Life's Negotiations

It's not just for singles anymore. (This is not about swinging.)

In January, I was interviewed by Crain's New York (Subscription required: "Four's company," 1/21/07). The reporter wrote about couples 'dating' other couples to find friends who both individuals get along with and enjoy spending time together. People you choose to double date, and aren't stuck with because only one's a friend or your boss.

Surprisingly, it's a lot like dating other singles -- from the anticipation beforehand, to a full review of the evening afterwards. He said; she said; do you think they like us? The whole bit. And this time it's more difficult, because both of you have to agree it's a match. You could hit it off with one person, your significant other could not. And the dreaded...what if they never call?

Remember your wedding day..the day you moved in together..laying around being in love? At some point, a formal partnership is added to the mix. Now you're deciding on distribution of labor around the house, and opening (gulp) a joint checking account.

The first topic under negotiating companionship came from the New York Times yesterday, (He Cooks. She Stews. It’s Love.) It's a funny story about alpha cooks in the kitchen and the betas who love and must endure them.

Reading this reminded me of my own kitchen (my poor husband-cum-sous chef). The article's worth a good chuckle or two of acknowledgment and embarrassment, especially if any of you are like me, attempting to rise above the Hungry Man frozen dinner, and in the process bringing stress to an otherwise relaxing, creative undertaking.