Happy Hour in T minus 2 hours 54 minutes

I am all geared up and ready to pounce. Happy hour is in a few hours. I must be on my best behaviour tonight. Not because I want to mind you...but because of technical difficulties. But maybe this is a blessing disguise.

Maybe I won't just get randy with someone...but meet someone with substance.
Hhhmmmmmare there any men out htere like what I just mentioned above?

Guess only time will tell.

Back In The Saddle Again.....IIII'mmmmm Bbbaaacccckkk

Hello my lovelies!
It's been months, and I haven't posted in way long time. Was it because I was lazy? Absolutely not. Was it because I was dateless? You can bet your sweet bippie it was. Was I lonely? Hell no! Was I bored? Nope, not really. Was I horny as hell? You could bet the ranch I was. (And still am for that matter.)
Now here's the most IMPORTANT question to be asking: Ro, are you still single? Let's not even go there.

Single and I are like peanut butter and jelly. Can't have one without the other.

Now as I have been told on more than one occasion, it will happen when it's meant to happen. But you know what? I can't believe that it's never meant to be. Look at a certain cousin (the cool one) went through and where she is. Wonderful guy, wonderful blended family, at peace and growing up nicely. So when is it my turn? Where is he and why is he so damn late or stubborn about showing up? But I digress....and I apologize.

Because I have met someone. Met him earlier this month, and he is absolutely awesome. The perfect dude I tell you! Funny, kind, has manners, tall, a looker (if you crossed Patrick Dempsey with Tommy Lee). Nice build, owns his own business...Nurturing, compassionate, and all in all a male image of yours truly. He's me with a penis!

So what's the problem you ask? 'Mr. Wonderful' is 'Mr. Can't be bothered seeing you all the time'. Sure he's damaged. The first night, we both drunkenly confessed our heartaches, heartbreaks and flaws. Not a problem. All my months of therapy flew out the window, as I was besotted with the fact that this cat was digging me. He took my number after we spent countless hours hanging out and talking about EVERYTHING...hopping from topic to topic like the Easter Bunny delivering eggs to all the houses. He had promised to call me the following Monday, after we met, and did indeed call me. On my cell, during business hours. Wow!

Then, after e-mailing one another every day, sometimes several times a day....we get together for a date. (Aprox. 2 weeks after the night we met.) Again, had a blast hanging out, laughed, snuggled, chatted about EVERYTHING...connected. Again, e-mails galore. He even sent a double e-mail (to my office and then my house) last Friday as I hadn't replied to the first one, and he was unsure if I was in the office. Yet now we're going on another 2 week break. I'm going to happy hour this Friday with some co-workers, and had given the non-committal 'if you'd like to swing down and hang' invite to h im. What do I get in return: 'Thanks, I have a family thing to go to. I'll take a rain check though' e-mail.

What the hell is that all about? Interested in me or not? Married or not? Secret Agent for the government or are you in the witness protection program? Why are we connecting, yet he does not want to connect more frequently?

Whatever the reason, dear readers...I am back. Back in the game...back on the scene....back on the dating scale of desirability. So singletons unit...and singletons watch out. Because Single Grl is not letting any grass grow under her tootsies...and come hell or high water, either 'Mr.Wonderful' is either going to be left in the dust as Single Grl is going to have her hands busy plucking away at the keyboard filling you in on all dating and meetings. Or maybe 'Mr. Wonderful' will decide that every 2 weeks seems kind of...well....weak?

Confused...isn't it IF you're dating someone you're allowed to be jealous?

So things have been quiet on the Eastern front, as I figured they would be. See, Orelinde doesn't have mad spouts of dating like she had the past few weeks. Nope, it's peaks and valley's and mainly it's valley's. Why? Perhaps because all my friends are settled down, and no one knows interesting NORMAL men, or it can even be that no one likes to go out anymore. So I have no decided it is up to me to just go out and meet folk on my own. Sidekick or no sidekick. Also I have decided to step up and see where certain situations lay, as I am tired of pussyfooting (sorry my Mc-Kittens for that use of word) around. Read on and you'll understand.
So almost a year and 1/2 ago, a woman that I know and I ventured in to NYC for shopping, dinner and a concert. She insisted we go to this very delicious, extremely popular restaurant in Times Square where the bartender is 'handsome and sweet' and the food 'out of this world'. Upon our dining there, I spot a bartender, that if you can imagine it...could be Johnny Depp's stand-in or twin if you like. Picture Johnny Depp (not as Edward Sissorhands) but as the gypsy in Chocolate. Yeah! So of course I have to comment about this to him, and thus begins a flirtatious and nice friendship. Now I know what you're all thinking. He's a bartender! He's in the people profession....it's his job to be flirtatious. But it is more than that. Over the course of this friendship, he also gives me perks when dining or drinking there. We have conversations, share book topics or vacation stories with one another. Find out that we BOTH have cats...BOTH sets of cats are a tuxedo and a tabby. And better yet both sets of cats are brother and sister where (our boys) are the tuxedos and (our girls) the tabby's. We even have our kitties photos stored on our phones. 'Doopelganger Johnny' as I will refer to him as he has not yet stepped up to 'Contender' status also told me it is not necessary to tip him when I go down, in fact he refuses the tip.
And there is flirting, sometimes subtle...sometimes less than subtle. However as well should know by now, Orelinde isn't one to make the 1st move. Nope, not since many moons ago when she was severely burned by her first love. Anyway 'Doopelganger Johnny' insisted we (my family and I) celebrate my birthday at his place of bartending...and we all had a blast. I had mentioned to him the length of time we knew one another and he was in shock stating 'it seems way longer than that'. So I was a bit concerned and said...'is that a bad thing?' and he reassured me that it was not. I then said that sometimes when people hold a special part in your life, time is insignificant.' He agreed and said that I articulated that very well. And that was it for awhile. Months went by, and I had planned to getting back to NYC to visit 'Doopelganger Johnny', see if I could work up the nerve to make my move. And then I finally made it back with my aunt (whom he enjoys hanging with as well). We were both excited to see one another and the evening flowed like it normally does. Except there was a hitch.
Isn't there always a hitch in the road to happiness? As it always is, when down at this location, you wind up talking to other patrons, and this night was no exception. But this time, I started talking to a man (around my own age) who decided to talk. Turns out the guy just relocated from St. Louis, and lives in downtown NYC. I asked him which company he worked for as my company has a location in St. Louis. Well 'Doopelganger Johnny' was none too pleased. He made it clear that he was eavesdropping on the conversation, would just gawk at me from time to time (although I was talking to him as well). And then I bought my new pal a shot, thinking 'Doopelganger Johnny' would be pleased that I was ringing his bar for him. Uh, YEAH....that would be a NEGATIVE. 'Doopelganger Johnny' did serve us the shots, but in disbelief...I thought only because it was the first time I ever bought a round when there for someone I didn't know. Before the new guy left, we exchanged phone numbers and e-mails...and 'Doopelganger Johnny' watched, standing right in front of me, in shock. Ida (my aunt watched this with amusement and trying to assessment). So, new guy leaves and I venture to the upstairs to use the ladies room. Well, and I have to say Ida is my neutral party, so she wouldn't just say this to egg me on. 'Doopelganger Johnny' comes back to our end of the bar, see my seat and the new guys seat empty, does double takes, looks at Ida as if to say 'she left with him?!?!?' and is just staring at my chair. I come back and Ida starts to fill me in. 'Doopelganger Johnny' comes back, asks if we want to close out the tab and after saying 'yes' he presents the bill to me. You can only imagine my shock and bewilderment when upon viewing the check note that not only did he not give us any comps...but the price of the bill was full price and after closer inspection noted he did not charge for any of Ida's beverages...but mine he did!
So on our drive home Ida and I dissected this scenario to the best of our abilities. What did this mean? Why did 'Doopelganger Johnny' freak out like that? Was it just that comps now have to be kept to a minimum? That still didn't explain why he didn't charge for her beverages, yet he did charge mine. That seems a little snarky...huh? Ida agrees finally with me that something more is dwelling in him than just a friendship feeling. Then again, we're both women and looking for the end of the rainbow, so maybe we're completely disillusioned on this one. Either way...enough is enough. Why doesn't 'Doopelganger Johnny' either speak up or make a move? Well, I am going to make that move. Come the ned of the week, I am going to be brave (yeah right...may have to hit a bar or two for courage on my way to seeing him) and say: 'look, if this is just a friend thing, then cool. but if this is something we need to explore...OPEN YER MOUTH AND LET'S GO!!!). But my pondering for now is...we're not an in any form of relationship other than platonic friendship. So why freak like that? Is it that he felt threatened by new guy? Is it that he was just jealous that I was talking to another man? Why dear God...why?

'Contender 3' Part 2

Well, I did get the card. And it was a very nice card. It had a kitty on it and was a Halloween one. Nothing odd was written in it. However he did write 'Dearest Rose' and did sign it 'Love ____(as I will refer to him as 'Contender 3'). Also in our conversations he would profess to love me or think he was in love with me...and used the 'l' word alot. And even for a girl to say it was a lot...you know that has to be something. Well over the weekend he was away with the boys, he called several times, and he actually seemed nice and normal. My perception of him began to change and I was beginning to look forward to his return, so we could meet in person. Cousin Fran on the other hand still had reservations about him due to the card issue, and the fact that he said he was going to buy me a shirt when away in D.C. But again the whole 'what size are you issue' got brought up. And when I told him I was a M/L...he felt compelled to ask me several times if I was sure that was my size. 'Uh, why would I lie if he was going to bring me something to wear?'
So he gets back to New York, and Monday and Tuesday he proceeds to call me. We never delve in to deep issues, always surface and meaningless topics. However when I tried to ask about his day or what had him upset, he wouldn't answer me. However if I tried to hold back...he would persist until I told him.
So now we're back to Wednesday, and he waits until LOST and INVASION are over to call me. Smart, and considerate man...I'll give him that. And my wonderful readers...this is where it goes to hell in a handbasket. This is where I realized you should never second-guess yourself. After about 15 minutes of pleasent, idle chit-chat about general stuff...the Yankee's and my watching the game...he asks (and I suggest you take a deep breath) where my mother is (in the house) and if I was watching porn. Yes! If I was watching Porn, with my mother. Let me repeat for those who missed it. PORN! Watching it with my biological mother! The woman who birthed me and whom I live with.Now...let's reflect. Orelinde is far from being a prude...and she has needs just as everyone else does. However I do not make porn watching a family event, nor did I find it amusing, witty, or proper that he ask that. Then 'Contender 3' does this real deep voice, and proceeds to try to get me to go to his house (at 10:30 at night) and it's not like he lives right around the corner. And if I went over there at that hour...just what do you think he's expecting. Like I say, I may be dopey, but I am far from dumb! So I refused...then he wanted me to 'talk to him', again inflicting that voice. So I tell him I will not, and it gets totally weird.
I asked him, trying to make conversation, what he was doing for the weekend. So he goes through his itinary, and says 'well I guess if you want to get together, you can callme. I guess, to do something.' Yeah, because that really makes it sound like you're interested in a date. Or that you're interested in spending time getting to know me. So I say ok, and have not heard from him. Which is fine! And I hope not to hear from him!!!
So here is the moral of the story of 'Contender 3': What the hell are you thinking? Maybe you're single at the age you are because of who you are. Did that ever cross your mind? And as for those who try to fix up friends...what ever happened with a screening process? Am I angry at Jeannie for introducing this guy in to my life, for the brief time? Absolutely not. She tried. And this makes for a great anecdote. Just people who are being fixed up aren't always looking for a booty-call. If I want a booty-call, have no problem scoring one on my own. Just friends and family alike, this is from me and all the single folk out there....USE JUDGEMENT. And for those who are trying to meet people...think before you just blurt crap out. Because even if this guy, 'Contender 3' was trying to be funny, or was nervous...guess what. I'll never give him another chance.

'Contender 3' aka 'The Truth about Cats & Dogs'

They say the road to hell is paved with good intentions. And with 'Contender 3' this is truly the case, as my gal pal Jeannie introduced this scenario in to my life. No harm no foul, and I know Jeannie's best intentions were there. Just sometimes your own intuition is the one you need to follow. Let the dating saga continue:
The one night I had driven to the land of 'far, far, away' to see 'Contender 2' gig, I get a phone call with an exuberant Jeannie that she 'found a guy for me'. Okay, now my first thought was; 'was he lost?' my second thought was 'well that's cool but I'm kind of hanging out with someone...I think'...and my third thought was 'how did you find him now? because you never mentioned him prior to this. But she had asked if she could give him my number and being that things were up in the air with 'Contender 2' told her absolutely. Until I am locked in to a relationship why should I put all my eggs in one basket...right?
So the following morning, I actually get a phone call from 'Contender 3' who sounded nice. Seemed a little goofy, yet intrigued and there was a lot of laughing. But it wasn't the kind of laughter that came from easy joking or free banter. I would have to go with more an awkward kind of laughter. We did discuss religion, some our pets (of course I had to bring up the tag-team of the dastardly duo) and he has some kind of monster of a dog (which don't get me wrong I love dogs too). As we're talking he inquires about my father (whom I failed to mention for the main reason that my father is not a part of my life). So I said to him he was treading in murky waters, and he retreated if only slightly asking why was that. So I told him that I was fine to discuss it, but I do not speak with my father (for lack of better term) as it is his choice. I did express that I was lucky enough to have had my mom's oldest brother step in to the father role. But my question and point here is that after I said it was 'murky waters', instead of just backing off until we got to know one another a bit more or respecting that comment he had pushed until I said I was okay to discuss this issue. What's up with that guy? It turns out that 'Contender 3' is ten years my senior, never married and has no children. None of this bothered me, but it did peak my interest as to why he was never married. He also pumped me for information on my longest relationship...and how long ago that took place. What is this, the inquisition? When I asked him his in return, he pretty much stuck to my answer. (coincidence or not...I found that a bit odd.)
And people...again I will stress that it is what is on the inside that counts. Granted there does need to be some sort of physical attraction...but it isn't all about looks. Next thing I know, he's telling me he has a 32 inch waist. Is that supposed to impress me? And by your shouting out your measurements, are you expecting me to shout out mine? Well to knock him down a peg...I did. I told him 38C, which flew right over his head. But why, why WHY does someone feel compelled to disclose that kind of information right off the back? Or expect you to disclose your weight/height/etc. Immediately? So we left the conversation off on a good note...and agreed to chat during the week to make plans for the following weekend. After hanging up, I did decide that he was a bit forward but I'd give him a chance.
Let's jump ahead, shall we? The following Wednesday I did call and got his voicemail, leaving him a message to call me that evening as I'd be home. So 'Contender 3' did proceed to call, yet he did so during 'LOST'...a big no-no. I joked around with him about that, but again, instead of saying 'go enjoy your program, call me when it's over' he proceeded to yap about absolutly nothing, with big gaps of silance or disinterest. So I tried to gracefully get him off the phone yet he did not want to. Trying to firm up my own weekend schedule, asked him what he had planned for that coming weekend. It is then that he proclaims he 'forgot to tell me, he was going away with the boys' to a football game in D.C. But he wanted to know what I had planned for 'a week from that Friday'. I had already had plans to go to a house-goods party with Cousin Fran, and I told him that. He then tried to coerce me in to dropping those plans to meet with him. 'Uh, yeah dude...been down this road before. The controlled by boyfriend, and somewhat abused road.' Not going to happen again. If I have a prior commitment, will keep said prior committment. I did tell him I had Saturday or Sunday free, but for whatever reason those were not do-able for him. 'Contender 3' then wanted my home address as he wanted to send me a card. I did not feel easy about htis guys. Why did he want to send me a card? And what would be in this card? And what if there was no card, yet a stalker in my front shrubs? I posed all these questions to him, and he got slightly miffed that I would be concerned about giving him the address. So with feelings of guilt, and figuring I would kung-fu his stalker-ass if that was the case gave him the address.
Stay tuned for part two

When do men who are boys grow up in to men?

It makes me laugh. The saying that you always want what you can't have, rings true. Or maybe it's not that you want what you can't have (because although I think I'm a hoot to be around, don't think I'm God's gift to the world). Anyway last night, when I was hanging with Cousin Fran (you remember her...*sings* Matchmaker, matchmaker make me a match....), I find out the scoop on 'Contender 1' and how he feels about my meeting 'Contender 2'. Unbeknownst to me, Cousin Fran was reveling in my meeting someone the night of the Blind Date.
As we hung out last night, the topic of 'Contender 1's' cousin came up, and she told me that she informed him that she felt it was fate that I had gone on the date with 'Contender 1'. When asked why she felt that way, as it did not pan out between 'Contender 1' and myself, she proceeded to tell the other matchmaker that I had met someone the same night, and was hanging out with him. Matchmaker #2 (as we'll call him) was equally shocked and happy that I met someone so quickly. Fran explained to him that after the wrapup of the date with 'Contender 1' I decided to go back in to the place and see if I could strike up conversation, which led to 'Contender 2'. So matchmaker #2 again was happy for me, and even admitted that 'Contender 1' was a bit out there, and even he could not decipher or explain the 'We'll be in touch comment' (yes gang...I'm still perplexed over that one.)
Well several days later, 'Contender 1's' matchmaking cousin decided to pay a visit to Cousin Fran. Turns out that he clued 'Contender 1' in that I had met someone else and that it turned out I met him that night during one of 'Contender 1' several bathroom (and need we say extended) breaks. Well! 'Contender 1', and can I interject possibly *bitter*, gets bent out of shape. He proceeds to bellyache to his cousin that it was 'fucked up that not only that I went back in after he left, but that I met someone that same night.' So he gets his cousin/matchmaker #2 riled up that I was wrong and evil, etc. and then sigged him on my couin. Da-da-da-da! Cousin Fran quickly puts the other matchmaker straight, explaining that I did not flirt on the date with 'Contender 2' nor did I need to be in a holding pattern to talk to another guy while waiting for 'Contender 1' to finally decide he wasn't in to me. She then proceeds to explain that I was polite, and gave his cousin the opportunity he deserved to make a second date. Then she asks her fellow matchmaker if he thought I was wrong to move on as quickly to 'Contender 2' being that I did not 'color outside the lines' while technically on the date with 'Contender 1'.
And do you KNOW what 'Contender 1' cousin said? He, a MAN, a man from the other camp mind you...agreed that I had done nothing wrong. So you know what 'Contender 1'...I won't slam you. I'm too mature for that. I will wish you luck, and say a prayer for you. Because now I know you just are a fish lost in a sea of indecission. You will always be that guy who thinks the grass looks greener on the other side. What, now that you know I have other options...I'm appealing to you? You will never have this *points to myself*. And although I too am on a quest for finding 'Mr. Dateable', 'Mr. Right'...know that I am ok. I did nothing wrong, and the satisfaction I get from this whole expierence? Now you know it too.

The Rock Star Returns

Alright there kiddies, so perhaps I am already becoming addicted to the blogging thing. *whispers* (Thanx Claire), because God knows that at 2:06am, Orelinde has nothing better to do than update her blog. No, she doesn't need sleep. Because at the ancient age of 2-9, who remembers what sleep is anymore. Gone but not yet forgotten are the days of staying up 72 hours, and needing not even a 1/2 hour nap to refresh. Now it's all 'naps are my friend'. Anyway, I digress.So tonight Mz. Tired and cranky pants attends one of these Souther Homes parties with cousin Fran and co. (Mz. Tired & Cranky being me of course.) Friday night, and no date or happening thing to do? Yep, can see the glitter and glory of the past few weeks quickly slipping away. It's all good though, as I met some crazy and lovely ladies and had a fun time hanging with the girls. And lets NEVER forget...girls need their girl friends.Okay, I'm bad...still digressing.
Anyway after an evening of filling in the new women that I met about the past few weeks of fun/frolic/ and the meeting of men...this is what I come home to.Sign on to aol to check my mail and see if anyone had posted in my blog. And ok, let's be honest. I was hoping to see an e-mail from 'contender 2', yet did not truly expect one. Nope...I figured a week without hearing anything from him and he was completely gone. Well...color me surprised because as I went through deleting unwanted email...Contender 2' address popped up. Now mind you, he did not reply to the e-mail I had sent him last week asking what the heck had happened to him. Nope...he replied to am e-mail that I sent out to a few of my nearest and dearest in regards to U2 being on Conan O'Brien last night. (Yes, I am a devious lil' minx). So ok...posted below you will see both my e-mail that I sent and his reply. And being that I am completely baffled and none of my sounding board would dare be awake at this hour...wait to see if anyone has feedback here.
(Me) Hey there my people, As we know, U2 absolutely rocks. Any-who, U2 is going to be acting as the Conan O'Brien house band tomorrow night in case anyone is interested. Show goes on after Jay Leno, so that is at 12:37 (am).
(Him) . Hey Rose.Did u happen to tape this? I'd love to see it.I'm feeling much better, finally.Thanks for the well-wishes.Sorry I missed saying goodbye the other night at Sweetwaters... didn't know where u were.Hope to see u soon-
(he had his initials...I will insert 'contender 2')

So. my questions to you are: Is he interested or not? Did he realize he missed me as I hadn't been to his gigs this week? Did 'contender 2' realize he acted like a complete jackass? Or am I reading way more in to this than I should?

My date, the 'Rock Star' aka NO sex, no drugs, just Rock & Roll

Okie dokie gang...I'm not all sugar and spice and everything nice. I admit it. So what's wrong here? Absolutly nothing. I love to wear makeup, get my hair and nails done, and have fantasized about what my wedding song will be or who would be in my wedding party. What all-American girl hasn't? However, leather, Harley's and men with artistic souls (specifically musicians) appeal to me too. David Cassidy (yep had a crush), Jon Bon Jovi, (yeah named my dog after his back in the day in tribute). Don't even get me started on Aerosmith (Joe Perry *swoon*) or Tommy Lee. There just is nothing like a bad-boy with a tattoo, or a guitar, or and motorcycle. Which brings us to my promised discussion on 'Contendor 2'.
In the midst of the blind date, we had an passing glance at an incredibly handsome man. A blond haired man, mind you...not particularly the look that catches my eye these day. So as the blind date with 'Contendor 1' drew to a close, 'Contendor 2' surprised me as he began to play live music and I realized he appealed to me on a deeper level. I was all set to go home, was in my car and at the last minute did the loop around back to the place to see if I could possibly talk with this handsome musician who seemed to be drawn to me. On one of his breaks, I struck up a conversation with him and his partner which then carried over into their playing time. He began to sing a bunch of songs with my name in it, and at the end of the night I gave both guys my e-mail address with the thought of 'let the best man win', although I was more in to 'Contendor 2' than his friend. About a week later 'Contendor 2' the hottie/blond-haired musician e-mails me and professes how much he enjoyed meeting me, and would hope to see me at his gig the following night.
So what does any single girl in the right frame of mind do? Of course she gets dolled up and heads down to see him pay, to see where this is going to go, if anywhere at all. Again, 'Contendor 2' seems to be making all the right moves; greets me, kisses me hello (on the cheek let's not get ahead of ourselves), talks to me during breaks, with the ocassional touching of the arm, and sings all the songs with my name in it. I meet two of his pals who I seemed to hit it off with and after the gig am requested to stick around and hang out. So although I need to be up at 6am for work the next day, agree and hang out until about 1am. General getting to know you questions are asked and answered and I am asked to 'please please please' go to another of his gigs the following night. So playing coy, say I have to check my calender and maybe I'll be there. By the time I wake up and check my email there is another e-mail from him asking me again to go, and stressing how much fun he had. Ok, so we may be moving at a snails pace, but atleast there is some kind of interest. Plus he is not actting like dirt-bag wanna be rocker.
The following night, I jackass to the location of the gig, and as I set foot on the dock, hear my name and introduction being made on the microphone! Uh, yeah, a bit embarrassing, yet very cute. He must be in to me right? The round of songs take place and I start to get questioned; 'is that your boyfriend?' (uh no, I reply with a smile), 'is that your husband?' (no he's not, I reply laughing). 'Are you sure he's not your boyfriend? Do you realize he just sang 3 songs in a row with your name in them!' (Smiling and laughing, again I say no, yet I am working on it.) Well the night moves quickly, and there was one embarrassing moment with a drunken patron of the bar (way too long to go in to even for you guys). But I straigten everything out with 'Contendor 2' and he makes sure I am ok because he is ok. Again I am asked to hang around after the gig, and again he and I hang out for an hour, just talking and hugging (I will have to admit he gave awesome hugs). Ever the gentleman he walks me to my car and asks if I'll be ok to drive. Which I assure him yes, as I only drank club soda. He also promised me that he would make me a cd of his original stuff (yeah he is somewhat established). So there I was, technically the third time hanging out. No lip action, no hip action, and the question hanging over my head 'is he interested in me romantically or just wants a gig buddy?'
During the week we exchange more e-mails and he asks if I will be going to the Thursday night gig which is closer to my house. I reassure him yes, and that this time I will be bringing a few friends & my cousin. That way he can meet people I actually know. And my lovely readers...this is where it goes W-E-I-R-D. Get down to the location and he is already there and on the phone with someone. Hugs and kisses hello, he asks if I want to sit with him as he eats dinner (huh...didn't seem to ask me to dinner or if I wanted anything). As I was about to say yes, one of my new friends showed up (whom he met prior) and he said for me to hang with her. His night starts and it's the usual, he does a bunch of 'my' songs, and then takes a break. On break, he comes over to me and we're hanging out when my cousin and her fiancee show up. They come over, I introduce everyone and 'Contendor 2' takes off like a bat outta hell! What the hell was that about?!? Prior to the night's festivities, he was excited about meeting my crew. He avoids us like the plague, and finally goes on again.
On his second break, he comes over to my cousins and myself and seems a bit more relaxed. Yet things are still not 100% normal. My cousin and her guy are confussed as to his reaction. I'm confussed and slightly embarrassed by his reaction. Anyway my cousin and her guy leave, and 'Contendor 2' goes on for the third set. It's growing late, I'm exhausted, my bra is hanging on his mic stand, and there are some girls who are just getting under my skin with how they were acting. Finally the night is through and a regular buys 'Contendor 2', and his sidekick a drink. Then he proceeds to buy me one as well. After a few minutes, I get up to go thank the guy for buying me the drink, when 'Contendor 2' grabs me and starts to tickle and cuddle with me. He asks his sidekick to take a picture of us using the phone camera. Wow! I think to myself...it's he asking for a photo of us. This must signify something! 'Contendor 2' and the sidekick are packing up their gear and I proceed to talk with the regular who bought us all drinks. I also get roped in to talking to these older, smarmy real estate agents but all the while keep my eye on 'Contendor 2' for him to signal for me to go to him. I brake away and sit back in my regular spot while 'Contendor 2' and sidekick start to load up the truck. Again the real estate people swarm me, and I get roped into conversation. Keeping an eye on the door, I see 'Contendor 2' walk in, he sees me talking to the one guy who bought us drinks, THEN 'CONTENDOR 2' salutes the staff of the bar and walks out the door, not even acknowledging me! I stop speaking in mid-sentance and the regular gets annoyed and asks if 'Am I keeping you from something?'. So uh, yeah guy, nice way to prove you're less than understanding.
I ask the one bar maid if 'Contendor 2' left, as the staff all know that something (what I now have no idea what 'something' was, was going on with 'Contendor 2') had left. She looks around perplexed and answers she is unsure. So giving him the benefit of the doubt, I wait another 20 minutes...exhausted, confussed, yet still hoping he came back yet he didn't. I go home, consult with my aunt and then take the inniative to e-mail him and ask what happened.
Well my loves...you're probably guessing it by now. It has offically been a week, and no e-mail back from 'Contendor 2'. What happened? Why hasn't he replied? Was I so wrong as to accept a drink from the regular and thank him for it? Why do all these unanswered questions make me feel like so cheesey reporter? Why is my confussion and indifference now growing to annoyance with 'Contendor 2'? Why...I'll tell you why in one word; CLOSURE. Yes, I'm a big fan of closure. Was it something I did? Not make it clear enough that I was interested in him? Was it that he was just looking for a pal? Either way, if any relationship is going to be a healthy one...communication is key. And as the dataing saga continues....'Contendor 2' is standing in the spot light...a million miles away.

The blind date

God love her, my cousin Fran. She is a wonderful, fun-loving, animal loving, kind, generous woman who I am lucky enough to be able to have in my life. So being that we're the same age and she knows I am on the look-out for (lack of better term) 'Mr. Date-able' keeps her eyes peeled for me. As do my other closeknit circle of female friends. So about 3 weeks ago, as I sit in my office, working like a little doggy, to my surprise my phone rings and it is Fran, in a fit of excitement.
(F) "You'll never believe how funny this is. But a friend of mine has come in to my office and asks if I know any nice girls for his cousin. I answer of course, and gave you a call."
(Me) "All right, I'm for meeting this guy. And I trust your judgment. Give him my number, I'll meet him."

And there you have it. The two sentences that can either put you on the path of coupledom or make it to a blog such as the one I am writing. Fran proceeds to do her screening of 'contender 1'. He has a decent job, comes from a good family, is a few years older than me and doesn't mind if a woman has tattoos. (Yes people I have tattoos. 7 of them). She then proceeds to give my numbers to 'Contender 1's' cousin and I was to expect a phone call that night. Well that evening-no call. I call my matchmaker to fill her in, and give 'contender 1' the benefit of the doubt. After all, it was a Thursday night. So come Friday, I am given a cryptic message through *and I sing* matchmaker, matchmaker make me a match...Find me a find...Catch me a catch. Again, Fran requests I call her after da-duh-dum...'the phone call'. Well Friday evening, 'contender 1' does call me, and he seems *gasp* normal, *gasp gasp* nice, and above all easy to talk to. We make tentative plans to meet the following week due to our schedules.

Let's jump ahead, shall we? 'contender 1' proves to be the gentleman and drives out towards me to meet me at a public place, for some adult beverages. (Yes boys and girls...That means cocktails). So I go a bit goofy, have my makeup done at Macy's...But nothing outlandish...Just to perk me up and it comes out horrid. Thank God I had makeup with me, as I run into the ladies room to fix the disaster and still have time to meet him outside. 'Contender 1' is a nice looking man, not too tall. (Okay he totally lied about his height...he said he is 5'6", but lets say more like 5'3"). And I know this as I am only 5', and my heels had me eye to eye with him. I am not completely superficial, just upon meeting someone, not the best thing to do-LIE about the height. So we go in, sit at the bar...he drinks beer, I stick to my vodka tonics and no food is ordered. Why, I have no clue. He had a 'big' lunch, (I hadn't had anything the whole day). He asked if I *mumbles* 'want to order anything', I reply if 'you'd like to we can.' However there was no food to be ordered while with 'Contender 1'. Anyway, we hang out for about 2 1/2 hours...chatting. I felt we did an equal amount of chatting. Discussed his sister's upcoming wedding, his cockerspaniel, the fact that he never got in to music but did see U2 once, and work. He did proceed to use the restrooms twice, and on one of those visits I did get checked out by another guy (which is the next blog entry). However being that I was on a date, did not flirt with anyone...did NOT acknowledge 'Contender 2' at all. Finally with nothing else to discuss, 'Contender 1' asks if I'm ready to go, and proceeds to walk me to the car. And with the wrap of the blind-date proceeds to extend his hand and utter the most bizarre line 'We'll be in touch.'

Ok, so I didn't feel any sparks. However I did think the evening went well, and should he want to get together again would have gladly said yes. However after uttering that line before he zoomed away, was not about to make the next call to thank him for a pleasant evening. So now the verdict was out. How did it go? Was he in to me? Would I hear from him? What the hell was up with the hand shake and the 'we'll be in touch' mumbo-jumbo? Family and friends and even co-workers were all stumped. Patients at my mother's office had no clue what it meant. I never got a phone call. I was fine with that as 'Contender 2' was on the horizon (and a complete hottie/musician). Yeah, I'll tell you what 'Contender 1' meant by 'We'll be in touch' (what, was I on some interview?)

About a week later, cousin Fran sets off my Monday morning feeling dejected, and like a failure for this whole blind date ordeal. Turns out 'Contender 1' finally told his cousin (who assisted in the set-up) that 'I just didn't feel any sparks'. (Which ok, although I am no Angelina Jolie...I don't think I'm a complete bow-wow). But then he proceeds to LIE and tells his cousin that he did most of the talking!!! Anyone who knows me, knows I have the gift of gab. So why lie, knowing that would come back to me?

And that was that ladies and gents. Round one in the dating disasters of Dr. Orelinde. Would I go on another blind date? Sure...no sweat. Will I ever end a date with 'We'll be in touch'? Under no circumstances, ever would I. All I am saying is be honest. If you do not feel you can say face to face with the person, 'look it was nice to have met you, but I think we should remain friends'. Then at least do it over the phone! As for 'Contender 2'? Stay tuned for that blog entry.

Introduction to dating disasters 101 with Professor Ro.

Alright...I try not to be jaded and cynical. However anyone who knows me, and pretty much loves me knows that a lot has happened in my life to make me jaded and cynical. And it sucks, because deep down I am a ROMANTIC! I cry every time when I watch Armageddon. I rooted for Sully and Dr. Quinn to get together although it would mean the series would pretty much suck. And in Love Actually wanted everyone to have a happy ending.
So where is my happy ending? How come I attract all the wacko's that are running amuck in the free world? I have tried the friend/family hook-up blind date thing. On-line dating? Been there, done that...Have the Visa charges and not one date. Because when it comes to on-line dating it's all LIES. These guys do want the pin-up girl who can bend herself into the shape of a pretzel. I have ventured out on my own and met some men in a neutral environment. What does it get you...Is being dropped like a hot potato with no reasoning. No phone call or e-mail for that matter. So where are all the nice guys? The decent guys who 'can't meet a nice girl' and the ones that 'want to settle down'? I truly believe that they are not all taken or as some like to say (are gay). I have come to the conclusion that NICE, NORMAL, SINGLE MEN are an URBAN LEGEND.
And due to a current rash of meeting, and going on a few dates over the past few weeks after an extremely long dryspell of dating, has become my conclusion. I had decided to do the journal thing, and log all my dating experiences until a co-worker suggested I blog it. And I shall. Because I am sure there are other people out there, in this same boat. There are others who will laugh at my plight or conclude that I am just a wacko. I'll let you draw your own conclusions. Input, vent whatever. Just know that being single, approaching the big 3-0, and trying to date is just not easy.