dating tips for dummies

Oops... I forgot to consult the M8B, and have started up a conversation with a guy who 'Seems Nice' (tm) (I'm sure the M8B would've said no though.. the bloody thing didn't even want me to go to lunch today!)

And I got a fab email off Baileys Guy. He's in Dublin at the moment, and is all ready to steal me something from there (remember, he's already stolen me something from Vegas). He wants to meet up on Sunday, which is going to be a tad difficult for me... this weekend I intend to spend mostly with my beloved extended family and friends enjoying a traditional Irish rugby weekend! (having said that, I've already blown them out for a date on Saturday afternoon with Local Guy!).

Anyway, back to the new Potential... he's a real sweetie, but really doesn't have a clue about the whole 'Mutual Contact' thing. He starts every email with "I'm not really sure how to do this...".

I already feel like I'm mentoring him!

A flaw in the plan

Earlier on I said that I was going to let the Magic 8 Ball to dictate my dating life for a while. Well, that was before I got a wink of a guy who's profile goes into great detail of his past relationship, and how the break up was so cruel.

I'm not being unsympathetic, but it's clearly something he's still got issues with, and so best avoided I think!

However, M8B has come in useful with Local Guy. He's emailed to see if I fancied a game of golf at the weekend. As I do actually like this guy (OK, he had a blip with the 'where do you see us going thing', but I'll let that go for now), So I asked M8B if I should go, and it answered "as I see it, yes"

That's a date then!

Magic 8 Ball

This is my new plan. So far it doesn't matter who winks/emails/calls/stalks me... none of them have been anywhere near 'The One'. So, I've decided I'm going to put my dating fate in the hands of a Magic 8 Ball!!

I've got an online version, and as I seem to conduct my entire life on the web it seems to make sense. To start the ball rolling (so to speak) I've asked the Magic 8 Ball if this is going to work, and it said "Seems Likely" (I know, a little vague... so not totally unlike me then!)

It's simple. The next person who contacts me will get a reply if the Magic 8 Ball decides it's a good idea (And be fair, can it be any worse than my normal alcohol induced sense of logic?)

Let's see if this approach works!

Our survey said

No, Serious Pro Golfer... no :(

Don't get me wrong... this weekend has been fantastic! The weather was great, my golf was inspired (even by my standards I surpassed myself!), the place was amazing, and the food was beautiful.

Christ, even my football team won by three goals!!

So all the gods/omens were on side for this one, but there was just no spark.

Maybe my Old Friend was right, and I am hard to please! Or maybe I'm just getting cynical about this whole dating lark. Whatever it is, I'm seriously bored of it again!

Possibly time for a break methinks. Unless of course Baileys Guy (who sent me a couple of texts at the weekend) comes up trumps. He's around next weekend, and wants to meet up!

Get this...

It's the big date with Serious Pro Golfer this weekend!

First a round of golf at one of THE best courses around, followed by dinner at a fab restaurant. Then we're staying the night at the same course (seperate rooms, before you ask!), and off shopping and to watch my favourite football team the next day! Apparently he's got me TWO presents as well (I've no idea what they are, I only know it's not golf gear!).

One of them is for after the round of golf (so it could well be a calculator, to help me work out my score), and the other he's going to give me during the meal! I'm a more than a little nervous of the second one :/

I better get a move on and start packing. I'm currently trying to rationalise my footwear a little!

At the moment I've narrowed it down to just 4 different pairs of footwear. Plus of course one case, one bag, and of course my golf gear (sadly minus my 'Oh So Cute' golf skirt... it's sub zero!) for just one night away!

Just to clarify

When I say I've got a bit of a thing for Irish Guys, I don't actually mean ones I work with!

Don't panic Monkey Boy :)

When Irish eyes are winking

Today I got a wink off a guy who 'Seems Nice' (tm) . He's actually a Dubliner (What can I say... I've got a bit of thing for Irish Guys), but he's living this side of the water (not too close though!!).

So I've emailed him back :)

Oh, this guy that used to email me ages and ages ago has been in touch. He's wondering why I'm still 'on the market' (his words, not mine!).

Well, apart from the fact I'm obviously making the most of my free 6 months (well, 5 months now), I'm still 'on the market' because so far all the guys I've met have been either needy, desperate, or insane (and in some cases all three).

But, the quest goes on!

To kiss, or not to kiss

Last night... I opted for the jeans option - he turned up in a suit!! Oops! His excuse was he'd picked me up straight from work.

Anyway, we set off for some wine and tapas. Now, I was conscious that he was driving, so wouldn't be downing copious amounts of wine, so I decided to take it easy too (I know, so unlike me!).

He had what seemed like a great time. Conversation flowed, and we've actually got a lot in common. In fact, we have more in common than he realises... you see, one of my beloved family members knows him very well (although he doesn't know of our common interest yet!)

When it was time to go, he did the gentlemanly thing and dropped me home. Now, that's the part of the night where you have to do the whole 'do I kiss him or not' thing. With seatbelts and gearsticks to negotiate the decision is always a little more difficult, so I gave him a little peck on the cheek and skipped home!

A couple of minutes later I get a text... he had a really great time, did I?? I sent him one back to say I did, and I'll see him soon!

Now this evening I got a really long email off him, and it seems as though he can't work out exactly (wait for it) 'where did I see us going'!!!! Arghhh!

He's really cool... I actually like him quite a lot. But it was only our second date. What did I say about him the other day... it seems like he was on my wavelength with the whole 'where did I see us going'. Now it seems not :/

So I've emailed him back... Yes, I'd love to see him again, and for now that's as far as I go.

Once again I say it... men - so so complicated!

Date two for No.22

Two hours until my second date with Local Guy! We're off for some wine and tapas :) Which gives me oodles of time to get ready. Dress or jeans??? I can't decide!

Meanwhile, my 'Boyfriend' has sent more (so many more!) emails with outpourings of emotion! I'm not 100% sure what I'm going to do about all this. I mean, I like the guy, I really do... but I'm already at the stage where I'm not even reading these anymore. I just sort of skim over them!

We have got a fantastic weekend date arranged though... I'm kind of hoping the novelty of 'love' will wear off and we'll just have a good time. Otherwise I it may well be goodbye Serious Pro Golfer :(

Oh, and last night The Philosopher called. I missed his call (as usual), but he did leave a rather strange message. Much like his emails really :/

My what?!?

Serious Golf Pro has described himself as 'my boyfriend' :/

'Ode' dear

Serious Golf Pro's email (the one with all the things he was too nervous to say to my face) finally arrived. Poetry... oodles of it. A bunch of little poems gushing with love.

He's on a roll with it now, and today I've had what seems like the entire works of Shakespeare broken down into little bytes and emailed to me! What are we going to do with him? He still gets very jittery at the thought I'm still 'actively dating' though, and actually got a bit miffed when I suggested he should do the same.

Today I had a wink of a surfer guy, who describes himself as sensitive, and apparently has buckets full of love for the right person. I think I should best stay clear of him. I'm already getting buckets full of love off Serious Pro Golfer!

Chainsaw Guy... even though you've done yourself a new profile, with new pictures, I can still tell it's you!!!! He winked at me today. Give up man! I would rather be happily single for the rest of my life than go on another date with you!

Rules

No date last night, as I was out with real people from work (who I'll get back to in a moment), but that doesn't stop the flow of my dating life.

Serious Golf Pro had sent a text to let me know he'd sent me an email with everything he couldn't say to me face to face, so when I got home (a bit tipsy!) I rather nervously checked my emails (I mean, he was happy to ask me to marry him, so what the hell was in this email??)

There were two off him... one said he was head over heels (we know that already!), and the other was asking if I fancied a coffee today? Not exactly the outpouring of emotion I was expecting (thankfully!). Then he called to see if I'd got the email!?!? What followed was a twenty minute conversation, most of which I can't actually remember!

I SO wish that as soon as I've had a couple of drinks my mobile would just switch itself off, and not switch itself back on until I was 100% sober again, It's just possible I've agreed to marry him :/

That's one of the rules broken.... never talk to Potentials when tipsy!

Ooh, and I spoke to Local Guy too (although that was before I went for drinks, so I remember the conversation). We're going out on Tuesday for dinner. This guy is actually top of my ever changing list at the moment (mainly because he doesn't bombard me with emails/texts/outpourings of love!!).

Bottom of my list? It's got to be the guy who emailed last night, and wondered if he could watch me play golf in my underwear?!? Seriously, this comes from someone who describes himself as a 'Nice Guy'! Actually, he's top of one of my lists... the blocked one!

And one more new one... a lovely guy from Devon (are they all cute there??). He says he's new to all this, and I'm the first girl he's plucked up the courage to email (god help him!). Then he goes on to say he's not a serial dater, and is more than willing to put time and effort in with the right person, and would even relocate!

Bless... I think he's clicked on the wrong person! I am going to email him back though, because if he is genuine I should be polite and let him know I'm probably not the kind of girl he's looking for!

Now... back to people from work! There was much discussion about my dating life in the bar last night (mostly by Monkey Boy, aka 'Random Gossip Generator'). Guys... if and when I do meet 'The One' you can be sure you're NEVER going to meet him.

I can only imagine how long it would be before one of them piped up with a smart comment about my dating exploits! And even though I'm honest with Potentials, and they all know I'm 'actively dating', I don't really think they'd stay keen if one of my dear colleagues piped up with "So... which one are you? No.22?".

three, two, one

Local Guy wants to meet up again! Yes please :)

Baileys Guy want to call tonight! Yes please :)

Serious Golf Pro wants to marry me! Oh Lord :(

She shall have music wherever she goes

Yesterday... two dates.

Date one, the Local Guy. This was the first time we'd met 'Face to Face', even though we first got in contact last July! He was actually a really nice, normal guy. Not bad looking, funny and chatty (but not overwhelming!). I got a couple of very sweet texts off him later in the day... He thinks I'm a treasure, and wants to meet up again soon! Cool :)

Date two, Serious Golf Pro. This guy is so funny. Between leaving his place and picking me up he sent three texts! Just pick me up... I don't need some kind of digital running commentary of where you are, or how long you're going to be!!

He'd booked a table at a fab restaurant (remember, this was his way of apologising for the way he was on Monday). Beautiful food, and not only had he brought me a HUGE bouquet of flowers, but there was also a very carefully wrapped little pressie too!

I was *slightly* nervous of what was inside, but to my absolute delight it was an ipod!! Seriously... I've only known him two weeks! How sweet :)

Two goods, one bad... and one ever so slightly mad!

Good number one... Serious Golf Pro. Yes, he's thoroughly smitten! We met for coffee lunchtime, and even though he keeps throwing in ideas for dates up until the end of Feb, I think he gets that I'm not going to commit to anything just yet! So, we just had a nice coffee, and arranged dinner for tomorrow!

Good number two... Local guy. After a couple of emails back and forth trying to sort out a time that suits us both, we're going to meet for a coffee tomorrow lunchtime (I should get one of those loyalty cards they give out at the coffee shop, the amount of coffee dates I'm accumulating here!). At one point a teatime date was on the cards, but there was a risk that if it overran I would be late for Serious Golf Pro, and I didn't think that was fair!

Bad... Dubliner 1 of 3 (with wine cellar). He's on holiday at the moment, and wanted me to fly out to join him. I'd already said I couldn't, but he asked a couple more times. Eventually I sent an email, but he's called since, and I've tried (more than once) to call him back, but no luck.

But today he kind of overstepped the mark, and called the office to speak to me. Now, I'm slightly peeved about this, because I never give my work number out to anyone... for the simple reason I don't want anyone to call me in work. So he must have googled me (not a problem in itself - I do it all the time), but found the number and called.

Luckily I wasn't around at the time, so missed his call. My friend was fab, and made sure if he called again I would be out! So that little act puts him off the list completely. It just reminds me ever so slightly of things that went on pre-dating, and I'm not going there again.

And ever so slightly mad... The philosopher. I've had an email off him tonight, but in all honesty I have no idea what he's saying. No idea at all?!?

An adventure?

Well... no, not really. He managed to find the place (although it did take him three texts to get there).

He may well have been gorgeous, but my god he was dull. All looks, but no brains! I can't even think of a highlight of the night. Sorry!

More fun and games with the Serious Golf Pro though today. By way of apology for his somewhat bizarre behaviour this morning, he's conjured up the perfect date. First, tickets in a box at my favourite football team this weekend, then off to a very posh restaurant, a night at a romantic hotel, and the next day a round of golf on one of the best championship courses in Britain.

And what have I done. Turned him down!!!

For two reasons:

1 - I've actually already got plans this weekend
2 - I don't really want him to think that just because he can do these kind of dates I'm going to be fawning at his feet!

We are going out for dinner on Wednesday though :)

And they say it's girls that are complicated

What a strange morning I've had!

This morning I got a text off Serious Pro Golfer. He wanted me to know he's had a great couple of dates with me, but doesn't want to me again.

So I sent him one back to let him know I thought being dumped by text was very classy, but thanks for letting me know! 5 minutes later I get another text, this time to let me know he's fallen for me, which is why he sent the first one!

Now... call me stupid (on second thoughts don't... it's quite clear just who's being stupid here), but normally if you fall for someone your natural reaction isn't to let them know you don't want to see them anymore - isn't it?

I guess he's testing the water, trying to work out how high my potential commitment is, but as you all know that's fairly low, and generally at the first sign of a 'where do you see us going' I, well go!!

It's kind of a shame, because he is actually good fun, but I'm not really at a stage with anyone that deep and meaningful heart to heart conversations are high on my list. So I've sent him a little email along those lines, and told him I'm just happy at the moment to let things just sort themselves out.

So, while Serious Pro Golfer is working out where he seeing us going, I'm busy organising this weeks dates!

Tonight... The Adventurer. A quick couple of drinks after work. He made me laugh earlier (but it was an exasperated, frustrated laugh more than anything else). Why? Well, on his profile he mentions all the different outdoor pursuits he embraces... hiking in Kenya, mountaineering. All the kind of stuff that requires *some* kind of sense of direction. So why text me to find out where the bar is we're meeting at. I'm just a girl, but even I know how to read Google maps!

Wednesday lunchtime... Local Guy (the one who reappeared from back last July!). This is the first time I'm going to meet him (so 'Face to Face' 22 then). He sent me some photos of him from his Christmas party... he figured if I see him at his worst then the real thing will be so much better. I can quite clearly tell from the photos that he likes a drink, so a good start :)

And the winner is?

The game... a beautiful day. He was bang on time to pick me up. We started at the range to warm up a little, and then onto the course.

The deal was loser buys dinner (and first to lose their ball buys a bottle of champagne - usual bet then!). The handicap system meant I got an extra two shots on each whole, and to give me some sort of fighting chance I also had three 'Mulligans' (for you non golfers a Mulligan is basically an extra chance at a completely ballsed up shot!).

I won the first hole... seriously - I won it!!! You can imagine how much I was skipping around the green when I worked out I'd beaten him. Modesty when winning isn't really my strong point :)

To be honest I *think* he dumbed his game down a little, because the rest of the game was pretty closely matched. I was up, then we halved a couple of holes, then he was up... and so on.

We were actually all square up until the 18th, so whoever won the last hole won the game. And so, in spectacular fashion I completely screwed it up and he won!!!

Ooh, I did win the champagne though. One of his drives went a bit astray, and although I think he only made a half hearted attempt to find it... the Verve Cliquot is mine!

After the game we went of for a late lunch/early dinner, and although he tried to pay, I always honour my bets, so I duly coughed up! He was all ready to get the champagne, but I told him to get it next time (oh yes... there is going to be a next time!)

But enough of Serious Pro Golfer... I'm still 'actively dating', so where are we with other dates??

Tomorrow night I'm meeting The Adventurer. Now, if you really listen you'll be able to hear the sound of me kicking myself... repeatedly. Why? Because after I turned down his offer of drinks last night I checked his profile again, and saw his picture. And d'you know what... he's bloody gorgeous, that's what!!

Never mind... it doesn't pay to be available at the drop of a hat. I've had a couple of texts off him today, and he's looking forward to meeting me tomorrow?!?

I've had a couple of new winks today too. One of a guy in New York (I've no idea why he stumbled across me). I'm slightly put off by his first email, that goes into great details about how long it's taken him find someone like me (scary... he doesn't even know me!). So even though he's thousands of miles away I think best avoided!!

And one more guy who's on a three day trial on the site. His first email is along the lines of "quick, I need to get to know you before my subscription runs out". Nice line fella :/

Up for the challenge!

A new Potential... The Adventurer!!

He winked at me this morning, so I had a very quick look at this profile before heading off to the hairdressers. A combination of pretty cool stuff (climbing, surfing, mountain biking), and the predictable (wine, 'roaring fire', Dan Brown!) on his profile (no photo though), so I emailed him back!

By the time I'd got back from having my hair semi tamed, The Adventurer had sent me a really funny email (with his number), and invited me out for a glass of wine that night!!

I already had plans, so couldn't make it, so I sent him a 'thanks, another time maybe?' email back, with my number. Within about 5 minutes I had my first text off him!

This texting thing is starting to grate on my nerves a little. Yes, the ability to send 160 characters on the spur of the moment is a marvel of modern technology, but the amount of texts I get in a day is just getting crazy. I haven't got the time (or money) to respond to all of them!! Honestly, between Serious Golf Pro, The Property Developer and now The Adventurer I lost count yesterday. The only way I'm going to reply to all of them is if O2 decide to sponsor me!

Anyway, I've arranged to meet The Adventurer on Monday (making that my 21st 'Face to Face')

Today it's my golf challenge with Serious Pro Golfer. There's no backing out of the bet today... not a hint of rain means the game is on. 18 holes, loser buys dinner. I don't know why I thought this was going to be a good idea. I mean, he's played the pro circuit for over 20 years, and either plays or practises every single day. I've been 'playing' for a mere six months! Even with the help of the handicap system I don't think I've a cat's chance in hell of pulling this off!

Wish me luck :)

Size does matter

I know that some guys have a tendency to exaggerate about size, but really, if you put 5' 10" on your profile, when you stand up to do the obligatory kiss on the cheek at least go on tiptoe so you can maintain that illusion!

The Property developer... there was absolutely no way he was 5' 10" (that's what his profile said)!! I'm not tall, but even with heels on I do prefer a guy to be taller than me, so I was a little shocked with this dut!

Size aside, he was actually not too bad. Quite funny and chatty. We only had a coffee at lunchtime, but he's sent me an email to tell me he though I was a 'little gem', and do I fancy going out for a 'proper' drink with him next week??

Maybe, but I might have to loan him a pair of heels :)

Oh, and this afternoon in the office Monkey Boy decided he's going to set me some new dating rules. Great... isn't my life complicated enough!

Old times?

Way back last July I had a little bit of 'Mutual Contact' with a Local Guy, but for some reason or other our emails never seemed to be in synch and it fizzled out. Today, totally out of the blue he sent a really long email, apologising for not staying in touch, and do I fancy a coffee, or even dinner!

Blimey… my date count is rising! Last night I was out with Serious Pro Golfer (I *think* that makes it 6, so a record for me!), and today its coffee with the Property Developer!

Anyway, back to the Local Guy. I am going to meet him for a coffee, although it's going to have to be next week (I've a couple of busy days coming up.) Failing that I might just get to know him a little better via email, and do dinner in February :)

And I've had an email of No.17 from Gloucester. Apparently he's been waiting for me to send him some times I think I'll be free so we can sort out another date. Eh??? I don't remember telling him I wanted to meet him again?!

Testing, testing

Funny... My 'Face to Face' No.20 - The Property Developer has just sent me a text, just to check the number works?!?

Now, as I told him I can be notoriously bad at answering my phone it could be to see if I'm paying attention, or maybe he thought I'd given him a fake number. Either way, it's only Wednesday. We're not meeting until Friday - don't panic!

I've also had a sweet text of Baileys Guy, who's at the airport on his way to Vegas, to let me know he's going to miss me. Why... he's going on a drinks conference in the gambling capital of the world. It sounds like heaven to me :)

And Serious Pro Golfer wants to know if I fancy a coffee at lunchtime. I'm going along, but I think we need to have a chat. If I don't answer text messages, it's generally because I can be notoriously bad at answering my phone (see above). Not because I'm on another date. Stop trying to keep tabs on me, or this will be yet another short and sweet one!

Who's number is it anyway?

The Philosopher has given me his number. At least I *think* it's his number... it could well belong to his imaginary friend (who apparently drives like an arse!)

If only I had an imaginary friend! I could pass her number on, and they could drive (badly!) off into the sunset together :)

And how sweet of Baileys Guy... he called last night (from Dublin). He's jetting off to Vegas today, but wanted to call before he left... he was missing my voice!?! He's the one with a voice like silk, not me!

He hasn't forgotten he's going to steal something for me while he's there :)

In his dreams?

OK...

nobody panic, but Serious Pro Golfer has just told me I'm the girl of his dreams. My friend's reaction... "oh dear, that was the kiss of death for him"!

First impressions

I've been checking out the competition a little in my area (it pays to see who you're up against), and it's struck me just how little people actual think about how to sell themselves.

Your profile is the first impression Potentials see of you, so why so little thought as to how you come across? I mean, you wouldn't turn up on a first date without making a little effort to look your best, would you?

The worst offenders… Saying "I love to be wined and dined, and treated like a princess." Based on what I've heard from some of my Potentials, rightly or wrongly they read this as "I expect you to pay all the time" (and hey... *silently* we'd love that, but if they think you're worth it they'll pay - without the hint).

Starting your profile with the words "I'm just a (insert relevant occupation/lifestyle choice here)". Using the word 'just' instantly belittles what you do. Be proud ladies!

Saying "My friends would describe me as (insert some good qualities here)". OK, so your friends think you're the best thing since sliced bread. But how would YOU describe yourself? (Having said that, I'm going to ask my friends to describe me… I wonder what they'll say!)

Saying "I want somebody who treats me right". Right??? I'm guessing there's not a person in the world who'd like to be treated any other way. Although maybe their grammar is wrong, and what they're actually saying is "I want someone who treats me.... RIGHT!", which goes back to the first point!

The immortal words: "After a previous bad relationship... ". No, no, no, no, no… it's a golden rule of dating. You never *ever* talk about previous relationships until after at *least* 4 dates (Serious Pro Golfer… we're going to need to talk soon!). What you're saying to Potentials is you *could* well have issues - and issues scare men!

"I have no baggage". Well, in the age group I slot neatly into if you get to mid to late thirties without acquiring *some* kind of baggage you generally fall into one of two camps:
a) you either have no relationship skills at all (better to have loved and lost and all that!)
or
b) you're telling fibs!
Everyone has baggage of some kind, it's just that some people insist on dragging it around and spilling it's guts out everywhere they go!

People who say "I'd like to meet somebody with no baggage" - see above.

Girls... if you put down your best assets as being your large boobs, you're probably going to get a fair amount of attention from guys like this.

And finally, I now know why so many guys put the DVD/sofa/wine combo on their profile… it's because all the ladies have too!!

And again!

It seems the principal analyst from the well respected Marketing Institute was right... I'm currently arranging 'Face to Face' No. 20.

No kidding... in the space of a few short hours I've had a wink, some 'Mutual Contact', and swapped numbers with my latest potential (sorry, I've lost track of numbers again!).

This guy... a 'property developer', who's apparently become disillusioned with the whole online dating experience, but he's giving it one more shot (sounds like a line to me, but I'm going along with it for now!). Seems so far he's only come across a bunch of needy, desperate money grabbers, and it's up to me to change his view.

Like I say, it sounds like a line, but in the spirit of online dating I've sorted a new lunchtime date... this Friday :)

JP... remember the "Potential Dates Database Management Software"(tm) ?? If there was ever a time I needed it, it's now!

'Face to Face' No.19

Out of the blue I get an email this morning from Worcester Golfer (from way way back, who I've never actually met!). He's in the area, and do I fancy a coffee?

Why not… luckily this morning I decided to go to work wearing something half decent (I tend to fluctuate between semi smart and downright scruffy, so thank goodness I'd opted for semi smart!). I've also got into the habit of carrying around with me a little selection of enhancing and plumping goodies, so I could nip to the loo before and transform myself from as dull as the morning, to a radiant goddess in just three minutes :)

So, the date… First of all I couldn't actually remember what he looked like (it's been ages since we've even chatted), so this was more or less a blind date for me. But wow… he was actually gorgeous!!! Tall and dark, and seriously good looking!

And what a fab guy! In just a 45 minute chat we'd covered a variety of subjects, ranging from the art of bluffing (in poker, but useful in so many ways), to exactly how to ride a horse bareback (probably not *quite* as useful!). We're going to meet again in a couple of weeks (when he's next in the area… or is that 'just passing'?).

He did ask how my golf was coming along (last time we spoke I was very new to the game). I was tempted to tell him I'm now getting tips off Serious Pro Golfer, but decided to skip that bit in case we get to play together. Then I can use the art of bluffing to beat him :)

And how sweet... he sent me a text later this afternoon, and told me I have lovely eyes (thank you Benefit goodies!!).

Great start

Monday morning, first wink of the week...

Apparently this guy would love to take a look at my jumper puppies!?!

Blocked :/

And tonight's new Potential is...

...completely nuts! Why do I do it? I've started a bit of 'Mutual Contact' with somebody who teaches philosophy, and has an imaginary friend who's currently basking somewhere in the Southern Hemisphere ?!?!?!

Why me... why?

I can't help myself though. I should block him, but he sounds so 'interesting' I need to find out more.

Yes, I know... remember Chainsaw Guy. But how many crazy people are out there? And if I do end up having a date with The Philosopher, I'm hoping his imaginary friend will pay!

Rain (didn't quite) stop play

Well... not in a sense anyway. Obviously a round of golf was totally out of the question this morning (and before any of you say it, I'm not a fair weather golfer - the course would've been closed!). So, we switched the date to the range and lunch. Hell, I'm getting so much practise in I'm well on my way to becoming half decent at this game (golf that is, not dating!)

So, the bet has been postponed until next week, meaning... (fanfare here please) I've got past 4 dates with the same Potential!!!!

My mum will be dusting off her hat :)

However, I'm still 'actively dating', so the text I've just had off Baileys Guy has no way been discarded. He's on his way to Dublin (for supplies!)... Did I want anything while he was there??

Now, Baileys guy - if you want to impress me then bring me back a bottle of the finest alcohol you can find (I've given up giving up alcohol!), but if you want to impress my mum then some Kimberley's please :)

Ooh.. and there was a funny funny moment over lunch, where I'm telling Serious Pro Golfer about my dating experiences... he thinks I should write about them ;)

"Touchingly heartbreaking"

So says a principal analyst from a well respected Marketing Institute. So, what's he talking about??

Well, basically (as I thought) he's referring to the increase in people signing up to dating sites. Apparently registrations on the site pick up right after Christmas and continue at 30 to 50 percent above average through Valentine day.

For many people, a New Year's resolution for them is that they want to be in a relationship.

For someone like me, who's still looking, this is not "touchingly heartbreaking"... it's fantastic :)

Anyway, back to current Potentials:

Serious Pro Golfer... I *may* have been sneaking to the driving range a bit, but there's a bet at stake during Sunday's game. I'm currently thinking of maybe trying to think of some different tactics to help me win (other than the obvious 'oh so cute' golf skirt)!

Oh, and Dubliner 1 of 3 (with wine cellar) emailed a couple of times last night. He wants to know if I fancy joining him in South Africa.... next week!! But I've had my three dates with him... another one would imply possible commitment, and may well encourage him to move here :/

And finally, some not so good news. Yoga Guy popped around last night (you guessed it... he was "just passing"). No chocolates or wine this time though. Instead he brought around a bunch of roses. Blimey... we've had to have another heart to heart, because he's just not getting it.

I don't want commitment, and I don't see "us" going anywhere. I like you as a friend, but seriously... if I'd liked you more than that I wouldn't still be dating (and before you ask... no, I don't hide the fact I date other people from any of my Potentials).

But, I do feel a bit bad, because I don't want to be mean :(

Words don't come easy

I know... call me a pedantic so and so, but this seriously winds me up.

Potentials... if you can't be bothered to either write in sentences (with capital letters in the right places), *or* use a spellchecker, then all it shows is that you really don't care that much about your first impression, and so why on earth would I want to date you!

I got a wink of a guy this morning, and his 2000 word "about me" was all one sentence :(

RSI

Rush home... I've only got an hour until Serious Pro Golfer picks me up. So a quick blast under the shower and 5 minutes enhancing is about all I've got time to do.

And let me tell you, that's made even more difficult when you're getting texts every couple of minutes from said Serious Pro Golfer!!! Seriously, have you any idea how hard it is to try and dry your hair and respond to a series of sweet little nothings!

I know I'm a girl, and multi-tasking should come naturally, but fathoming out predictive text while trying to assemble angel curls is no mean feat!

Anyway... he picked me up (I was 5 minutes late, but I blame him!), and we drove to a sweet little restaurant in the sticks! I slipped on my vow of abstinence (again!)... but I only had one large glass of red, so as it's effectively portion of fruit I swapped it for dessert!

I've got to say, he's quite a sweet guy, so if he can just calm down on the need for constant contact I think he'll get to 4th date!!!

That's Sunday, for golf.

Now, as I can't resist a challenge (or I'm stupid - you decide), I've put a wager on the game. I've done this before and came out with dinner and a bottle of champagne, but I guess this time it's going to be a lot more difficult (or impossible!).

Still, I've got 3 days to practice ;)

See... I'm not the only one who thinks like this!

JP... thank you so much for this: Fancy a walk?

What game are we playing?

OK Serious Pro Golfer... third and fourth dates are all set. Bless him, I *think* he's trying to play hard to get, but badly.

Why? Last night got a couple of emails off him, to confirm tomorrow, then a text to see if I got the emails. One of them mentioned how many emails/Potentials he was getting from the dating site!

Cool... all going well! I certainly don't mind Potentials dating other people... then I get an email to let me know he doesn't think he's going to see any of them. You are, you aren't... honestly, I don't mind!!!

So, I nip off to have a bath, and come back to another text... am I OK with him, or has he upset me??

Bless... he may well be a scratch player on the course, but he's certainly showing his dating handicap there!

Treasure hunt

Serious Golf Pro... the third 'Face to Face' is all set for tomorrow night (I know, there's a risk it could be the last one, but I'm feeling optimistic this could go at least to four dates - and not just because of the golf option)!

Baileys Guy has suggested a pretty cool 'Face to Face' (No.19). We're going to pick a place neither of us have been to before, and we have to try and find each other using a set of clues... a kind of treasure hunt :)

Ooh... and now for something (or someone) completely different. I got an email off an Italian guy this morning, only this one wasn't from the dating site. This was from a "social music revolution" site. One of my other loves (apart from dating, wine and chocolate) is music, so I signed up to this site a while ago to get recommendations on some new stuff to listen to (basically it learns what you like from what's on your PC, and recommends similar music to you)

Anyway, this guy sent me an email to tell me I have great taste in music, and did I want to meet up with him sometime???

Buongiorno :)

Not quite the norm

Funny... I just had a wink of someone who likes cuddling up in front of the fire, and last read Angels & Demons! So, a twist on the DVD/Da Vinci combo, but still not really enough to have me winking back!

And I finally got to speak to Baileys Guy. He called, and we've just spent one hour and one minute on the phone... his voice is, well, like Baileys! He's off to Vegas in a couple of weeks, and has promised to steal something for me!!!

Home, home on the range

Date No.2 with Serious Pro Golfer. Remember my range routine... put the ball down, hit it, swear. Repeat 200 times!

How nervous was I. I'm standing next to someone who's played professionally since he was 16, trying to casually set myself up for my first shot... no pressure, no pressure at all! I'm a golfer, this is easy!

So (remembering *everything* Gorgeous H had taught me, and asking Serious Pro Golfer to turn around so he couldn't see me) I blanked him out and swung... perfect!!! The ball went straight and a decent distance, and I didn't even need to swear :)

Thank god!!!

He said I have a sweet swing (not sure if that's good or bad, but it *sounds* like a compliment). It was great fun, and although a lot of my shots were terrible he's a pretty good instructor too... what a bonus!

He wanted me to have lunch with him after the range, but I'd promised my beloved family I'd have dinner with them. What followed was a serious of unfortunate events, whereby my mothers oven gave up the ghost and dinner was switched to mine. OMG... I can't cook for my family - it wouldn't be fair on them!

Anyway, it didn't turn out too badly. The family arrived with a pile of half cooked food, and I somehow managed to break my vow of alcohol abstinence on the very first day (although I did say I could have a couple of naughty days!)

Serious Pro Golfer wants to know if we can meet again on Wednesday, and do I fancy a round of golf next weekend!

I haven't decided whether to go on Wednesday yet. Why? Well that would be a third date, and as you know that's a bit of a milestone for me, so I'm tempted to hang on for a couple of days, and make the round of golf the third date. Then at least I get to make the most of it ;)

Other Potentials... Dubliner 1 of 3 (with wine cellar) called. He's still thinking of moving over.

And Baileys Guy (with what I've now decided has a voice like the drink itself) called... I missed his call but he left a message. So I called him back and left a message for him. I'm thinking our answering services are probably more familiar with each other than we are!

Ooh... and today, a wink off a guy who's looking for "someone to stroll down the slow lane with".

Me, in the slow lane?? I don't think so!

Oh Oh Seven :)

I guess you're all sleeping off hangovers at the moment, but if you are up then firstly HAPPY NEW YEAR... I hope you have as much fun as I intend to!

Yesterdays 'Face to Face' with Serious Golf Pro... he was such good fun. We met at the clubhouse of the most fabulous golf course in the country... I did the by now customary enhancing and plumping, picked out a gorgeous dress, and decided to go for the fab new boots (I figured as I wasn't drinking balance wouldn't be too much of a problem!)

Walk out of my bedroom for Voice of Reason to give me the once over... he thinks I'm underdressed!!! Underdressed... I've only got 10 minutes until I have to leave!! I seriously don't have time to find anything swankier, so I ignored the opinion of a 13 year old (not for the first time!).

Get to the clubhouse (very nice indeed), and he was already there, and the coffee was already ordered! He said I looked fabulous (so there, Voice of Reason!!)

He was a really interesting guy... funny to listen to his stories of what he does. I don't know if he was intentionally name dropping, but he does play golf with some very serious contenders... very serious indeed!

Which makes me even more nervous about our second date today... at the range! God of Good Weather has thankfully decided to let the sun come out to play and I've found the 'oh so cute' golf skirt, so even if my swing is terrible at least I'll look the part!