About the bit about letting a guy pay for you despite you feeling bad about it ...

Do men really not mind?

I have an issue with that in particular because it just doesn't seem fair to me.

If I ask a woman out on a date, I expect to be the one paying for the date.

If she asks ME out, then I would still want to pay for at least half of the date.

Just me.

What about once you're in a long term relationship, I mean past the "dating" stage... what's the protocol there?

I am all about equality, and just as a female may protest she wants to pay, I protest that I desire to pay as well. It is not about money, it is about thought, generosity and genuine respect. I have been hard on times, and have been paid for by females.... now I felt like **** about it, but made sure to make it up. Again, not about money but overall consideration. I always want to give and love those who are deservin.

Hmm, okie.

I really don't know. It was always assumed that if we went somewhere that I would be paying.

I think once past the dating stage and into seriousness, you just have to believe in your SO. If somebody says they'll pay, go with it and hopefully you actually care enough to take care of it next time. If you are past the dating stage and in a deep, meaningful relationship, you should not even think about this petty issue of money. **** money, embrace love. Its consideration, love, respect and honor that makes the circle of life complete, not by one side working overtime to fulfill social-expectation.

couldn't agree more

As "old school" as it sounds when a long term relationship developes there are ways that a woman can make her mate feel appreciated. LOL yes sexy fun can be one of them but there are many other ways a woman can contribute to a relationship.

Helping him do better in his career.

Assisting caring for a loved one or pet.

Do a chore you are better at; especially if he dislikes it.

Helping him to resolve a "hold back" in his life.

Planning a vacation and make him your guest.

Make and effort to make his dateing you easier; co-ordinateing your time off, secure him a parking space or pass for your gate so he doesn't have to go through a hassle to come in.

Make a closet or cabinet that he can stash a gym bag or a desk to use his laptop while you are doing "chores".

Giving him tickets or membership in something that directly benifits him having fun independently in your area.

Doing something labor intense that enhances the value of his car or home (with his permission of course).

Make a serious effort to stop a habit he finds annoying.

Do something that is more meaningful to just the two of you than anyone else. Does he favor a certain cafe, like a certain song, have a special time of year?

I'm never like that. I have no problem paying for a date. I don't think the guy should always have to pay.

It would seem that you aren't alone in that.

I just haven't run into any women like you or the others that don't expect the man to pay for everything.

I have only been ASKED out once, so that was where the ' she paid half ' part came in. It was totally her idea....lol

Then again, I really didn't mind it all that much that they expected me to pay.

* shrug *