What’s better: being in a perfect world or a fallen one?

The movie Enchanted is the perfect date movie. It has elements from several different Disney films and manages to seem both modern and classic without slipping into cheesy. It’s a combination of Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Mary Poppins, and Sleepless in Seattle. With the curtain dresses, it even has an element of The Sound of Music.
I learned the princess played by Amy Adams is LDS and lives in Colorado. She was dreamy, a fairy tale actress. The film touches on so many themes: divorce/marriage, good/evil, real/make believe, personal growth, love, and even has a commentary on cell phones.

There is nothing to make your date blush and there are laugh-out-loud moments. It’s all out of a Hallmark card. Sometimes seems as if you’re actually at Disneyland. I even loved the credits at the end and the movie itself was practically flawless.

Here is a review that captures the feeling of this film quite well.

I fell in love with this fairy tale story with an entrepreneurial twist. It strikes me as being the perfect screenplay for a movie. It has romance, suspense, good food, and history. I love stories and writing them is my favorite. Also, I’ve only been to this restaurant one time but it really was romantic and the food is incredible.

If I thought I could make it I’d get my old job back at the flower shop and support myself doing it, I would. Then I’d blog about the stories people tell about their lives. People have reasons to buy flowers and that year in college made me wish I was a columnist. Now I wish I could make a movie.

It starts in 1920 with a love story about a man who built a cabin for his wife for their anniversary. It was built in the trees of Salt Lake’s Mill Creek Canyon and aptly named “Log Haven.” It was a place to discuss ideas and for the couple to spend summers.

At one point the property was turned into a restaurant, then in the 1980s it was in such disrepair that it was condemned. And that’s where the love story picks up again. Then a woman named Margo Provost got involved. She was a newlywed and in love. Her husband had seen the place and suggested she revive it. She quit her high paying executive job and without any experience in the restaurant industry, went to work.

It was more difficult than she imagined. The general contractor got hepatitis and she didn’t get financing she hoped for. She sold her houses, her cars, ran up her credit cards, and dipped into her retirement. And in 1994 she reopened the Log Haven restaurant, and the story continues. The restaurant and Provost continue to win awards meanwhile it’s still sought out by people in love.

Last year I attended Vivace two Vivace events. It’s a group of 20-40somethings who sit together, party and and network together at Utah Symphony concerts. It’s a great win/win for all because the symphony reaches younger audiences and people get exposure to the arts. Also, the symphony discounts tickets which draws people who may not otherwise attend.

Learn more: www.utahsymphonyopera.org/vivace | www.myspace.com/life_funkified

I recently read some stats on the group that may convince more single men to attend. There are about 1,000 members. The bulk of the membership is from 25-30 or 45-40 years old. 68.4% are women and 57.9% are single and most have incomes from $40-50K+. They’re also educated too: 42.1% have a college degree and 36.8% of Vivace have a post graduate or professional degree.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s a good way to meet women and most don’t come with a date. You can grab some food at the after-concert restaurant and chat it up some pretty amazing women. Best part is tickets run around $15 (don’t quote me on it, but I think that’s correct) and include the food. There’s a shuttle that takes you to the after-event party and many times the performers join in the fun.

I asked Melissa for what she considered the best dates. I think some of us get stuck in dating ruts so I thought this might inspire you to try something new. I like how she says you need to have an idea of what your date likes and how long you have been dating.

The Arts
I love going out to musicals, plays, operas, symphonies and the like. It’s a great way to enjoy an evening together with someone you’re trying to get to know, or if you’ve been in a relationship, I’ve found it to be a lot of fun to dress up a little and go out for something besides the typical dinner and movie.

These dates don’t have to be expensive either. Last semester I went to an art show in Salt Lake and my date and I enjoyed light conversation and observing the exhibits. It’s a good way to get to know someone in a new setting. I recommend different musical or theatrical events at universities, or if you have access to galleries, planetariums, festivals, or museums—any big city is full of things to do and see without breaking your bank to have a classy evening together.

Realm of Nature
My fondest dating moments have almost all occurred outside. I love going into Provo canyon, whether it’s a car or bike ride, racing on long boards, tubing, sledding, and rock climbing, or doing a plethora of other great activities. And did I mention all of the above are free? You might want to stake out a place in the park for two—even if it’s just to do homework or read books together it can be a fun little distraction from daily life in the classroom or office. Another good idea—although I wouldn’t try this on a first date—would be to get away from the city on a clear night to just star gaze and chat.

On the weekends, bon fires are a favorite choice for group dates or even just the two of you. No matter the excursion, I recommend bringing a camera along to help you keep a little of the beauty you’ll encounter—besides getting to capture the adventures you and your date may share.

Novelty
It’s not a bad thing to think outside the box and be a little unconventional. Notice I didn’t say off-the-wall different, but a change of pace is most refreshing at times.

One of the sweetest dates I went on was with a boy I’d gone out with a few times. It was a random weeknight, and we were both finishing up our homework when he called to do something. We got a shake for two and drove to a beautiful overlook to just chat. He coyly put on a CD that simply couldn’t be listened to without active participation, so he turned up his stereo and invited me to step out of the car to dance. What a sweet moment together, just dancing under the stars! But again, before you go crazy with dating out in left field, a word of caution, know your date or else your excursions might come off just plain silly or obnoxious.

Some other fun novel dates I’ve participated in were ice cream sculpting, movie-making, ballroom or swing dancing, decorating cookies, and building structures out of sugar cubes and hot glue…you should’ve seen our tooth-pick and marshmallow men! It’s fun to tackle a hands-on project together; it provides a lot of laughs and perhaps a chance to see your date in a new setting.

Table for Two
Go out for a little 7/11 hot chocolate or other treats. Yes, 7/11–as in the gas station. For some blessed reason they have an amazing hot chocolate center in their store which is better and less expensive than most other hot chocolates that I’ve had in the valley.. Also, dinner is always a good idea. After you’ve gotten a little something to eat or drink, just chill, sit back and relax.

Again, it shouldn’t even be expensive, but a word to the wise, be sure after at most two dates you spend at least a dollar or two on the girl you’re out with. Cheap is never a good thing to be labeled as. Maybe sometime I’ll tell you about the cheapest, worst dates I’ve gone on…you don’t want to become that sort of story for the people you take out, do you?

Today I found this on Craigslist in Provo…you just have to read it for yourself…and if you need some Christmas money…too bad I’m not much of a country dancer. He’d probably ask me for a refund.

The latest twist on a paid escort - to a single’s dance! I don’t know about you but the dances are usually pretty bad. Anyway, I hope he finds a good dancing partner.
I WILL PAY YOU TO GO TO YOUNG ADULT DANCES WITH ME!!!! - 46

No sex.
No romance.
I just like going to young adult dances to watch the honies,
but, of course, I feel out of place going alone. So, go along with me,
and I’ll pay you $50 every time you do.I like going to the country-western dances in Provo on Wednesday and Sat. nights. Just meet me in front. We go in together. Dance 2 songs (at most), then the rest of the time is yours. I’m a old dude, but I’m real cute, so you won’t be too embarassed.

I found this list of the best restaurants in Utah. It’s not your usual clique. I haven’t been to a lot of them. If you’re looking for a great place to take a date…this is your list.

Datapolozza - free dating ideas and resources http://www.dateapolooza.com

The tagline is no more boring dates, but it’s more a dating directory: places to eat and things to do. There’s a list of lds attractions. It doesn’t give a lot of detail or creative ways to use the information though. I was hoping for stories and editorial comments.
I’m a big fan of planning dates out (at least loosely) but this is probably overkill for me. I don’t know that I’d put together and print an itinerary. If you’re a planner type you could probably email the plans to your date and ask for comments. I suppose if you were a power dater with several dates a week you might need this resource. It is free.
I plan dates like this (and usually thanks to being a woman, I don’t plan that many dates). I choose a place to eat depending on the personality of the person I’m with. If I want to be able to talk I choose somewhere quiet. If I’m unsure it’s a more loud, social dining experience. Then I think of my next options, which are dependent on how things go. So if talking is going well, it’s a walk on the Provo River Trail. We stop at the bridge near the Riverwoods.

I have any number of timekillers planned in case we have dead time. There are the art galleries, or the science center at BYU (haven’t done that in a long time). There’s the BYU library with a great selection of hip magazines. There are my favorite places to get hot chocolate or dessert. It all depends on who I’m with and how much I like them. You get the idea.
My favorite listing on datapollza is the list of singing telegram services. It features Utah’s Bag Lady-The Singing Mona. Now that’s creative.

I love Halloween… here are some more events:

Monday, OCTOBER 30th
‘Twas the night before Halloween and all through the haunted house
All the creatures were stirring, in dark mist they were doused…
Come Monday, October 30th for tricks, treats and {what would Halloween
be without it?} a DANCE PARTY!

Where: 1311 Royal Troon #10 (Janet’s note: I don’t know what city and there were no more details).
When: The Witching Hours ~ 8:30 {after FHE} until 11:30-ish at
Wear your best cape, sharpest fangs, most glittery tiaras & join our
Dead Man’s Party.

Tuesday, October 31st
So my friends are having this HUGE! HUGE party on TUESDAY! It seriously is going to be great. His house is pretty dang cool. they are having a costume contest, dancing, food, drinks (but purely non alchoholic), did I mention dancing, he has a foosball table, ping pong, hot tub, big screen tv’s, hot guys and girls, a Pool table, I even think there was air hockey, did I mention dancing? I promise he always throws a good party. Don’t be ridiculous! COME! IT will be the Halloween party of the year.

2794 Shady Hollow Loop, LEHI, UT 84043

It sounds far but really its not, Its the first exit at the point of the mountain. Take the Alpine exit 284 and head east, turn left onto the frontage road. Then Right at the next light Cabellas BLVD. Then Left again you are now on Grand Terrace Pkwy. Turn left at the first street into the neighborhood that is Shady Hollow Loop. His house is in the corner of the loop. 2794

Bring all of your friends! But most of all bring you!

Please dress up folks. We can only be this theatrical once a year unless we work in the arts. Plus you get rewarded. Also, you’ll never know if your dance partner is hot or scary! So you can just dance unabashedly.

Looking for a date idea that suits your style? Here are some of my best ideas for a great date:

1. Take a Dive or a Soak
The Crater at the Homestead A 55-foot-deep crater at the Homestead resort that offers scuba diving. They even offer certification. It’s a natural hot tub with temperatures between 90 and 96 degrees.700 N. Homestead Drive, Midway. 888-327-7220 If you’re brave (and not for a first solo date) there are free hot springs in Lehi and (a long hike) in Spanish Fork Canyon (see soak.net). I don’t recommend going on weekends as the crowd can be…interesting.

2. Get a Bargain on a Movie
Carmike 12 West Jordan Get into a new release for $5 any time or a matinee for $4. 1600 W. Fox Park Drive, West Jordan 801-562-5760

3. Free Entertainment on the streets of Salt Lake City (dress warm, bring spare change)
Outside of the Broadway Centre a guy named Eli Potash often plays the cello. Live music for pennies. While you’re there, see a film. They are often higher quality or art films. 111 East Broadway
Salt Lake City, UT 84111 View Map
(801) 321-0310

4. Steak Take Out Dinner
Go to Steak Out (call ahead on your way out) and ordering a fancy steak dinner to go. Then eat it somewhere creative (on china at home, your condo clubhouse, on a ski tram, at Borders, or at a park assuming it’s warm weather). They also deliver. Add tea candles all around your table or space or string lights to add atmosphere. I’m not responsible if they kick you out of Borders.

5. Local Art Museums
I also like the BYU or U of U art museums (BYU has a cafe but call for hours). If you’re not up on your art, perhaps you could book a docent to walk you through. There’s also the Springville Art Museum ( 126 East 400 South Springville, Utah) and The Trolley restaurant (1948 E 1250 S, Springville, (801) 489-8585) is nearby with Rod’s quesadillas on the menu. If you’re in Provo, Get desert at the hip Pudding on the Rice.

6. Cross Country Ski
When there’s snow: Cross Country Ski the latern lit trails of Sundance.

7. Best Way to Get some Culture
Utah Symphony or Opera Vivace for 20-40somethings single or married (meet artists afterwards - ticket price includes food). On the way ask your date to read about the artist and program so you’ll be informed and maybe have some things to ask the artist after the show.

8. Best Way to Prolong a Date
I used to love going to the Gear For Guys Shop in the University Mall after a date, if it’s going well. They had a hammock swing and then later got a race car track. I’m not sure if it’s still there.

9. Most Romantic Dinner Idea
I’m still a sucker for the classic dinner out. If you’re looking for particularly romantic choice, I vote the Log Haven in Millcreek Canyon.

10. Best Chill Date
Ask someone to join you in something you already have to do (like your grocery shopping, not your dishes). Need to decorate for Christmas or Halloween? Have to bake a cake for your mom? Why not invite along some company? I’ve always liked these kinds of dates.
Don’t have a date? See my post on the book, How to Get a Date Worth Keeping. I hope this has inspired you to get busy and ask someone out. The central idea that I love besides just not being apathetic, is to date to learn about yourself and others, not focusing on marriage potential early on.
Another thing, use that camera phone - send us pictures from your fun dates. Who knows, you might even see yourself on this blog!

It’s almost Halloween — a time when great date ideas abound. A haunted house affords a rare opportunity for getting a little more cozy in a safe way. Halloween brings out the theatrical side of people. It’s a good diversion from wondering if your date is THE ONE on the first date.
Last night I went on a date to the haunted forest in American Fork. It was so fun. I was so scared. It started with a witch/ghost who stared me down and cornered me. There may be some people you decide to let into your personal space, but this goulish creature was not one. Plus she was a she. I couldn’t get away from her and her evil stare. At the end a chainsaw guy chased us into the parking lot screaming. Then there were all the scary parts in between.

There are a lot of dungeon or cave-like sections where you’re in a pretty tight space. If you’re tall you’re going to have to duck a lot. Be sure to wear shoes you can walk in and even get wet or dirty. There are parts that are muddy and the ground can be uneven.

I’m not sure if it’s just that I haven’t been to one of these in a while or that I was just jumpier than usual. My heart was pounding. I feel relieved thinking it was over, but then it wasn’t. I laughed my head off at myself and how scared I was.

If you go leave a comment and let us know what you think.

Haunted Forest
1015 S 500 E (right off the freeway, there is a searchlight, turn west)
American Fork, UT 84003
(888) 696-8669