Waldo's Guide to Being a Singular Sensation

Waldo · 11-12-2009, 02:20 AM

You've got two options when you're single:

1. Sullen and Single
2. Singular Sensation

I'm working on #2 (shut it 'Dusa) and finding new and interesting ways to enjoy the single life.

Lesson number one: How To Dine Solo In Public

I actually honed this skill years ago when I began traveling for work. Now I can walk into any restaurant in any city in the world and proudly request a table for one with my head held high and a smile on my face.

It's easiest to accomplish this daunting task by bringing a magazine, a book or a journal. Bringing a laptop to "work" only makes you look like you're a workaholic (not that I would know ANYTHING about that!). This allows you to focus your attention on something other than "what are they thinking about me?"

Eventually you may find yourself able to just bring the book or journal and leave it closed on the table. It's kind of like a security blanket. It's just nice to have there. The bonus here is that you can start to pay attention to the people around you. My favorite part of this phase it that you pick up on conversations. I happen to make up entire histories for couples around me. Sometimes I blog about those stories. If I did this more regularly I'm certain I could write a best seller!

After this stage you might be able to move into the advanced stage where you seek out restaurants with "community tables" or dining bars where you can dine with others and open up opportunities to meet new people. Do not attempt this advanced maneuver if you are prone chewing with your mouth open or spitting when you talk. It's poor form and will only cause people to stare and whisper.

Whether you're hoping they are fleeting or not, enjoy your single days while you've got them.

atomiczombie · 11-12-2009, 04:01 AM

*raises his hand* Single here. I don't mind dining alone if I am at an event by myself. For example, I went to IMsL in 07 by myself, basically knowing no one. I instantly met people and made friends, only had to eat one meal alone. Didn't bother me though.

Paphigleo · 11-12-2009, 04:41 AM

Single workaholic here.

I also don't mind dining alone. I don't get much opportunity though. When I'm not working I'm either home alone or with friends.

Arwen · 11-12-2009, 09:03 AM

Used to hate eating alone. Then I realized why. I was very poor company. lol

I've corrected that. I do love meeting friends for dinner, but it's also fun to just go by myself and relax. I generally do have a book with me though.

Not to hide! I just read all the darn time if I'm not writing (or playing on the computer-heh).

Great thread, Waldo.

I would also suggest Meetup.com as a way to meet others who have similar interests. When I lived in Denver, I was very fond of the Tarot Meetup group. The one here has fizzled but I am toying with the idea of launching some in January. I also have taken up hooping although I haven't had any time for that in a while

Besides...if you eat alone you can pick the place and not worry that someone doesn't like something!

PearlsNLace · 11-12-2009, 10:35 AM

I tend to be a person who worries way to much about what other people are thinking, but that has never stopped me from dining out alone. I simply enjoy dining out more with others. I have enjoyed a very lovely meal with someone who was "spanging" asking for change one evening outside a place I was about to go in to dine alone.

What I do not care for is cooking at home, alone. I am the queen of tupperware and freezing stuff. However, I dont really enjoy even the eating part, alone. I would love to hear some ways to do so more sensationaly.

A Pearl, in lace.

Waldo · 11-12-2009, 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PearlsNLace

I tend to be a person who worries way to much about what other people are thinking, but that has never stopped me from dining out alone. I simply enjoy dining out more with others. I have enjoyed a very lovely meal with someone who was "spanging" asking for change one evening outside a place I was about to go in to dine alone.

What I do not care for is cooking at home, alone. I am the queen of tupperware and freezing stuff. However, I dont really enjoy even the eating part, alone. I would love to hear some ways to do so more sensationaly.

A Pearl, in lace.

I'll make that Lesson Numero Dos

Arwen · 11-12-2009, 11:24 AM

PnL, you have hit on one of my favorite subjects.

When you cook for yourself, set the table too. Have a little glass of wine (if you drink). Pour your drink into a glass. Do NOT stand up and eat over the sink.

I love to cook and have a ton of things that can be modified to one person. Or you can make a large meal and freeze it up for later.

We have a cooking thread in the Hobbies forum..

Mindy · 11-12-2009, 09:14 AM

I have absolutely no problem going out alone to a restaurant and I don't think I've ever really taken a book with me or anything like that. In my 20's there was a restaurant I worked at and I'd go in there for cheap eats when I was off work sometimes and since I worked there, I was pretty comfortable going in alone to eat, and that is how I got over the insecure feeling you sometimes get when going out alone to dine.

TeaPartyTart · 11-12-2009, 09:37 AM

While you know I'm attached at the hip with my better half, I enjoy dining alone. Work travel forced me to do it and I actually enjoy sitting and people watching or sitting at a bar and enjoying lunch, a beer, etc.

When I drop the boys off at the groomers I like to hit my fav wine bar and hang out and enjoy a great wine or whiskey (the damn Scot's did that to me).

Dining alone reminds me to slow down and take stock in the great joys of my life and that I'm damn good company:-)

bbdoll · 04-17-2011, 08:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Waldo

You've got two options when you're single:

1. Sullen and Single
2. Singular Sensation

I'm working on #2 (shut it 'Dusa) and finding new and interesting ways to enjoy the single life.

Lesson number one: How To Dine Solo In Public

I actually honed this skill years ago when I began traveling for work. Now I can walk into any restaurant in any city in the world and proudly request a table for one with my head held high and a smile on my face.

It's easiest to accomplish this daunting task by bringing a magazine, a book or a journal. Bringing a laptop to "work" only makes you look like you're a workaholic (not that I would know ANYTHING about that!). This allows you to focus your attention on something other than "what are they thinking about me?"

Eventually you may find yourself able to just bring the book or journal and leave it closed on the table. It's kind of like a security blanket. It's just nice to have there. The bonus here is that you can start to pay attention to the people around you. My favorite part of this phase it that you pick up on conversations. I happen to make up entire histories for couples around me. Sometimes I blog about those stories. If I did this more regularly I'm certain I could write a best seller!

After this stage you might be able to move into the advanced stage where you seek out restaurants with "community tables" or dining bars where you can dine with others and open up opportunities to meet new people. Do not attempt this advanced maneuver if you are prone chewing with your mouth open or spitting when you talk. It's poor form and will only cause people to stare and whisper.

Whether you're hoping they are fleeting or not, enjoy your single days while you've got them.

I cant wait to see what #2 holds. Hmmmm Im new here so Im just peeking to all the threads. Im so glad I stumble on this one. YAY !!!

Tommi · 04-17-2011, 08:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bbdoll

I cant wait to see what #2 holds. Hmmmm Im new here so Im just peeking to all the threads. Im so glad I stumble on this one. YAY !!!

DITTO on peeking perv.

DapperButch · 04-17-2011, 09:25 AM

I like this thread.

Where is Lesson #3?

cuddlyfemme · 04-17-2011, 09:56 AM

I never knew this thread was here...I like it. Guess I need to perv more!

Strappie · 04-17-2011, 10:30 AM

Dinning Alone??

OMG... I can hardly go to Mickey D's to dine alone! Hmmm I am certainly gonna have to force myself, baby steps. Funny thing is, I'm not shy around a group of friends. I will introduce myself to anyone just ask everyone that went to the Reunion. I made sure I introduced myself to everyone. So to dine alone shouldn't be that hard. After all I love to people watch!

This could be good.. lol

11-12-2009, 02:20 AM	#1
Waldo Member How Do You Identify?: Special Snowflake Preferred Pronoun?: she/her Relationship Status: Married Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Wine Country, Oregon Posts: 470 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 22 Thanked 792 Times in 238 Posts Rep Power: 1006289	Waldo's Guide to Being a Singular Sensation You've got two options when you're single: 1. Sullen and Single 2. Singular Sensation I'm working on #2 (shut it 'Dusa) and finding new and interesting ways to enjoy the single life. Lesson number one: How To Dine Solo In Public I actually honed this skill years ago when I began traveling for work. Now I can walk into any restaurant in any city in the world and proudly request a table for one with my head held high and a smile on my face. It's easiest to accomplish this daunting task by bringing a magazine, a book or a journal. Bringing a laptop to "work" only makes you look like you're a workaholic (not that I would know ANYTHING about that!). This allows you to focus your attention on something other than "what are they thinking about me?" Eventually you may find yourself able to just bring the book or journal and leave it closed on the table. It's kind of like a security blanket. It's just nice to have there. The bonus here is that you can start to pay attention to the people around you. My favorite part of this phase it that you pick up on conversations. I happen to make up entire histories for couples around me. Sometimes I blog about those stories. If I did this more regularly I'm certain I could write a best seller! After this stage you might be able to move into the advanced stage where you seek out restaurants with "community tables" or dining bars where you can dine with others and open up opportunities to meet new people. Do not attempt this advanced maneuver if you are prone chewing with your mouth open or spitting when you talk. It's poor form and will only cause people to stare and whisper. Whether you're hoping they are fleeting or not, enjoy your single days while you've got them.

11-12-2009, 09:03 AM	#4
Arwen Joy Seeker How Do You Identify?: Smartly-Flavored Preferred Pronoun?: Goddess Relationship Status: Mrs. Syzygy 1/9/14 Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Joyville, NM (aka Land of Enchantment) Posts: 10,140 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 13,636 Thanked 28,107 Times in 6,411 Posts Rep Power: 21474863	Used to hate eating alone. Then I realized why. I was very poor company. lol I've corrected that. I do love meeting friends for dinner, but it's also fun to just go by myself and relax. I generally do have a book with me though. Not to hide! I just read all the darn time if I'm not writing (or playing on the computer-heh). Great thread, Waldo. I would also suggest Meetup.com as a way to meet others who have similar interests. When I lived in Denver, I was very fond of the Tarot Meetup group. The one here has fizzled but I am toying with the idea of launching some in January. I also have taken up hooping although I haven't had any time for that in a while Besides...if you eat alone you can pick the place and not worry that someone doesn't like something! __________________ I wrote a book, y'all! *FREE* Tarotscopes Seek Joy, y'all. Eschew hate. 9Words: A Poetry Challenge \| Do you like me?

11-12-2009, 11:24 AM	#7
Arwen Joy Seeker How Do You Identify?: Smartly-Flavored Preferred Pronoun?: Goddess Relationship Status: Mrs. Syzygy 1/9/14 Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Joyville, NM (aka Land of Enchantment) Posts: 10,140 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 13,636 Thanked 28,107 Times in 6,411 Posts Rep Power: 21474863	PnL, you have hit on one of my favorite subjects. When you cook for yourself, set the table too. Have a little glass of wine (if you drink). Pour your drink into a glass. Do NOT stand up and eat over the sink. I love to cook and have a ton of things that can be modified to one person. Or you can make a large meal and freeze it up for later. We have a cooking thread in the Hobbies forum.. __________________ I wrote a book, y'all! *FREE* Tarotscopes Seek Joy, y'all. Eschew hate. 9Words: A Poetry Challenge \| Do you like me?

11-12-2009, 09:14 AM	#8
Mindy Member How Do You Identify?: femme Preferred Pronoun?: her/she Relationship Status: Single Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Michigan Posts: 194 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 49 Thanked 174 Times in 57 Posts Rep Power: 13974	I have absolutely no problem going out alone to a restaurant and I don't think I've ever really taken a book with me or anything like that. In my 20's there was a restaurant I worked at and I'd go in there for cheap eats when I was off work sometimes and since I worked there, I was pretty comfortable going in alone to eat, and that is how I got over the insecure feeling you sometimes get when going out alone to dine. __________________ You must submit to supreme suffering in order to discover the completion of joy. ~John Calvin~

04-17-2011, 09:25 AM	#12
DapperButch Roadster Guy How Do You Identify?: FTM, Stone Butch Preferred Pronoun?: He Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Northeast Posts: 7,745 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 26,545 Thanked 26,809 Times in 5,771 Posts Rep Power: 21474858	I like this thread. Where is Lesson #3? __________________ -Dapper Are you educated or indoctrinated?

11-12-2009, 04:01 AM	#2
atomiczombie Member How Do You Identify?: Femmesensual Transguy Preferred Pronoun?: He, Him, His Relationship Status: Dating Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Rio Vista, CA Posts: 1,225 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 3,949 Thanked 3,220 Times in 759 Posts Rep Power: 21474853	raises his hand Single here. I don't mind dining alone if I am at an event by myself. For example, I went to IMsL in 07 by myself, basically knowing no one. I instantly met people and made friends, only had to eat one meal alone. Didn't bother me though.

11-12-2009, 04:41 AM	#3
Paphigleo Member How Do You Identify?: da Bear Preferred Pronoun?: He Relationship Status: open to new possibilities Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: home at last, PDX Posts: 161 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 144 Thanked 164 Times in 40 Posts Rep Power: 3428212	Single workaholic here. I also don't mind dining alone. I don't get much opportunity though. When I'm not working I'm either home alone or with friends. __________________ Nick I am the stone that the builder refused I can't do this all on my own... I'm no Superman. *My armor, battered but strong. My sword, pitted but razor sharp. My body is bloodied but doesn't know to quit. I am battle-tested and proven, I shall live to fight another day.* https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.n...91850051_n.jpg

11-12-2009, 10:35 AM	#5
PearlsNLace Member How Do You Identify?: queer Preferred Pronoun?: They/Them & her/she Relationship Status: Lucky, very lucky Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Portlandia, Oregon Posts: 427 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 875 Thanked 1,284 Times in 315 Posts Rep Power: 6505517	I tend to be a person who worries way to much about what other people are thinking, but that has never stopped me from dining out alone. I simply enjoy dining out more with others. I have enjoyed a very lovely meal with someone who was "spanging" asking for change one evening outside a place I was about to go in to dine alone. What I do not care for is cooking at home, alone. I am the queen of tupperware and freezing stuff. However, I dont really enjoy even the eating part, alone. I would love to hear some ways to do so more sensationaly. A Pearl, in lace.

11-12-2009, 09:37 AM	#9
TeaPartyTart Junior Member How Do You Identify?: Femme Preferred Pronoun?: I think "cupcake" has a nice ring to it Relationship Status: shackin' up Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Chicago Posts: 65 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 13 Thanked 40 Times in 20 Posts Rep Power: 185	While you know I'm attached at the hip with my better half, I enjoy dining alone. Work travel forced me to do it and I actually enjoy sitting and people watching or sitting at a bar and enjoying lunch, a beer, etc. When I drop the boys off at the groomers I like to hit my fav wine bar and hang out and enjoy a great wine or whiskey (the damn Scot's did that to me). Dining alone reminds me to slow down and take stock in the great joys of my life and that I'm damn good company:-)

04-17-2011, 09:56 AM	#13
cuddlyfemme Senior Member How Do You Identify?: Stone Femme Preferred Pronoun?: her/she Relationship Status: single Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: South Carolina Posts: 2,271 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 717 Thanked 2,452 Times in 1,270 Posts Rep Power: 11496123	I never knew this thread was here...I like it. Guess I need to perv more!

04-17-2011, 10:30 AM	#14
Strappie Senior Member How Do You Identify?: Butch Preferred Pronoun?: I know who I am... Doesn't matter Relationship Status: It's a new day.... Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Mpls, MN Posts: 3,283 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 3,813 Thanked 4,945 Times in 1,350 Posts Rep Power: 21474855	Dinning Alone?? OMG... I can hardly go to Mickey D's to dine alone! Hmmm I am certainly gonna have to force myself, baby steps. Funny thing is, I'm not shy around a group of friends. I will introduce myself to anyone just ask everyone that went to the Reunion. I made sure I introduced myself to everyone. So to dine alone shouldn't be that hard. After all I love to people watch! This could be good.. lol