5/29/2010: Mr. Setup

Saturday

Location: somewhere in Long Beach

I had to work an event tonight until 9pm but half way through I get a text from my mother. 

"Wanna go on a date for your birthday?...He's 29 has a good job. Looking for a down to earth girl that enjoys doing stuff outdoors and likes kids...He saw your photos and videos with the kids...he has a fun sense of life too"
Fun sense of life? Is that code for not very attractive? I ask her to send me a picture....
She sends me a blurry photo of him and to tell you the truth...it's not very promising.
"He lives in Long Beach but he is willing to travel. Don't discount "extra meat"."
LOL!
He looked to be about 5'11 and 300lbs at least but mom said he was funny and nice and a lot of fun.
Nothing scarier then mom setting you up! You can't really say no or be as shallow as normal when mom recommends....
There is no way however that I am going on a first date ON my birthday. Dude is going to have to get in line.  hahaha
Facebook friends first? I think so.

5/28/2010: Mr. Man

Friday

Location: Bada Sushi

Not putting much effort into dating this past week or so, I planned a girls night this past Friday with one of my oldest friends visiting from out of town. We enjoyed a couple glasses of wine and then walked over to my local sushi joint for dinner. Dinner was lovely however throughout our meal we noticed a couple of guys glancing in our direction sitting at the bar. Not thinking too much of it we ignored them and went about our evening. 
As we were walking out the door, the two guys followed us and stopped us right outside and asked for my number. Well, the ugly one asked. The shy cuter one stood in the shadows.
When I was asking them where they were from and how old they were, the one who asked for my number ran back inside to get his phone thinking I was going to give him my number. I continued talking to the shy one and gave HIM my number. 
(The only reason I even talked to them was because my friend was taking a call herself and walked away. Otherwise I would have brushed them off to spend time with my friend only!)
Turns out the guy is 21 years old! He thought I was 23...which was VERY nice to hear since my 28th birthday is only 4 days away! He didn't believe me, so I showed him my ID. This is when he kicked his game into high gear!
He was trying to convince me how much of a MAN he was.

"I've dated older women before"

"I think older woman are sexy"

"I'm a man, ya know. Not a childish boy"

"I have a real job and goals n stuff"

"I already have my own place! Well, with a roomate"

"I like Seinfeld...most people my age don't!"

...

Clearly he was trying, but c'mon! 21! geesh.
However, I was feeling low due to my upcoming dooms day (aka birthday), so I took his number down just in case...
My friend and I went back to my place and she soon departed onto another venue to meet up with other friends. Being only 9pm on a Friday with no other plans, I texted Mr. Man to see if they were still at Bada. Turns out his friends ditched him and he too lives within walking distance. We decided to meet in the parking lot. LOL
What's the harm in learning a little more about someone 7 years younger who finds me attractive? We all need attention!
Now, obviously 21 is FAR too young for me, but he seemed like a sweet kid...sorry, I mean MAN? He has a good job, doesn't live with parents, tries really hard...I hate to say it but he may have more potential then anyone else I've dated in the past year....which is so sad!

5/27/2010: Mr. Oh Yeah!

Thursday

Location: TGIFridays

I am sure you remember the Kool-Aid character from the early 90's, right? Well, I felt I was on a date with him last night!...After everything this guy said he followed it up with "Oh yeah!". But in like a weird Jim Carey mouth movement sort of way. He did the same odd facial contorcions when he drank his beer as well...Very off putting.
I sipped on water as he downed 3 pints and a gin/tonic and listened to his stories of past relationships. One of which stuck out to me due to the level of it's inappropriatness...(like any stories of ex's are, but this one especially so!)
I guess he had just broken up from a girl he had been with for 7 years and admitley just wanted to get layed one night and picked up a cougar who was 38 at the time. (This being a year ago from what he said)
He successfully brought her back to his layer and attempted to ... well, ya know. This cougar went out to her car, brought back her vibrator and ipod and pleasured herself while listening to her ipod the entire time. Mr. Oh Yeah was trying his best but Cougar wasn't having it, asked him to get off and she continued another 45 minutes on her own. LOL!
It gets better!
A one night stand with said Cougar wasn't enough. He wanted to prove to her he could do the deed and invited her over again after a week or so. This time he told me was better but Cougar asked him to be rough. He slapped her ass and it wasn't nearly enough for her. She wanted him to PUNCH HER IN THE FACE. Seriously.
I guess Mr. Oh yeah DOES have a line and refused. Cougar was not called again.

Guys.....this is not appropriate conversation for a first meeting (or second, or third....). Regardless of how layed back the evening is, regardless of setting. Never talk about past relationships and NEVER NEVER discuss sex with other woman! Granted, it was an interesting story and it was alright in this case because I have NO ROMANTIC feelings toward this guy, and I am able to share the story with y'all....but still!

5/25/2010: Mr. Pitcher(s)

Tuesday

Location: El Torito

So, being exhausted from starting a new work out regime and working two 11 hour days in a row, I just wanted $1 tacos and A margaretta on a Tuesday night. It started out fine since the bar was pretty empty and I was able to quickly order. I noticed a pitcher of beer next to me and only one glass, but I shrugged it off when I didnt see anyone. Just as I started to relax a gentleman who was sitting a few stools over returned from the restroom and sat in front of the pitcher. Evidentally this was his 2nd pitcher of beer to himself! Quietly watching the game he didnt start bothering those around him until after his THIRD, yes THIRD pitcher of beer and the game was over.
Starting with what can only be described as jibberish, I tried to enjoy my dinner by facing the other direction and making it clear to him I was not interested. Mr. Pitcher didn't get the hint because he kept talking. About what I couldn't tell you. At one point he asked me to go on vacation with him in 19 days. When I refused he answered by buying me another margi. I refused but he wouldnt take no for an answer. After his fourth pitcher he was more belligerent than anyone I've ever seen in a bar. He made my quiet little night out miserable and for that I did accept his offer to buy my tacos and soup and 2 more margarettas. When his cousin came to pick his ass up, I was ecstatic. Trying to make the most out of what turned out to be a horrible evening, I made (or thought I made a business connection by giving my business card to him for mural work at the school he does counseling at. 
This turned out to be a mistake when I received not one but THREE phone calls from the drunk the day after. The first, an apology. The 2nd, a recording of a song with the words "I NEED YOU" and nothing more. The third, just more jibberish and a song I didn't recognize along with someone coughing...very annoying!
I am hoping my non response will make him realize I really am not interested!...I may need to take drastic measures and tell him off if this continues.

5/23/2010: Best Date Ever!

Sunday

Location: Saddlerock Winery, Malibu

Late Friday afternoon my boss handed me four VIP tickets to a wine event in Malibu which coincided with the Tour of California bike race. While I am not the least bit interested in bicycles, I am however fond of wine and especially Saddlerock wine, so needless to say I was amped up to go. The challenge: To find someone to go with....

When even my own dad turned me down (shameful, right?), I was forced to take drastic measures to attend, and I am glad I did!
What was this drastic measure I speak of you ask?
Well, I took MYSELF.
Me, myself and I with an extra ticket.
Not having any idea what to expect, I drove up Mulhulland and pulled into the winery. The first thing I see are 2 buffalo, then 2 zebras and then 2 camels...nope! Make that 3 camels. There was a baby sleeping...so cute!
Not sure if I just rolled up to Noah's staging area, a zoo or a winery I proceed down the dirt path to park. 
As I walk up to the camel corral I meet a group of fellow wine lovers who offer to take my picture with the camel. Nice people.
I walk through the entry with my bright yellow VIP paper bracelet and have NO IDEA where to go. Following the rush of people walking up a hill to the back of the winery I find myself back on Mulhulland greeted by hundreds of screaming fans. No, not MY fans, although that would have been AWESOME! :P
The fans were for the bike riders...who knew biking was so popular?
As soon as the first group of riders passed, I slinked my way back into the winery to beat the crowds and grab a bottle. Not coming prepared, I sat on the grass without a blanket or chair and enjoyed a glass of cuvee.
Most of the people were coupled up or had families, so this was not much of a singles mixer, but the scenery was breathtaking. 
I took a walk with my wine to the lake on the premises and then over to the mini horses. While it wasn't a very eventful day, it was lovely. Just me and my wine, the zoo animals and the gorgeous vineyard.
No drama, no weird fetishes, no lies, no awkward pauses...this was the perfect date! hahaha
;)
btw: YES! That camel IS smiling!
 

5/19/2010: Mr. Scotch

Wednesday

Location: Buenos Aires Grill, Pickwick Pub

"Bitter and Broken" Divorce Group, an ex call-girl best friend who is now married to a (current) male for male escort and an odd fondness for latex fetishes...THOSE were the topics of conversation Mr. Scotch decided to unload on me on our 4th (and VERY possible FINAL) date!
Feeling awful for having to cancel on him twice last week with a cold/cough, I agreed to a late dinner on a Wednesday night with Mr. Scotch and almost canceled again just out of having a bad gut feeling and not wanting to drive half way to meet him. I asked some friends on facebook for ideas of late night places for good food in the valley since I am not a regular in the area and came up with an Argentinian place. I arrived and Mr. Scotch had two glasses of Malbec wine already. (good start!) He continued downhill from there bragging about his travels to Buenos Aires in real life and telling me that I don't really know anything until I've traveled some....not winning any points, dude! 
I haven't traveled and wish I have but I barely have enough to pay bills at this point...that doesn't make me a horrible or uneducated person....
Except in the art of ordering food at an Argentinian restaurant. 
DAMNIT! He got me.
So, I let him order...which ended up being a skillet full of different red meats...
If I wanted to get gout, this would be the place I'd eat!
Not saying it wasn't good, cause it was alright, but nothing amazing. 
Definitely not $80 worth with the wine, but he paid, so it's gravy to me. (He already said he would ahead of time, so I'm not being a gold digger here!)
After dinner we had planned to go to a lounge called PUSH however when we walked over it appeared CLOSED. So instead we opted for a pub across the street. Not very happening for a Wednesday night, but we enjoyed a drink there. This is where the odd conversations came up!!!
He explained he answered a craigslist add for a divorce group called "Bitter and Broken" about 5 years ago which is where he met his best girl friend (Who I had met on our first date) and continued to explain how her and her fiance (Whom I also met on our first date) met. Not entirely sure why he felt the need to tell me their story, but he did and everything seemed to make since now because the fiance guy who turns out is a male for male escort asked me if I wanted to work for him. At the time I had NO IDEA what he did and told him yes, I am desperate for work! HAHAH
wow.
Post escort convo he spilled the beans about his fetish ex girlfriend who got him into latex and bondage. (Both liking and wearing, even at weird hollywood fetish nightclubs)... I know that by the 4th date you should know more about each other but...uh....woah. 
This all coming from a well dressed 32 year old reseeding hairline white engineer with piercing blue eyes. Not what I expected!!!
I guess everyone has their something!
So, I learned a lot about Mr. Scotch AND his friends this evening and not sure I need to know much else. 

5/16/2010: Mr. Donuts

Sunday

Location: Local Bar

After a lazy Sunday I respond to a text around 5pm to meet up for a drink. I have yet to eat dinner but I know Mr. Donuts already had a meal but I agree anyhow thinking I can go a little early to get an appetizer. This is the first internet meeting Mr. Donuts (claims) to have had and I go a little easy on him at the beginning. I show up 20 minutes prior for a beer and edamame while I wait patiently.
He is an attractive 29 year old who plays baseball on a league in his spare time from set construction, but there has to be SOMETHING about him, right? I mean, what attractive Boston transplant who lives in Santa Monica and is athletic is single...right? Well, one who has a life long goal of quitting his job and opening 3 Dunkin Donuts shops in California, perhaps? It's possible.
There is nothing wrong with opening franchises or having a goal like this, however it is the drive behind the goal that has me a little worried.
"The shape of the donuts got lazy"
That is his entire reasoning!...I guess when he was young and living in Boston, before the whole franchise thing really blew up, the Dunkin Donuts took more pride in their donut shapes....? Whatever. It was a little weird to hear. hahahahahahah. 
The rest of the conversation consisted of normal first date nonsense...siblings, sports, sexting and mormans. Random!
I paid. He didn't walk me to my car...but he was cute. LOL!
Not enough to base a possible relationship off of, but it's never really a great sign when walking to my apartment alone, I start bawling my eyes out. The reason? Well, I am a girl. Nuff said!

5/13/2010: Mr. Baby Teeth

Thursday


Location: Lupe's Restaurant


So, usually whether you like the person or not you at least pretend through the dinner and through the goodbyes to be cordial. Well, I was trying. The second I walked in to Lupe's and spotted my date at a booth I had a feeling I wasn't going to like him. When he reached out to shake my hand, I knew I wasn't going to.There was something un trusting about Mr. Baby Teeth. A mechanical engineer by trade and hailing from Atascadaro originally, I couldn't quite pin point what it was until half way through our meal. His had what could only be described as baby teeth. They were tiny! It was just so distracting! He said he wasn't from the area but through our conversation his story didn't add up. It came out that he had worked for the same place every year as an internship for the past 4 years and described living in Westlake Village back in 99...So while he claimed to be a new transplant, there was something fishy there! When he said he liked Mexican food and I chose Lupe's, he said he had never been there however he seemed to know his place around easily. We finished dinner and while he paid the bill, once we walked out of the restaurant, he made a bee line to his car without more than a glance back and a wave. Very ODD! I have never had a first date end so abruptly and awkward! My car was parked in the back where there are no street lights but I guess the thought of being mugged was better then the idea of ending with an uncomfortable hug and possible kiss attempt from Mr. Baby Teeth!
Oh, by the way: His online profile said he was 6'1 but with only 1.5 inch heels on, I was towering over him. Too many lies for a 2nd date!

UPDATE SUNDAY MAY 16:
Mr. Baby Teeth actually texted me to ask if I wanted to hit some golf balls with him after work on Monday!...How did he get from our date that a 2nd was warranted? ...(Or did he just feel a friendship, where I did not?) ...either way, kinda weird! I didnt respond. He reminded me too much of an ex co-worker who creeped me out too much!

5/08/2010: Mr. Lover-Boy

Saturday

Location: Home

guys, whether you THINK you feel it or not...it is NOT okay to confess your love after meeting someone through SKYPE for a half hour conversation. Although it is a slight ego boaster to feel like you are so amazing someone can fall that hard and that fast, it is not reality and should be reviewed with severe caution.
PS: SKYPE is NOT a first date!

For those of you wondering, I met another guy from online a couple nights ago and while he said he would be willing to meet me in person and drive up from Manhattan Beach, he wanted to SKYPE first. (The only REAL reason a guy says that is to make sure I look like my pics first)
It was late, I was not made up and was in sweats but I made the sacrafice for a future free meal. (kidding :P, kinda)
The guy was nice but it was like he was searching in my eyes the whole time trying to find something. He asked me to move in with him after 15 minutes and then confessed his "falling in love with me" after 30. Ever sense I have received messages in my inbox with more declarations of love and if I don't respond to him in his timeframe, he gets sad and sends even more messages. Thankfully he doesnt have my real email or anything- it is all through the site I met him through. He also doesn't know my last name or that much about me so the chances he can find me on face-stalk or whatever are very low!

YAY to online dating.....where all the winners are!

5/07/2010: Dry Spell

Friday

We all go through them and while mine was brought on by a nasty, lingering cold, I feel I am almost ready again to pursue my dating blog. To do so however, I need a date!
I have some replies to send out on a couple of the dating sites I am currently using, but who knows how long those will take to flourish into full fledged date nights. Since I have been MOSTLY out of work for a month and barely have enough money to pay my bills, I don't like planning dates I know I can't pay for on the off chance a guy wants to go dutch. With my long history of first dates, I know better to never assume a guy will offer to pay the entire bill! So between the lack of money, spending time with family (so I eat for free), and the cold, I have been off my game for awhile now and starting to feel it. I have learned that I thrive on attention. Shocking, right? LOL! Those who know me are likely rolling their eyes right now...(and I hope they stick like that!) But in all honesty, we all want to be wanted and I miss feeling that way sometimes!
 
I believe my sky diving buddy was turned off by the thought of me sneezing and has yet to return my texts, so I think that's all "she" wrote of him. He was a GREAT date, but I was more into the activity then him. I was trying to give him an honest shot too, kinda a bummer but life moves on! We will see what the month of May will bring me, if anything!...

4/24/2010: Mr. G.A.Y.

Saturday


Location: Lazy Dog Cafe

G...gay
A...ass
Y...yeehaw

I love the gays' as much as the next potential "hag", but I dont wish to DATE them in hopes to find my Mr. Right!

So, I know when to take the blame for a bad date! I also know when to blame the date for making me the blame for the bad date...(if that made ANY sense)... at least the bartendress knew my pain and gave me a FREE orange margarita because of it (With a wink) ...
Delving back in the non millionaire pool, I met a guy I found on one of the normal sights I frequent, thinking he was nice enough to meet. 
He offered to drive from Huntington Beach even though I offered to meet half way. Good sign.
However when we met at a local restaurant (local to me), he awkwardly ATTEMPTED to open doors for me, but failed...(like it was his first day on the job of being a man)! He also had me pay for half the drinks/food....which I know, shouldn't be part of my CRITERIA, but, c'mon! FIRST DATE, FIRST IMPRESSION...he failed the purse dance!

So my date was an "artist"...
He didn't drink alcohol...ever...
He only eats meat and potatoes...
And...he MAY have really been gay...

All in all it was horrible and dull! You would think I would get along with an artsy type of guy who ate meat and potatoes...you would prolly think he would be rugged with a soft edge about him....umm...maybe not. More like soft with a tiny rugged pair of skinny jeans!
I need some adventurous spirit, someone who is willing to try sushi or EDAMAME!...I ordered Lazy Dog's amazing edamame and he was literally AFRAID to try it. Its soy beans sauteed in garlic and deliciousness...he got a burger...dry....boring!
When he talked, he used flamboyant hand gestures and a tiny lisp.
It took all I had not to laugh at him most of the time!
Our bartender lady caught most of it and must have felt bad because she actually brought over a free margarita for me...I knew I had broken Patty's rule (Millionaire Matchmaker), when I ordered my 2nd beer after the free margarita, but at that point I didn't even care! I knew I was paying for half and I was already writing my bad review of the date in my head, so I said to hell with it!
This guy didn't even stand a chance in the 2nd half, just like the Lakers tonight!....
Early morning tomorrow is cause for early night tonight, which is why I am not all that sad the date was horrific!...$20 for 3 drinks and an appetizer and a blog entry, not too shabby.

4/21/2010: Mr. Scotch

Wednesday

Location: Hollywood/Highland

The first THIRD date in a very long time, I owed Mr. Scotch after his skydiving date! We had planned to go bowling because, let's face it- how can you even attempt to compete with skydiving?! Even though bowling is one of the lamest ideas we could come up with, we chose Lucky Strike to make it a little less pathetic...however when we met at Hollywood/Highland, we discovered there was a private event and couldn't get a lane. So we went up to UWink for a drink and appetizer then headed over to Barney's Beanery when UWink closed around 10. It was a low key evening with just a couple drinks and some conversation, oh, and one volleyball trick lesson in the parking structure.
I found out Mr. Scotch played professionally for a couple years. I also found out that he is a little argumentative (in a friendly way) and quite analytical. Reminded me a little of my brother...which is never GREAT for a DATE!
At one point, he called me "KATRINA"...which was just a slip on his part, but I gave him shit for it for awhile! This was our third date and while he opened all doors for me, remembered key facts about me and what I had to say in the past dates, the name slip was a huge foul on his part!
To my luck, Barney's had karaoke on Wednesdays and while Mr. Scotch refused to even get near the stage, I allowed him the pleasure of hearing me do one of my go to songs "Like A Virgin"...hahahah!!! There was a highlight of a 45+ year old woman decked in clothes that should have an age limit of 17, who sang "Magic Carpet Ride" to a group of young men she was attempting to pounce on...
After some shuffleboard and beer we called it a night. Mr. Scotch wanted me to go back to his place (within walking distance), due to the time (it was around 2am at this point), and he explained his gentlemanly intentions of giving me the bed while he sleeps on the floor, however I respectfully declined and drove home (only because I knew my water intake far surpassed my alcohol intake).
Since I lost at shuffleboard I have to plan the next date. No one has gotten a 4th date and I am still not sure about Mr. Scotch...we haven't even kissed or anything, but he is the first to pay, open doors and show a general true interest in me (except remembering my name apparently)...so I think I will see how it goes with another date.
In no way am I exclusive with him or anything yet and I am a little apprehensive about the argumentative/analytical side I just got a glimpse of last night, but another date to find out more wont kill me.

4/17/2010: Mr. Scotch

Saturday

Location: Camarillo, CA

So, who's to say you shouldn't get physical on a second date? No...not sexually, silly!

Mr. Scotch asked me on a 2nd date and asked for it to be a surprise. He asked if a 8-9 on a scale of 10 for craziness was okay, and I gave him the green light as long as it didn't involve snakes, spiders or mushrooms. (I should have given my fears more consideration!)
Once the plans were set, Mr. Scotch texted me instructions:
1. To wear comfortable hiking clothes: Jeans, tennis shoes and a light sweater.
2. Take a deep breath, your going to need it!
3. Our appointment is at 4pm, so be ready...
Already my mind was going through the possibilities!


We met at Chili's for a quick light lunch. My first clue for the date was that a full stomach would NOT be a good idea. Other clues throughout the lunch and the ride to our destination included:

• We would be outside for a total of about 10 minutes or so
• He was nervous and had done the event once before
• I may need to sign waivers

I made a few guesses however he would not satisfy me with an answer. When we pulled up to the Camarillo Airport, I had a feeling my initial guess of SKYDIVING had been correct, although my initial guess was the wildest thing I could think of and I didn't think that in a million years it would be true...it was!
I had no time to think about it. Within 10 minutes of pulling up to the airport, I was up in a cessna, hooked up to a stranger and ready to jump out at 10,000 feet! CRAZY!
(The video is here)
(Pictures are here)

I could go on and on about how amazing the skydiving was, but I will get back to the date portion now...

Trying to ignore the fact the skydiving was over $400 for the two of us, and the fact he opted for the extra $200 for video for both of us because I really wanted it...Mr. Scotch was not done at skydiving. Once we landed, we drove to a grocery store and he gave me 15 minutes to find picnic food. He took main dish and I took sides...I grabbed some fresh bread, hummus and some strawberries. He grabbed fresh turkey, veggies and tortillas. We then drove to a Ventura beach where he uncorked some wine and we enjoyed a lovely picnic at sunset.

He made me cry once on the date, but it was because of the habenero pepper he added to the turkey wraps...(I made the mistake of telling him I would spice challenge him on our first date...he won!)

Once the sun set and it started to get chilly, we drove to my local bar for a night cap and some darts. (He won again)

Mr. Scotch opened my doors, paid, good conversation and had me home before midnight, just like a true gentleman! 

I think the skydiving adventure guarantees Mr. Scotch a third date....

4/11/2010: Mr. Scotch

Sunday

Location: The Grove (Whisper Lounge, Della Terra, Sheddy's)

Another gem from the millionaire match site, but not quite a millionaire sitting on about $150K+/year...(It REALLY doesnt matter to me), I met Mr. Scotch at the Grove at a lounge tucked away in the corner. We enjoyed some Cabernet and cheese and mini burger sliders while having typical first date conversation. The date was to consist of a pseudo charity event / raffle thing down the street from where we met after an hour or so: That is, IF I wanted to accompany him to it after we did the initial meeting.The appetizers and wine and conversation were enough to get me interested, so I agreed to go with him to the pseudo charity event. 
Mr. Scotch is 6'3 (Meets requirement there), piercing blue eyes (even more so than mine!), and is 33 with an 8 year old son (who lives in Texas)...He works as a project manager/something to do with a software for doctors', and lives with roommates. Mr. Scotch is also somewhat balding (NOT within the requirements), however he actually has a personality and we got along, so I can let that slide. It isn't a deal breaker!
The pseudo charity was about a mile away and we hoofed it since parking in LA can be way more trouble than it's worth! I think he was impressed I was willing to walk it...He seemed a bit smitten, if I do say so myself.
The pseudo charity ended up being just about 10 people at a table in a restaurant having appetizers and then a raffle for prizes. Tickets for the raffle had been purchased for $20 a piece and my date had bought 13. HE won 11 things, including gift certificates to 5 restaurants, movie tickets, cashmere scarves etc....he even had a since of humor by wearing the scarves he won and allowing my to tie one in a bow around his neck...he had joked that I would get sick of him by the time he runs out of gift certificates, insinuating there would be more dates.
The charity ended up being somewhat of an engagement party for a couple who were raising money for their honeymoon to Africa where they would help endangered animals and stuff, which I thought was a great idea! They had gotten a TON of prizes donated to them and used some re-gifting. After that we went with the couple (which Mr. Scotch were friends with) to a close wine/beer bar called Sheddy's. On the way over, Mr. Scotch dropped a bottle of limited edition rare, expensive scotch his friends had given to him, and I thought the date was over right then due to his dissapointment and near crying over it. I was surprised he wasn't licking the sidewalk!...
It was quiet and quaint. Having two more glasses of wine, and having the friend steal my phone to snoop on me and my text messages and emails (REALLY WEIRD), we called it a night and walked back to the Grove. A little rain on the walk back didn't phase us and we ended up talking for another hour or so.
He invited me to a "scotch tasting party" Monday night at his place...he loves scotch (Me, not so much!). I ended up not going cause I got a job that starts tomorrow (Tuesday).
There may be potential with Mr. Scotch, but it is way to early to tell. At least he seems to rsepect me....so that's a step in the right direction already! haha
I got locked in the parking garage cause my validated ticket wouldn't read...eventually another car came out and I booked it right after them since the parking helper people were taking over 20 minutes to get to me...Then my GPS was freaking out and gave me wrong directions so I got lost before finding the freeway on my own...I guess it didnt like the rain that was POURING!...
I was home at 1am rather then 12:00 as I would have been. A quick run through Jack in the Box to get a $1.00 chicken sandwich then off to bed...

4/09/2010: Mr. Shaddy

Friday

Location: Didn't Happen

So I had plans for almost a week to meet this guy from the millionaire site. He had been verified at 5 million+ through the site and I was intrigued to meet him as I have never even met anyone with that kind of money, let alone having dinner with them...needless to say, he already was shorter then my minimum limit (Must be at least THIS tall to ride this ride!), however I was going to give him a shot anyhow and see how it went-wearing flats, of course.
Well, the day of our date came around finally and we were discussing through texts what we would do. He decided on dinner and a movie later on if dinner went well. Super traditional, which is fine by me. 
I asked him what restaurant he was planning and he just told me he would pick something nice, and he wanted me to meet him at his house in Sherman Oaks (Hills?) and that he would drive us both to dinner. When I asked him if it would be alright if I MET HIM AT HE LOCATION rather then his house, he kinda flipped out. 
"If you think I am that shaddy, maybe we shouldn't date"
I explained to Mr. Shaddy that I was not comfortable meeting anyone I met online at their home and preferred meeting in a public place and driving myself for the first encounter. I am a single girl in LA and I am not one of those bimbos you see on the news who get raped and killed for the chance to meet a millionaire or get "famous" by taking snapshots by a photographer...sorry, it's not my style. If I am doing this online dating thing, I am doing it smart! So, after I explained that it wasn't PERSONAL per-say, it is just how I feel comfortable doing things, he pretty much said piss off.
I would think the guys should be impressed by me being smart about the online thing...but he was not!
Anyone who isn't willing to make me feel comfortable on a first date and meet me on location, I want nothing to do with them. I am not putting myself at any risk, be it just feeling uncomfortable, not having a way out or being rapped and murdered, no matter how much money the guy has!
I am finding with these "millionaires" that they are not very considerate of other's feelings. They want what they want, how they want it and nothing less. The ones I have come into contact with so far think they own the world and all the women in it. If that's the case, I would rather be with an appreciative, caring hobo. There are still a couple guys from the millionaire site that I am in talks with, and I am hoping they can change my mind on the topic. 

4/08/2010: Mr. Lake Show

Thursday

Location: BJ's Restuarant

Who's to say candle light dinners are passe? 
Okay, so it was a birthday candle in a mini pazookie at the end of our meal, but candle none the less...I had to do something to entertain myself on this date, and telling the waiter it was my birthday seemed like a good idea at the time.
You would think a major Laker fan would postpone a date until after a game or on a different night, right? Well, Mr. Lake Show did neither and planned a date DURING a game. It's odd too since my online profile specifically states I don't like sports NUTS. I dont MIND watching a game here or there, but basketball is my LEAST favorite sport and I don't care for those that yell and scream and talk to the TV during a game....especially in the middle of a restaurant!
Getting little conversation throughout our "meal": Which was consisting of me watching him scarf calamari and a big salad, since earlier we had agreed it would just be drinks later on and not dinner, I had eaten already.
There was a lot of awkward silence and blank stares and odd conversation transitions and pauses for game play. It seemed he only would talk during commercials or time outs making it very difficult to converse.
The one thing that kind of saved him was his shared admiration for the movie 3 Amigos and the fact he travels often and is looking for a partner to travel with. I may give Mr. Lake Show another shot if we plan a date without the Lakers. We'll see how bored I get...
(wow that sounded horrible. Oh well!)
I have another date planned for tomorrow evening and another for Sunday. Should be a fun weekend....
One super traditional dinner/movie date and a non traditional pseudo charity event first date...stay tuned!

4/01/2010: Mr. PV

Thursday

Location: Trump National Golf Club - Rancho Palos Verdes

Last week I watched Millionaire Matchmaker for the first time and thought it might be a good idea to just take a peek at her website for possible tips on where to meet some guys with some money...just for fun. So on her site there was a link to a free dating website called millionairematch.com...again, just for funsies I go to that website, and create a profile. I figure its the same thing as the other free sites, just with verified millionaires, so what the hell!? I received a few hits on it and the guys are a little older then my 28-35 range, but I decided to meet up with one today after a day or so talking on the phone, and texting. He send me an MMS picture of a rose he cut from his garden, but didn't bring it to me..I guess that is the new thing to do? LOL (Save money guys, take a picture of roses at the store and text it to your girl) haha
He was a self made millionaire and is retired at the age of 40 with a 3 year old daughter he has 50% custody of. Living in the Palos Verdes hills right above the Trump National Golf Course, this is where he wants to meet. ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS place! 
Mr. PV had salt/pepper hair, expensive sunglasses and jeans on but didn't seem overly pompous. He seemed genuinely attracted to me, although I think a lot of it were my boobs; I caught him glancing a few times from behind his gucci glasses. A professional poker player, avid golfer, freelance consultant, part time father and traveler Mr. PV definitely made a life for himself and it was nice to see where these types of people play, if only for just a little while.
Feeling like I was with Trump himself, it was a little weird that EVERYONE we passed who worked there said hello to Mr. PV by name and it also seemed like Mr. PV gave everyone of them a $5-$10 tip for doing nothing...I guess that is how you get the service and recognition he appeared to receive every time he came here and the reason he likes to bring dates.
As soon as we walk around the corner of the building, we see Mark Wahlberg and he says hello to Mr. PV: I guess they golf together occasionally. This is already a world I am so NOT familiar with and feel like a major outsider just along for the ride for an hour.
We take a walk in the park and look at the water and talk, which was nice then we had a burger outside rather then going inside to the dining room for a real lunch. His excuse was that he had a 2:30 business appointment and he only gave our date an hour cap.
Understanding the necessity of date time caps myself, I am not ENTIRELY offended however I did just drive 1.5 hours in traffic to meet him on his turf, he could have postponed the meeting (If there actually was one)! With not much time left we walk to the front of the building where the valet parked his car...excuse me, his porche suv right in front like a museum piece. Being the poor apartment living no job girl, I opted to park my own car and skip the valet and Mr. PV drove me to my Jetta. He insisted on my returning again soon and wanted to show me his home in the hills next time, for some possible mural artwork (likely story)...so he gave me $100 for gas money for this trip and said there would be another if I came back. I told him $100 was way too much for gas money, but he would not take no for an answer...so I pocketed the Benjamin and went on my way.

3/26/2010: Mr. Buzzygertrude

Friday

Location: Home

I could just write a blog and post the conversations some guys try to have with me...srsly!...I don't know what the screen name Buzzygertrude is suppose to mean, but I am thinking it has to do with desperation. Are these people for real?! UGH!

3/24/2010: Mr. Skype

Wednesday

Location: Home Computer


I am all for staying current on new technology and embraced the whole online dating thing after years and years of hesitation, however I always drew the line at webcams. I own a webcam and have for years, but never would I ever submit myself to the filth that comes from using them with men online. Just the question of "Do you have a webcam?" would turn me off from communicating further with a guy because in my mind it had a stigma of being used only for...well...ya know! OK! We are all adults here...I can just come out and say it...masturbation! 

I always refused to be associated with that "crowd", and won't even try the webcam roulette website because of it!
I am old fashioned now I suppose, in the since that I believe a first date should be face to face: I met a guy online who insisted our first date be over Skype! I absolutely refused at first, telling him if he wanted to meet me, it would need to be face to face. He lives off Wilshire in LA, which really isn't that far from me, but after his argument of spending a ton of money on girls he knew he didn't like in the first 3 minutes of a date, the gas money he had spent on driving all over southern California to meet these broads, made me feel sorry for single men a little bit, and I gave in.With a promise to stay clothed from him and a prayer it wasn't as awkward as I was thinking it would be from me, I turned on my Skype and called him.
It was just as awkward as I thought it would be! Paying more attention to how I looked in the tiny screen then what he was saying was definitely distracting! LOL. (I had to be sure I looked ok to him! C'mon! You would have done the same thing!)... There were long pauses and odd segways into conversations, it just wasn't natural! Once he grabbed a Hulk Fist (the kid toy that says things like "Hulk Smash!"), I knew this "date" was doomed!!! 
He went on to describe a serious allergy he has to wheat in detail, including what it does to him if ingested...this before I watch him cook a frozen gluten free pizza for himself and then eat it in front of me. Keep in mind now, I am out of work at the moment and eating like a starving artist! I was famished and looking forward to an actual date where I would get at least an appetizer and a drink! Instead, I get to watch this Mr. Skype eat: My only salvation was that it was a gluten free pizza with a brown rice crust- not very appetizing! :) (And oh ya, he went into that much detail about the pizza!!)
To me, the whole Skype date thing would be great for a couple who are long distance or for business trips etc., but should NOT be used for a FIRST DATE! Guys, sack up and take a girl out in real life! You don't have to spend a lot of money either! I say, start with something easy like Starbuck's. It gives you a $5 cap and an easy way out if necessary. If she is too far for you, don't initiate contact! It's that easy! Stay within your little local bubble if your not willing to drive, but know that in southern California you SHOULD be willing to drive 30-45 minutes regardless. It is OK to ask to meet half way, however if you already really like the girl, go the distance and meet her in her neck of the woods! I will cover the initial contact and meeting in more detail soon for a future post!
To conclude Mr. Skype: I will not be video chatting with him or meeting him in "real" life anytime soon. That whole gluten free lifestyle is too much a PITA for me! (pain in the ass)...I know it's a medical issue and I should be more understanding, blah blah blah...but if I am going to feel guilty every time I order something fried, it will be because of the normal "going straight to my thighs" guilt, and not one for feeling sorry for someone else who can't eat it. It could be a great way to learn how to eat better, but I can't give up wheat when I don't HAVE to! NO WAY! It would just be too much of a struggle going into any relationship already knowing that. 
Buh-Bye Mr. Skype!

Deal Breakers!

On the topic of deal breakers...I would love to hear some of YOUR deal breakers!

Post a comment and tell us!

Some of mine are:

• Height: A guy MUST be taller then me! 
• Lying: If I catch you in a lie, there will be hell to pay!
• Flakiness: Keep your promises, be where you say you will be...it's easy!
• Lisps: If a guy has one, I will assume he is gay. No questions asked!
• Lazy Eye: I can't, I just can't! I need symmetry...
• Vulgarity right off the bat: I am no angel, but there are lines!