The First Date

I have read plenty of post written by guys on the subject of first dates. More or less it usually comes down to paying for it. Now I cannot speak for every woman, lady, girl, etc... But I honestly refuse to go on a date if I don't have my own money. I don't care if the guy invited me to go, I am bringing my own money to pay for myself. I think a first date is a sort of a way to get to know each other so it should be mutual. Although I can and will pay for myself, I still like for the guy to offer, and be genuine about his offer. I understand the meaning of earning your own money and being conscientious of how you spend it.
Which is exactly why I honestly can't stand paying for a guy...lol. I have yet to be on a date that a guy has paid for every or even anything. But I have been on dates where I had to "help a brother out" or I just paid for everything to make the situation easier. It's frustrating.
At the same time fellas, Ladies don't all feel this way. If you ask her on a date, she is usually expecting you to pay for it. If thats not what you want to do, put it out there.
Anyway, I think spending a whole lot of money on dates is overrated..lol. Dates should be about getting to know each other and building memories. Maybe I am way to much of a romantic, but going for an evening walk is way better than eating at an expensive bistro where its difficult to maintain a conversation. Or catching an early movie, then sitting at a cafe talking about the movies is way better than watching a late movie and ending the date. It provides a chance to observe a person's character and thought process. If I look at a piece of art work and interpret it one way, and he sees something else: I want to know why and how he draws his conclusion.
Summarizing it all. I honestly think people should go dutch on the first date..and every date after that, unless someone is incline to pay for the entire thing. If he feels he has to pay for the entire evening, I'll pitch in on tips, gas, etc. Lastly, having the opportunity to build fond memories are more important than how exclusive the restaurant is, how extravagant the setting is, when it all comes down to it: my intentions are to get to know the man, and for him to learn about me.