I was on a first date that started perfect, good food, good vibes, and then my stomach had other plans. What followed was a full-blown internal crisis: food poisoning, a ticking clock, and every ounce of willpower I had going toward not humiliating myself in front of a man I was trying to impress.

I survived. Barely. And now it's just a very funny story.

If you've ever had to fight your own body to protect your dignity on a date, this one's for you.

Warning: salty language ahead!

Love awkward stories and real talk? Follow for weekly episodes that keep it raw, relatable, and ridiculously entertaining.

Instagram: @livingthehartylife

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Welcome to the first episode of The Harty Life. I'm opening with two stories that don't belong together and somehow do: a spontaneous trip to Japan that turned into an unexpected connection with people I'd just met, and facing a medical procedure I was genuinely scared about, and finding real comfort from strangers when I needed it most.

Heads up: salty language ahead!

Love awkward stories and real talk? Subscribe for weekly episodes that keep it raw, relatable, and ridiculously entertaining.

Instagram: @livingthehartylife

Newsletter: thehartylife.substack.com