!</div>
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What sparked this post was realising the new Die Hard movie is being released on Valentines Day. ELB commented to me that <i>"There are gonna be some very annoyed women in that theatre on Thursday!" </i>But actually....why should they be? Considering the crap rom-coms that have been produced lately if we were going to the cinema I'd MUCH rather see Bruce Willis being his awesome self! </div>
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So c'mon guys. Don't subject your beautiful, intelligent and individual woman to the sterotype that we just want chocolates and flowers and an overpriced meal. (NB from Panda: <i>"Although also never forget that every girl likes flowers!") </i>and plan something she would really enjoy this Thursday.</div>
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If she loves chocolate instead of the "1/3 off supermarket special" why dont you book a chocolate making class for later in the month. Or plan an at home chocolate tasting? </div>
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Sci-Fi fan? Tell her you're going to this summers convention and you'll even go in costume for her. (Yeah I'm not going to lie to you -that's my one!) </div>
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Whatever you do, make it personal and dont feel pressured to eat another Love Heart or buy another plastic rose..</div>
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-87179774954489379822013-02-07T22:03:00.001+00:002013-02-07T22:35:00.888+00:00Everyday Romance<div style="text-align: justify;">
Following on from Panda's post about Valentine's day being a chance for men to win some serious brownie points, I began thinking a little more about romance. And what really is romance?</div>
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Ok sure we've got the roses, the champagne, the fancy dinner etc etc. But these are things that anyone who has seen a chick-flick and owns a credit card can do. For me romance is about those little every day things. More importantly than that it's about knowing the person you are being romantic with..</div>
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Sure the big gestures are always appreciated - don't get me wrong. But they will mean SO much more if you stop and think for a little bit about what she (or he) will really appreciate. What will show them that you have listened and paid attention to what they love and enjoy? There is no point committing to a 2hr foot massage if she is squeamish about having her feet touched is there? But remembering a throwaway comment from 6 month ago about that shower gel that reminds her of her Gran will win you more points than you know!</div>
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But it doesn't have to be big. The little things mean just as much - if not more because you can do these things every single day.</div>
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Walking past your significant others favourite bakery and picking up that shortbread biscuit she loves on the way home from work - just because. Does it drive your partner mad when you always leave your socks in the living room? Make a real effort to pick them up and put them in the hamper.</div>
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Seeing that they have had a tough day at work and even though it's their turn to cook, throwing dinner together (or at least phoning for her favourite pizza) whilst running her a bath. Has she been going on about seeing the new Ryan Gosling film even though you hate him? Leave tickets for that evenings show by the side of the bed for her to discover when she wakes up.</div>
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Get creative - does she love a certain TV show? Take her on a "themed" weekend away to the film sets (Game of Thrones is mainly filmed in Ireland for example) or on a smaller scale set up a "theme night" at home. If she loves "50 first dates" turn your living room into Hawaii with some paper leis, scented candles and BBQ style dinner whilst you watch the movie together.</div>
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If you have a skill or talent - utilise it. Sure not all men can play an instrument or compose poetry - but again get thinking. I once made a guy a website when we couldn't be together for valentines day. There was a playlist of songs embedded, a short video from me and silly things like picture from our favourite childhood movies. It was goofy and cheesy but I had a lot of fun making it and he loved it.</div>
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Ultimately it comes down to the amount of thought and effort put in. The most romantic things often cost very little apart from some serious brainstorming.</div>
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Oh and please let me not forget the obvious. Words. Honestly spoken words go further than anything else. Tell her thank you. All the time, for every little thing that you appreciate. Compliment her beauty. Genuinely tell her what you love and appreciate about her. Mix it up.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #990000;">"I really admire the way you handled that really difficult customer at work. I know it's not always easy to keep your cool but you did and I'm really impressed"</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #cc0000;">"This dinner is delicious - I love your home cooking, thank you so much sweetie"</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i>"You look stunning in that dress, it fits you beautifully"</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><i>"You are an amazingly talented musician. I could listen to you play guitar for hours"</i></span></div>
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Trust me when I say you shouldn't limit romance to valentines day. These little actions will not only make you feel good because you are doing something just for her, but you will start to notice more little things being done for you. Which will then probably increase what you do. Smiles for you, smiles for her, all round fuzzy feelings and the world being just that little bit better. Sure it seems like "effort" at first, but before you realise it they will become second nature to you.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLnPiKW9b1K2HrqtYKX1tFwxlqOKdnhKmGSxCfS7Dx4MOb76mHlmovNJK5wtca052teUqwvzSPCZWeMiUeZposCuMRUN4kSA0JsO_mLXIumGAunSsQDT-Rt56AEO9IkJ7LiiJrVcfwJPp/s1600/goodinght+texts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLnPiKW9b1K2HrqtYKX1tFwxlqOKdnhKmGSxCfS7Dx4MOb76mHlmovNJK5wtca052teUqwvzSPCZWeMiUeZposCuMRUN4kSA0JsO_mLXIumGAunSsQDT-Rt56AEO9IkJ7LiiJrVcfwJPp/s320/goodinght+texts.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
And that's what TRUE Romance is.</div>
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<b>PS. For real added points</b></div>
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Always always always wish her goodnight and good morning. Kiss her eyelids as she sleepily opens them, text her "Sweet dreams beautiful", call her to wish her a good day at work. Let her know you are the first thing you think about in the morning and last thing before sleep.<br />
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-27071167631104554832013-02-06T17:23:00.000+00:002013-02-06T17:23:50.602+00:00"Night In" Giveaway winner!<div style="text-align: justify;">
First of all we would like to say a <b><span style="color: magenta;">huge thank you</span></b> to everyone that took part in our giveaway. We didn't expect to suddenly see thousands of new readers, but to each of you lovely people that has now found us and is following us - we love you!</div>
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Seeing every new entry, comment and RT really made us smile and we were texting each other in excitement at each one that came through. We wish we could give you each something for being one of our first readers, but instead hopefully knowing that you will always be one of our special group of "original readers" is something? </div>
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So without further ado we are very pleased the winner is....<br />
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<b><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Kathleen Hooper </span><br />(@Hoops120)</span></b></div>
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Well done Kathleen!<br />
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Please drop us an email on grabaspoon(at)live.co.uk with your details so we can send your prize out to you. </div>
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Once again, thank you to everyone that participated. And please please do stay in touch! We would love to see our little slice of the web grow as organically as possible, and not just through giveaways and promotions. </div>
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If you like one of our posts, or appreciate something we say we would really love you giving us a little tweet or post comment. You have no idea how much they make us smile knowing that we have brought amusement and maybe some wise words to someone's day. </div>
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Or if there is something you dont like and could see us improving, or something you think we should blog about that we dont currently - let us know. You are our readers and we want to make sure you enjoy what we produce. </div>
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We look forward to hearing from you soon.</div>
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Lots of love,</div>
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Owl and Panda xxx</div>
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-28606544420158789772013-01-26T19:54:00.000+00:002013-01-26T20:00:09.423+00:00Electric Cinema (Date spot review)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsV6S1kMY3Jd45g5MCOaeRt4n40tUnvR3yUInwII_n0wv-uJUI1KBdS2Z5SsGhhrUee_4ijXh5UJyi3Dk9XY5xaGQrBsyGkuCTWr2tlOclV8O2hyuSBQ3jebIeithO7yBzBr_KzA8QLPgY/s1600/electric+cinema+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsV6S1kMY3Jd45g5MCOaeRt4n40tUnvR3yUInwII_n0wv-uJUI1KBdS2Z5SsGhhrUee_4ijXh5UJyi3Dk9XY5xaGQrBsyGkuCTWr2tlOclV8O2hyuSBQ3jebIeithO7yBzBr_KzA8QLPgY/s320/electric+cinema+1.png" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Electric Cinema</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.electriccinema.co.uk/">http://www.electriccinema.co.uk</a><br />
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<b>020 7908 9696 </b></div>
191 Portobello Road<br />
London<br />
W11 2ED<br />
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I first saw this place advertised on "I know a great little place in London"'s Facebook page. I lot of people I mentioned it to knew said they had heard of it many moons ago but then it closed down for quite a while (I think there was a fire). But now it is open again, flourishing and it is absolutely amazing!</div>
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Ideally situated on Portabello Road it is a very short walk from Ladbroke Grove tube station, but also not too far from Notting Hill Gate and a variety of other stations.</div>
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<i><b>Top tip:</b> Do not miss the opportunity to walk along the market singing "Portabello Road...Portabello Road. Anything and everything a chap can unload" from Bedknobs and Broomsticks</i></div>
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If you love old school glamour this is the place for you. We arrived, and even though I knew where we were going I was blown away with the beauty. From the old school pick n mix in glass jars to the retro till, to the red velvet curtains everything was glamorous and beautiful.</div>
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While we waited for the curtains to open (and there was me worrying about being late) we bought some fresh warm donuts. Now I never thought I'd say this but "Krispy Kremes...move aside! We have a new winner! I wont say much more - just experience the delight for yourself!</div>
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I had booked us one of the sofas at the back, but we have already decided that we will be returning at some point to try out the full length beds at the front! It was lovely being able to watch a movie (especially one as long as 'The Hobbit') in the same luxury you would at home. Actually more so....I know my sofa isn't velvet and I certainly don't own a cashmere blanket!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPx3BaJnMAwgecRhSQuEQH1zHa_ZMNEcdrUS8wh60CPoPk4OBaqt900jpY8MQWut4DkfLQJdJ-HftP8j_3Rqm6_3arN2WPVKRg_wt8oHF0N1oE1F8jL05PHVh0SLgFc-9p0rIj3YK9lkE/s1600/ELECTRIC.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPx3BaJnMAwgecRhSQuEQH1zHa_ZMNEcdrUS8wh60CPoPk4OBaqt900jpY8MQWut4DkfLQJdJ-HftP8j_3Rqm6_3arN2WPVKRg_wt8oHF0N1oE1F8jL05PHVh0SLgFc-9p0rIj3YK9lkE/s640/ELECTRIC.png" width="640" /></a><br />
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We decided to pass on the bar as it was fairly early and instead I snuck off to the corner shop to bring back some coke and popcorn. This is when we learnt we physically cannot watch a movie in the cinema without popcorn! A bit cheeky but they didn't seem to mind, especially as we had no option to buy popcorn there.</div>
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Overall a beautiful date that I was really pleased to have organised. If I had been taken there as a surprise or on a first date I would have been SERIOUSLY impressed.</div>
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<b>Pros</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Add a feeling of luxury and specialness to the traditional cinema date</li>
<li>None of this "armrest in the ribcage" nonsense when you try and snuggle up to your date</li>
<li>Distinct lack of children - almost purely an adults only venue (or at very least well-behaved children!)</li>
<li>The donuts!</li>
</ul>
<b>Cons</b><br />
<ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0CXaZ7y4r9gV3moH7LskWo5x20BS4iUEJctmG16Ar7yb03QwJdHI87KXyZe3pdnLuMfTqnmjYHKItDyQCaCWFvlrNXQqPkxgAJ5FyTK7Emzk9Qfs-gS0zoiKbbc6HUOgtkWusZyAEO7V/s1600/electric+cinema+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0CXaZ7y4r9gV3moH7LskWo5x20BS4iUEJctmG16Ar7yb03QwJdHI87KXyZe3pdnLuMfTqnmjYHKItDyQCaCWFvlrNXQqPkxgAJ5FyTK7Emzk9Qfs-gS0zoiKbbc6HUOgtkWusZyAEO7V/s320/electric+cinema+5.png" width="320" /></a>
<li>Pricey</li>
<li>Distinct lack of slurpy drinks, hotdogs and popcorn</li>
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<b>Great date for?</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Special occasion</li>
<li>Impressive first date</li>
<li>Cosy couple date</li>
</ul>
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<b>Cost</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPQXcZ5mWrcAU80G_EpIbxqL3GsJ4xQDR_kw_iOtImbCLBRU35JBWkFt-5CHbGlbH6MmNQ7qvYBcR18loiLZ-Udct_fo1P6jLEDA93XYyLzFg-Wd5SyEvTj6NgYNN9-ebNMmcl_ycIM8C/s1600/%C2%A3%C2%A3%C2%A3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="65" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPQXcZ5mWrcAU80G_EpIbxqL3GsJ4xQDR_kw_iOtImbCLBRU35JBWkFt-5CHbGlbH6MmNQ7qvYBcR18loiLZ-Udct_fo1P6jLEDA93XYyLzFg-Wd5SyEvTj6NgYNN9-ebNMmcl_ycIM8C/s200/%C2%A3%C2%A3%C2%A3.png" width="200" /></a><br />
Approximately<b> £30 per person</b> including the donuts, a drink and some sneaky snacks bought from the corner shop.<br />
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<b>Romance rating</b><br />
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-66492409732314698762013-01-23T20:17:00.004+00:002013-01-24T13:41:08.656+00:00The reverse cougar (Dating history tale) <div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Dating history tales</i></b></div>
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<i>Sometimes you just need to hear about the sad, wonderful, inspiring and often downright WEIRD dating experiences of others. This series of blog posts will recount a tale from our pasts - purely for your own amusement. Enjoy and feel free to <a href="http://owlandpandabear.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Dating%20history%20tales" target="_blank">read more here.</a></i> </div>
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I had been single for about 18 months when my friend Jane's mother invited me on a speed dating-esque type night. She said she'd agreed to help out a friend to run it, we'd get a couple of free drinks and it could be a laugh. Having just recently seen "Yes Man" I thought "Sure why not - you never know"</div>
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So we get to this teeny little downstairs bar in London and it seems not much help is actually needed so we settle ourselves down with our drinks. A few women come up to us and all seem to know friends mum, and also look at me a little puzzled.</div>
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Then one woman introduces a man (Lets call him Adam) who seemed a bit quiet and asked if we mind if he sat with us "Sure sure, sit down". So we now have a good table conversation going and I suddenly start to note a few phrases being repeated:</div>
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<i>"What's your username?"</i></div>
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<i>"Oh! Did you post the XYZ thread?"</i></div>
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<a href="http://holyrollerproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/computerlove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://holyrollerproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/computerlove.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a>I have nothing against forum meet ups but whatever this forum is I am not a part of it so feel kind of out of place. And then comes the cherry on the cake when one woman turns to me and says "So who are you looking for here? Surely not much of an age difference - you must like them really young"</div>
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I smile politely, very confused and dart a sideways look at Jane's mum - who is laughing. I confess I have no idea what's going on before having to have it spelt out. This is a meet up for older women and younger men.</div>
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Again no problem with that in theory....except I was 22 at the time. This woman has a point, just how young do they think I want a guy? No wonder I was getting weird looks all night! Deciding to make the best of a weird situation I think to myself "at least the pressures off now. I can just have some drinks and a laugh" Well....drinks was the operative word.</div>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRf3iU3Lr9JdCEOvbHs4SSb1zrht2eThPEaw7_JKd3XkmykkLlIcA" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRf3iU3Lr9JdCEOvbHs4SSb1zrht2eThPEaw7_JKd3XkmykkLlIcA" /></a><br />
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Fast forward through 4 hours of dancing, drinking, chatting and more drinking to me, Jane's Mum, her friend and Adam playing drinking games at Jane's Mum's. (Jane had moved out) One by one everyone claims sofa space and passes out and I'm left with Adam. Before I know what's happening we're making out in Jane's bedroom and the only thought I have is "this is the most action this room has ever seen"</div>
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(Ohh forgot to mention - Jane's mum is crazy religious type. But by this point all I could think was "heck - she ain't my mum, and she dragged me into this in the first place!") Next morning the "older ladies" can't believe it. They clearly never thought of me as competition and there I was getting it on with one of their prime candidates!</div>
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I never spoke to him again, it was purely a bit of a laugh after a few drinks. But most definitely one of my weirdest hook ups ever. How do you get past the thought that he would've probably preferred my mate's mum...<br />
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-68926341225683824712013-01-21T18:41:00.001+00:002013-01-21T18:41:07.183+00:00Single On Valentines (need I say more?)<div style="text-align: justify;">
So Valentine's is creeping its way to you. Suddenly, everything is turning red, everything is flavoured with chocolate and you are still single. Panda feels your pain.</div>
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<a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/kristi/files/2010/02/single.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.timesunion.com/kristi/files/2010/02/single.jpg" height="159" width="200" /></a></div>
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All your friends seem to be married, engaged, in a new relationship, having babies, moving in, moving away and just happy in general. And as much as you're happy for them (maybe 80% like Rachel in Friends) there is that small part of you that doesn't want to hear anything about it.</div>
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<a href="http://sarcasticseduction.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/sarcsed-while-eating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://sarcasticseduction.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/sarcsed-while-eating.jpg" height="140" width="200" /></a><br />
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And its all because of Valentines Day. If your friends are anything like mine, they don't care much about it either. But all the same, you don't want to be a part of it- not because you don't enjoy it, but because you're bombarded with images of people who are happy in their relationships whilst you suck the cream out of a Cadbury's Creme Egg waiting for Easter.</div>
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I'm not bitter (even though I sound it), I just want some alternatives. So, after a little online research, I have found the following methods to get through the day without any emotional scarring. Who knows, maybe we can enjoy the day without feeling the urge to push a kissing couple into a rose bush.</div>
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<b>Stay in bed all day</b></div>
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Not the most feasible tactic, and may cause some unwanted probing from work the next day, but a good way to block out the entire experience... You know what, I've changed my mind. <b>DO NOT DO THIS.</b> It'll probably do more damage than good.</div>
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<a href="http://www.yalerecord.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/speed_dating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://www.yalerecord.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/speed_dating.jpg" height="320" width="302" /></a></div>
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<b>Go Speed Dating</b></div>
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Hmmm... a possible choice, as long as you don't think it seems desperate. Could be a lot of fun, especially if you go with another single friend. Don't get your hopes up on finding love though. Apparently, according to the rest of the world, all the good men are in relationships already...</div>
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<b>Movie with a mate</b></div>
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Owl has said that over the pond in the grand US of A, Valentine's Day is more of a day of appreciation, and is not limited to just couples. With this in mind, a friend and I have made a pact- this year we are going to spend Valentines Day together. We're going to watch The Dark Knight Trilogy, eat popcorn and drink cider, thus having no romantic urges and blocking out anything even remotely Valentinesy.</div>
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<b>Celebrate Yourself</b></div>
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<a href="http://spapartysisters.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/ladies-cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://spapartysisters.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/ladies-cartoon.jpg" height="320" width="257" /></a>Not to sound all hippy on y'all, but the biggest love of your life should be yourself. So, instead of spending the entire day in bed, pamper yourself. Make plans to get your hair done, or a lovely massage or pedicure. Enjoy your favourite meal, go for a walk in your favourite place. Find what makes you happy and DO IT. Appreciate yourself more. If you had a boyfriend, you might have considered getting him a nice gift, like an aftershave or something. Use that money and spend it on yourself. After all, you're worth it, aren't you?</div>
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Being single on Valentine's Day doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you. There is always a guy out there willing to take you out. The real question is, would you prefer to spend your time with him or by yourself. At the moment, with the guys I know, my choice is definitely me. I'm a lot more fun, and I love me loads.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Panda is about to get very frank on y'all asses! This post is aimed at the guys- so take serious note, I'm about to impart some knowledge that will score you some seriously easy brownie points with your lady!</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQuHo5yJ_GKpHcz2IgzlbB1jNBZsDO_WDkLpiFnUK94L1vvcDxB6w" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQuHo5yJ_GKpHcz2IgzlbB1jNBZsDO_WDkLpiFnUK94L1vvcDxB6w" width="200" /></a>I'm talking about Valentines Day. Yep, Feb 14th is coming round, same as every year. I'm not going to lie to you- its all about women. This holiday was made for women to enjoy. Now, I know there is a substantial amount of people out there that don't "believe" in Valentines Day. I'd just like to point out that there is nothing to "believe" in. It exists. The End. Now that that's out of the way- What is the problem? Why would you NOT want to use this opportunity to show your lady how much you love and appreciate her? Why would you risk the possibility of disappointing her? So many men make a huge deal about celebrating Valentine's Day. If they could just put that same amount of energy into planning something nice, they would get so much more out of the experience.</div>
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I have been given so many reasons over the years as to why men DONT celebrate on Feb 14th. Below are some of the most popular ones I've heard. And for each ridiculous reason, I have a rebuttal. Read and Learn- fast!</div>
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<b>I can show you that I love you any day of the year!</b></div>
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Rebuttal: But do you? Can you honestly say that you show your lady how much you love and appreciate her every single day? If you can then that's fantastic, making an effort on the 14th Feb will be just like any other day, right? If not, then why would you pass up the opportunity to make your lady feel special, wanted, adored?</div>
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<b>It's just a way for retailers to make money!</b></div>
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<a href="http://img.wonderhowto.com/img/96/66/63433295435790/0/make-valentines-day-memorable-with-5-cheap-lazy-and-last-minute-ideas.w654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img.wonderhowto.com/img/96/66/63433295435790/0/make-valentines-day-memorable-with-5-cheap-lazy-and-last-minute-ideas.w654.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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Rebuttal: Who says you have to spend loads of money? It doesn't have to be a massive gesture. You don't have to take your partner away on holiday, or buy the most expensive gift Selfridges has in their window. Some additional, thoughtful effort is what we are looking for, and believe it or not, romance can be pretty cheap. If you're thrifty, a bottle of wine and a home cooked meal can be just as effective as an evening in a fancy restaurant. A lovely bottle of perfume and a night cuddled on the sofa can be just as appreciated as a new Alexa Mulberry bag with woven trim (hint?) The key word is here is EFFORT.</div>
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<b>You just want to show off to your friends!</b></div>
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Rebuttal: Yes and no. Yes: we want to tell nice stories about our guy to our friends (it makes a change from us moaning about your annoying habits all the time). No: we don't want to show off. Some of our female friends don't have partners. We don't want to rub it in their faces that we had a lovely romantic Valentines Day! What kind of people do you think we are?</div>
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<b>You said you didn't even like Valentines Day!</b></div>
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Rebuttal: We lied. (Its on similar lines as "No, nothing is wrong, I'm not mad" and "Its not you, its me") Somewhere along the line, women have learned to say this, in order to shield themselves from the embarrassment and disappointment of their partner not doing something nice for them on Feb 14th. We're lying. Regardless of whether we take the day very seriously, or whether we're not that bothered, no lady is going to say no to her partner making her feel special. Its that simple.</div>
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<b>Score Easy Brownie Points</b></div>
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Here's a few ways to score some easy points with your lady.</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Check if your lady is running out of her favourite fragrance. We don't like to buy perfume, we like it to be bought for us. Plus, we will see the effort you have put in to getting something we like.</li>
</ul>
<ul><a href="http://listphobia.com/wp-content/uploads/chocolate-box-cake-03-600x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://listphobia.com/wp-content/uploads/chocolate-box-cake-03-600x400.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Plan a romantic evening. Even if you're not THAT romantic (this makes even more of an impact!) Whether its recreating your first date, having a lovely evening together, you cooking / preparing / ordering a nice meal, rose petals on the bedspread with whipped cream and chocolate sauce... seriously, whatever floats your boat!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Cheesy is still effective. We like chocolate. We appreciate flowers. What's difficult?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Foot rubs and massages are always an easy way to make your lady feel special. Curl up on the sofa with your favourite movie and some nice snacks and get rubbing! Besides, rubbing tends to lead to other things... do you need more of a hint?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">If you can afford it, send your lady on a pamper day! Pay for a manicure, pedicure, massage, facial, hairstyling (all of the above) and have her meet you for dinner. You've spent so much on her, and she's happy and looks beautiful. And what do you get from a lady that is happy and feels beautiful? (Insert dirty memory here).What more could you want? </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Buy your lady a toothbrush and some sexy underwear and give her a map. Have her meet you at a lovely hotel and spend a romantic night together.</li>
</ul>
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Seriously guys, don't miss an opportunity to score some serious brownie points! Why waste it? You know we respond well to effort and romance. If its really that painful for you to make this effort, grin and bare it. You know the rewards for it will be plentiful. You know this. So suck it up, take one for the team and do something nice for your lady. If you pull it off, it will be reciprocated. Trust me.</div>
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If you want some other ideas on lovely date ideas, just ask! We're here to offer advice- for the sake of men and women everywhere!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png" /></div>
<br />The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-33800914127482440692013-01-11T15:48:00.001+00:002013-02-06T16:03:05.215+00:00Our First Awesome Giveaway!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Giveaway now closed and winner announced. Thank you to everyone that participated! </span></b></div>
<br />It's January. It's cold. It's a long time until payday - you were hugely generous to everyone over Christmas, don't you deserve the chance to win something lovely just for you?<br />
<br />
Enter our giveaway and one lucky person will get some awesome FREE stuff (who doesn't love FREE?) and we will hopefully gain a some lovely new readers. We do love our readers!<br />
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So first - the good stuff. What will you win?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglJ_mW-dvxfTBgHYOl6o6v5ncJjGJRRdQKughqwRkU3jDgJGe2x9K57Z_8djgfmHx05vMUPFeLsJc4qtpI9LLKytorJ3UC2VVU57Yen6XdBsyQvfRY21miPAXga7QNdT4s9D6kDtCurDX/s1600/2013-01-10+18.45.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglJ_mW-dvxfTBgHYOl6o6v5ncJjGJRRdQKughqwRkU3jDgJGe2x9K57Z_8djgfmHx05vMUPFeLsJc4qtpI9LLKytorJ3UC2VVU57Yen6XdBsyQvfRY21miPAXga7QNdT4s9D6kDtCurDX/s320/2013-01-10+18.45.53.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Awesome Night In Kit!</span></b><br />
This was originally going to be a "date night" kit, but we advocate the "not needing a date to have a good time" way of life. So grab a date, grab a mate, or just grab your own hot ass (hmm...) and have a lovely night in with these great goodies!<br />
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P<b>opcorn Holder and authentic American Microwave Popcorn</b>.<br />
How cute is this plastic popcorn holder? And trust us when we say "Movie Theatre Butter" is the best flavour- ever.<br />
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<b>Tangfastics</b><br />
"Kids and grown ups love it so...."<br />
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<b>When Harry met Sally DVD</b><br />
Ah the immortal question - can a man and a woman ever be friends? Watch the comedy greats and think about it for yourself. Always a great discussion to have with the girls or to suss out a potential new partners opinions on the subject.<br />
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<b>Soap and Glory Candle</b><br />
Who doesn't love Soap n Glorys gorgeous branding and beautiful scents? Fill the room with the smell as you relax and watch the movie.<br />
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<b>Cupcakes provided by Cakings</b><br />
We've teamed up with the Cake Engineers at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CakingsCakes" target="_blank">Cakings</a> to provide you with not one but <b>two</b> personalised cupcakes to our lucky winner! Sponge with buttercream (and an optional filling of jam) and choice of the following personalised topper:<br />
<ul>
<li>Your initials</li>
<li>Hearts and / or stars</li>
<li>Glitter and / or sprinkles</li>
<li>All of the above!</li>
</ul>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Cupcakes will be sent via Royal Mail First Class post, and although we cannot guarantee the cupcakes will arrive in absolute perfect condition, they will be packaged professionally in recommended cupcake packaging. </span></i><br />
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Whew! What a load of lovely goodies. Perfect night in we think. Everything offered in this giveaway has all been purchased by our hard earned income and we can't wait to send it out!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So now -<b> how do you win? </b></span><br />
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<b>For 1 entry</b><br />
<ol>
<li>You must be following us with "Google Friend Connect" that's the little blue "Follow" button on the right hand side of our blog.</li>
<li>You must be following us on Twitter - @Grabaspoon </li>
</ol>
Leave us a comment on this post with your GFC name and twitter handle so we can check. No comment, no entry.<br />
<div>
<br />
<b>For an additional 2 entries</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b>
Linking to our giveaway by writing your own blog post about it, or popping our button and link in your own blog sidebar and you will gain you another <b>2 additional entries</b>!<br />
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Please make sure you include a link to your site in your comment.<br />
<br />
<b>Each of the following will gain you 1 extra entry:</b><br />
<div>
<ol>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Grabaspoon/317770781660991" target="_blank">"Like" us on Facebook</a></li>
<li><a href="http://pinterest.com/grabaspoon/" target="_blank">Follow us on Pinterest</a></li>
<li>In your comment tell us what your favourite post has been so far. What else would you like to see us write about?</li>
<li>Tweet about our giveaway using this button or copying and pasting the following<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: magenta;"><b>I've entered @Grabaspoon's 'Night in' #giveaway http://owlandpandabear.blogspot.com/2013/01/giveaway.html Visit their blog for your chance to win an awesome #NightInKit!</b></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a class="twitter-mention-button" data-related="GrabaSpoon" data-size="large" href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?screen_name=GrabaSpoon&text=I've%20entered%20%40Grabaspoon's%20'Night%20in'%20%23giveaway%20%20http%3A%2F%2Fowlandpandabear.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F01%2Fgiveaway.html%20Visit%20their%20blog%20for%20your%20chance%20to%20win%20an%20awesome%20%23NightInKit!">Tweet to @GrabaSpoon</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
</div>
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Again in your comment please let us know if you have tweeted, followed and liked us. Depending on entries we may not be able to check all of these so we are relying on the honour system. Remember cheaters never prosper and that is just not playing by the friendly blogging rules if you do. </div>
<br />
So there you have it - a potential 7 entries to our giveaway! As we have cupcakes that need to be sent first class this is a <b>UK only giveaway</b>. Sorry overseas readers - but if this giveaway is successful we will look at doing more giveaways; bigger and better ones that will fly further!<br />
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The winner will be selected at random and this giveaway will run until <b>Midnight (GMT) on Feb 1st 2013</b> so what are you waiting for? Go and enter! (Pretty please?)<br />
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-90123741314219892262013-01-10T17:49:00.000+00:002013-01-10T17:48:15.969+00:00Online Dating - Weird Messages<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been on a dating website for a few months now, and suffice to say, it hasn't yielded much for me. No more than I would expect from a typical night out at a club- a few nutters, some people acting like their on drugs, the (very) occasional interesting guy to turns out to be dry. Mostly men I don't find very attractive. But hey, sometimes, all you want is a bit of a dance and a conversation! </div>
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My expectations of meeting Mr Right on the site aren't high at all, but it does serve as just another way to meet people I guess. Personally, I only reply to the ones who I am attracted to physically and who reference my profile directly. So, not many.</div>
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I have received a couple of funny messages I'd like to share. I'm not sure if it's just me, or whether its normal to attract weirdos. Anyway, have a look and PLEASE let me know if you can relate! I can't be the only one out here! </div>
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These ones are initial messages- they have received absolutely no prompts from me...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLtCflGKpnI_tOgEOdy5XPubipRjbt9ZRebhN0Jd33hP2YZSAUXaqPy_ZT5hVsXEWTvvxEFjCXkYISPGN3Picf_oy9ilNH7_f_TCBLUIO0VrVw2KF_tzjnZDFfeQgY2FDXnHW_YDXWQXV/s1600/2.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLtCflGKpnI_tOgEOdy5XPubipRjbt9ZRebhN0Jd33hP2YZSAUXaqPy_ZT5hVsXEWTvvxEFjCXkYISPGN3Picf_oy9ilNH7_f_TCBLUIO0VrVw2KF_tzjnZDFfeQgY2FDXnHW_YDXWQXV/s1600/2.png" /></a><br />
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erm... I've never heard from you before. Ever.<br />
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*</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgUgjwtYMVUpl6B1xCXTtp0wDDjMWt4Yk6GSnqW0gQ0ocYVLE9JhU29t0VWQchYu5HfT4S_xGbE2c_DAB9ljcjunJu8gB9jPMQlsynb56YqIFls-ODUcrhyphenhyphenvqSR8RwXzXywcOO0TNcomM/s1600/Untitled.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgUgjwtYMVUpl6B1xCXTtp0wDDjMWt4Yk6GSnqW0gQ0ocYVLE9JhU29t0VWQchYu5HfT4S_xGbE2c_DAB9ljcjunJu8gB9jPMQlsynb56YqIFls-ODUcrhyphenhyphenvqSR8RwXzXywcOO0TNcomM/s1600/Untitled.png" /></a><br />
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<div>
... really?<br />
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*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9N5avUrN79DWQtrIlW8mU4l1l0XW5JHHxT03srLe0wU_H1DunGVSk37ZXb6s9-l86JQ6Bxh7I6BhlFs0NqljmYHN5giJ0pZwLYYfNwScqKpRYKJa-n7ZGIMox_CmltBGWNvUisCD2asP/s1600/2.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9N5avUrN79DWQtrIlW8mU4l1l0XW5JHHxT03srLe0wU_H1DunGVSk37ZXb6s9-l86JQ6Bxh7I6BhlFs0NqljmYHN5giJ0pZwLYYfNwScqKpRYKJa-n7ZGIMox_CmltBGWNvUisCD2asP/s1600/2.png" /></a><br />
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Enough said.<br />
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*</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN26yfxfoWVzXtBU9mx6i8dIj0WBJzimlxyS6C-0YBeo9R0BtPbBHWGdkcpJeXh58BYB6sH0e1ZHw8EnTuTORE4UoIjKtC7x9YFCShTHzppsZ5ngXF_HCVHWJw8QJUFCtzL7uRa3GlubnB/s1600/2.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN26yfxfoWVzXtBU9mx6i8dIj0WBJzimlxyS6C-0YBeo9R0BtPbBHWGdkcpJeXh58BYB6sH0e1ZHw8EnTuTORE4UoIjKtC7x9YFCShTHzppsZ5ngXF_HCVHWJw8QJUFCtzL7uRa3GlubnB/s1600/2.png" /></a><br />
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SERIOUSLY?</div>
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*</div>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmqc5TLcSWccie_mnIRzuw98kjvDWJsRH0kfc_suLTNBcR1gOLyj2fJEpJRb243aUhdjMAmkSPXm5fAplpw_QH_EEO4M4cYvYozwNY6u6ML-B2ok3IjcNGgg1m148GupoSUCizkUdsWhGj/s1600/2.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmqc5TLcSWccie_mnIRzuw98kjvDWJsRH0kfc_suLTNBcR1gOLyj2fJEpJRb243aUhdjMAmkSPXm5fAplpw_QH_EEO4M4cYvYozwNY6u6ML-B2ok3IjcNGgg1m148GupoSUCizkUdsWhGj/s1600/2.png" /></a><br />
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SERIOUSLY???<br />
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*</div>
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<div>
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<div>
This one was my fault, I mentioned in public that I was reading 50 Shades...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFPSiF4re-EHh_Vq3_2d6PcuIDAh_58X-Y88QUzJLeq0OMAJMMKfmJdOGE-XD9GE90qdUzS13aTEd0Jhl2Zh7mrpF0FfyhvWCtjnuh8owqTQh8TN2di3_rFWyTi3linMWzBin6RpPbYQr/s1600/2.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFPSiF4re-EHh_Vq3_2d6PcuIDAh_58X-Y88QUzJLeq0OMAJMMKfmJdOGE-XD9GE90qdUzS13aTEd0Jhl2Zh7mrpF0FfyhvWCtjnuh8owqTQh8TN2di3_rFWyTi3linMWzBin6RpPbYQr/s1600/2.png" /></a><br />
<br />
er, if you actually READ what I said about the book, then you would know that was a firm NO.<br />
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*</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVDmJRkQfUkPltO31Z6IpRJEs9YL35Ig6vjDwb6neIH1FFHRG44Y6EupZLKipwRPtldeuhyphenhyphenDDWMaNdj9R5E-kHJIvpZY3Bal56e9_A68fifwvyHLORtH-4fnKFVQrKpQBk46cWX1e_T_R/s1600/2.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVDmJRkQfUkPltO31Z6IpRJEs9YL35Ig6vjDwb6neIH1FFHRG44Y6EupZLKipwRPtldeuhyphenhyphenDDWMaNdj9R5E-kHJIvpZY3Bal56e9_A68fifwvyHLORtH-4fnKFVQrKpQBk46cWX1e_T_R/s1600/2.png" /></a><br />
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I didn't realise my personal page was a dating service. Interestingly enough, you can barely see the to other girls in my picture and neither are on the dating website themselves... And if you're looking for a white girl you're really on the wrong profile mate!<br />
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*</div>
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I received THIS one very recently. How interesting...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeP0sHxh3W7svbshgkZeHb1JYLR0dOBQAbbG5WA4of2TZceWL36K5bFGYS8LN2gH8LQphxoGi0fZdtmfqK5Ig7LELuB4XpZ-QwgoWzdJtMRC-98smw0z2bpzw3ahLFsU7bH6WLNQ9GLYB/s1600/2.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeP0sHxh3W7svbshgkZeHb1JYLR0dOBQAbbG5WA4of2TZceWL36K5bFGYS8LN2gH8LQphxoGi0fZdtmfqK5Ig7LELuB4XpZ-QwgoWzdJtMRC-98smw0z2bpzw3ahLFsU7bH6WLNQ9GLYB/s1600/2.png" /></a><br />
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I think the word you're looking for is BUSTED! For the record, I think I may have spoken to this guy, but wasn't interested at all (call it women's intuition...)<br />
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*</div>
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I have had a couple of dates with some of the more mature guys off the site, but didn't even reached first base with them. They just haven't tickled my fancy (and perhaps I haven't quite tickled theirs). I've decided not to take it too seriously. If nothing else, being on it has provided me with some interesting entertainment!<br />
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Do you have any funny, weird, scary messages you'd like to share? I'd love to hear them!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png" /></a></div>
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and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-59353342307385382122013-01-04T13:30:00.000+00:002013-01-05T18:56:49.166+00:00Self-Appreciation: Panda's Journey<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm not always the most self-assured single girl in this jungle we call London. I'm not going to pretend to be one of those "I'm always positive!" bloggers. Because it just isn't true. I'm not always sure of what I'm doing, or where I'm going. I'm not always confident. And I have insecurities, just like everyone else on the planet... What was my point? </div>
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The other day I was reading a post by Lea Rice on The High Tea Cast Blog, and it helped me to put some things into perspective. It's funny, after my 4 year relationship with DW finally crumbled, it took me years to work out what I was doing wrong (I am not negating all the messed up things he did at all, but it has always been important to me to take responsibility for my own behaviours). I had spent most of the relationship focusing on his needs, putting them well before (and a lot of the time instead of) my own. It's still not the time to discuss the difficulties of my relationship with DW. But it is time to talk about the journey I started, post-break-up. </div>
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I've learned that putting myself first is so important. It took me a long time to realise exactly what this meant, and how to do it. It's been such a personal and individual journey that I can't even explain it in words. I guess everyone has to go on their own journey to understand what this means. </div>
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I've struggled with the notion that "loving yourself" is a conceited and selfish act (character traits I learned to loath as a child, although even now I can't pinpoint why I feel this way). Yet, through self-discovery and allowing myself to just be single, I've realised that it is so important to put my own needs first (without, of course, hurting someone else in the process, where possible). </div>
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<a href="http://inspirationaldaily.files.wordpress.com/2011/12/do-you-love-yourself-inspirational-daily.jpg?w=499&h=333"><img border="0" src="http://inspirationaldaily.files.wordpress.com/2011/12/do-you-love-yourself-inspirational-daily.jpg?w=499&h=333" /></a>
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I guess what I'm struggling with at the moment is really feeling comfortable being single in my own skin. It's natural to want some company, and to feel loved. However, to want this before learning to appreciate yourself can be extremely dangerous. What can you offer a partner if you don't even appreciate yourself? Wanting to be with someone is nothing if not human nature, but when it's at the expense of your own self-worth and esteem then it just wont give you the satisfaction you crave. For me, its always been important to know that someone loves me and cares about me constantly and consistently. Then I recently realised, who on this planet is really able to give me absolute and unconditional love, apart from me?</div>
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This journey is just really beginning for me. I don't have all my own answers, and although I have some understanding, I still feel the pang of being single. However, I know that there is more I need to achieve in this time I have to myself. Once I have, I know I will be truly comfortable in my own space, and being single wont feel so difficult any more.</div>
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You can read Lea Rice's blogpost <a href="http://www.thehighteacast.co.uk/2012/11/16/love-practically/">here</a>- really good read.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png" /></a>
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-31120482843024165972012-12-31T17:51:00.001+00:002012-12-31T17:51:11.275+00:00Happy New Year! This is a very brief post to mark the end of 2012 - and the beginning of 2013.<br />
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It has been an interesting year for Owl and Panda. More than anything else we started this blog and that has all been extremely exciting! We look forward to many more blogposts and lots more lovely readers in 2013. (If you want to spread a little New Year Cheer you can always tweet about us, "Like" us on Facebook and follow our blog. We would love you forever and will send you cake)<br />
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There is always a little bit of pressure around New Years Eve for singletons. Owl would be lying if she said she wasn't super excited about having a guaranteed kiss at midnight in far TOO long. But remember - that's not what the New Year is about.<br />
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It's about remembering the past - the past 12 months in particular, reflecting on happy memories and learning our lessons from the harder ones. It's about having a bit of fun, or relaxing - overall having a nice night and thinking about what we want to make the coming year for us.<br />
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It's not about stressing out about hooking up, having someone to kiss, or whether we go out or not.<br />
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So whatever your plans are for tonight - have a good one! Make sure it's one filled with smiles and love whether you're partying til dawn or sitting in with a lovely drink and a movie.<br />
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Of course New Years Eve is always a chance for a good declaration of love speech too ;)<br />
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">Happy </span><span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">New</span><span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;"> Year </span><span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">everyone! </span></b></div>
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<b>Lets make 2013 even better!</b></div>
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-46686789483463599882012-12-23T21:10:00.000+00:002012-12-23T21:10:28.326+00:00Lessons from "The Holiday"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"The Holiday" is one of my most favourite Christmas movies. It's a recent favourite, having only seen it for the first time a few years ago, but on the first viewing it became a firm favourite. For me there is something just so real about the characters. And their situations - that desperate need to just run away from reality when everything goes to hell. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As well as being brilliantly entertaining (Cameron Diaz singing out of tune to "The Killers" is one small example!) I think there are some major lessons we can learn from it - and quotes that we need to keep reminding ourselves of. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first is one of the more sad ones. It's this speech by Kate Winslet's character Iris that I think perfectly encapsulates the long and slow process of trying to get over someone...</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I'm trying to say is...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...I understand feeling as small and as insignificant...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...as humanly possible.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">How it can actually ache in places that you didn't know you had inside you.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">It doesn't matter how many new haircuts you get...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...or gyms you join...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...or how many glasses of chardonnay you drink with girlfriends.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">You still go to bed every night going over every detail...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...and wonder what you did wrong or how you could have misunderstood.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">And how in the hell, for that brief moment...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...you could think that you were that happy?</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYy8s7FZSvNqj_K_5OvIaMbNsWundGc73fe5teBLHiYNtA4T0Osyf2F5Z7YiVknvjAw_FkQMxSXYU-RaOswxmB_FpvkPJkWTAZGBZ8480AS8QQHA1XctvdoKQxsfzvHu3SHAoNxFyi9fY/s1600/kate+winslet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYy8s7FZSvNqj_K_5OvIaMbNsWundGc73fe5teBLHiYNtA4T0Osyf2F5Z7YiVknvjAw_FkQMxSXYU-RaOswxmB_FpvkPJkWTAZGBZ8480AS8QQHA1XctvdoKQxsfzvHu3SHAoNxFyi9fY/s1600/kate+winslet.jpg" /></span></a><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">And sometimes you can even convince yourself...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...that he'll see the light and show up at your door.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">And after all that...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...however long "all that" may be...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...you'll go somewhere new.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">And you'll meet people who make you feel worthwhile again.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">And little pieces of your soul will finally come back.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">And all that fuzzy stuff...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...those years of your life that you wasted...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">...that will eventually begin to fade.</span></i></div>
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How many of us have felt like that? I know for damn certain I have. (When I watched this movie last year, this scene had me in floods of tears - it was all just a tad too close to home) </div>
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But it basically sums up the rule of all break ups - only time will heal it. Time and those people that remind you that you ARE worthwhile. </div>
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The second one is an almost throw away line - but it has always stuck with me.</div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">"You're supposed to be the <br />Leading Lady </span></b><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">of your own life <br />for God's sake!"</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: start; white-space: normal;">Ladies if you listen to only one thing I ever say - listen to this please. You ARE the Leading Lady in your own life. You deserve the job, the friends, the man - whatever makes you happy, you can get it and you deserve it. Your happy ending and "ever after" - whatever that may mean to you - is waiting for you. And don't ever mistake yourself for the 'best friend' role and sort of disappear for half the screenplay. Be centre stage, and be the star for the entire movie. </span></span></div>
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And finally I'd like to leave you with just one word. The best word ever heard in a movie EVER. And that word is:</div>
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<b><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Gumption!</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't think I even need to explain it. It sounds like what it is. And whether you are the loud, scream about it type, or the quiet thinking type - always remember to have an air of Gumption about you. Be confident, be brave - be unforgettable. </span></div>
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-83380382732785134712012-12-20T22:22:00.000+00:002013-01-26T20:11:34.676+00:00Christmassy dates<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been in SUCH a Christmassy mood this month! WAY more so than I normally do. Not sure what it is this year but I'm feeling so festive.</div>
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And this has definitely shown in the amount of festive y dates I have had with ELB this month. However we are both on super tight budgets, so a lot of these have also been frugal festive fun. (What was that writing rule about alliteration?)</div>
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So as I'm sure you are all dying to know - here is my brief rundown of what we've been up to, and how it has been just so Christmassy!</div>
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<b>Putting up the decorations</b></div>
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This has always been a big Christmas thing for me. Since moving out, it's been weird to now have to create my own traditions, and not always be at home to share in the old ones. Especially when you live alone and Christmas is generally a time for company. I was over the moon when back in the beginning of November ELB said he would love to put my decorations up with me. I was literally counting down the days!</div>
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I can often be quite Monica about my decorations too. But this year it felt so refreshing to just watch him delight in my various decorations (especially the ones bought in America) and decide on places to put them.</div>
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And I dont care what any feminists say - getting a man to do the difficult bits of climbing up high and hammering in nails is WELL worth it!</div>
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<b>Walks around London</b></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ3I4WE2PbAqA2njPcgKyMmyZpe5qq_8R89K0vyKQKIyYTbMUG9MGmsfjlw5VMkEDo6LdmMIByOhOCAnmUJhlt4-uiGOcHIwsbqBbVaAqhrKYu8c-RRbp3ysT0kEURAiAipi8Jn-iauppU/s1600/christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ3I4WE2PbAqA2njPcgKyMmyZpe5qq_8R89K0vyKQKIyYTbMUG9MGmsfjlw5VMkEDo6LdmMIByOhOCAnmUJhlt4-uiGOcHIwsbqBbVaAqhrKYu8c-RRbp3ysT0kEURAiAipi8Jn-iauppU/s200/christmas.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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We spend an entire day walking from Liverpool Street to Surrey Docks farm where we'd heard there was a Christmas Fayre on. But we spent a blissful amount of time walking through the city, seeing the lights, drinking mulled wine in pubs and snuggling up against the cold of the Southbank.</div>
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When we got to the farm it was the teeniest little thing ever, but eating chestnuts as we walked around and took silly photos of the animals was very pleasent and reminded me about how much we need to value the simple things in life.</div>
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<b>Christmas movies</b></div>
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How have I not watched Gremlins at Christmas for goodness knows how many years? How had he not watched the Muppets Christmas Carol since he was little? We don't know but we both quickly resolved those issues!</div>
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<b>Mulled wine/Mulled cider</b></div>
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If you're having to spend a lot of time indoors because of the cold or lack of funds, make sure it smells festive - and also get drunk into the bargain! Nice one to combine with Christmas movies. <a href="http://owlandpandabear.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/winter-warmer-try-our-patented-mulled.html" target="_blank">Check out our Mulled Wine recipe here.</a></div>
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<b>Lattes and last minute shopping</b></div>
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We took the bus into town purely to go to Starbucks and sit and enjoy the festive drinks. Starbucks obsession much? Nah surely not... Then we wandered around picking up a couple of last minute family bits before going for a last minute Chinese. The best bit? They gave us crackers and we got to sit there wearing the crowns! (Well I think he only did because I made him...)</div>
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<b><b>Winter Wonderland</b></b></div>
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I had never been before, ELB could hardly believe his ears and immediately had to take me. Even though we're both broke it's well worth going if you are in London to soak up the Christmas atmosphere. My top tips:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Take sandwiches and possibly take a thermos if you're really broke. Sit either in the carousel bar or by the firepit to enjou them.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Invest in the ferris wheel - it's the best thing there! </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Take loads of photos - especially by the polar bears.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Don't get sucked in to making him win you a teddy because all the games are fixed.</li>
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And finally for the ultimate in making any date a Christmassy date...</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #990000;">Wear </span><span style="color: #274e13;">Christmas</span> <span style="color: #cc0000;">hats</span><span style="color: #274e13;">!</span></span></b> </div>
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(Even if he does protest a little...)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdvfjfsunZEuvDnIXlrQS6TGiN4j_6iXKRTr2rWQDo3QlshpALDDlkO4WMtJxLl8KTNt_UgPYaoXcW-puZm1n2jhwJq8IurJJyoWEJix40-pR68G4EbX0MgST2nCeCVY1cb_GhyphenhyphenIx8CML/s1600/Christmas+hats.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdvfjfsunZEuvDnIXlrQS6TGiN4j_6iXKRTr2rWQDo3QlshpALDDlkO4WMtJxLl8KTNt_UgPYaoXcW-puZm1n2jhwJq8IurJJyoWEJix40-pR68G4EbX0MgST2nCeCVY1cb_GhyphenhyphenIx8CML/s640/Christmas+hats.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-40417613662030997902012-12-18T19:32:00.001+00:002012-12-20T22:21:44.031+00:00Am I a Commitment-Phobe?<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, I'm dating. It's the Summer of '12. It's my second date with this guy, who happens to be the first guy I have met online. The first time we meet up he seems interesting, but when I see him walking towards me for our second date, I immediately know that I don't want to see him for a third.</div>
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But I'm a good sport, I look pretty and we were having sushi, so I continue the date. He seems cool, and I think to myself (if he is up for it) we could possibly be friends later. Towards the end of the date, we're laying on some grass, taking in the scenery and sun, and I explain to him that I often go into a "me me me" zone, and I like to have guys as friends. He gets the message, he's picking up my vibe. But what he says next throws me a bit. "Are you some kind of commitment-phobe?"</div>
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Well, I had never honestly thought about it. Immediately, all my defences are up. I want to say "nope, I just don't like YOU." But I'm not usually that evil (without provocation). However, his words have struck a nerve. Am I afraid of commitment?</div>
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I have seen this in myself, ever since I started dating. My last long-term relationship was 4 years long. And that was a long 4 years, let me tell you. I worked hard on that relationship, and I didn't leave it until I knew for certain that the end was in fact the end. I have never been afraid of committing to a relationship. So why was this coming up now?</div>
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Thinking more deeply about it all, I can see a pattern. Since that relationship, any time I've gotten close to being anywhere near a relationship, I've freaked out. Maybe not always out loud, but I've definitely felt it. My heart quickens, my mind starts racing and I am unable to function for at least a few minutes (sometimes hours). I'm thinking "what if I want to be with other people?" "what if this person isn't the one for me?" "How can I get out of this?" "What if I actually get to meet Leonardo DiCaprio in real life?" "What if there is someone else out there who is better for me?" "What if this feeling isn't real?" "Am I forcing this?" "Do I feel love?"</div>
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I've run from most relationships for the last two years, and the 2 or 3 guys I genuinely liked have either not reciprocated or have been complete twats. So what does this mean? Am I attracted to relationships that wont work?</div>
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I know a lot of this is just panic. I think about my 4 year relationship with DW. I was never afraid of being with someone long term. But I look back at it and I wonder what type of person I would become had I stayed with him. What if I'd been in that relationship for 10 years? 20 years? The thought frightens me. I'll tell you, I would be a sad woman, someone with little esteem and even less understanding of me. I would have remained in my own shadow.</div>
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I have grown and become so much more in the last 2 years, not only recovering some of my long-lost confidence but also a sense of self that I didn't even know existed. I think my fear springs from me loosing myself again and ending up with someone who isn't quite right for me. You've seen my list (if not, check that blogpost <a href="http://owlandpandabear.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/the-list.html">here</a>). I want A LOT from a guy and from a relationship, but I also understand that you cant always have every single thing you want. But what if I settle and its just not-quite-right? Am I still the girl who will settle for what she has and work tirelessly to make it work? Will I be able to see the signs of it not working, and call it quits before it goes too far?</div>
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Commitment-Phobe? Hell yeah, I'm bloody terrified! This is the rest of my life, I have to make good decisions! But I'm also scared of missing out on some great experiences with an amazing person, just because I am afraid. So I continue to date, I continue to meet new people, try new things and see what is out there. In spite of everything I have just said, I know, deep down, I'm more afraid of not experiencing the love I know I want and deserve than I am of committing to it.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ls1rjgox5q1qd21uio1_400.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ls1rjgox5q1qd21uio1_400.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Lpf6_FDcgc&feature=youtu.be" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">"I wanna go through the tunnel to the other side!"</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s1600/panda+button+test.png"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3bZN2jjtjn5HCVIkxHpOPAOTYBQHTQqj9uB72OrSUECkkCn7ZAdV66lxSgnaa5ytUQm8iAKhDyArNnEs5g491TfEWaBNVRt3wTyvZ80TBygpf0AJg8ss61zYcMvFKPJWBZIzdEMtqKpl/s320/panda+button+test.png" width="320" /></a></div>
The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067655669376031601.post-5556998234292712552012-12-14T23:54:00.000+00:002013-01-03T09:45:29.062+00:00Single at Christmas<a href="http://www.incrediblethings.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/smittens-hand-holding-mittens-for-two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="102" src="http://www.incrediblethings.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/smittens-hand-holding-mittens-for-two.jpg" width="200" /></a>Christmas is one of those times of the year that seems made for couples. As soon as the temperature drops it seems couples start streaming out of the woodwork. Couples ice skating, couples sharing hot chocolate, couples holding hands in those sickening two handed mitten things. Blurgh...it's enough to want to make us singletons disappear under our duvets with a chocolate orange and not emerge until Spring.<br />
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But. There are many reasons why being independent and by yourself this festive season rocks! And if you don't believe us, have a look at our reasonings:<br />
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<b>1.</b> <b>"Where are we going for Christmas?"</b><br />
Have you ever had that awful conversation with a spouse? "Where are we spending Christmas this year?" The arguments that follow, the trade offs "Well if we spend Christmas Eve at your Mums, then Christmas Day at mine, then Boxing Day at your Grans" - then all the driving or overpriced cabs or haggling for lifts to get between all of those places. Wouldn't you rather spend three days at Mum's relaxing, getting pissed and not having to venture into the cold?<br />
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<b>2. Think of the money you save</b><br />
Owl's friend text her in excitement about the £500 gift she had just laid out on her other half. £500 is a lot to spend on one person by anyone's standards, and this friend has a big family with a lot of kids in it on a fairly modest income. That's crazy! Not to mention the stress that comes with finding that "perfect" gift. Want our advice? That's money that can be used to take yourself on a shopping spree in the January sales!<br />
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<a href="http://us.123rf.com/400wm/400/400/limonzest/limonzest0910/limonzest091000151/5677757-brown-hair-woman-relaxing-with-cup-of-coffee-in-front-of-christmas-tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://us.123rf.com/400wm/400/400/limonzest/limonzest0910/limonzest091000151/5677757-brown-hair-woman-relaxing-with-cup-of-coffee-in-front-of-christmas-tree.jpg" width="133" /></a><b>3. Eating guilt free </b><br />
Ok, so this one is kind of a given at Christmas anyway. It's Christmas after all. And we are in no way advocating unhealthy behaviour. However isn't it nicer to eat all those yummy goodies, choccies and alki-hol without worrying about being judged by your other half. Especially if you don't make it to the gym until the second week of January instead of the first.<br />
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<b>4. Total control of the remote</b><br />
DVD boxsets, BBC Specials, traditional movies, sometimes you just wanna watch what you want to watch. (Love Actually at least 3 times this month we think) And no, we don't care how awesome Die Hard is.....it's not a Christmas movie!<br />
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<b>5. All the dating opportunities </b><br />
Christmas parties, work do's, more time out and about catching up with friends, not to mention New Years Eve! There are so many great opportunities to meet new people and arrange some fun dates to get you through January.<br />
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<b>6. No sharing</b>In what should be a totally selfless time of year, you don't have to fight over the last green triangle....or give up your turn on the new Xbox game....or give your 3 year old niece her teddy bear back. Ok, we went too far. Maybe you should return the bear.<br />
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<b>7. More time to see friends</b><br />
Christmas seems to be the time everyone suddenly wants to catch up. As if the world will end on December 27th (This year its the 21st though - just a heads up) Being able to just go "Yup I'm free that day for more mulled wine" rather than checking in with the other half is extremely liberating.<br />
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<a href="http://www.crisis.org.uk/data/images/Christmas/group.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.crisis.org.uk/data/images/Christmas/group.gif" /></a><b>8. Great excuse to volunteer</b><br />
We all say it every year "I'm going to spend time helping a charity!" but lets be honest....how many of us have ever done that? If you find yourself single, but don't relish the thought of going home - do one of the best things you can ever do and be completely selfless over the holiday season. (Especially after eating all the green triangles)<br />
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Contact your local hostel, pet shelter, homeless centre, old folks home or hospice - they might all appreciate an extra pair of hands to cook, clean or entertain over the festive season. And if you're in London <b><a href="http://www.crisis.org.uk/pages/christmas.html" target="_blank">Crisis at Christmas</a> </b>are still looking for volunteers.<br />
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What about you? Do you have any other reasons to add as to why it's better to be blissfully single this time of year? Leave us a comment or send us a Tweet! <a class="twitter-mention-button" data-related="GrabaSpoon" href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?screen_name=GrabaSpoon&text=I%20%3C3%20being%20single%20at%20%23Christmas....">Tweet to @GrabaSpoon</a>
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The Owl and The Pandabearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554015328703800107noreply@blogger.com0