When it comes to the world of dating or just getting out for a friendly drink with the opposite sex, I’m happy to report this year wasn’t a complete bust. I have always enjoyed being in the company of men. Most are easy to talk with and usually offer a different point of view from my own. Interestingly enough, I’m no closer to a relationship than saying hello to the guy in the grocery lineup. All in all, it has been an eye-opening, somewhat confusing, but overall good experience. I’ve met a cocktail shaker of personalities, a complex Rosé, a chill Beer connoisseur, a Manhatten that left me wanting anything but a 25-year-old Scotch who paraded as its younger 12-year-old and a Vodka drinker who left me with an unexplainable hangover but in a good way. All great drinks, but two caught me off guard.

I’m putting myself out there, seriously, and I would like to think I am easygoing. I am a “straight-up” less is more kind of girl; I am turnkey, independent and without any drama. All I ask for in return is someone respectful, charming and fun, with the possibility of something more serious down the road. One more want: be at least 5′ 10″ cuz I’m that in heels. Is this unrealistic, too much to ask?

For the right man, I am willing to go the extra mile. I am not selling out; maybe I’m also practical, or I’m the simpler creature? The crazy thing is I am NOT alone in this…I hear this over and over again from single women like myself. When it comes to matters of the heart, everyone has a different experience. I’m not desperate, but at this rate, it’s clearly about the journey, not the destination.
Especially hard is dating after being with the same person for 31 years. Holy shit! It’s horrifying to say it out loud, and I can’t imagine what any man would think about my situation. It must be a HUGE red flag. This is funny because I was thinking the same thing about the Scotch drinker who never married. Are we the same risk factor?
I struggled a bit with the holidays. It would have been more enjoyable celebrating with someone special. It’s hard not to go to that place, forgetting everything I have written and said in the past. My glass, which is always full, is feeling empty. I needed to say that, and I’m not going to lie; it’s hard to be upbeat all the time; it’s exhausting.
I’m looking forward to closing the book in 2018 and getting on with my life. I know I keep saying this, but I am seriously taking this on! I have wasted way too much time on men who can’t see a good thing when it’s sitting in front of them, giving them an eye roll.
My mind has been working overtime, and that roommate needs to get the “F” out of my head. I’m tired of overthinking texts or deciding what my next move should be or even what I’m supposed to say, only to be disappointed again and again. I am taking myself back and not listening to anyone but me. Besides, I’ve done me a lot longer than anyone else.

 “a man is not a plan, but it would be fun to make plans with a man,” said me

Here’s to 2019 and Shaking things Up!

LC

xo