Need advice on making a friend

[Melora]

I have a question.. not really sure if its strange or not.

I go a dance class 3 times a week at Golds Gym. We have the most AWESOME teacher. She is very friendly and I have talked to her several times personally. I really think she would be fun to have as a friend. Going out to lunch.. that sort of thing.

It seems weird but I do not know how to approach this. Mostly when it comes to meeting new people, its when you have more time to spend together at a job etc so you can talk and get to know each other and it becomes a natural progression to go do something together. But we only talk before and after class briefly. We are the same age and I know we have simliar interests and views because she talks a lot in class and talks about herself. Part of the problem is that I feel like by liking her she will think Im weird or something. Usually when you are "interested" in someone its for dating or a romantic relationship... obviously not what I am interested in since we are both married to the opposite sex.

So my rather odd question is.. how do I approach trying to get to know her better without sounding like Im asking her on a date (Hey want to go to lunch? just sounds weird when we don't know each other that well). Generally only a guy asks a girl out of the blue if they want to go eat or hang out.

OK so now you all know how weird I am!! Its not that I am hard up for friends, but this is just someone who seems like she would be fun and right up my alley.

 

[Bon Bon]

I do not find this odd at all! I've been in the same situation. I'd just come out and say that really enjoy talking with her, that you think she seems fun and would she like to join you for lunch or maybe join you and some other friends for a get-together. You two will probably be laughing about this initial experience for years to come. Good luck!

 

[doxdogy]

I agree with Bon Bon. Tell her that you feel that you both have a lot in common and you have enjoyed the conversations you have had together. So, how about we get together for lunch one day and be able to sit down and relax and chit chat.

 

[Wishing on a star]

Would there maybe something that you both are interested in common, like a movie, concert, church event, whatever..... Something would would be like a natural... Hey, I wanted to try that new restaurant too...... DH and I were going to check it out this weekend. Would a double date with your DH's be a consideration? How about some kind of Christmas activity or social function? Cause, you are right. "Would you like to have lunch" sounds kinda like an awkward proposition.

I have such friendly conversations with my latest hairdresser, that I have actually kinda thought along the same lines as you with your instructor. It does seem a bit strange doesn't it!