How To Fix a Disastrous Date

Imagine you're on a first date with the guy you've been crushing on for weeks. You're at the movies, sharing a bucket of popcorn, when a scary scene comes on. You jump out of your seat sending the buttery snack everywhere. Not exactly the best first impression. No worries though, there are plenty of ways to turn a dating Don't into a definite Do.

1. The Sitch: It's the biggest bash of the school year and the DJ is spinning a killer dance tune. Your date heads out to the floor and starts busting some moves. Unfortunately, he's not the best dancer. In fact, he looks like he's having a seizure.

    

   The Recovery: Cut him some slack -- at least he's out on the dance floor. Most guys would be content to just stand there. Maybe you can use this as an opportunity to teach him some steps. If not, ask the DJ to play a slow song -- it'll give you a chance to really get to know him. You can't always predict how a date will go, so be ready to roll with the punches, even if it means busting out some old school dance moves.

2. The Sitch: You and your date meet at a local carnival for a night of good old-fashioned fun. He wants to go on a ride, but you're not crazy about them. Still, you say, "what the heck," take one last swig of your soda and let the conductor strap you in. A few minutes into it, you start feeling queasy. The next thing you know, you're puking in his lap.

   The Recovery: Check out his reaction. If he's pissed, give him a few minutes to cool off. He might want to leave and that's OK. Who wants to walk around stinking like throw-up? If he's an easygoing guy, you might be able to make light of the situation. You can say something cute like, "Does this mean I'm not getting a good night kiss?" or "Bet this is one date you'll never forget!" Kudos to you for taking a chance though.

3. The Sitch: You and your crush are having one of those magical movie moments. You know, the kind where you lock lips and suddenly fireworks appear. The next day at school, he totally ignores you. What a jerk!

   The Recovery: First, get a grip. You're probably thinking, "How could he do this to me?" Give him the benefit of the doubt. Smooching can make guys act weird. Maybe he thinks he's a bad kisser and that you're going to tell all your girlfriends. He's got his rep to think of. Try this: go up to him and say, "Was that you I kissed last night or did I imagine it?" If he says yes then you can assume things are all good and it was just a case of frazzled nerves. If he says you imagined it, then say something like, "Thank God, because it was awful."

4. The Sitch: Your date plans a really romantic picninc at a local park. Things are going great until there's a lull in the conversation. You don't know what to say and he's not talking either.

   The Recovery: The best thing to do in a situation like this is ask questions. Find out what he's interested in. Does he play any sports? Does he play video games? What is his family like? What's the last movie he saw? When you've run out of things to talk about, it's okay to sit still for a while. Don't force the conversation. Let things flow naturally. If you feel comfortable with him just sitting there in silence, it might be a sign you're a good match.

5. The Sitch: You made it through an awful first date. The guy was so boring and there was absolutely no connection. In fact, you have more in common with your chihuahua. Still, he asks for your number at the end of the night.

   The Recovery: Be honest. Tell him you think you'd be better off as friends or that you're simply not interested. Not every guy is going to be your type and that's okay. You should still give everyone an equal chance, even the geeky guy from your science class. He just might share your obsession for "American Idol."

You get the idea, right? When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Don't waste your time feeling embarrassed or insecure. Chances are, your date is just as nervous as you are. There aren't too many people in the world who are good at something the first time they try it. That goes for dating, too. Practice makes perfect.