Ok so I’ve been outta the game for quite a while and could really use some help from everyone.

I ended a 3 year relationship about 9 months ago and the 2-3 girls leading up to that 3 year relationship were all met through mutual friends and things like that. So, I never really did the official “1st date” or any of the traditional things that go along with dating. I attribute most of that to the fact that all of the girls I’ve had prolonged relationships with I’ve either known for a while prior to dating or hung out with a bit on a non-relationship type basis first.

That said, Im now in a position with a girl that falls exactly in the “traditional dating” categeory and Im in some really unfamiliar territory.

A little history with this girl…. We both work at the same place, different departments, I see her on my way in pretty much daily. We always do the hi/bye thing and a couple of weeks ago a co-worker of mine talked to a co-worker of hers and then let me know that this particular girl was available and semi-interested. At least interested enough that he got the impression I should ask her out.

I don’t know how much of the scenario surrounding how/when I asked her out and the details of that situation matter, so if more info is needed lemme know. I basically just asked her if she was busy on the weekend, she said no, I asked if she wanted to go do something and she agreed.

So last weekend we go out to a haunted theme park type deal. I figured it was a good opportunity to get to know each other and also would be something kinda fun. We went to diner first, then hit the park, had a great time, lots of jokes, laughs, etc.

So heres the part Im trying to figure out and can use some help with. Im not very good AT ALL with interpreting “signals”. Meaning, I cant tell how into me this chick is. She doesn’t seem to be the type that is overly physical or does the PDA thing. I tried to pay as much attention as I could to these “signs” and only came up with the fact that she did go out of her way a couple of time to touch me in a playful kinda way, but other than that Im at a loss. Im a little worried that things are going in the wrong direction because although joking around and stuff is good, its almost like that’s ALL we do now. So theres really no serious stuff happening, just all making fun of things/each other.

When I went to drop her off (I drove) I didn’t get any signs at all at that stage in the night either. Like I was saying, because everything was on a joking level, I had/have no idea if she was remotely interested in me in that way, so I didn’t even try and go in for a kiss or anything.

Sorry for the long book here, but im really confused and could use some pointers. What to look for, how to turn this “joking” thing we have going on around a bit so there’s more of a balance with some seriousness, etc.

Also, since I’ve been outta the game for so long, I really don’t know how to play it. What would you all recommend when it comes to communicating. We usually txt back and forth a few times a day, but I would say 8 times outta 10 the original txt is initiated by me. Should I not txt her until she texts me? How does that whole part work? And any other pointers would really help, I really like this girl and don’t want to loose the attraction that she has but don’t really know how to retain it. Thanks!!

Your background story (the 3 year relationship) sounds strikingly similar to mine. Like you said, 'picking up' was never something I had to do prior, but am *trying* learning how to do it now. So keep in mind I can't give mPUA or even PUA quality advice, but I can certainly give you the opinion of some one in similar shoes.
It sounds like she's definitly interested, and it would be safe to assume her touching you is a huge IOI. Making fun of each other is a great way to be C & F and can build attraction. I think everything hear screams that you need to raise it to the next level, and not be scared to turn up the heat. She's obviously comfortable enough with you to touch you. So reward her and show her some Kino. Things like sarcastically putting you hand on her sholder her when teasing her are simple ways of showing that your interested. You gotta assume the role of a man here and press the situation. Start taking the jokes into a push-pull fashion and be flirty. It's great to joke, but don't let her think your just feeling a friend vibe. Once you've done all this, built attraction and comfort, then I'd say your more then ready for a Kiss close. I normally feel like theres a natural feel when to kiss, but as you said you struggle with reading 'signals.' There are plenty of threads on how to kiss close situationally, with some routines on how to get there. So if you feel some canned material would help you, then it's there at your disspossal.

Thanks for the quick reply, I really appreciate it.

I think you're totally right with needing to take it to the next level, because I think Im getting dangerously close to the fork in the road that could either go the friend route or the romantic way.

I have to say though, this girl is EXTREMELY difficult to read. Coupled with the fact that I dont know her too well makes my situation nearly impossible. Usually i get a vibe right away and can move into a zone that slowly but surely escalates to closing the deal in one way or another, but with this girl its almost like the progression is stalled and its almost frustrating not being able to get a reaction out of her.

I was also wondering what type of game this chick could be runnin, I mean is she over there talking to her friends much like Im posting up here? Because looking back over the night, I think I acted almost exactly like she did, but the entire time was thinking about how into her I was.

I guess at this point im feeling pretty anxious because I feel like my next move is kinda going to decide the fate of this whole deal. I just wish there was a way to figure this girl out...