First Date Talk

Look, I'm not going to say that I'm a great dater. I mean, I've done enough of it over the years that I think I've learned a thing or two about dating that makes me better than others...but, then again, I'm still single so I guess I'm not that good.
If nothing else, I know what topics ought to be off limits for a first date or a first meeting. Apparently, this information is not common knowledge among the "gentlemen" I've been meeting. That is, until now.
Men of the world, please be advised that speaking on these topics upon first meeting may not result in a second date...

• Past home foreclosures. - While I'm not searching for a sugar daddy, it would be nice for my potential husband to not have crazier debt than me...way crazier debt than me.
• Past car repossessions. - Please see above.
• Family members being locked up in a Florida prison for murder. - This is not exactly the safety and security that I was searching for in my future in-laws.
• Criticizing the choices of your date's family. - This will not make me like you. Only I can tease my family and friends. To you, a complete stranger, they're off limits.
• Nothing too heavy! - Keep the conversation light. No girl wants to hear all of your problems, especially upon first meeting. She is not your therapist; she is your date.
• YOU, YOU, YOU. - I hate to break it to you but it's not all about you. Maybe you could ask your date about her day, her job, her background...? Just a thought.

A first date is, more or less, a sales pitch; you're selling yourself. Any salesman will tell you to not lead with the product's inefficiencies or glitches. Talk up your strengths, will ya? Otherwise, I'm not buying it.