Sunday, May 31, 2009
Brad Encounter
He was fairly nice looking and easy to talk to. And, it was great to put a name with a face since we've both heard a lot about each other from my cousin and her husband.
However, this is the best part...
While standing close to where he and one of his daughters was sitting, I happen to overhear her ask "So, which one is Laverne?" then see his subtle finger pointing. I then heard her say "She kind of looks like mom."
Great.
They didn't stay long. I'm sure he was there to support his friends, but meeting me was clearly part of the agenda so I appreciate that he came. Especially since his children were more interested in getting to the movie he had promised them after the party stop.
On his way out, he came over to say good-bye, that he enjoyed meeting me, and ended with "I'm sure I'll be seeing you around." Um, what does that mean?
Here's the other great part...he kind of looks like Shirley's ex. There are a lot of similarities. If he's not interested in dating his ex-wife again (aka Laverne), I could throw him a hot brunette. But, if she's not interested in dating her ex-husband again, then we're just caught in a viscous circle. Could this whole Brad vs. Brad thing get any funnier?
Laverne
I Want to Dance with You - Laverne Addendum
Stanley. Mentally handicapped. Gold chain/ large medallion/ all-black wearing guy who still sports the mullet. Very nice - and the first guy to ask me for a dance at the church venue. I will give him credit for that. He covered the basic 20 questions, including a bonus one at the end..."Do you know what day President Hinckley's birthday is on?" Apparently that is one of his prerequisites in a girl.
Dave. I'll be nice and not describe him - mainly because he's totally nondescript. However, he did ask me right off for my contact information. Because, you know, he needs a contact up north. Last night on the internet he met someone in a city even further north than where I live, but he needs one about as far north as I am. Because, you know, he has contacts. (This is exactly why I will never date online. There is always a Dave on the other end.)
Joe. This guy was a friend of Shirley's "Hi. Are you willing to have my kids?" guy. Let's call him James. James asked Shirley to dance twice. The first time I got snagged shortly after by Stanley. The second time I joked with him and said - "Are you really going to do this to me again? The least you can do is bring a friend over with you next time." After he recovered, he said that his friend Joe is actually interested in dancing with me, but is just too shy - and would I go ask him? Rather than stand there, I said sure.
James then pointed to the wall and said Joe is the African-American standing right there, in the striped shirt. Ok. Easy enough to pick out, right? So I walk over and asked a guy to dance...while James is running behind me saying no, no, the other one. Ooops. Apparently there were actually 2 African-American men at the dance (this particular area is not terribly diverse). One just happened to be standing closer than the other - who I noticed just a second too late. Very embarrassing, but oh so funny. Not one of my finest moments.
Bill. Looked and danced like Nathaniel from Enchanted. At least he didn't offer me a poisoned apple. However, he did want to dance a slow dance, then a fast dance, then a slow dance. I finally ran over to Laverne and yelled the code word "mustache" so we could get out of there. I looked and looked, but there was no Prince Edward side-kick near by.
Now, off to the next dance.
Barney. The first guy to ask me to dance at this one was in his late 60's - or older. Very courteous (what happened to old-school etiquette?). Actually smelled better than anyone I had danced with at the first dance. However, after about 30 seconds he asked if we could change our "dance move" to something closer to a shuffle. He had been dancing a while and was getting a little stiff. I had to stop myself from asking if he needed me to find him a chair, or get directions to the nearest Oxygen bar. Is that what call-girls do?
Moe. Or at least, that's what he said his friends call him. I wanted to ask what, then, do girls he just met call him?...but I didn't. He immediately started into some salsa/swing move and kept saying what great rhythm I had. "Was I sure I hadn't learned ballroom or salsa?" I totally avoided the 15 years of ballet training explanation, and tried to ignore the shaved mo-hawk he was sporting (granted, it was a short one). However, he did smile the whole time and had nice teeth. After two attempts at getting my number, I think he finally got the hint.
Bob. Just moved from anther state to be a football coach at a local high-school. He kept gum hanging out of his teeth the whole time. Probably how he does it on the field so he can talk and yell at the same time. Now, I appreciate the effort at nice breath, but please just use a mint if you cannot handle gum more appropriately. At least he didn't slap me on the butt.
So, these are the high-lights (or low-lights) of our crazy night. Both events were an eye opener. And, if you didn't have a sense of humor, you would have come home totally depressed. But, as Shirely said, our expectations were right on - so we could just enjoy the craziness and say we at least gave it a shot. With her new calling, it also helped us see what works and what doesn't. An age cap is definitely needed. I'm not interested in grand kids (yet). Plus, seeing the equivalent of your parents dancing all around you is just creepy.
Oh, and did we mention they had carrot sticks, rice-crispy treats and otter pops for the refreshments? I'm thinking the Primary President was involved.
Laverne
I Want to Dance with You
We actually went to two different dances on the same night (what can I say, we really get around). The first one was at a church building that was advertised as a Mid-Singles event (ages 28-45). We decided if there were only four cars in the parking lot that we would turn around and leave. However, when we drove up, the parking lot was full! What a surprise, then oh no, the girls getting out of their cars had dresses on. Laverne and I looked good (we coordinated nicely), but we did not have a dress on. We then saw people in jeans, shorts, etc. (and yes, one dress/white tennis shoe combo). Okay, one hurdle down. We start making our way inside and all those feelings of being 14 and going to your first church dance came rushing back. Oh, my goodness, I may dance with a boy. I hope that someone asks me to dance. You remember those days, right? Only it somehow seems worse now that we are older.
We get inside and what can I say - the people there do not disappoint. They look like they are at a church dance. Every stereo type you would expect is efficiently grouped together in that gym. With strings of Christmas lights to set things off. Now, I know that I am not the most fashionable person, but socks with sandals and a skirt? And guys, please, I have two pieces of advice for you - breath mints and deodorant. Enough said. When you are dancing that close, smell is very important. Especially if you're going to talk to me.
The music was not that great. However, I will say this...guys are not as shy as they used to be. We got asked to dance. Every dance. In fact, my first dance was with a guy that was - dare I say - cute. He is my same age, divorced, no kids, owns his own business (can you say diamonds!), he smelled nice (yeah!), and seemed really nice. However, then the questions started: name, age, what ward are you in, how did you know about the dance, and my favorite one..."Are you going to have more kids? That's why I got divorced. My ex wouldn't have my kids." Okay. Seriously - did he just ask that question? Is this an appropriate question for someone you just met? Still, he was nice (enough) and one of the few people there who seemed okay.
Next dance. A guy asked me to dance and he could really swing. He flipped me all over the dance floor. Totally great dancer - other than that I can't really say much about him. Oh, by the way for slow dances today instead of doing the "bear hugging" thing and slowly turning in a circle - now the guy holds your right hand and has his other hand on your back. You have your hand on his shoulder. Pros of this new technique - it feels more grown up - because we now are all adults and it's kind of nice to hold someone's hand. Cons - your hand gets all sweaty - eww! gross! They guy can really pull you close even if you don't want him to. Again, eww! gross! I think I just reverted back to my 14 year old self. Another thing that I thought was interesting, guys ask you to fast dance as well as slow dance. This was fun!
For the rest of the time, I danced with a guy that barely spoke to me. I really think he got sucked into dancing with me because his friend had the hots for Laverne. A guy that I think still lived at home with his parents - who may or may not be able to get time off to go on vacation (with his parents) because the place he works may drop his contract and the guys he works with may or may not go on strike. If they do he would have to work seven days a week for 12 hours a day. He did however, ask me for my phone number. Also, did I mention he was shorter and considerably older than I am. Not that there is anything wrong with that but...
The conversation went something like this...may I have your contact information (said as he was pulling his cell phone out of his pocket). Umm...I just got divorced and I'm not sure that I am okay with that right now. Oh, okay no problem. Well, if I see you at another dance I will talk to you then. Oh? Sure. It was nice meeting you. I am thinking hurry, leave, run Shirley, run!
A guy that looked like he was older than the age limit and normal guy again. We had a code word - mustache. Which got called and we were off to the next dance.
The next dance was outside (it was a perfect night) and was touted for singles 31+. The plus is where it went wrong. We walked in and Laverne said to me I think I just saw my mom. Yes people there were guys that were as old as my parents and possibly my grandparents. I say kudos to you older people who want to meet people too! I, unfortunately, just aren't really interested in meeting you. I know, I know, that sounds totally rude ageism and everything. I don't have a problem with an older gentlemen, but WOW! Just keep reading and you will see why this is so scary.
My first dance was with a guy that had the same name as my...DAD and possibly was just as old! How can you have any kind of romantic feelings with a guy that has the same name as your dad. You just can't have passionate embraces or say anything sexy to your...DAD! You know you would be thinking about your DAD, am I right?
Next, I think the guy was my grandpa! He could move for an older guy though. He was very respectful and funny. I actually enjoyed this one. It reminded me of dancing with my grandpa. That generation is just so proper and nice. I had a dance that I will save until the end, why, because he, by far, was the winner of the night for many reasons, which you will see if you just keep reading.
Laverne got asked to dance and I was walking away to stand by myself and on the way a guy sort of came out of no where and asked me to dance. He was, dare I say it again, cute! Alright, I was thinking - where did he come from? He was slightly older, divorced, two kids (he has full time), a civil engineer and seemed totally fun and I hate to use the this word but "normal". He said that he had been divorced for a year. He was easy to talk to and didn't smell bad. Not a great dancer, but hey that's okay. He asked if he could dance with me again later, sure I replied.
Next was a guy named Marshall. Now to me Marshall is the guy from Alias. Kind of quirky, funny and not particularly good looking. He fits this description to a tee. He said that he just moved back from Alaska - I really like Alaska so we discussed fishing and stuff. He said that he was a pilot and owned his own company. I love fishing, I grew up fishing and it is one of my favorite memories of my childhood with my family. This caught the guy's attention and he said we should go fishing sometime. Yikes. I just didn't respond. I figured he'd get the hint. We finished dancing and he asked for my contact information. This must be the new way to ask for a phone number. I said that I wasn't ready for that, but thanks. Two reasons, first, he told me he came with his parents. What? This guy was probably in his 40s and he came with his parents. I almost asked him if they were watching us while we were dancing. I refrained. Second, I just really don't know if I am ready.
Another guy I can't really remember and then Cute guy again and we danced the last few dances together. He asked me for my contact information and surprisingly I agreed. He also asked for Laverne's information so I felt pretty safe giving it out. Also, since he lives far away from me, I thought it would be okay too, because with the distance thing we probably won't be seeing each other very often. All the things that went through my head. Here's the bad news. Neither Laverne nor I can remember his name. Oh, well.
Here is the best story of the night...and he was kind enough to provide the title to this blog post.
It's best to set this up - so here goes...He was tall, dark, and not so handsome, older (think 50s plus), he had a motorcycle leather jacket on and was dressed all in black. Laverne and I were walking to get a drink and he stepped up to me and said...I want to dance with you. Excuse me. I want to dance with you. Oh, okay I said. We start moving to the music (gratefully he has rhythm). Do you know the Golden Mattress? (I swear I am not making this up). What? Do you know the Golden Mattress? Um, no sir, I haven't ever heard of that before. I am totally thinking where is this conversation going? Well, he is my master - yes folks. You heard me. He said (because it needs to be repeated and let it just fill you up and settle in your brain). He is my master. Then he proceeded to tell me that the Golden Mattress has a Master named something that I couldn't understand. Sorry. It was a strange name and I really wish I could share it with you. Apparently they taught him all the mysteries of the universe. I thought wow that's deep. Oh my gosh! This is why these places are so scary. Would you like to ask me a question pertaining to the universe? Okay. Forgive me here, but I was totally drawing a blank? I couldn't decide if he was serious (but the look on his face was nothing but). I said - what do most people ask you? Well, what is the meaning of life? Okay, I said, what is the meaning of life. Well...it starts to get really strange now...the meaning of life (in case you were wondering) isn't the right question to ask...It's not why? The real question is what makes life meaningful? Okay. What makes life meaningful? More life. Creating more life. Okay. Not with you though, mister. I didn't say that, but I totally thought that. Are you feeling sorry for me yet. It gets better. Apparently, it's all about asking the right questions. I truly wish I had a recorder on me so I could have recorded the conversation, it was the most bizarre and strange conversation I have ever had. I tried to avoid talking to him the rest of the dance, but he just keep coming up with the oddest things. He asked me if his jacket intimidated me. What? No, I said. Good...it's just a mode of transportation.
With that I leave you pondering the mysteries of the universe. The real question, I would have liked to ask is why me? I guess this proves that someone up there totally has a sense of humor and lucky for me I can laugh at this entire experience. It really helps to have Laverne, I know that we both said that we wouldn't have gone without each other. I am truly thankful to have such an amazing friend to share this funny, trying time with. I will say this for the Singles Dance. I got asked for my contact information more tonight than in my early dating years. I also got asked to dance more tonight than ever before. Always good to look on the bright side.
Shirley.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Jerry The Blocker (aka: Jerry The Caller)
Last night I drove to Jerry's (because it's on the way to where the concert was and I thought it would be a good get-away plan if needed). My hair was behaving really well and my new mineral make-up was feeling good. While driving I wondered if these two items would be the highlight of my night.
Once I got there, he walked out of the house and came right over and gave me a big hug saying "It's good to finally meet you." I was a little taken back, but glad he made things comfortable right from the beginning. I used the term "big hug" because it was just that. He is a big, muscley guy (former college football player) and my eyes were at, um, chest height.
We got into his car so he could drive to the pre-party and concert. (Yes, I do realize I didn't think through my plan very well since I was now minus my get-away car.) However, conversation was easy - in fact, we missed the exit because of it and had to do a bit of back-tracking. He is very laid back and responded to most topics with "It's all good." We made it to the pre-party, met up with our mutual friend, and had a good time visiting with everyone.
We got to the concert just as the band started, so he and I worked our way towards the front. Jerry is extremely handy to have at an all GA event. Seriously. He moved crowds. I either had him behind me holding a small area for my personal space, or I just held onto his shirt as we worked our way through. It was a blast! The band was amazing and he joined right in. It was definitely a fun venue to be at with someone like him (personality & size considered).
When the concert ended we were soaking wet (the gross, sweaty kind). So much for my good hair night. We stopped at the Sev to grab a drink for the drive home. Because we hadn't had any dinner and it was too late for anything fancy, he also grabbed some chicken nuggets - one order for me and 5 for him (granted, he did ask if I wanted more and was willing to share dipping sauce).
The conversation home was easy as well, though it did include a few repeated questions from our earlier phone calls. I hate to describe him as a meat-head, but there is a bit of that there. When we got out of the car he gave me another hug (more bear hug this time) and said he had fun, and that we should get together again. I just said "sure" and left it at that.
So, who knows if Jerry The Blocker will still be Jerry The Caller. Maybe it was because I had such low expectations that I ended up actually having a good time. And he is pretty cute. Either way, it's all good.
Laverne
_________________________
So, Laverne, since you mentioned his muscles, I have one question for you - is his chest bigger than yours?
Shirley
_________________________
Yes.
Laverne
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
I Shall Call Him...Frodo
First, let me tell you what I do know. He went to school with a friend. Second, he has never been married. Third, he works at the temple. Fourth, he is currently working (for a job) at Associated Foods (the grocery store?), I do think he is a manager. Why am I writing about Frodo? My friend gave him my phone number over the weekend. She said that he is really funny. He does say interesting things on facebook. Now, I get to wait and see if he calls. Hmm...should I be worried or excited?
Shirley
Hmm. My vote is for worried, but what's adventure without a little danger? Besides, a sense of humor goes a long way. Not all the way. But it's definitely a good start. I'll take the excited position and look forward to your Frodo adventures - in whatever form they come.
Laverne
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Jerry The Caller Called
Laverne
Wow!! I am excited about this date! Seriously, since I myself just have the possibility of a date, phone calls, etc. It's nice that you have something planned. I know that you will have a great time. Maybe you won't have to repeat yourself all night long. Good Luck!
Shirley
Sunday, May 24, 2009
My New Calling?
Shirley
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Lure-Your-Man-With-Beef
"Lure-Your-Man-With-Beef is an amazing new product that appeals to the barbecue bent in every man! Every kit comes with a dairy locket full of hamburger and steak scent perfume. And for the really hard to attract man, try the barbecue sauce body lotion."My very helpful sister found this in a phone book under "dating help." She suggested I order some. Maybe it comes in extra spicy?
Laverne
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Brad vs. Brad
(1) My cousin said her husband works with a great guy she's been wanting to set me up with and is sure we would hit it off. His name is Brad. She gave him my number and he called. Unfortunately I wasn't available to answer and he left a message. So, I gathered all the guts I have in me and called him back the next day - only to leave a message too.
(A) Shirley has a friend who's mother plays soccer with someone who has a very eligible son and want's to set Shirley up with him as soon as the divorce is final.
(2) Brad didn't call back over the next couple of days, then I took off for a week of vacation. My cousin had told him about the trip and said he planned to call when I got back. While I was gone, he was giving a demonstration which my grandparent's happen to be at. They were able to meet him and talk a little about me. (I just hope they didn't use the term "sweet spirit.")
(B) Shirley's divorce was finalized and her friend was ready to pursue the soccer mom connection. So, she called Shirley and talked more about this guy. And, BTW, his name is Brad.
Shirley and I were talking about "the Brads" - and then it all clicked. After a quick review of last names and a call to clarify a couple of details with her friend, Shirley and I realized we were getting set up with the same Brad. Seriously? We just laughed. And laughed.
Since we are both adults and know dating a number of guys will be fun, but in the end only need "the one" - how do we juggle? If I go out with a guy who seems great, but there's just no spark - how do I mention Shirley, and vice verse?
Just to finish the story...
(3) My cousin mentioned that Brad has actually started dating someone, but it isn't serious, so she thinks he is still planning to call. He hasn't called back yet. So, with Brad, this whole issue may be a non-issue. He seems preoccupied. And not with Laverne. Or Shirley.
Jerry The Caller
Here's the story: My sister and I made a video and posted it on FB for a few friends (video description: High School Dance Moves). Yes, I am embarrassed. A friend of a friend's husband (confused?) saw the video and thought I was cute, so asked about me. His name was Jerry. The friend thought her husband was talking about Jerry A when he mentioned the comment, but the husband was actually talking about Jerry B. Unknowingly, the friend called Jerry A and gave him my name/number. Then, Jerry A actually called.
During our quick conversation, I mentioned the video and how embarrassing it was that he had seen it, but thanks for making the call despite my dancing skills. He was TOTALLY confused. The conversation was a little off after that and I never expected to hear from him again. After talking to my friend later, I found out about the mix-up. Ya. Great timing.
Surprisingly, Jerry A actually called again. And has called once or twice a week for the last two months. He's asked me 4-5 times "Now, where do you live again?" and "What is it you do?" Even better...he keeps saying "we need to get together" but never actually get's specific about making that happen. Like I said, I'll make it easy - all he has to do is ask. But he doesn't. He just keeps calling.
At first it was kind of fun working on my phone skills. And, I've seen pictures. He's definitely kissable. But now it's getting a little lame. So, to move things full circle (yes, my expectations are very low) I did throw out the idea of him joining my friends and I at a club next week for a concert. He said he'd love to come and is currently planning to go with us. I'm still not confident it's a sure thing, but we'll see. Either way, I can decide if it's worth taking his calls any more or not. I'm sick of repeating myself.
Laverne
High School Reunion Roster
__________________
Let's start with Chuck (I know, we need to get better at names). Chuck was my Jr. Prom date. Chuck and I wrote for a bit while on his church mission. I designed Chuck's farewell program and even played the piano for him. For some reason we stopped writing and that was that.
When my life turned upside down and I was giving Shirley the initial download in between sobs, she totally made me laugh by saying..."you know, Chuck is still single." That comment gave me the first spark of "hope for the future" thinking.
When I decided I was ready to get out there, Shirley made a call, which initiated another call directly to his mother. The intent was to get the scoop on Chuck's current situation. However, instead of his mother picking up the phone, it was Chuck himself. Ya. Awkward. Because he recognized the voice on the other end (thank you brave friend - you know who you are!) the conversation was short and ended with her getting Chuck's number for me to call. Nothing like a great Jr. High moment to kick things off.
However, you can call me old fashioned, or just plain chicken, but I am not comfortable AT ALL with calling boys. Or men. Especially in this situation. I'll make it easy on any guy who calls me knowing how brave they had to be to take that initial step - but I won't be the one to start. I just don't have it in me. Yet. Or ever.
Since neither of us called, let's fast forward to a month ago when Shirley needed some house repairs and Chuck happened to specialize in them. So, being the go-get-him friend she is, she called him up and made an appointment for his services (yes - I do know how that sounds). He showed up and according to her, is still looking good and not as shy as we remember him. During that visit, and the follow up appointment, she made a point of mentioning me as often as she could (but couldn't come up with a smooth plan to get a pic, though not for lack of trying). I can only imagine what he thinks. She also got the scoop on his recent break-up with someone he had been considering marrying. But, since that didn't work out, he's now "available" again. In true form, she promptly invited him to her house warming party next month. He accepted and said he'd be there. Of course I'll be there too. Now...what to wear??
__________________
Next, there is Scott. Scott and I "went out" in Jr. High - which equates to a bunch of note passing and blanket sharing at one or two school games. Seriously. That was it. However, we remained friends all through high school and even went to one dance together. He has been divorced for a couple of years and has two children. We hooked up over Face Book (yes, I'll admit to it) and have had a number of conversations...in every way but TALKING!!! He will text, email, and IM me - and has done so for a couple of months now. (We started by passing notes, and are still doing it, just digitally now!)
Scott and I exchanged phone numbers over IM (very awkward circumstances) and have "talked" about going to lunch once (again, over IM and very awkward). He ended up having to cancel because of a late meeting. Hmm. I've been told that he is terribly gun shy after his experience and doesn't date much (or at all). However, I think I just need to take a line from "He's Just Not That Into You" and remove any expectations. I will admit that it would be fun to "practice" dating again with an old friend, but not with someone who feels obligated. So, if he passes me another note, I might consider passing one back - but nothing more. And if he is just terribly shy, then we're doomed. Like I said, I'm not calling.
__________________
Last there is Pete. Pete also took me to Jr. Prom, but as a sophomore. He showed up in black Converse high tops with his tux. Very funny. Pretty cute guy too. Looks just the same. I only mention him because it has been interesting running into some of the single guys from HS, and they all seem to have been someone I went to a dance with. However, a friend who sees him at certain family events said she wanted to set us up and gave him a call (ended up just leaving a message but mentioning my name).
The very next day his FB status went from "single" to "in a relationship" which was very funny. Apparently he has started dating someone and brought her to the most recent family event (which was the same night my friend left the message...do you think they were together and the girlfriend heard it? Hmm. Funny.) Who knows if anything will come of this connection. Either way, worth listing because of the Converse. And message. You gotta love awkward.
Laverne
My Lenny
I took the plunge and gave it to him. As soon as I was in the parking lot I had Shirley on the phone looking him up. Once I had a name a few more things clicked. He called and asked if I'd like to go to dinner and an NBA game. I said yes and our date was set. Leading up to this night, he called a number of times just to chat and we had fun catching up. Lenny has a similar sense of humor so we were both in top form by the time the big night came (he does great dead-pan sarcasm).
That night he picked me up and announced he was taking me to his house for dinner - and he was going to cook. (Big points there.) It was straight forward grilled steak (which he did on the BBQ despite a foot of snow) and sides, but all good. We then went to the game and just enjoyed talking.
While driving home, he turned to me and said "You know, this isn't our first date." As mentioned, I thought he was being sarcastic, but wasn't sure where he was going with this comment. I gave him a funny look and he started laughing and said "Seriously, you took me to a girl's choice dance in high school." Ooops. Too late to bluff that one - I clearly did not remember. At all. He then proceeded to describe what we wore, where we went, and with whom. I still have a very vague memory (after what little was jogged) of the event - but pulled out the pictures to prove it. To myself. He was right.
Since then we've had fun going to other games and even a couple of symphonies. He's a great sport and fun to talk to. It's evolved from "possibly romantic" to "good friend who get's me out of the house every 4-6 weeks." Great guy. Glad to have a Lenny. He doesn't always open the door for me, but he does call. And takes me out. And makes me laugh.
Laverne
My First Two Dates
First Date - BLIND!!!: A set-up with a friend's-sister's-husband's-co-worker. Nice guy. Divorced with a couple of children. Called a couple of times before our date and had a chance to talk before the big night. I opened the door and realized a little too late that you can't react on a blind date when first visual contact is established (needed Lady Ga Ga's Poker Face). A little Drew Carey looking, but not as funny. He did drive a nice sports car. Like Shirley's first date, he took me to a steak house. Unlike Shirley's first date, mine was a boring chain establishment. Nothing fancy with this one. Let's just say that I came home with a bit of peanut dust on my shoes. Door scene? Awkward hug and mumbled thanks while I avoided the "let's do this again" line because I wasn't too interested in doing this again. Also of note, all he wanted to talk about was "our stories" which was a downer. Baggage should be opened one suitcase at a time - right?
Second Date - BLIND!!!: A set-up with a guy who used to live in another state near my uncle, who recently moved here for a job. My uncle gave him my number and said you have to meet her. Again, nice guy who called before so we had a chance to talk a bit before the date. Never been married. Now experienced, I opened the door with a smile and was able to keep it there. However, this guy was 4 years younger - but looked 14. He took me to see a Christmas musical which was good. Even bought me some M&M peanuts at intermission (at least it wasn't a Slurpee). We had a nice conversation about college and work, and the single's ward he's looking forward to attending. Door scene? I wished him good luck on his acclimation to our state and endeavors with the young single adults (of which I'm not a part). No - I did not use those very adult/boring words, but didn't break out the "for shizzle" either. The gap was clear enough.
Laverne
Old Friends Equals New Opportunities
As it turns out he did remember me and stopped to talk, we talked for a while just kind of catching up. As we were discussing what each was up to the subject of being married or not came up. Lucky for me, he has single friends. He actually asked me for my phone number to pass along. He said that he has four friends who are single, I shall call them, Bill, Tom, Fred and Henry. One of the friends, Tom I met in high school due to mutual friends. Henry, I know of, due to mutual friends, but Bill and Fred are both new to me.
My friend told me that Henry needs someone to help keep him organized. His parting words to me are you sure you want to go out with someone who needs so much help. I said, it's just a date. I'm not marrying him. He thought that was funny.
Who knows, maybe with four different guys I have a shot at getting a date. I guess we shall see. Stay tuned.
Shirley
About Me - Laverne
My story: I am a single mom of two (officially divorced just over a year) who has her own business and works mostly from home. I am immensely lucky to have these two things in my life, but because they take up 99% of my time, I am at the mercy of being set up by friends. It's definitely not like college where each new semester offered a new batch of fish. The current pool I'm swimming in is a bit stagnate (or very, very shallow).
Last fall I decided I was ready to get out there again and will tell you right up that it's been a slow start. A good thing as I get back on my flirting feet - but a little unnerving since my self esteem has been badly bruised. I'm still waiting for one with at least a little potential. Kissable would be great, too. Still working on all that. Most circles I run in say "We'll keep our eyes open, but can't think of anyone I'd be willing to introduce you to." That's about where things stand at this point. However, there are a few potential lines out there which I will follow this post up with (can you say High School Reunion?).
Like Shirley, I have no idea what the rules are, how the game is played (and wonder why it has to be a game), or how the new tools of communicating are used (is there a book on texting/IM/FB/eMail dating protocol yet?).
Note: I really, really like sarcasm. A lot.
Laverne
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Girlfriend, huh?
I can't eat those doughnuts, my dad said that if I don't eat sweets until June he'll give me $50.
You ate those cookies yesterday.
No, I didn't
Yes you did.
No, I didn't my dad's girlfriend brought those over for him. He said that I could eat one, but I really want the $50 so I didn't.
Girlfriend, huh. I am still laughing. We've only been on one date and my second possible date has been postponed or cancelled (not sure which). I didn't know this elevated me to "girlfriend" status. However, what else would an 11 year old think.
Shirley
Monday, May 18, 2009
I May Have to Rethink this Bold Thing
I can't regret my decision to take the cookies to him, but I may not be so bold next time. At least I can kind of laugh at this whole experience and try to just have fun with it.
More importantly, I think, he did say that he really liked my cookies.
Shirley
Saturday, May 16, 2009
My First Attempt at Being BOLD!
I got up this morning and decided today was the day. Truthfully, I didn't think I would actually give them to him. I almost didn't. I was going to visit my friend (you know the one that conveniently lives by George), he was outside and when he saw me he made that "call me"sign with his hands. Okay, I thought it's now or never. I dropped my kids off and with a lot of encouragement, I walked down to his house. Let me tell you, it was totally embarassing walking down the street carrying a bag of cookies (and yes, I put them in a pretty cellophane bag complete with a big bow), I know, right, I am shaking my head just thinking about it. I saw a few neighbors and felt like a junior high kid. I am seriously taking cookies to a boy's house. What? I am laughing right now thinking about it again.
Here's our conversation. Hi, Hi, so I made these cookies for you, I thought that you and your kids would like them. Wow! Thanks, they look really good. What's in here? I list the ingredients - I kind of have the recipe memorized. They have oats in them so he made a joke about them being healthy. Oh, you know me, I love healthy things. (Oh brother, where did that come from). I can seriously feel my cheeks turning pink - yes, I know, I totally blush when I am embarassed. We try to make small talk, but I am so uncomfortable that I sort of can't really talk to him. I need to plan ahead, have topics that I can discuss, maybe that will help. All I can see is how blue his eyes are. Let me just say that I LOVE BLUE EYES! I don't know what it is, but yikes, I didn't really notice that last time. He then asks if I am busy next weekend. I don't think so, (hopefully with you). Well, I'll call you and set something up. Okay. I say. Then there is a very long pause filled with silence. It was deafening. What do I do, I laugh my nervous laugh and we both kind of look at each other, yeah, I should go I say. Okay. Thanks. I'm sure I'll love the cookies. Right. Good. Okay - I gotta go. I turn and leave. I get about two houses away and I hear him yelling at me. He was telling me he liked my cookies. I turn and wave and keep walking back to my friends house. Shaking my head all the way.
I have to say this was totally out of my comfort zone. It was completely uncomfortable, embarassing and awkward. I am so glad I did. I need to dust off my flirting skills, actually I don't know that I really had those or if I did I wasn't very good at it. I will need to practice and I have to say it is fun to practice. Something I learned today. Flirting is good. So if you are married, give it a try with your husband, if you're not, try it on someone see what happens.
After I got back to my friends house, one of the neighbors had seen me walking with the cookies and had inquired what I was doing. She told him - great now the neighbors know. He said that all guys like baked goods. I guess we'll see.
Shirley
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Big Date and How it Happened
After a few weeks went by and I finally moved back I ran into him again. Here's where it gets interesting. He lives near friends and I see him occasionally on my way to their home. One Saturday I saw him and he did the come here wave. I honestly couldn't decide whether I should pull over, part of me wanted to just wave and pretend like I didn't know what he meant another part thought what have I got lose. I pulled over and we made small talk for a minute then he said, "So, when is your divorce final?" Wow! How's that for direct? I told him it would be in a couple weeks. He then told me that he would like to take me out after it was final. Okay, and here is where I got dumb. He asked me for my number. I said Uh, sure, but it's long distance. It's okay he said (pause) I have a cell phone. He said this while he was pulling the cell phone out and typing my name in. Now, wait for it...I say Oh, is that your cell phone? Okay really, whose cell phone would it be - the neighbors? I really need some practice with this. Then I say nice cell phone. What! Where did that come from? I say some really stupid things when I am nervous. I give him my number and I make my get away. A few minutes later I get a text from him that says - here's is my number so you know who is calling. Oh, yeah. Was I supposed to ask for his number? I don't know? I still don't know, but it is nice to know who is calling you. Then panic sets in am I supposed to respond? Do I say thanks, do I ignore him, do I say I'm looking forward to our date? I hate texting. I do not know how to respond. I am frantically calling my friends for advice. After consulting a my friend (whose advice is to keep it simple) I respond with Thanks. I got it. I think this is a good approach with most things - Keep is simple. I will have to log that for future encounters.
Fast forward to the big date. Friday night, no kids, no curfew (yes the last time I dated I had a curfew). My parents are both recently deceased and so I really don't have anyone to even call to confirm I made it home safely. I decide to just meet him at his house. It seems easier and then I also can make a quick get away should I need to.
The plan was to go to dinner. My date, I think I will call him George started off by saying I looked nice. Always good to hear. We left for the restaurant, he is easy to talk to, we have a lot in common and he is cute. Good, good and good. Dinner is yummy, conversation still going well. He asks if I would like to go to a movie. I say that would be fun, but the offer feels like had the date been going bad we would just be going home. Truthfully, I can't blame George. It really is smart to kind of hold off on making firm plans, just in case. Point for him. We go over to the theater and the movie is sold out. Who would have thought that The Planet Earth movie would be sold out. Now what? Well, by default we ended up at his house. I know there is story in there, but not really interesting enough to explain. George has recently finished his basement and created a theater room. Why not? Well we decide on The Count of Monte Cristo (I love this movie, one of my favorites and his too). Part way through the movie I start giggling. Why? It finally dawns on me. I am alone in a house with a man. Oh my! I have only been on dates where if you ended up at their house they had parental patrol. Yes. Parents who would flick the light on and off or would be walking around (noisily) upstairs. You knew that at any moment they could come downstairs. George asks me what is wrong? The movie we are watching isn't really humorous. I tell him what I am thinking, you know about being in a house alone, no parents, no kids. It's kind of awkward not having parents here. Yes, but we are the parents now. Okay. But still awkward.
I survive the show it's over and George is going over to turn the DVD off. I spring off the couch and head for the door. I sort of run upstairs where for some reason all the lights are off. What? How do I find my way out. George is coming up the stairs and starts turning on a light so we can see. I head for the front door. George is there trying to unlock the door. I am trying to avert my eyes so there is no direct eye contact. I can't exactly say why eye contact would be bad, but I can't bring myself to actually look at him. My heart is racing, I totally have the butterflies in ths stomach and I am rocking back and forth like a little kid. Okay, now what? I am laughing again (nervous habit). What, he asks. This is awkward. He responded by saying it doesn't have to be. Right! It still is awkward. He opens the door and I bound outside into freedom. I am thanking him as I go, thinking this will be the end of the date. No, not to be. He walks me to my car. Which really he should it is the nice thing to do. We are on the driveway heading for the car walking side by side and he kind of reaches over and pats my back. I don't know how to respond to this. Do I reciprocate? Do I ignore it? I am totally clueless and horrible at this. I finally give a little pat of my own. Ugh! Did I really do that it feels so much like giving a little kid a pat on the head. We stop at the back of my car and each take a turn saying that we had a nice night. He asks if I would like to go out again. Yes. I reply. Okay. Good night. I turn and leave. I get in the car and start it up and look at the clock it is only 11:30 p.m. Wow! I stayed out later in high school. I had no curfew, no one checking up on me and still I make it home before midnight.
My mom always said that nothing good happens after midnight. I guess I am still an obedient girl. I can't escape the rules that were given as a teenager. I think this is probably a good thing. Although the other advice my mom gave was she always kissed on a first date, because she said how do know if you want to go out again. Apparently there is no point unless they are a good kisser. What do you think?
Shirley
Things I'd Like to Happen
First, be more bold. I mean more bold with people in general. I have decided that if I think a guy is cute there has to be a way to get his attention instead of just walking away. I don't want to be over the top, trashy or crude. Just more flirty and fun. I want to not be afraid of he doesn't think I am cute or whatever. It's okay to flirt now, right? Any suggestions?
Second, you may have this problem. I find when I first meet someone new that there will be many qualities about them that I like, but there are always a few things that I don't like. I have a tendency to grab a hold of the bad things and let them start to amplify in my mind and I have ruined a few relationships because of this. I would like to be more open minded and give people a chance. I don't want to drag it out if it's going no where.
Finally, I want to be more direct. This time around I feel more confident in who I am and what I want. I don't want to rush into anything but I also don't want to drag anything out because I haven't been direct and honest. I think I used to think that being direct was mean. Now I know that it is better.
I am sure this list will evolve and grow during this process so I may return to update. If you have any thoughts please share.
Shirley
Texting?
Shirley
New Opportunities?
This blog is a way to follow my friend and I as we experience the ups and downs of dating or what we like to call the "New Opportunities" that come our way.
Shirley

