Meet the Parents (Part Two)

So this past weekend M met not only my parents but my sister and BIL (brother-in-law) at our house upstate where we spent the weekend and celebrated Hanukkah. All in all I think it went really well! Here are the details...

We picked up Sister and BIL (along with Fiona their dog) at the airport on Thursday night. We went back to M's place where Poppy was waiting to say hi to everyone! She was so excited to see Sister and Bil (thanks again to them for taking care of her when she was just a little puppy). We left Fiona and Poppy to have some doggie bonding while we went to grab some dinner. BIL and M seemed to get along quite well, guy things I guess. Sister and I were happy because there was a salad bar (seriously, you want to see me jump for joy give me a salad bar). After dinner we just headed back to M's place, walked the dogs and then stayed up chatting for a bit before going to sleep.
The next morning we got ready, picked up some bagels and hit the road up to Saratoga. After some seat rearranging (Poppy preferred to be in the backseat with me) we were situated and enjoyed a stress free ride upstate. Did you know there is a Hanukkah channel on XM radio? Well, we found it and had a blast with it in the car. The ride took less than three hours and were home and it was time for M to meet Mom and Dad (and Trixie their dog)! We walked in and once the introductions had been made M fit right in. We headed right out to grab some lunch (another salad bar, could this weekend get any better?!) and then look at some houses with Sister and BIL. They are thinking of moving to New York and some of the houses we looked at were amazing! I hope they move up here, it would be so great to have my sister closer than FL. Once we were all house hunted out we headed home and had a little bit of time to rest before my parents took us out to an amazing dinner! We went to a wonderful place called Lake Ridge and all I can say about dinner is "OMG!!!!" Yes, it was that delicious! I was so stuffed afterwards I couldn't wait to go home and just put on comfy pants and lounge on the couch. So, that is pretty much what I did as soon as I walked in the door. Meanwhile, my Dad and M decided to go out for a nightcap, so the two of them headed out to a bar in town called 9 Maple which has the largest selection of scotched in New York State. I have no idea what time they got home, I was already asleep.
In the morning I had to wake up M because BIL wanted M to join him to get bagels for breakfast. They headed off while my Dad and I squeezed fresh OJ and I tried to squeeze information about the before out of him! He had three scotches (after the champagne and two bottles of wine from dinner) so he couldn't remember what he and M talked about! Grrrrr. Anyway, after breakfast everyone went their own way. M and I stayed at the house for a while so I could have an extra rest b/c I had not slept well the night before. Once we were ready to head out we went to the main street in town, Broadway. We walked around and did a little shopping and grabbed a bite for lunch. After than I drove M around Saratoga a bit so he could get more of a fell for the town, we stopped at the grocery store for my Mom and then headed home. The house was in full swing getting ready for our annual Vodkas and Latkes Hanukkah party! My Dad made about eight pounds of latkes and we each contributed another dish. Friends and neighbors stopped by and it was a ton of fun! Not a bottle of vodka left at night's end! Once the house was cleaned up Mom, Sister, M and I stayed up playing a game of Apples to Apples and talking. Mom asked M about our first date and our relationship, it was very cute because she basically already knows everything, but she was hearing it from M's point of view.
At some point we all hit a wall and decided to call it a night.
The next morning we went for a yummy breakfast/lunch in town and hit Target (living in NYC I always look forward to a Target run anywhere I am). Them M and I hit the road to come back to real life (not that I wanted to). The whole weekend was really fun and like I said, I think M fit right in. My family all liked him, they have already told me. It was so important to me that this weekend went well, because as much as I love M having my family love him too makes all of this more real.

So, I know I have not been the best about blogging just doing these weekly super long updates. I will try to be better!!

Thanksgiving Update!

I know I know...it took me a while to put up this post. But Thanksgiving weekend was such a whirlwind I feel like I have been playing catch up with my sleep every since! Okay, so here goes...

Wednesday Night
M came into the city and we met my friend A and her parents for dinner at one of our favorite local places, Picnic. If you have not been try to get there, the food is always fresh and delicious and they have a reasonable wines by the glass list! We had a really yummy dinner where M and A's dad really hit it off talking about things the rest of us didn't really understand (technology stuff is not my area of expertise). After dinner A cam back to my place with us where we had a beer and I started to make the treats I would be bringing to Thanksgiving dinner. M took Poppy for a walk while A and I talked about some of her adventures in dating and relationships (but that could be a whole other blog!). Anyway, I made a kale salad and an apple crumble which kept me awake till after 1AM! M was so great, he saw that I was fading and made me get into bed while he waited for the crumble to come out of the oven.
Thursday
I had to be up at around 4:30 since I was working on Thursday at my second job at the gym. I was there from 5:30am-2pm (and people were still calling upset that we were not open longer!). I was exhausted after the night before, not getting much sleep, and worried that my cooking would not be received well. While I was at work, M took Poppy (and the food I had prepared) and drove out to New Jersey to get some stuff for his place. It was a good way for Poppy to get used to being there and for M to spend some time with her. I took the bus out to meet him when I was done with work and had enough time to rest for about a half an hour before we had to change and head over to his parent's house.
When we got there things were in full swing! His dad had prepared most of the meal (including the yummy turkey) and his mom was busy putting out cheese plates and dips for before dinner. The house was just a tiny bit cleaner then the last time I was there, but the piles were still visible. And his mom was wearing sweat pants and an oversized t-shirt yet again. I guess that is just her style? Although, if I were having fifteen people over I would put a little effort into my appearance, but that's me. Anyway, his whole family was there, all the brothers and sisters, cousins, aunt, uncle, and grandparents. I met them all and I think things went really well. His grandmother really liked Poppy (in fact when he saw her on Monday she asked about Poppy) and was really quite a character. I enjoyed spending time with them and it really felt comfortable and easy. I didn't feel any pressure or nervousness and I don't think they did either. When we got home later that evening his mother called to speak to me just to once again thank me for bringing food as well as helping to clean up. I thought that was so nice and maybe showed that she is starting to like me.
(Black) Friday
I have never gone shopping on the Friday after Thanksgiving, so I guess there is a first time for everything. M just moved into a new place and needed alot of stuff to make it livable. I mean there is a bed, couch, TV, and some basics, but there were lots of things lacking. So we headed out to brave the crowds. Our first stop was Petsmart to get some things for Poppy so that she will feel at home at M's place. Poppy had lots of fun walking around the store picking out toys and treats! After dropping Poppy off at home to enjoy her new stuff, we headed to Costco. The crowd was not bad at all and M got the stuff he needed (including an air mattress for overnight guests like my sister and brother-in-law who come into town tomorrow!!). The next stop was Target where the crowds were a bit much, especially around the toy isles, oy vey! But since it was later in the day, I think we missed the big 4AM rush! We got a few more things for M's place and some stuff for me to keep there as well. After that I was so hungry that we we decided it was time for some lunch. Now, I know some might laugh at me, but I am a sucker for a salad bar. So off we went to Ruby Tuesday in the mall. That was our first foray into the wild that is known as Black Friday. The crowds were INSANE! I would be very happy to never go to the mall on Black Friday ever again. But we had one more stop to make and that was Bed Bath and Beyond. I feel like we spent the most time in that store because there was really just so much to get. From bedding to silverware to towels, you get the idea. Anyway, after that I was pretty much done. All I wanted to do was go home, put on some comfy pants and call it a day. However, M had other plans. When we got home there was little time to rest before we headed back to his parent's house for Thanksgiving Part II. Basically helping to eat the leftovers from the night before. Everything was fine (his mother wore the SAME outfit) and I was pretty quiet from being so tired. I think M got the picture and we didn't stay for dessert, instead we headed home and I fell asleep pretty much as soon as my head hit the pillow.
The rest of the weekend was pretty uneventful, lots of walks with Poppy, working at the gym both Saturday and Sunday, making breakfast together and planning our Hanukkah celebrations! We are heading upstate this weekend with my sister and BIL (brother-in-law) to visit my parents in Saratoga. This will be M's first time meeting my family, so I am pretty excited for that! Anyway, tonight is the first night of Hanukkah, so to all who celebrate, I hope you enjoy the festival of lights!

What's For Dinner

Since M and I have begun dating we usually would go out for dinner or lunch (there were also a few rare occasions when we would order in). But recently we have begun to change up that routine. I have been cooking dinner in the evenings that we are both at my place. I feel like a little Balabusta (as my Savta would say...it's Yiddish). I have actually really enjoyed these nights when M just comes over and I am in the kitchen making something yummy. And the other day we reversed the roles and M made me a really delicious breakfast! It is funny though, I never thought that would be something I would enjoy. I mean, I have always really liked to cook, but I never thought about how much I would enjoy cooking for someone else. It makes me so happy when I see how much M enjoys something I have made. And something about the whole thing just feels so natural. It is the days that we are not together that are beginning to feel strange. This is not me saying I have to spend every minute with him. In fact we talked about how great it is that we both do our own thing, me with my friends, him with his, and we still can come home (or rather to each other's places) afterwards and be together. Of course doing things together is great, and I look forward to our next dinner (which is Thanksgiving...at his parents...with his mom!)

Happy Anniversary!!

Happy Anniversary to my friends M & J!!! It has been four years since your beautiful wedding day here in New York City and I still remember what a wonderful time we all had. You both looked so happy and continue to look happy in your married life. And since that day in November of '06, you have welcomed the most gorgeous little girl into the world (hello S!). So, I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how much your friendship means to me. And J, how much I appreciate you staying on the phone with me for all the good and bad calls. You have told me time and again that marriage is more than just decorating your home together and I believe you. There are good and bad times, and you have to figure out how to work through the bad stuff to make the rest sooo much better! I hope you both enjoy your special day (and yes, I am super excited to see you tomorrow).

Meet the Parents

So this past Friday I met M's parents. Before the actual meeting, I had been talking to M about it and I told him how I wasn't nervous but rather I was excited. Mainly because I felt that meeting the parents makes this all the more real. It is one thing for M and I to talk about our relationship when it is just the two of us, but it is something else to introduce our families into it as well. So, off we went to NJ where his parents prepared a dinner that they picked up from somewhere else. It seemed funny to me that they were so relaxed that they didn't bother to make dinner for their son's new girlfriend, but rather just brought it in. It didn't really matter to me either way and M did let me know that's probably what they would do, so I wasn't surprised. What I was surprised about was the state of the house in general and the fact that his mother was wearing sweat pants and a t-shirt (while I changed twice to make sure I looked nice). The house itself was something out of 1974, and with just a few more piles of stuff could be a contender for "Clean House" on the style network (it isn't bad enough to be on "Hoarders"). It made me a bit nervous that M would be like that, but he assured me that while he likes to keep certain things, he can't stand the way his mother keeps the house and he and his dad talk about it all of the time. All that aside, I tried to just focus on getting to know his parents and letting them get to know me a bit as well.
Dinner was fine and I think the conversation was very easy. There were a few questions about what I do and where I am from. I will say that his mom asked me a few times if I ever think about moving back to Miami. I answered honestly that it would be nicer to be closer to my family, but that I have no plans to do so at this time. What I found funny is that she kept on asking about it, like she is scared that I would take M away from his family. It was a little strange, but not as awkward as when the issue of Thanksgiving came up. M mentioned it and how I would be meeting certain people to which his mother responded "Aren't you going home for Thanksgiving?" Apparently, she had no idea that M had asked me to come spend it with him and his family. He had asked his dad, but I guess the information never got to his mom. M has told me that he has a very close relationship with his dad and that his one with his mother is a bit more strained, so I guess this was my introduction to that.
But, in the end, I think the whole night went well. Both of his parents were really lovely to me, they both said I was welcome to come over anytime and that they enjoyed meeting me. So, things (I think) were all good at the end of the night. What do you think?
Now, its onto meeting my parents, who are coming up in December!

The Hills Are Alive...

With the Sound of Music....

That is perhaps one of my all time favorite movies. It is my mom's favorite and I guess it sort of rubbed off on me. So when i found out that there was going to be a Sound of Music sing along all over the country on Tuesday, I had to go! So I told M about my love for all things Julie Andrews, musical, and obviously the references to World War II (for those who don't know, I work in Holocaust education). He was down with going and we were off! But not before I let my brother-in-law (BIL) know about the event and begged him to take my sister. That way it would be like a two state double date. Plus, the songs in the movie were the songs my sister and I used to sing when we would put on shows for the family, I knew she would have a great time!
Anyway, double date aside, I had so much fun! I sang my little heart out and just enjoyed every minute of that movie. What is funny is that I always knew what it was about and what the messages were, but I felt them so much more strongly as an adult. What a beautiful film. One that M had never seen, so I was even more excited to introduce him to it. He said he enjoyed it too, but I think he enjoyed watching me totally dork out to the sing along! No matter, it was such a fun night.

In other M news...I am meeting his parents on Friday night for dinner!

P.S. I Love You

Yup...Love Love Love. That word has been said and said again between M and I. A few weeks ago, I was walking home from work and listening to my ipod when like a ton of bricks I realized that I loved M. I didn't say anything and we went off to Bear Mountain for Crusher's wedding. M was wonderful and I really did fall in love with him when he said "I feel like our meeting and our relationship is like a movie...actually because it's with you, it would be a musical." (for those of you who know me, you know how I feel about musicals!!) But, for some reason I just couldn't say it. It was not an issue of wanting him to say it first, I think I was just scared to let him know how I was feeling.
Then the next weekend we up to his Alma mater with some friends of his for a football game. After a VERY long drive, we headed out to their favorite bar where I watched as he and his fraternity brother chatted and I got to know the other people with us. Every now and then I would catch M looking at me and he would just smile. I think that's when I knew he loved me too. At the end of the night the bar plays a song that reminds me of my grandfather every time I hear it. I started to cry, a little at first, then full blown water works. M just held me and let me use his shoulder as a tissue. He knew that this part of the night would be hard for me as it had been exactly one year since my grandfather's passing, so hearing what I always thought of as 'his song' was really sad. When we got back to the hotel, M looked at me and just said, "I can't keep it in anymore, I love you" and I just smiled and said it right back, and told him that I had been feeling it for a while. The rest of the weekend was kind of blur of football, drinking, and eating.
We went apple picking and to a pumpkin patch on the way back to NYC and the whole time I was thinking, "He loves me...woo hoo!!"
During the week we talked almost daily (which has been going on for a while). Then on Thursday night we ordered in dinner and just watched TV together. He got some work done and I worked on looking for a new job (nothing new there). On Friday night we had a late Shabbat dinner at my friends M&J's place, with their adorable baby S! She is such a cutie, I loved getting to spend some time with her and watch her smile and try to eat her little fingers. We enjoyed a great dinner and wonderful conversation and I think they liked M. I know he liked my friends and had a great time with them. Saturday we had a late breakfast before I had to go to work, we met up later that night to head out to NJ to act as chaperons to his brother and sister's Halloween party. Heading back into the city on Sunday morning, I couldn't help thinking about what it would be like to really make a life with M. I had never though about that kind of stuff before, I almost refused to allow myself to think about it. Telling myself that all of it just might not happen for me. but with M, I can't help it! I want see what it would be like, I want to be with him, start a life with him, have all of those things I never thought I would.
I can't say that I know what is going to happen, but I am so happy and so excited to see what happens next.

You've Got to Have Friends

I was looking over all of your comments to my last post and I have to say thanks for all of your words of support. For those of you who know me, or only know me through my blog, you know that this whole process has been a difficult, sometimes funny, and many time emotional one. I have loved sharing some of my awesome dating stories with you and most of all, I love hearing all of the advice from the blogger community.
That said I noticed a post that reminded me not to ignore my relationship with friends and with myself. I have to say that is the last thing I would ever want to do! I relish my alone time, and have had the last few nights to myself to think not only about M, but about me and my life. As for my friends....I love my friends! You have all been so great to me for so many years. Just because M is in my life, why would I ever throw that away?! Even though I am so excited to be seeing M again this weekend, that didn't stop me from making plans with some of my girlfriends for the weeks ahead. I love spending time with them! I am looking forward to my brunches at Calle Ocho, my girl's night out dinners, and trips to Target. Of course I would love for M to get to know my friends and visa versa, and I am sure it will happen organically. But I am not walking away from my friendships (and if any of my gals felt like I was, I am sorry...call me, let's make plans!!!!).

AMAZING!

I keep falling more and more for M the more time I spend with him and this past weekend was no exception. We met on Thursday night and headed down to the Bowery Ballroom for a Fountains of Wayne concert I had gotten tickets for a while ago. I love that band and I was so happy to introduce M to them (he said he really liked it). It was a great show in a very cool venue I had never been to before. I still didn't get called up onto the stage for "Hey Julie" but I will keep going to concerts until I do! M told me I should and I won't lie, I fell for him a bit more that night.
On Friday M and I made our way down to South Street Seaport to wait in line for TKTS. The line is so much shorter than Times Square and offers all of the same shows, so why not take a trip downtown? It was a beautiful day, so we walked around a bit before heading to our next stop (and M's choice) Eataly. Now, I had not really heard too much about this place (other than my dad mentioning something about it and now he is super jealous). It is an Italian food market/hall that opened with some of the most delicious looking foods I have ever seen! You can buy everything you need there to prepare a truly gourmet meal. M and I walked around a bit (and funnily enough even ran into my old roomie and her family!) and then decided we had to eat. There are different seating options and we chose the pasta/pizza area. I am so glad we did! We ordered a glass of white wine each and the tore into the bread and olive oil that we were served. Honestly? I would bathe in this olive oil, it was that good! We then shared a roasted pumpkin and butternut squash lasagna (OMG...no words!) and a margarita pizza with fresh tomato sauce (also, amazing). And of course since we were in Eataly, we finished off our day there with some fresh gelato! I won't lie, the place is crowded, but totally worth it!
After our amazing lunch, we headed back up to my place to make a quick change and have some playtime with Poppy before we headed out to see "Billy Elliot." Now, I have waited so long to see that show, and M didn't really have a preference on what to see, so off we went. Let me just say that I loved it!! I loved it sooo much! I was a huge theater person all through high school and college, so I always feel a little sad seeing shows knowing it isn't my world anymore, but when a show is great, it makes me so happy and this show is great! I know M had a great time, he said he liked the show alot, but what he really liked was watching how much I enjoyed it. Yup, falling again for M.
Saturday was the day of the wedding so we walked Poppy, started to get ready and headed out to CT. I was so excited for M to meet my friends! We had a great ride in the car, singing to songs and just talking the whole way. We got to my friend's hotel room where we were changing and it felt like everyone just got along smoothly, like we were all old friends. I was laughing so hard I was starting to cry, but there wasn't time for that! We had to get to the church!
What a lovely wedding! Everything about it was just so perfect for my beautiful friend Crusher! She made a gorgeous bride, and the smile on her face was contagious! The wedding was full of fall colors and sunflowers, and it was just a beautiful moment that I was very happy to be a part of. After the ceremony we had a bit of a drive to the reception location. We caravaned over to Bear Mountain and checked into our lodge. M and I were put in a room at the back of the lodge (there were six rooms total) and it was the only room that smelled like smoke. Oh well, we made the best of it (although we noticed our bathroom was super tiny and the red light from the exit sign in our room made it difficult to sleep). The reception was so much fun! We danced and ate and drank and I think everyone had an all around great time! We hung out at the after party and then everyone had it and went to bed (or in M and my case, we went back to the Red Light District).
The next morning we woke up and headed to the brunch (or hiked rather). After which we all headed our separate ways home. It was such a wonderful wedding and I can't wait to see my friends again! I know they loved M and he really had fun with them too.
Once we were home, M said he would stay for a bit before heading on his way. We went out to grab some lunch and wound up sitting there for over three hours. We just talked alot about where this is going and how much we are enjoying being with each other. The whole time we are talking my heart is telling me how much I care about him, but I just can't bring myself to tell him the big L word. I know it seems like it is fast, but when you know, you know. Right? We walked back to my place and M said he was just going to stay and head into work from my place so we could keep talking about everything. It was possibly one of the best nights we have had together, we just stayed up talking, there was no cookie, no kissy face, just talking about how we feel, about what we want, and how much we want to be together. We fell asleep and in the morning he cuddled with me a bit before he had to leave to work. And I fell for him some more.
We have plans to go away again this weekend and I cannot wait to see him again and spend more and more time with him. My friend Z (at the wedding) told me I'm done, maybe I am....

Get Me to the Church on Time

Yay! This weekend is my friend Crusher's wedding! I can't wait to see her in what I am sure will be a beautiful wedding dress (and some sparkly shoes). I have known Crusher since our freshman year of college. And even though we lost touch for a bit, I am so happy that we reconnected and I can be there to watch her get married. This is also the wedding where M will be meeting some more of my friends (including my best friend and accomplice). We have talked about it and we are both very excited to be spending the weekend together (we are actually spending the whole weekend from Thursday night on together). And I don't think he is nervous at all about it. To be honest, neither am I. I just know that we fit so well together and I feel like my friends are going to see that.
So I am sure I will have so much more to update when we get back! And I can't wait!

Mazel Tov Crusher and Ass Wild!!!

Happiness...

...does not exist in a vaccum. This is according to my very best friend (the person who knows me better than myself) who is going through a very difficult time at the moment. Now, I know she sometimes reads this and I would never share what is going on without her permission. But I hope that you can all just send some positive thoughts out to the universe for her. I have been on and off the phone with her all week and even made a trip to see her so I could be with her through this. All I want to do is make everything better for her, my heart is breaking for my best friend.
And in the middle of all of that, my heart is so happy with this new relationship with M. I know that I light up whenever we are together and even my mother says I sound happy and different on the phone. Everything is so much better when he is around and I love every minute we spend together. While there has been no decleration of love, there has been the decleration of being on the way there. I can say in all honesty that I have never been with someone that I felt like this about. And I know (as I said before) it hasn't been that long, but I don't want to change any of it. I think about him being there for things down the road, like holidays and family stuff (I have never done that before). I told a friend that this is all so weird, but she says it is all just wonderful and to go along with it. So that is what I am going to do.
But in the middle of it all, there is my best friend. The one person who wanted this for me more than anyone else and I don't want to tell her how happy I am while she is so upset. I know that things happen for a reason, and I know in my heart that she will be okay. I just wish this wasn't all happening right now.

Splitting the Bill

So this story comes from a lovely single gal I met out at a brunch recently. We were all sharing some of our more interesting dating stories, but I think S's story was by far the best! And with her permission, here it is.

S is a runner and has been working with a training group (which by the way, what a great way to meet people). She met a guy (I am going to call him Big Spender, BS for short) and they became friendly until one day he asked her out on a date. S was super excited and said yes! Well, BS suggested a really nice place that was a bit pricey, but S figured okay. When they arrived at the restaurant, BS suggested appetizers and entrees and S happily agreed to it all. After all, he had asked her out and she was just along for the ride. She was enjoying herself and they enjoyed a lovely (and expensive) dinner. When the bill came BS asked S to split the bill. Well, S was shocked (and this is my favorite part of the story) she said sure, took the bill from him and tore it two pieces. She handed the half with the total and said, "that's your part."

Best dating story ever!! What do you think? Should BS have paid the whole bill or was it right for him to ask to split it. I mean he did pick the expensive place and pushed to order more items. What do you all have to say....I can't wait to read your responses!!

Sunday Special

I got back from celebrating Yom Kippur in Philadelphia early on Sunday morning and M came over around noon to spend the rest of the day together. When he arrived he had some cards in his hands for my birthday. He had told me before he felt so badly about not having a card on my birthday, but I wasn't upset and I was surprised he remembered. Anyway, the first card wasn't even from him. He picked up a card and signed it from Poppy! I thought that was so sweet and really cute! The next card was from M and it was very funny. The thing I didn't notice until today was that he signed it "love, M." I am not going to make more of it than necessary, but I don't throw that word around, so when I really looked and noticed it, it did throw me for a bit of a loop. Anyway, moving on....
We made a list of all of the things we wanted to do. M is moving into a new apartment and he needs all sorts of furniture. So we started at Sleepy's trying out mattresses and moved onto furniture stores. When I asked M what his style was he was like, "what style?" He was basically thinking of just getting a leather couch and calling it day! I won't lie, I have black leather furniture too, its easy to clean and you can add all sorts of accent pieces to make it individual. When I mentioned to M what other colors he would want he looked at me like I had three heads. It was pretty funny! We had so much fun looking at so many different couches and tables and all of that stuff. By the end of the excursion he said he had a better idea of things he would like and that he got some great ideas. After we were done pretending to decorate his new place we went over to Brooks Brothers because he needed some new shirts for work. We found some great options, one that I just LOVED! But they didn't have his size. He said he was going to see if they have it at another one, who knows? Maybe he'll show up wearing it one of these days? We finished the day off my having yummy sushi and walking around a street festival that we found on our way home.
The whole day spent together was so easy. And when we got back to my place it just seemed natural that he should stay. We both had work the next day so we had to be up early, but i didn't want him to leave and he didn't want to go anywhere either. While we were in bed he started to laugh about something and when I asked him what he said nothing. Now, I couldn't stand for that, so I made him tell me. He then proceeded to tell me how when we first started dating he was surprised because I wasn't what he thought he was looking for, but now he really wants to be with me. That I surprise him every time we are together, he likes being with me and maybe the things he thought he wanted weren't really what he wanted at all. Yes, I will be honest and say that my heart was pounding and I was blushing and didn't know what to say. I told him how much I like being with him and how I feel like we just fit together and this is all just so comfortable.
So, who knows where this is all going (my mother is already planning my wedding, I am sure of it). I just know that I like where we are, and even though its all happened so fast I don't want to change anything.

The Boyfriend and The Birthday

Wow, I just used the word boyfriend! I know that I mentioned that M and I talked about being exclusive, but I am very wary of using the "B" word. However, the other night M used the word girlfriend about me so I guess that's what it is. And wonder of wonder I am totally great with it! Holy crap, LMG has a boyfriend?! Who ever thought that would happen (I think we all know not me).
Anyway, M did such a great job making me feel special on my birthday. I won't lie having a birthday on a Monday is no fun and having a birthday at my crappy job was even worse! To be honest it isn't even worth getting into. Needless to say I needed a pick me up when I got home. M called me during the day to give me a bit of a hint as to where we were going , the word he gave me was "spicy." My mind was racing to all sorts of different places where we could have been going. When I got home, M came to meet me and we headed in a cab downtown. He apologized for not having a card or anything but he had been running late after a work meeting and wanted to make sure to be on time. I was a little disappointed in not getting at least a card, but once I saw where dinner was I was so excited that it didn't matter! M took me to Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill! I had been there once before with my family but can't really remember it. Anyway, what an AMAZING meal!! I don't think I can go into total details (take a look at the menu, I promise everything was delicious!!) but I will tell you that I enjoyed every single bite. I can tell you that dessert was like nothing I have every had before, a deep dish banana cream pie (which I don't think was like pie at all). OMG, there are no words! The plate said "Happy Birthday" and I got to blow out a candle, and I was just so happy.
After dinner M came over for just a little bit but had to leave since he had an early train to catch (eve though he wanted to stay). All in all, 31 is starting off well and I look forward to what else it has in store.

Thanks so Much!!

As I mentioned in a previous posts, I was nominated for a couple of awards and a game of tag from some of my fellow bloggers. So, now I am going to make good on my promise and post about it.

The award is called

Thanks to my fellow Blogger The Frisky Virgin I think you are very brave to share your story with the blogging community. I love that you're so honest and funny about what you have been through, and your posts on other subjects (like sports and makeup) just make it better! Keep your chin up, you're awesome!

Also, thanks to Cinderita (same award). I have to say first off that your comments to me always make me smile. Besides that I love your blog! You are very open with what you are thinking and feeling and sometimes I can identify so strongly with what you're going through. I hope nothing but good things for you!!

Now the game of tag was something I was tagged in by one of my favorite bloggers, MCW. It is one of the first blogs I started to read when I began blogging and I am addicted to it! So here are the rules for this game of tag. I have been asked eight questions, which I will be answering in this post. Then I will come up with eight questions of my own and tag some of my fellow bloggers (so be on the lookout!).

1. What were you like in high school? In High School, I was a total theater geek (and I won't lie, I still am). I loved working on all the shows we did and would be at school until all hours painting sets or running lines. I even went to theater competitions and won a few!
2. If you could bring one clothing style back what would it be? That is such a good question because I have no idea, I love classic simple lines which seem to always be in style. However, does anyone remember Units? You could buy one item and wear it like seven different ways?! I used to love them, it made getting ready so easy!
3. Do you have a green thumb? No.
4. What is one thing you would love to do if you came to NYC? Well, I live in NYC right now, so I have gotten to do most of what I want, but if money was no object....I would love to eat at Per Se and shop along 5th Ave!
5. One is one thing we would do if I came to visit you? We live in the same city and still have not met up, so let's do that! Drinks? Food? You name it!
6. If you HAD to decided between having a beautiful face or an amazing body which would you choose, and why? That is soooo tough! I guess face, but I don't know why, it's the one that jumped at me.
7. Are you more like your mom or your dad? I think I am a bit of both (actually all three if we can count my stepdad).
8. Is there something about yourself that you hide from people when you first meet them? I probably hide alot of things, it takes me time to warm up and open up to people. But once I do, I am an open book.

Okay, so tag you're it. I am tagging the following blogs in this game and below that you'll find my questions. I can't wait to read your answers!!
1. Nola Girl
2. Lacey Bean
3. Dee
4. Flip Flops on Lex

And here are your questions...
1. What is the one place in the world you have never been but have always wanted to go?
2. Where did you meet your best friend?
3. What movie do you watch over and over that always makes you laugh/cry?
4. Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts?
5. Have you ever had a celebrity run in? If so...share!
6. Are you a cook, baker, or none of the above?
7. What is your favorite part of everyday?
8. Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall?

Happy Birthday!!

It is official, today we enter "Operation 3.1" as it is my birthday! So far the day has been pretty uneventful, but I know that good things are on the way.....

W.A.W.

What. A. Weekend.

So, I took a really long weekend this past Labor Day starting with taking Thursday off as my mother was in town for the US open. We woke up early, took Poppy for a walk and then headed out to Flushing Meadows. I have been to tennis matches before in Miami (yes, I still call it the Lipton), but this was something totally different. The grounds of the open are HUGE! There were people everywhere and it was soooo hot!

As you can see from the picture, I was fully prepared with my big hat, sunglasses, and I got a great fan to use as well! I kept reapplying my spf 45 and I was good to go. We had so much fun with a group of ladies, drinking mojitos, hitting up the Heineken lounge, finding cooling spots, and of course watching some tennis! When my mom and I got home we were pooped! We bought a sandwich to share and just watched tv until we went to sleep.

Friday came and my mom headed back home. It was a good thing too, since M and I had planned to spend the day together and my mom didn't want to "cramp my style." M took the day off from work and came into the city and we headed down to the Museum of Natural History (after a quick bite at the Whole Foods uptown). Now, I had never been to this museum before although I have seen the movie, so I was super excited to see the big whale! That was pretty much the only thing I wanted to look at and M was just happy to be out of work (and in air conditioning). We walked around the museum a bit and then headed out to pick up Poppy who was at the groomer's. We also wanted to be back uptown before Earl rained down on us (which we know didn't really happen). After having a short rest inside we headed out to dinner and a movie. Without even knowing it we had a theme going for the evening, a yummy Italian meal, followed my cool gelato, and then "The American" (which if you don't know takes place in Italy). After the movie we were both exhausted and we went back to my place and went to sleep (after some serious kissing of course).

Saturday morning came all too soon and M and to head out early to meet his dad (it is a Saturday tradition with them). Not a big deal since I had to go to work in the afternoon (my second job as a receptionist) and I wanted to watch some of the Gator game (opening day in the SWAMP....Go Gators!!!). After the game was over and I was at work my phone rang. It was M. He explained that the family plans he thought he had were cancelled and since I had mentioned going out with friends after work he was thinking he would come back into the city to join in. I was so excited! Of course he could come, I had invited him before he left that morning. So when I got home from work he met me a few minutes later and we headed out for some dinner and drinks with some friends from college (including my former roommate and one of my best friends, A). I have to say that I was really surprised he wanted to come, meeting friends can be a big deal. But I think the situation was so relaxed and calm that it was just easy. After dinner we headed back to my place and he spent the night again.

Sunday morning rolled around and after I took Poppy for a quick walk we decided to go get some brunch with the dog and sit outside since it was a gorgeous day. We both had to be places in the afternoon, work for me and meeting a friend for him. Since I had to leave before he had to meet his friend, I told him to just stay at my place and the door would lock behind him when he left. I went to work and I'll admit I was so bored. It was not that busy, so thank goodness for my friend A who stopped by a few times to update me on her thoughts about M (all good). When I finally got to go home I took Poppy out before meeting A and some friends for dinner and noticed that M's car was still around the corner. A few minutes after the walk, he called mentioning he was headed back to my area to get his car and wondered where I was. I told him I was out with friends and he should come meet us for a drink (since I knew he had already had dinner with his friend). Well, one drink turned into a few drinks and needless to say M spent the night again. Somewhere in the middle of the drinking and picture taking and all around good time, M and I decided we don't really want to see other people since we are enjoying being with each other so much. And I really am enjoying the time I spend with him, it is just so easy.

On Monday M really did have to leave and I had plans for breakfast so he dropped me off at the bagel shop and went on his way. I don't know when we are seeing each other again because the Jewish holidays are upon us (when did that happen?!?). I will be traveling for a part of it and he may be traveling on the days when it isn't a holiday. In the midst of this, today is his birthday and mine is next Monday! So, we for sure want to do something for that (any ideas?).

Also, as I mentioned in another post, my friend Crusher's wedding is coming up. She recently sent me an e-mail mentioning that I could bring M. What do you think? Should I ask him if he wants to come? I mean going out with friends for drinks a couple of times is one thing, but a wedding? I just don't know....help!

In other news....thanks so much to my fellow bloggers for the awards I got! I will be posting about them in other entry as this one seems a little long as it is, so stay tuned!

Dancing in September

I cannot believe that September is already upon us! Even though we are reaching near record highs here in the Big Apple, I am ready for Fall to come and I feel like change is in the air!

As many of you know, this whole dating "Operation" thing got started around my birthday almost two years ago. And that day is almost here again! Yes everyone, Little Match Girl is moving past the big 3-0 and will be 31 in a short while. And I have to say I am pretty excited! I thought I would be all sorts of sad or depressed to be really entering my 30's, but that isn't the case. I have heard so many people say that your thirties are the best years of your life, and I am really hoping that will be the case! I feel like with everything that has been going on I have nowhere to go but up! I am holding onto the promise of that horoscope, I am keeping my thoughts positive about the job possibility in Miami, and I am just going with the flow with M. Even though those of you who know me know that I am not a "go with the flow" kind of gal. I will readily admit I have done a little bit of obsessing (like checking jdate to see when he has signed on or over analysing a couple of conversations), but for the most part I am keeping myself low key.

So come on September! I am ready to DANCE!

Open Shut Them

So, I had a few matches open from the matchmaking website (E and J to be specific). Last time I blogged about them I was making plans with both of them, so here is the update on that.

Let's start with J. He works near my office building so I called him and asked if he wanted to meet for coffee or lunch one day last week. I never got a call back, but rather an e-mail on the website. I found that a bit odd, but responded in kind and we agreed to meet on Wed afternoon for coffee. I got to the Starbucks he had decided on and he was waiting there ready to tell me there was no seating and we should move. Now it wasn't that all the tables were taken, it was that this Starbucks had virtually no seating save for a few stools at the front. I found it odd that he would have picked that place, but whatever, we moved on to another Starbucks (this is NYC after all, they are everywhere!). Once we had ordered and sat down we got to the regular get to know you chit chat and I just knew this was going nowhere fast. He asked what I did for a living and just couldn't let go of that subject. What I do for work is my job, it is not who I am and there are so many other things about me that are interesting. I began to feel like this date was more like a job, it became tedious and I finally decided to call it a day and said I had to get back to my office. Now, since you all know how much I hate my job you'll understand that this must have been bad if I was looking forward to getting back to my desk! Anyway, the match with J is now closed. He is a nice guy just not the guy for me.

My date with E was scheduled for Thursday evening. Ever since we had spoken on the phone I had an uneasy feeling about meeting him and when he suggested his date idea the feeling did not go away. He suggested we meet over at Chelsea Piers at 8:30 to just go for a walk along the Hudson. Okay, I am not an outdoors kind of gal. I love to take Poppy for walks in the morning, but for a date? I just don't know, maybe during the day in one of the parks where there is always something going on. But at night? I just felt uneasy about it. I cancelled the date and I don't know if I will reschedule. The match is still open, but I think I may shut it.

M and I saw each other again this weekend after our scheduling conflicts of last weekend. He was actually traveling all during the week and asked if we could just do something casual which I was fine with (casual was still going out to a place with food and drinks, not a walk on a pier at night). He said just to wear my most worn in jeans and pick a place because he was fine going anywhere low key. During the day he texted me while he was still at work to let me know he was going to be late and that work was just awful. When he finally got to me he was so apologetic, but I was fine with it because he had already let me know the circumstances. We walked hand in hand to a bar not too far from my place and ordered food and beer. He said it could not have been more perfect. He ate and drank and just had a great time. WE told each other about our weeks and he asked a bit about Miami. I didn't let him know it was with the possibility of moving, but I wonder if he has an idea that it might come to that. After dinner (mmm frickles) we walked a bit and got a cab home to my place. After taking Poppy for a walk we watched a bit of tv and played with the dog. I would be lying if I didn't own up to the whole kissy face part of the night. We were making out for a while when I asked if he was leaving or spending the night. He said it was up to me as he wanted to stay but didn't want to be presumptuous. I told him to stay and we went to sleep together (after lots more kissy face). In the morning I had to take Poppy for a walk with my dog walking friends (it is a weekend ritual). M stayed in bed because I asked him to and when I got back we went back to sleep. After waking up again with more making out, my friend called because she had to drop off some stuff at my place. I wasn't planning on a whole meet the friends thing, but it just sort of happened. She came and they met and after she left I promptly got a text from her letting me know M is cute! Well, he stayed a bit long, it was like we were both not wanting for him to leave, but when he did there was once again the knowing that we'll be seeing each other soon, but not making any definitive plans. I think we can safely say this match is definitely still open!

Positive Thinking

I usually read my horoscope everyday. It is just one of the things I do at work to procrastinate really and I don't put that much stock into it. However, when I looked at today's I couldn't help but hope! As you know I am waiting to hear about a possible opportunity in Miami. It is something that I have wanted for a very long time and I feel like the time is now for me! So here is the horoscope:

Virgo
If you've been wondering whether or not you did the right thing recently, stop it. You're about to get an unsubtle hint letting you know that you're not just headed in the right direction, but also aimed directly at bringing an old, beloved dream to life. Pay closer attention to where you are now -- and remember that you're just a few steps away from where you've always wanted to be.

M is for....

MIAMI!!!

I had a great trip. I met with the head of an organization that I want to work for (and have wanted to work for since I was a teenager). He seemed very optimistic and told me that they are so early in the process there are no other candidates and that he wants to advocate for me! So needless to say, I am very excited about this opportunity. But I am not putting the cart before the horse. I still got to work at 9 AM (about 30-45 minutes before almost everyone else!). I am still doing the work that my job right now asks of me and am not slacking off. They would like to have someone in the position by January and I am really hoping that someone is me! Besides this being professionally just an amazing opportunity, this program is something that was very close to my grandfather's heart and getting the opportunity to be a part of it would make him so very proud.

M is also for....well, M. He and I tried to make plans this past weekend for when I got back but just couldn't figure out our schedules. He is traveling again for work this week but said he will touch base to set something up. We shall see. I did not tell him why I was going to Miami, I just said it was a work thing. I just want to enjoy dating him (and other people too) while I am here. If something is meant to be it will be (thanks Mom!) and I am not going to force it nor am I going to squash it by telling him I may be leaving.

M is also for...More Dates! I talked to E last week and we are going to set something up for this week. I'll be giving him a call tonight. Saturday I spoke to J from the matchmaking site. He seemed like a nice guy although I was a bit bored on the phone. He wanted to meet for lunch since our offices are so close to each other. I'll probably give him a call tonight to set that up as well. So, who knows? This may just be the "Operation's" busiest week ever!

Just a Few Things...

Once again, no big theme to today's post, so here are the higlights of what is going on with Little Match Girl!

• Head on over to Nola Girl's blog! She is doing such an amazing giveaway, I won't lie, I really want to win!! I am a sucker for vintage jewelry and the piece she is giving away is awesome.
• I am leaving tomorrow for Miami and I will litterally be there for twenty three hours. I am going for an informal interview for a position I have wanted for years!! The person who had it has left and I found out about it before they even publicized the position being open. I am hoping I can make this happen before anyone else throws their hat in the ring!
• Thinking about moving back to Miami (if I do get this job) freaks me out!! I grew up there so of course I will be near family, but I have no social life there. No friends, I don't know anyone and the thought of that, of starting all over again, is scary.
• After a few weeks of working with my matchmaker on that other site I was really frustrated! But in the last few days have recieved two new matches. I spoke to one guy, E, last night. He seemed all right, but wasn't really into talking on the phone and immediately asked if I would like to get together. As per the rules of the "operation" I said yes. He said we could touch base when I get back from FL and do something next week.
• I have not heard from M, other than a quick text over the weekend about Poppy. I don't really know what to make of that. I am not the kind of girl who needs to talk to you every single day and all of that, but I would like to know that he wants to see me again and maybe we can make some plans. I guess now is when I am starting to second guess everything....help!!
• Poppy is feeling better and things seem to be getting back to normal. She is playing with her friends and we went to the park this morning so she could run around a bit. It makes me feel a bit better about leaving her for the day. Although she will be with a friend of mine that she knows, so hopefully she'll be fine.
• I booked my hotel yesterday for my friend Crusher's wedding in CT. I am so excited to see her as a bride (although I do wonder if she will wear sneakers with her gown). It is going to be such a fun time and I can't wait to be with some of my greatest friends (you know who you are).

Girly Girl

Hello, my name is Little Match Girl and I am a Girly Girl. It took me about thirty years to reach this point and I have to say I am none too pleased about it! I was never like this. I mean don't get me wrong I am not and never was a tomboy, but I wasn't all emotional and gooey and things like that. I guess you could say I was a bitch.
All that has changed in the last year or so. I find myself being more emotional about things that never would have effected me before. For example, I have cried at Hallmark commercials lately. Who does that?! I'll tell you who, me! This is a side of myself I never saw and never expected. When my best friend (and accomplice) got married, I was a sappy mess! So much so that all of my friends even commented on it. I find I begin crying if a book really touches me (One Day anyone? if you haven't you MUST read it). And it isn't just the whole emotional side, it's other things too. In this whole "operation" I have always just had fun and let things happen. And I am still doing that, but with M...I find myself lunging for the phone if it rings, hoping it is him. I read the text messages he sent me over again. I mean, this was NEVER my MO. Who is this girly girl I have become?

What a Night!

So M and I went out again Friday night and it was such a great night! We met at my place and then headed down to Dos Caminos on Park Ave for dinner. M picked the place and I was totally fine with that, I had picked the places the last times we went out so I was happy to let him take charge of that. We took a cab downtown and just talked the whole way and continued to talk all through dinner (which was so good). After dinner we decided to walk a bit since it was such a beautiful night. We wound up walking all the way up to Rockefeller Center where we just stood by the fountain as tourists all around us took pictures. But I honestly didn't even notice them, it was like there really wasn't anyone else around (as cliche as that sounds). All we did was talk and then he kissed me and then we talked some more. Finally we decided to walk to the train and head back uptown.
When we got back to my place we immediately took Poppy for a walk. She was so happy to see M, she was wagging her tail and following him the whole time. It was actually really cute. We got back to my place and in the words of my mom, we played "Kissy Face." Yes, that's right, those are the words used by mom of Little Match Girl, and I love it! We were on the couch for a bit, but it is kind of small (really just a loveseat) so we moved onto the bed. There was just kissing and no cookie was given away! But before I knew it we were asleep (I didn't expect an overnight and neither did he) and the reason I woke up was not a good one.
Poppy got sick all over the kitchen floor. I heard her moving around and went to investigate only to find her standing in the corner looking at me and her mess with sad eyes. I felt so badly for her, I quickly cleaned everything up and M was so great about it. He just kept an eye on Poppy making sure she didn't get in my way and that she was all right. I put her down on a chair to rest and then we went back to sleep. I was expecting him to bolt after that, I mean I wouldn't blame the guy, it wasn't a pretty picture. Instead he stayed, put his arm around me and we fell asleep again. Usually when I am sleeping with someone (and I mean sleeping) there may be a little cuddle and then I turn away and it becomes, "this is my side of the bed, that's yours." Because I am a restless sleep and usually it takes me a while to fall asleep and be comfortable. That wasn't the case, we fell asleep wrapped up together (I can't think of a good way to put it) and woke up that way. I will be honest and say that has never happened!
Anyway, I am sad to say that when we woke up in the morning I saw that Poppy had gotten sick again twice in the middle of the night. Not a pleasant way to say good morning, but once again, M was so great about it, making sure Poppy was okay and just reassuring me that she would be all right. Once we were up, M had to leave as he had an early morning planned with his dad. We said goodbye after he jokingly asked me to walk him out (I live in a studio, not far to go) and once again while there was no plan made, the intention of seeing each other again was very clear.
So, I guess things are going well with M. We will just have to see. And as for Poppy, we went to the vet, he said she should be fine, I just have to monitor and give her some medicine. So, it is a waiting game all around! Good times!

Randoms

I didn't have anything in particular to share today, so I just thought I would put together a list of random things.

• I got to work at 9:01 this morning and it took all my strength not to put a note on my boss's desk saying "LMG 9:01, Good Morning"
• I went to use the restroom at work today and was greeted by perhaps the biggest roach I have ever seen! And I am from Miami, we have roaches! It was huge, so I screamed and ran out and then used the men's room cause yes, I am a wuss. (I will also be adding this to the reasons I hate my job)
• Some of my fellow bloggers have mentioned the passing of Bumpkin. I didn't know her or read her blog, but this is a community and a loss is felt throughout. I am sure she is feeling the outpouring of love from so many.
• I feel like an awful friend because I can't go to my accomplice's birthday party tomorrow night. She lives in Boston and it is just a logistical kerfuffle. Hopefully we will be able to have a do-over!
• My littlest sister is moving to Milan to study abroad at the end of the month, she gets on my nerves more than I can say, but I am going to miss her and can't wait to hear all about her adventures!
• I have not heard from M and I am not really sweating it. I'll still be e-mailing other people on Jdate and they are having a happy hour in a few weeks I am going to go to.
• Not hearing from M makes me wonder if the fact that I told people how great everything was (people like my mom, my sisters, friends) and it was only two dates put a jinx on the whole thing. Yes, I'll admit I can be a little superstitious (some may say crazy).

Okay, I think that pretty much covers my thoughts for the day (well, as far into the day as I am at the moment).

FUMING!

Okay, so this blog is not about my usual topic but about my job. Let me just say that I love the field I work in, I spent two years in graduate school to do this type of work and when I actually get the chance I love it. However, I am stuck in a place where my work isn't really appreciated, where other people get credit for my ideas, and where we are all held to different standards. It is not a positive work environment and I am doing everything within my power to find a new job. But today? Today I am fuming, and here is why.

I was late, I am usually not late to work. But with the heat index being close to one hundred degrees I had to make sure that Poppy was well situated and taken care of before I could get on the steamy subway. When I walked into work today and went to my desk there was a note from my boss just saying "Good Morning 9:45" (I walked in at 9:49). Now, I was not the only person to walk in late, and most of the time I am one of the first people in the office. But did every other person who walked in late have that lovely note on their desks? Nope! And that is just one example of the kind of stuff I have to put up with on a daily basis. Everyday I feel worse and worse about working here and I am trying so hard to get out. The field that I am in is small and I have put feelers out to everyone I know. So hopefully I will find something sooner rather than later because honestly, I don't know how much more I can take!

I keep thinking of the words to the Lily Allen song 22: "She's got an all right job, it's not a career/whenever she thinks about it, it brings her to tears."

That I think pretty much sums it up! I am going to remain positive though and just know that there are better things to come and I will continue to work hard to make it happen!

*****************************************************

In other news that you really want to know....M sent me a message on Saturday morning after the date saying he had a great time and we would talk soon. He is out of town this week for work, but has sent me a few little messages relating to baseball (since we cheer for bitter rivaling teams). I know that I don't want to be stuck in a text zone, so I am not prolonging these into conversations. I guess I will just have to see what happens when he gets back!

Let's Talk Dirty...

Martinis that is.

M and I had talked about our mutual love of a great dirty martini so we decided to venture out last night and look for a good one. We actually just wound up at only two different places since our second place happened to make an excellent one (vodka for me, gin for him). After a couple of drinks and some yummy food, before we knew it four hours had gone by! Just like last time, we talked and talked about so many different things and time just seemed to fly by. It was just so easy and nice (even though that word does little to describe it). I was talking to my accomplice before I left and she asked if I was nervous, and what is funny about it is that I really wasn't. Not before he came, not the whole time we were together. Like I said, it just comes so easily to be with him.

Anyway, onto the stuff I know you really want to know. During dinner M leaned towards me said "come here" and kissed me. And it was wonderful (which is funny because I am so not one for PDA). It wasn't raunchy and we were not like some people who I see where all I can think is, get a room! It was sweet and soft and just lovely. I will say everything got a little more intense later in the evening. We walked back to my place, took Poppy for a walk and then he came up to my little studio. Whats funny is that even though we spent most of the time making out we still talked some more and before we knew it, it was 1:00 in the morning and M had to go.

So, I do think it all feel promising. M mentioned that he will be out of town for most of the coming week and we both said we want to see each other again. However, once again there were no plans made. So I guess we will just have wait and see....

Awash

Not only is that the name of the (mediocre) restaurant from last night but it is also the way I felt about last night's date. We decided to meet at 7 and within the first few minutes I knew this was not a match and I couldn't wait to go home. The only word I can use to describe my date with J is: awkward. It was like he didn't really know how to make conversation and I had to steer the whole thing. I was really trying to be open and excited about this date, but I just couldn't. I know this isn't someone for me (I mean, a vegetarian would not fit in my steak loving family!). At the end of dinner he asked if I wanted to go grab a drink somewhere and I politely declined. Does this mean he thinks the date went well? I guess that answers my question from yesterday's post (one person can have a totally different date experience than the other).

Speaking of yesterday's post, after my rant and venting I got a message from M when I walked in the door. He apologized for not being in contact (granted it was only 24 hours and I may have been bordering the line to Crazy Town) and asked if I would like to get together this weekend. So now we have a date set up for Friday night, one I am actually looking forward to!

A Thought....

So I heard from M over text a few times during the week and while there was talk of getting together again, when I asked what his schedule looked like I never heard back. Now, it is fine if I don't see him again. It was only one date and I am not in love or anything like that. It is just that I hate the whole "I'm going to disappear now" thing. That is was what happened with F last summer and its happened to me before with another guy I was seeing when I first moved to NYC. We had seen each other for a while and I was going out of town for a holiday. He told em to call when I got back and when I did I never heard from him again.

What is that about? If you don't want to see me again (especially if we have a relationship) have the guts to say so. As for M and the one date thing, is it possible I was the only one who had such a great time? I don't really think so (I was talking to someone today who said it just can't be the one person on a date has a great time and the other doesn't). It is so rare (for me you know it is true!!) to have a first date go well enough that I really want to see the person again! So yes, I am a little disappointed in the whole thing. Especially given his prompting of going out again. Just another thing I can say I don't understand about dating, about men, about this whole thing!

I am trying to remain positive about the whole "operation" (OMG, a little over a month till I am 31 and it's "operation 3.2" here we come!). I have a date tonight with J which hopefully will be fun as we are having Ethiopian food (ie: no utensils)! I have not been active in e-mailing new people of Jdate and the whole matchmaker thing looks like a bust (I don't think I have gotten a new match in a week!). But I know there is something good coming for me (maybe not with this, but something!!).

Carrie Bradstein?

That is what my accomplice called me last night after I shared some news with her.

I have another date! And it isn't with M! I had talked to J from Jdate a couple of weeks ago and I didn't think he was that interested. We had a nice conversation and I thought he may ask me out, but nothing really happened. He ended the phone call with a generic "well, maybe we'll get together sometime" so I didn't think anything of it. So imagine my surprise when my phone rang last night and it was J! We are going out this coming Tuesday night and he is going to pick a place and let me know over the weekend. Two dates in two weeks with two different men?! Whose life is this? Carrie Bradstein indeed!

As for an update about M. I did text him on Wednesday (sorry MCW I didn't see your comment until later) saying thanks and I had a good time. His response was "ditto. I had a really nice time. looking forward to doing it again soon :-)" But I haven't heard anything since. But like I said before, I am okay with it because at the end of the day it was one date, and I had fun!

That Was Unexpected

Last night I had a date with M, who I had spoken to on the phone a little over a week ago. We had tried to schedule something sooner but this was the night that worked. M was nice enough to let me pick a place in my neighborhood so I wouldn't have to schlep too far. So I picked a nice wine bar a few blocks from my place and was ready to go!
All day I was not feeling too excited about this date. Just to recap a bit, most of the dates I go on aren't what we would call successful. Not to mention the fact that it had been about a million degrees this summer and I don't like to be hot, it just puts me in a funk. Beyond that I spent the whole day at work wondering what I am doing there (for those who don't know I really hate my job). So needless to say I was kind of feeling a little wenchy about the whole date thing.
M got there before I did and was waiting outside and I have to admit he is much cuter in person than his Jdate photos. We walked in, took a seat at a corner table and after that it was just so easy! He made me laugh, I made him laugh, the conversation just flowed simply. We ordered a bunch of tapas and an delicious bottle of wine. Everything was just so lovely that three and a half hours later we were still sitting there being given complimentary glasses of champagne from the manager. We talked about everything from sports to our families to college days. I really had such a great time which was totally unexpected given my mood earlier in the day. By the end of the night he was holding my hand across the table and we both were a little sad it was so late and we had to go. We walked out of the place and after a little awkwardness there was a small (small) smooch. We both said we had fun and he asked if I would like to get together again. Obviously I said yes, but there was no set date or confirmed plans.
So, what do you think? I mean I know the date went well, and I am going to send him a little message today saying thanks again and that I had fun. Was not setting something up then and there a bad sign? Either way, as I was telling my accomplice earlier, if nothing happens, I still had fun. And she pointed out that even if nothing happens it has reinstilled my faith that there a few good guys out there.

Tu B'Av

Today is Tu B'Av, a minor holiday on the Jewish calender that is considered to be a Valentine's Day of sorts. It is a lucky day to get married, engaged, go on a date, or possibly meet your besheret (your soul mate). Last night I went to a white party for Tu B'Av. I dressed in a cute skirt and of course white top and headed down to Riverside Park with my friend E ready to meet someone, and of course get my free cocktail! The line to get in was long (as was the line at the bar), but it looked promising that there were so many people in attendance. I was excited! So with my Irish poured vodka tonic I was ready to work the room, well the park.
E and I ran into a few people we knew and chatted around. I was being very outgoing and even walked up to total strangers (men of course) to start a conversation. For the most part everyone was really nice, but I don't think I met my besheret. However, there was one stand out that I have to mention. While E and I were talking to a group of people I noticed a guy standing alone right next to me. I thought I would be polite and ask how his evening was going and start to chat a bit. I won't lie, I had noticed him earlier in the night and was hoping to talk to him, so here was my big chance! Here was our conversation in a shortened version:
LMG: How is your night going?
GSG (Green Shirt Guy): Okay, not seeing anything I like.
LMG: (trying hard to be nice) What do you mean?
GSG: Well, I come to alot of these things and its always the same girls.
LMG: (trying harder to be nice) Well, I have never been to one of these things before. So I am just hoping to have a fun night
GSG: Yeah, well, I think I am just going to have to find a matchmaker, because I know what I want. 5ft7in, slender, smart, sexy....
LMG: (trying soooo soooo hard to remain calm) Yeah, well, maybe you should find one. Good luck and enjoy the rest of your night. (Douchebag!....said only to myself of course)
So, that just goes to show that someone who may look good on the outside can be a total jerk! I understand that you may not think I am a match for you, but to be so insulting about all the women there in front of me was just beyond! Needless to say I moved on and left shortly after that. But the night wasn't a total loss, I did get cat calls from every garbage truck diver on my way home! Thanks Tu B'Av!

Are You Marketable?

I finally got matched via the matchmaking site with someone I thought might be interesting. He was a little older than me and seemed like we had alot in common. I agreed to the match and waited for him to call. So, "D" called over the weekend and we started the usual getting to know you conversation. We talked about what we are doing (he is going back to med school after working on Wall Street for the past few years), I told him about my work for a non-profit and my longing to move on to something new. Now for those who know me, you know that I love my field and I love the work I do, but the place I am in is not a good fit and it is time to move on. I didn't get into the negative stuff with D, just explained that I was ready for a change, but loved my work. He mentioned moving into private sector work and I wondered if that was something I would be welcome in considering my specialized degree. His next words to me?
"Yeah, you're not very marketable."
What?! Woah, how do you know what my work skills are? I was totally offended, but decided to make light of it and chalk it up to just awkward phone talk. The conversation continued with D making more suggestions for my employable future and when I referenced his "marketable" comment in a joke, he didn't laugh. This was not going well. I ended the conversation when he condescendingly told me he was glad I had SOMETHING to do that night and wasn't sitting home alone (I promise, his tone was not friendly). Well, that's conversation was over and that match is now closed! Time to move on. But it did get me thinking....
Am I marketable? And I don't mean for jobs because regardless of anything else, I know I am good at what I do. I mean in this whole dating thing. Am I really letting myself be open enough to meet someone? What makes you marketable in this thing we call dating?
And I only have a few hours to find out, because tonight is Tubav (Jewish Valentine's Day) and I am heading out to a singles event with my friend E so who knows what could happen!

Deal Breakers

I recently went out with some girlfriends to celebrate a be-lated birthday as well as see the new engagement ring my old roomie was sporting (sidebar: K, that ring is fabulous as are you and L, Mazel Tov!!!).

Anyway, thanks a few lychee martinis at $5 a pop (cheapest drink I have had in NYC for a while) and a yummy happy hour the topic turned to dating in this big bad city. Now, I have shared with all of you the top things I am looking for in a partner. But what are some of the things I am not looking for? That became the topic of conversation on this evening, deal breakers, things that just would rub you so the wrong way you can't be with that person.

One of the girls there that night shared the following dating story about her deal breaker and she was kind enough to allow me to share it with you. SG (single gal) had been dating DB (deal breaker) for a little while. They liked each other and were just having a good time when DB shared a little tidbit of information that started to run SG the wrong way. He explained his penchant for returning things to the store. Not just things that had never been used, but everything! Now, I will admit that I have done this to a degree. Sometimes I will read a book so fast I wind up returning it to the store and just getting a new one. But this? This was a whole new level. SG and DB had had a few sleepovers in which it finally came out that DB didn't own a bed, but rather an air mattress. SG really didn't have a huge problem with that other than wondering why a grown man didn't just buy a bed. A few days later while talking on the phone DB was a little upset, turned out he got a hole in his air mattress and nowhere to sleep. He then explained that instead of going out to buy a bed, he would return said air mattress and just get a new one! that was SG's deal breaker. It's one things to return a book or even clothes (unworn), but its another to return a mattress that has been used (for more than sleeping) to a store and expect a new one.

Now, not everyone has to agree with this. Everyone has their own deal breakers. And to be honest, I am not even sure what mine are! I know some of things that would annoy me, are they deal breakers? So I have to ask, what are some of your deal breakers?

Matchmaker, Matchmaker

...make me a match...
I don't think I need to keep "singing" the song, you get the idea. Anyway, why am I singing this song you ask? Well, because I have my very own matchmaker! Yes, that is right, Matchmaker!!

While at dinner with my friend recently, she told me about a new online dating site that allows you to connect with a matchmaker who will then work on finding matches who meet your criteria. You fill out your profile, add a few pictures, and answer a few questions. Then you get assigned a matchmaker. I spoke to my matchmaker over the weekend and am looking forward to seeing what she brings my way. You can't search through the profiles, your matchmaker does it for you! And the best part is, it is cheaper than Jdate!! So I don't really have to do anything, just sit back and wait for the matches to roll in; which I won't lie, has not really happened.

I have been sent a few matches from my matchmaker and even some from other matchmakers as well. However, most of them are not really matches for me. Some of them were fifteen years older than me, and while I like older, that may be a little too much. Some of them were about double (or triple) my size and while I don't want a skinny minny, I don't want that either. Once again I feel the need to defend myself and say I want to have some level of attraction to my match. I have accepted a few of the matches, but then they decline me. But, it only takes one! So come on Yenta (that's what I will be calling my matchmaker from now on) make me a match!

Too Many Words

Recently I was having dinner with a friend of mine who is also doing the whole online dating thing. We shared some stories and had a good laugh over some yummy sangria and asparagus that was soooo delish!! A couple of days later she sent me an e-mail forwarding a message she got from a potential match. I seriously cannot even begin to explain this email. I was laughing so hard when I was reading it, I thought it must have been a joke, but it wasn't. It was over one thousand words long and read like a resume for a job or a bio for a book. This is the very first paragraph.

"I posses nine of what I consider the most important qualities of a good leader and counselor: initiative, high motivation, outstanding organizational skills, self-starter, integrity and good communication skills, team work, caring, and ability to conduct a program to its fullest. My easy going nature and ability to get along with people, would certainly contribute to my ability as a counselor to function both as a friend and a mentor."

It then went into detailing his date of birth and went into everything from where his mother was from to the shul he went to as a child. It chronicled his rise in the ranks of the boy scouts and his desire to become a pilot (which he did do in case you're curious).

"From first grade through fifth grade I was in Cub Scouts, and then proceeded onto Boy Scouts, where I earned the rank of an Eagle Scout the highest rank a scout can earn. During my time in Cub Scouts I earned the religious Jewish Aleph Medal, and later in Boy Scouts achieved the Ner-Tamid Award. From age 14 to 21 I was a member of the Explorer Scouts. Now at 28, I am an adult leader, and continuing to donate my time in the interest of our youth. In my sophomore and junior year in college I took two classes concerning the history of the Jewish people, from ancient times to the present. (sample available upon reqest)"

Yes, you read correctly, he offered up a writing sample! What? This 1,180 word essay isn't enough?!

What was interesting about this e-mail is that not once did he ever ask my friend anything about her and even though the whole e-mail was about him it was so impersonal. So, needless to say this wasn't a match and we all agreed (jokingly) that she should respond with an e-mail that goes something like:

Thank you for your interest, but we have decided to go in another direction. We will keep your bio on file.

Chit Chatting

So I called back "M" (yeah, I am forgoing the alphabet and am just going to use initials) last night and the conversation was very easy. In fact, it felt just like chit chatting with a friend. We did not make firm plans to meet since he wasn't exactly sure of his schedule since he travels alot for work. We decided to talk more later in the week to figure something out. Now, as you all know, I am the worst at remembering the details of these conversations. But I do remember that we talked about our jobs, my dog (the cutest thing ever!), his having been married and now living at home, and food (perhaps my favorite topic). Well, like I said, it was just easy to talk to him, so we shall see what happens.

In other Jdating news...I was online with a friend of mine and we decided to IM a bunch of people on Jdate. And one of them actually IMed back! So we chatted a bit and he asked for my number. We have been playing telephone tag the last couple of days, he calls, I call, he calls. So now it is my turn and I am going to call him tonight. If I talk to him of course I will let you know how it goes!!

!

So I was away for the past two weeks with my family in Saratoga Springs, NY. If you have not been there, you should! I love getting out of the city for a while and just getting the chance to relax. However, when I have my Jewish mother and littlest sister there to Jdate with me, relaxing wasn't really on the agenda. They decided to become my new accomplices for one night and took it upon themselves to Jdate for me.

So one night we sat on the computer while they looked up possible future son-in laws (right mom?). My sister picked someone she though would be good and sent him an e-mail as myself. It took her the better part of an hour to come up with a one line gem about food that was actually very cute and did get a response! Although once she was done she decided to look for people for herself as she deemed the whole online thing too difficult (thanks, that's what I have been trying to say). Okay, so back to the e-mail...as I said it was cute and I am sure got this guy's attention, so he responded. I showed my mom and sister and they told me I had to respond right away with my phone number. So I did, and here is what I wrote:

Sounds good. Give me a call sometime xxx-xxx-xxxx
LMG

Well, that caused all sorts of issues as my little sister went off on me about not using a smiley face or exclamation point! She told me I basically suck at this and no wonder he hadn't called a few days later. Well, guess who gets the last laugh here? ME! He called while I was out last night and I am going to call him back tonight. So no exclamation point needed.

In other bloggy news, Poppy turned one! How cute! (many exclamation points!!!)