Ms. Adventures In Dating - Love and Relationships
  • Ms. Adventures
  • About
  • Additional Work
  • Contact

I SWEAR I ALWAYS FALL FOR YOUR TYPE

6/28/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
I swear I do! You know the type… tall, dark, handsome, and sexy! I see the finest man in the room and think to myself “Oh, I’ve got to have him!” That’s how it always begins, and so does our story. 

It was a Friday night, and a friend of mine (okay it was my ex Patrick) was having a birthday party in Hollywood. So you know I had to look extra cute, right? I had to show him what he's been missing. Now I don’t normally do colors, but that night I decided to be colorful and wear this gem green pencil skirt with a cream top, super cute. Plus that skirt made my butt look ahhhmazing!!! HA! I very rarely wear my hair off of my face because I kinda have this big forehead, but I was really feelin' myself that night and threw caution to the wind! I wore my curly hair back with minimum makeup, and I must admit it did not look bad, not bad at all! 

As soon as I entered the lounge, I noticed this tall (6’4) handsome man at the bar to my left, and he appeared to be with a large group of people. We’ll go ahead and call him Grant. So I crossed to the right where my friend’s party was in full effect. The usual suspects were all there, but there were dozens of handsome men that I had never seen out before, so I was scoping the entire scene! I chatted up the folks I knew, met some new men here and there, but no one really sparked my interest. However, as I walked over to speak to my friend Mike, I noticed that Grant had now moved over to the same side of the bar, and he was only steps away from me. Now looka here— dude had on this crisp, white t-shirt, was built and filling out every bit of it like The Rock, and actually looked very similar to him as well. Although Dwayne is way finer, like waayyy! I’m just sayin’. So I curved on Mike for a minute to see if an opportunity would present itself to make Grant's acquaintance. 

Grant was standing alone, albeit surrounded by my circle of friends. However, he wasn't interacting with any of them. So that let me know there was a good chance he was there alone, and had merely stumbled into our celebration. So I approached him from the side and said: “You don’t look like you’re enjoying yourself.” He turned and smiled, then assured me that he actually was, he was just taking it all in. “I’m Grant,” he said in a deep, velvety voice.
 “Gabrielle, nice to meet you.” It really was, too! I mean he was super sexy! He continued: “You know every woman is jealous of you right now, don’t you?" Jealous of me? I thought to myself, no way. “You picked the biggest dude in here, and just walked over to talk to him.” With that statement alone, I learned that he was funny, sexy, and a bit cocky, all of which I liked. I must say, I do have that boldness about me when I see something that I want. HA! I merely replied: “Well, it’s their loss. They could've done the exact same thing,” which he liked. Now I know that there are some ladies who don’t like approaching men, but here’s the thing... all men can say is no. I’ve heard no so many times it doesn't even phase me, it just rolls off of my back. Besides, his “no” is another man’s “yes”! Even though I may let a man off the hook by helping break the ice, after that, he has to do all of the work. And if he doesn’t take the ball and run with it, then I keep it moving. So ladies, don't be afraid to make the first move. It could be your best move yet! Let's get back. 

After a brief chat, Grant excused himself to continue walking around the party. Now I knew that he wasn't trying to put all of his eggs in one basket, he wanted to see what else was out there, but I already knew he was feeling me and would be back around. In the meantime, I don’t know what was on me that night, but when I tell you whatever it was, men were coming at me left and right! I’ve never, no like never, like ever never had that many men approach me in one night in LA. Men just don’t approach you in this town, which is utterly ridiculous. As a matter of fact, when I do go out it’s usually like high school, with men on one side of the room and women on the other! This town is so weird and bizarre that way. However, that’s an entire blog by itself, so I digress. Whatever it was, I was one of the hot chicks that night for some strange reason, and I was taking full advantage of it! I worked the hell out of that room. While I was talking to a guy I hadn’t seen in years, Grant passed behind me through the crowd, and slyly brushed his hand across my behind. I didn’t acknowledge it or him, although I realized the guy I was speaking with saw it happen, and seemed a bit put off. I assured him that was just my friend Grant being silly. Although it was confirmation to me that he was definitely interested, it should have red-flagged me to the possibility that he may really only be interested in "hitting" that booty. 

Folks who know me know that I usually only do an hour at a place and then jet. It's always better to leave people wanting more! I had already spent a couple of hours mingling, so it was time to call it a night and go home. I went around the room and said my goodbyes, and then made my way over to Grant to let him know that I was leaving. We exchanged pleasantries and cell info then parted with a hug. Shortly after leaving, I received a text from Grant: “Looking forward to us”. Got him! Yes!!! I was like a giddy school girl who just got a text from the most handsome, popular boy in school! Sad, but true! We would text and talk over the next couple of days until he asked me out for drinks three days after our initial meeting. 

The evening Grant and I are were meeting, had been proceeded by a horrendous work day for me. I wanted to scream, cry, and fight all at the same time! But seeing him would be the light in my dark day, so I pulled it all together. I was actually looking forward to drinks, in the hope of helping to wipe the yucky day away. Oh no! But what am I going to wear? I hadn’t thought about it at all, and time was ticking, so I called my cousin Dana to help me decide. I wanted to look sexy, but not slutty; available, but not thirsty. We decided on a simple, yet fitted black dress, chandelier earrings, with black with gold stilettos. Yeah, I looked pretty hot! 

I texted him that I had parked and was walking up, and to my surprise, he was already inside waiting at the bar. I entered and the hostess directed to me a sitting Grant, who was already having a drink. As I sat to join him, he complimented my fabulous dress and told me how beautiful I looked. I declined an alcoholic drink because y’all may already know that I’m a total lightweight. One drink and it’s a wrap! I really. really wanted to get to know Grant better, so I kept my drink alcohol-free. 

We decided to move over to the lounge area so that we could be more comfortable talking, plus we got to sit close and break a little bit of that personal space bubble. I learned that he was a former NFL player, who was now a tech salesman and had recently moved to LA in the past year. Fresh meat, yes! ‘Cause the dudes that are in this city are normally wiggity, wiggity, wiggity wack! Let me stop, no but for real though they are. Anyway, in a city with tons of beautiful women, he claimed he was looking for quality over quantity. It would take a helluva woman for him to settle down with, but he was open to the possibility. Okay, okay, I might just be that woman! Then he switched the conversation and went on to tell me about myself like he knew me. Dude please, you don’t know me. Oddly enough, he really did seem to know me! Wait, what? "I can tell that you're strong, yet demure, which I like. You're very loving but misunderstood. People mistakenly believe that you can't be this sweet and genuine, that you must want something from them." This is too weird. He was reading me to a tee! I felt like he really got me. So I confided in him about my difficulties that day, and how it was only another brick added to the heavy load I was already carrying. He empathized with me. How did he seem to know who I was and what I needed to hear when he just met me? However it was that he knew those things, I was gobbling it all up, hook, line and sinker. So much so that if I were to take everything that I had been praying for in a man and combine them, Grant would have been the final product. I was totally smitten with him. 

Time passed, appetizers were eaten, drinks were gone, and it was time to wrap up our evening. This is where the evening should have ended. However, being smitten and not using proper judgment because the energy between us was crazy electric, I'm saddened to admit that I fell for the okey-doke. Me? Like you don't understand. I see the okey-doke and call you on it, but I don't actually fall for the shit. Ugh, totally fell for it! “I can tell things are wearing on you. You just need to lay your head on my chest and be still.” Now you know I gave him that “yeah right” look though, right?. He knew it, too, so he continued… “I’m not talking about sex, it’s not about that. It’s about genuinely connecting.” Hmmmm, well okay. Since he took an Uber there, drove him home. I began to have second thoughts because I felt like our energy was leading us down that sex road, but I really wanted to connect on a higher level. Once the sex happens, that’s it, it’s over, done. “No sex?” He promised. "You just need to lay on my chest and find my space, that's all. No sex." 

So we went inside of his building and entered his apartment, it was beautiful. Well decorated, neat, peaceful, it was actually rather lovely. As I crossed inside, he said: “I never got a chance to give you a hug, since I was already there when you arrived.” So we hugged and he immediately grabbed my ass and shoved his tongue down my throat. I knew immediately what I should have known initially, he just wanted sex. Well, that wasn’t happening, which I reiterated to him and maintained. Even though he was fine and sexy, and I hadn’t had sex in months, like months!!! But what was happening now wasn’t what I was looking for. Besides, I had already told him that I wasn't looking for another freak-piece, I was looking for a man, a companion.  

Feeling that the energy had totally shifted in the opposite direction, it was time for me to go. Grant walked me to my car and asked me if I was okay since he thought I appeared to be sad. He was right, I was sad, as well as disappointed in him and myself. I told him that I was just tired because I was hurt and didn’t want to talk about it, I just wanted to leave. I felt deceived, like he used
 his salesman skills to tell me what I simply wanted to hear. Despite what he said, this guy didn’t want anything deep, real or meaningful, he was only looking for a simple romp in the sack. I couldn't believe that I let myself fall for his fooleywang! 

He ended up calling me the next day, and we had a very candid conversation about how the previous night unfolded. I was honest and let him that I was disappointed in the way things played out. I thought he was different from all of the other knuckleheads who only see me as a sexual object to fulfill their carnal needs, but he wasn’t. Here I am thinking that I had finally met the man of my dreams, when the truth was, that was never the role he was meant to play. “Gabrielle, I know what you’re looking for in terms of a relationship, and I definitely don’t want to disappoint you. I really do care for you, it was just that the energy between us was amazing. Although I want you, I respect you and your wishes.” 

Grant and I texted and spoke on the phone a few times over the next few months because I did enjoy his friendship. Although I think somewhere deep inside I was hoping that he would eventually want more. So when he texted and asked to take me out for lunch, I thought maybe he did. However, I needed to move lunch, so I reached out to ask if we could reschedule, and he didn’t respond… until a month later. A month?! Did you lose your phone? Your minutes ran out? Hitting me with a text: “You getting out?” What? Fool I ain’t heard from you in a month and you’re hitting me like we’re good? Like I’m not going to notice you never got back to me about lunch? Man, please! Y’all know I’m so Chicago, right? So I let him know that he lost that privilege to know anything about me or my schedule and that I’m no longer interested. “Grant, I need a king beside me to build with me, not someone who doesn’t recognize my worth or his own.” Boy bye! Let me give you men out there a fair warning… I’m not here to play with you or be your little plaything. If you’re not trying to build something real, do me a favor and keep clowning around with your fellow jesters because I’m in the kingdom building business, not the three-ring circus business. 

Even though I recognize that I still may have a “type” with certain physical attributes and personality traits, let me be clear that it also includes spirituality and mindset. I remain hopeful that when I meet the type of man that encompasses all that I want and need, before I take that step forward, I will know for certain that he’ll be there to catch me when I fall for him. Until then... next!   
0 Comments

I’M SO MUCH COOLER ONLINE!

4/4/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Why oh why do I keep finding myself dating online? I don’t know why I do it, I really don't. I guess I’m just a glutton for punishment. I take that back, I do know why I do it. I do it because I get tired of sitting home alone every single day, week in and week out, month after month. I do it because I’m still holding out hope that on the other end of that profile is the right man for me. So every now and then I break down and log on to a dating site to help snap me out of my hum-drum dating life or lack thereof. So here goes nothing… again! This time I didn’t do their whole 6-month package foolishness, I only signed up for 30 days. Why? For a few reasons: 1) The site becomes too much work for me after 30 days; 2) I become disheartened when no one responds to my flirts; and 3) Y'all know I’m cheap, jeez! 

So let me break each of those points down for you. Number one, I already work on a computer all day, so I’m not really trying to sit and look at one during my personal time. I mean come on already! I don’t want to have more screen time I want more face time, and I don’t mean on an iPhone! Plus, I keep a very busy schedule. You know with all of the couch sitting, dog walking, lack of working out, very little eating and sleeping, I mean who really has the time to sit in front of the computer all day and search for someone, then send a bunch of emails back and forth and back and forth and back and forth! UGH! It’s exhausting! Secondly, there are the suitors. Let’s see if I can put this gently… hmmmm, no I can’t, I just can’t! I just have to keep it real. The suitors I always get emails from are either super old, super fat, or super ugly men! Sometimes I want to write in my profile, I’m not fucking desperate! Good Lawd!! For those of you who don’t know about the online dating life, men on those sites talk mad shit about women being deceitful with their profiles, but they are big ole liars themselves! I cannot tell you how many men I’ve met for drinks who show up looking like a fatter, older or balder version of themselves! Women, here’s a tip— the men who wear baseball caps in all of their photos, or men who only post pics from the chest up, beware! They’re hiding some real truth about themselves, and it looks like bald and fat! Sometimes I think the men are actually worse than the very women whose online presence they complain about. Lastly, I’m not trying to keep spending money just to be disappointed and no further along than where I started. Let’s keep it real, I’d rather spend that money on a nice pair of shoes or a beautiful dress. Know what I’m saying? Anyway, let me get to the story because I could spend all day on this foolishness right here! 

So… I check my inbox one day to find an email from a very handsome, somewhat older gentleman that I’ll call Lyle. So we spoke on the phone and he was also intelligent, cultured, and had a good sense of humor. Since he worked close to my place, we decided to meet somewhere nearby, a nice casual spot. I’ve been to the restaurant before, and because weren’t going anywhere fancy, I wore a sort of hobo chic outfit— a long, maxi skirt, a baggy tank top, and sandals. It was still sunny outside, but I had forgotten my shades. However, wanted to take in some good vitamin D, I stopped and looked up to admire the sun setting and how beautiful of an evening it was turning out to be. Oh!!! Why of why did I do that? Now I have that sunshine thing happening in my eyeballs! You know how it is when you look directly at the sun for too long and it like remains in your eyeballs, so you can’t really see anything clearly for a minute or so? Yeah, so that was happening as I turned the corner to the cafe.

I walked, in the distance, I could see Lyle, who waved to me, and was already there standing near the entrance. Now I’m still a bit blind, but I can at least make out that he is tall and slender like his profile stated, which is sort of my thing. He had come directly from work, so he was quite dapper in his suit. As I got closer to him, my vision finally began to adjust, and it was like the lenses on my eyeballs had just defrosted and that’s when I saw it! The turkey neck giggling under his chin! OMG, what?! As I now stood across from him and we greeted each other with a handshake, the truth became more and more evident. This man lied, lied, lied in his profile! I cannot with this damn internet! I mean he was at least 20 years older than me! Now I get shaving off a couple of years (I’m guilty of dropping a year or two myself) because there is an algorithm to online dating, and you want to have the widest scope possible, especially if you are open to dating someone a bit younger or older for that matter. I’ve even seen people put a different age on their profile, either younger or older, however, they are up front in their profiles and reveal their actual age. That’s fine and totally acceptable. But 20 years?! I’m sorry, you can’t hide 20 years and show up like I’m not going to notice! That’s just bananas! 

So now I feel completely bamboozled! Looking back, I should have left politeness aside and simply not gone forward with the date. However, not wanting to be a total bitch, I went ahead and entertained Lyle. After all, maybe there was a good reason for his complete and utter dishonesty. Let’s see! 

We sat and ordered appetizers, and I started by asking him how dating on the site had been for him. He said that he was only for a month, but he hadn’t had any real luck with potential matches because the women use old pictures and look nothing like them, are heavier, or totally use someone else’s photo altogether. Hmmm, sound familiar? “One woman even told me that she was using her friend’s picture for her profile, but I decided to meet her anyway.” What?! Like I get that we all want to love and to be loved, but come on dumb-dumb! Why would you still go to meet her? She obviously has issues! Just dumb!!! Now I’m thinking he must have issues too, and his stock completely plummeted. Why did I even entertain this foolish man? 

Now I’ve been told by many people that my face speaks volumes. Something that I continue to try and work on, but at times, my face will truly say what I’m thinking without me saying a word. At this point, the volume must have been on blast because upon looking at me and realizing that I knew that he knew that I knew that he knew I was thinking that his ass straight up lied to me, too, Lyle asked me if I had similar experiences on the site, and still went out with the person anyway. Ummm excuse me, I’m living one right now!! Ugh! So instead of being mean and nasty about it, I used that moment to be honest, but remain kind. 

“You know what Lyle? I wouldn’t be able to actually date someone who wasn’t honest with me about themselves from the beginning because if they’re willing to lie about little bits of information about themselves from jump, what big things would they be willing to rationalize and lie to me about?” So y’all already know from my response that it was pretty much a wrap after that, right? 

Although Lyle was very handsome, active and interesting man, he was not honest with me about who he really was. We were both very polite as we finished our meal, said our goodbyes and although he promised to call me, I knew that I’d never hear from him again. He got the point, and he knew that his dishonesty cost him a potential relationship. Maybe it’ll be a lesson learned. Hopefully for me as well. I tend not to ask as many questions as I need to, especially when dating online. I’m working on that because I hate people wasting my time. With me, what you see is truly what you get. Well, I do try to pretend I’m cool in person, but I’m really more of a nerd. “You’re so cool, Brewster!” If you know which movie that line is from, then you actually are cool online! HA! Next!!!!
0 Comments

DO YOU WANT TO RIDE IN MY MERCEDES, BOY?

2/7/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Anyone who knows anything about me knows that I’m not a flosser, not real fancy at all. I don’t have an expensive car or a wardrobe filled with purple labels and red bottoms. However, I do like nice things, and I have a knack for getting really great deals. I have a really sharp eye for quality.

So when I spotted Omar, I knew he was top-shelf quality! First, let me backtrack and tell you how we initially met each other. My sister was in town visiting, and she wanted to stop by her girlfriend’s house for a visit after we attended church. Now I’m a traditional church lady. I’m not the church hat lady with pantyhose type, but I am the church lady who only wears dresses and heels to church service. I feel like at the very least I should give God my best when I go to worship Him. That’s just how I’ve always been. However, as soon as church is over, you already know, those heels come off and I change into my driving slippers. Let me stop trying to sound fancy, they were house shoes! Side note to the ladies: driving while wearing your heels ruins the back of them. You know that black stain that you get on the back of them? Ummm hmmm, that’s from driving in them! You’ll thank me for that little tip. Anyway, this day was no different. After a two-hour service of standing and sitting, and standing and sitting, as soon as my sister and I sat down in that car, I slipped into my house shoes with the quickness! 

My sister’s friend Leslie asked us to stop by for a visit after church, so when we arrived at her place in the valley, I kept on my house shoes. Ghetto? Whatever! My feet were barking and my house shoes were comfortable! Anyway, Leslie was leaving town later that evening and needed to get to Union Station, so my sister volunteered me to drop her off. Don’t you just love family? 

However, before dropping her at the station, she asked if we could follow her up the street to the Mercedes dealership to drop off her car, so they could fix it while she was out of town. She’s fancy! We arrived at the dealership and each pulled into the service area, she drove over to the service desk, as we parked over to the side to wait for her. Leslie called my sister and asked her to come over to her, but my sister was yapping away on the other line, so she sent me to see what she wanted. 

I started to step of the car when I realized I still had on my house shoes. So I closed the door back and quickly put on my stilettos again.“You don’t have to change your shoes,” my sister says. Is she for real? “Girl, please. I am at a Mercedes dealership. I am not walking out in some house shoes! I may be ghetto, but I’m not that ghetto!” I got out of my car and strutted over to Leslie. When Leslie saw me, she had the nerve to ask me why I changed my house shoes. Now is she for real? Please, I told her just like I told my sister. “You tricks are not about to have me out here all wrong in some damn house shoes!” 

Leslie was called into the service office, which left me standing next to her Mercedes when this extra tall (he’s 6’6”), extra dark, extra handsome man, carrying a pair of Jordans, came walking up from the street. Tall, dark and handsome! Y’all know that’s my kryptonite, right? I had to say a quick prayer… “Lord Jesus! Thank you on this amazing Sunday for this beautiful specimen you’ve sent my way! Yay God!” Yes, I’m a fool, I already know this. Anyway, we exchanged looks a few times, but that was it. I finally thought of something funny to say to break the ice, and just when I was about to speak, they called him over to the desk to get his car. I thought, I can’t just let him go, right? If I’m going to say something, I’ve got to say it right now! So as he walked by I awkwardly blurted out: “You’re leaving just when I was about to say something clever about a man and his Jordans. He laughed and crossed over to his service rep. That was it. He just laughed and kept walking. They handed him the keys and he got inside of his car. Now, as it turns out, I happened to be standing directly in the middle of the entrance slash exit. How convenient. I get a second shot at this thing, and I’m going to take it! After all, this could be my chocolate prince! Now just to let you know how dirty I am at this thing... when he got into the car, I struck a pose making sure my best assets, if you know what I mean, were fully on display. HA! I don’t play fair, I know that, too! 

He drove up slowly, then stopped right beside me. I turned around and said: “ So you were just gonna drive away and not introduce yourself?” He said: “That’s why I’m stopping.” Yessss, got him! Now the only thing sexier than a tall, dark and handsome man, is a man with some bass in his voice! And boy did he have it. “My name is Omar.” I stretched my hand out and leaned down near his window. He reached over, gently grasping my hand. After a moment of sheer and utter flirtation, eye batting and all, I managed to utter the words: “I’m Gabrielle.” As I did, I noticed that he was still holding my hand. He’s good, too! 

Once Omar released my hand, he handed me his phone and asked if I would put my information in it, which I did happily. “So you are going to call me, right?” He assured me that he would. I have to admit that I usually never take a man’s information that I’m interested in, I believe that the man should call me first. I’m just old-fashioned that way. However, if I’m really not interested in someone, I’ll take their info because I don’t want them to have mine. Ugly fact, I know!  

Anyway, getting back... Omar did call me the next day. Not texted me, called me. Nice move! Finally, a man who gets it! Forget what you’ve heard fellas, women want to hear from a man they’re interested in as soon as possible, and by that I mean we want to hear his voice! So we spoke on the phone for a while before arranging a day and time to meet. We kept the meeting place halfway between our residences, so Hollywood was the winning neighborhood. 

It’s date night!! I’ve said it before, I’m really a skirt girl, so I wore a black pencil skirt, you know, to show off the curves, and a short summer sweater, with a pair of black and gold 6” stilettos. I mean, what else could I wear? The man is 6’5” after all! Oh believe you me, the next day I’d pay for wearing those heels, but for that night I had to keep it high and sexy! Since it was a work night for us (aka school night), so we kept things super casual. I arrived at the spot shortly before he did, so I sat at the bar until he arrived. 

And did he ever arrive!!!! Yes, he did, looking casually fine— sporting jeans and a t-shirt, looking even sexier than when we first met. As we hugged, he complimented my outfit, check! And told me how beautiful I looked, check check!! Men, here’s a not-so-much-newsflash, yup I just made that up! Women love, love, love and appreciate compliments. We put real effort into looking our best, so please don’t be stingy with the compliments! Pretend you’re in the strip club and make it rain!!! With compliments, not singles. Although I wouldn’t be mad, at— let me stop. Moving on! 

The handsome Omar asked the hostess if we could grab a nearby booth. It was massive, which was perfect because it allowed us to scoot in close to each other, so we could hear one another. You know we were really just trying to check each other out up close and personal to check our energy. Needless to say, it was crazy energy over the next hour! We shared appetizers and drinks, as well as stories about our family, our careers, our life experiences. It was so nice just having a real conversation with someone. OMG, wait! A smart, handsome, sexy man who is genuinely interested in me?

I have to say that it was one of the best first dates I had been on in quite a while. We kept things short and sweet because it was work night. As we waited for the checked, I asked Omar to let me see his hand. He held it up and I held mine in front of it. He turned his hand down so he could see how much smaller mine was in comparison. “You know what they say about men with big hands, right?” Oh here were go! “No, what?” He smiled slightly and said: “Big hands… big feet!”  Okay, and he’s kind of funny, too! A gal could really get used to someone like this guy. 

The night had come to a close for us, so we exited the bar and he walked me to my car, and he gave me a hug goodnight. As we stood there, he pulled back a little to look down at me, so I looked up at him, and I think the moment we had both been waiting for had arrived. I climbed that tree of a man— I’m just kidding, just jokes! He leaned down and kissed me. It was respectful, tender, a perfect kiss. “Whoa! That was pretty amazing!” he said. He was right, it was amazing. So much so, that right then and there Omar asked me if he could pick me up and take me out on a real date. Uh yeah!!!!! Heyyy, I’m going for a ride!!! HA! 
0 Comments

LISTEN PARTNA I AIN'T NO CHEAP THRILL

12/13/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
I’m the first to admit that I’m well… frugal. However, I’m frugal in the I-love-getting-a-good-deal kind of frugal, although others may call that cheap. Nevertheless, I know how to find some bargains, some really good deals! I buy quality clothes, shoes, accessories, and home furnishings, but I purchase them at ultra-low prices. Okay fine, I’m cheap.

But let’s be clear, I am not a cheap date!  However, not being a cheap date doesn’t mean that a guy has to take me to the snazziest, most chi-chi-frou-frou restaurant in town and go broke doing it. It does mean that wherever we do go, I do expect him, as a gentleman, to pay. I will work within your budget constraints, especially for a first date in order to keep things light and easy. If we need to hit a happy hour for five dollars drinks, I’m 'bout it 'bout it. Again, I will work within your budget constraints. Working within those constraints brings me to Carlos. Ahhhh, Carlos. He was a special one. And by special I do mean “little yellow bus” special.  
​
Carlos and I met virtually on a dating site, and after exchanging a few emails, we chatted on the phone briefly to set up a meeting time and place. For this date, I decided to switch things up a bit and instead of doing a meet-and-greet, I thought, well having a meal instead couldn’t be that bad, right? Note to self: it is that bad! To those of you who are dating in cyberspace, do not, I repeat, DO NOT meet anyone for a full-blown meal if you have not first done a meet-and-greet over coffee or drinks. Why do you ask? Because halfway through the meal you’re kicking yourself for being so foolish and now having to sit through an entire meal with someone that you realize you’re really not that interested in. Meeting for coffee or drinks can always lead to a meal if you’re enjoying each other’s company. But if you do the meal without vetting their ass first, you’re stuck for at least an entire cringe-worthy hour! 

Since we lived quite a distance from one another, I picked a halfway point, which was the Hughes Center in Culver City. For that alone, he should have greeted me with a crown and a bouquet of roses because I was volunteering to fight the hellish traffic on the 405 just to meet up! Those folks who live in LA will feel me on that one! Anyway, the meeting was going to be during lunch hours, so I suggested Islands because it has a low price-point (see I'm reasonable), and let’s face it, they have some amazing french fries! Everyone who knows me knows I’m all about fries!

The place was set, so now it was time to prep for the date. Not wanting to show too much on a first meeting, I arrived in a casual skirt and tank top. Skirts are kind of my thing! Skirts and dresses really. You already know heels are a must, and I never disappoint. As for the face, I like to keep my makeup minimum, and I always try my best to look like my profile pictures. So if my hair is straight in my photos, I usually wear it straight when I first meet someone, which was the case here as well. So I’m cute, I’m ready.

I arrived a little early, you know, to scope him out as he arrived. He arrived on time, so at least I can say he was punctual. But... I guess since we were meeting at Islands, he decided to prep as well and made the fashion choice to look the part, so he arrived wearing jeans, a Hawaiian shirt, and a straw hat!  Really?  Uh, we are not at a damn luau. Here we go! So we shook hands and introduced ourselves. Carlos: “Wow, you’re really beautiful. You look just like your pictures.” I tell him “Thanks”, but I’m really thinking: “Wow! You don’t look like yours! In person, you look at least ten years older and ten years heavier than your pictures!” Maybe he thought the hat would shade his age and the shirt's pattern would help mask his potbelly… it did not on either front. 

Other notes to self: when you don’t see any current body shots on a person’s online profile, beware! And if the pictures aren’t in full Technicolor, but instead are faded and kind of blurry… again beware because those pictures are old as hell! Men know how to post deceiving pictures just as much as women do. They also know how to check the box on their profile that says they’re “active” or “in shape”. In shape does not mean doing hand lifts with dozens of donuts to your mouth, Tubby! BONG!!! 

Did I mention he was wearing a Hawaiian shirt and straw hat? Like are you for real? So immediately I already knew three things: 1) he wasn’t totally honest in his profile; 2) he had no sense of fashion at all; and 3) he doesn’t take care of his body, his temple or should I say his stadium. I'm just saying… I work hard to keep myself slender and in shape, and because I do, I expect whomever I’m with to do the same. For some women, that’s their thing, but for me, I find nothing sexy about a potbelly. So if I show up to meet you without a belly, and you show up with one, I already know we don’t share the same type of lifestyle. Now if you show up with a belly and tell me sincerely how you are working on losing it and want to become more active, then I may give you a shot. However, if you rub your belly like he did and tell me “this means success”, you have successfully written yourself off!

It’s hard to be honest about our own shit, but the least you can do is be honest when the evidence you present is going to give you away. The date only just started and already I was regretting the fact that this lunch was going to last longer than I wanted it to.

Now for those of you who don’t know the type of food served at this restaurant, it’s basically burgers and fries, so I kept it real simple and really inexpensive for us. The server came over to take our order. Carlos immediately ordered, “I want the Big Wave burger with cheese and a basket of fries.” Hold the fry up! Did you just order before me? Ooooh! I cannot stand a man who does not have manners or etiquette. At least he ordered fries. You know, the ones I love so much? Maybe he was just nervous and jumped the gun, so I let it go and moved on. Who knows, he could make up for it, right? 

The conversation was decent, but I kept it pretty surface, not wanting to get too deep—my job, his job, our interests, and hobbies, etc. Then the conversation veered and he began to talk about his previous dating experiences. Carlos said: Yeah, I did everything for her. I paid all of the bills and took care of her, and then as soon as I hit a rough patch she bailed. She wasn’t nothing but a damn gold digger. But it’s her loss ‘cause I’m back.” Back? Naw homie, you’re still back there because you’re not even healed from that relationship. Ummm Bitter-- party of one! Ladies, there are a lot of damaged men out there. So when you meet them, do yourself a favor… walk away and let them heal. Please!!! 

​Now ladies and gentlemen, let me help you with inappropriate first date conversation--your ex-life and your sex life. Despite what Salt-N-Pepa’s song says, let’s NOT talk about sex, baby. At least not right away.
 It’s obvious to me that talking about sex on a first date is inappropriate if you’re looking for something more meaningful than just getting laid. Less obvious may be trash talking your ex to someone who you’re trying to potentially date. For one thing, it just makes you sound bitter like you’re blaming your ex for the failed relationship. For another and most importantly, I really don’t care! I’m not invested enough in you to care about your old drama yet. So here’s a tip for all of you-- if the subject happens to come up, take the high road and just say it ended due to the failure of both parties and move things along. As the conversation continued, I kind of realized that we weren’t going to be a good fit. I still listened and was plugged in because you never know, your initial impression could be wrong about a person. For the record, mine are usually right on the money. No, like right on the money.

We were done eating and I was so ready to bring things to a close. Yes! Please and thank you!!!  So I was happy to ask our server, “Can we get the check, please?” The bill was roughly $26.00. Again, I expect a man to be a gentleman and offer to pay. As not to assume, however, I reached into my purse and pulled out a twenty for my share of the bill.  What does he do?  He pulls out a hundred dollar bill.  Oh okay big baller, pulling out the big dollars.  So I think that he’s going to say, “Don’t worry about it, I got it.” Clearly, I thought wrong. This fool takes my money, puts it in the fold with his 100 then asks the waitress to split the bill. Uhhhhhh what? I’m sorry, what?! Uh yeah!  

I don’t even have to tell you, there is no need for him to ever call me again. What’s funny is that he actually thought the date went well! So what did he do? He had the nerve to call me for a second date! Yeah, you’d love that, Tubby. Umm, I don’t think so, Hawaiian boy! Like I said, I may be cheap, but I don’t do cheap!

Next!!! 
0 Comments

HEY BABY IT'S COLD OUTSIDE

10/21/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
Like most of us from the Midwest or back East, we love the fact that harsh winters are basically non-existent in Southern Cali. However, every now and then we'll get some cold weather that chills us to the bone. Luckily, those times are few and far between. This past winter was a bit chilly, as was the story with my date, who I'll call Kamar. I met Kamar via an online dating site, I know, I really should just stay off of those things, but that's another story. From his profile, he was tall, had caramel skin with freckles, great teeth (have I ever mentioned I'm somewhat of a tooth snob), very handsome. He lived in San Diego, so honestly, it was a stretch for me to even entertain the idea of dating someone living in a different part of the state. I mean driving in LA traffic alone can take two hours just to get from Downtown to Santa Monica. I thought, what the hell! You know never know, right? Besides, he owned a construction business based out of San Diego with a remote office here, which kept him traveling back and forth to Los Angeles, so the distance may not be that bad.

Kamar had an upcoming trip to LA, so we arranged to meet the next time he was going to be here. I know I've said it before, but normally, I don't do meals for a first meeting. However, our back-and-forth conversation was going good, so I decided to make an exception. He suggested we meet at a restaurant on the Santa Monica Pier for a late lunch. Now, those who know me know that I really never go to the beach. Like almost never. I just don't, especially when it's cold outside. I love hot. Like super hot! Like sweat beads running down my face hot!!! Don't get me wrong, a walk on the beach every now and again or laying in the sand is calming and romantic with the right person, so if I have to go, I just prefer the beach when it's warm. And I really prefer to be around water that I can actually get in it. I mean, cold, slimy, green water? That really isn't my stilo at all. Uh no thanks! However, since we weren't getting in the water, I agreed the pier was good to meet.

It was still technically winter, but the day we agreed to meet was unusually hot, even at the beach. I was excited about that because as previously mentioned, I was not looking forward to going down by the pier, but the great weather definitely made it more manageable. Kamar is a total Cali guy, so he showed up in a nice pair of shorts with a V-neck shirt and flip-flops. I opted for a long, fitted casual sundress along with a super cute pair of heels. I called him to let him know that I had arrived and was in the parking lot. He arrived early and was already waiting on the pier in front of the restaurant. As I walked up the ramp to the pier, I spotted him immediately. What a relief, he looked just like his picture! If y'all only knew how many men don't look like their pictures, you'd be shocked!

We formally introduced ourselves with a smile and handshake, and then went inside. Kamar was a total gentleman. He opened doors, he pulled out my chair to sit, allowed me to order first-- he was winning major points. Fuck what you heard about women not wanting a chivalrous gentleman! I want it all day every day! Good going, Kamar!

We had great food and quality conversation, and things were looking good for this first date. He told me that whenever he comes to LA, he stays on his boat in the Marina. Don't get all geeked. It was by no means a yacht, he said it's a very small cruising boat, but it has all of the basic amenities that he needs. He was happy that the weather wasn't brutal because the one thing it doesn't have on it is heat. Lucky for him, in Southern California, that's not an issue very often. 

Our meal was over and being the gentleman that Kamar was, he walked me to my car. I opened the door and placed my purse inside, and we stood and talked for a few minutes in the parking lot. However, he didn't want the date to end just yet. So he asked if we could walk around the outdoor mall at the Third Street Promenade for a bit and talk some more. "I'd love to. Let me grab my purse and my jacket."  He stopped me and closed my car door. "You don't need them, you're good. Besides, we won't be gone long."  I agreed, so we made our way over to the Promenade.

I already told you that even though it was hot that day, it was really still winter time. And if you live in LA, you know that it can be 90 degrees during the day, but as soon as the sun sets, it will take all of its little heat with it. And quickly! Which is exactly what happened that day. As my pastor would say during his sermons: "Stay with me I'm going somewhere." 

We ignored the dropping temperature initially because we were having such a great time with together. We were looking at clothes, trying them on for each other, being playful and silly. We were already calling each other pet names like honey and baby as if we were already a couple. As we traveled from store to store, the temperature steadily began to drop. After a couple of hours of window shopping, the drop in temperature was undeniable. Now we're both absolutely freezing at this point! After all, we were dressed for summer, but now, it was suddenly back to winter temps. And by winter I mean 50 degrees! So when we walked inside of what would be our final store, Kenneth Cole, we were shivering! It was freezing outside and they had an amazing sale on winter coats, it was practically kismet! We both tried on different leather coats. He put on this bad ass black, leather trench coat! It was sleek, supple and sexy! He has a bald head, so I joked that he looked like Shaft in the coat. I tried on this beautiful black leather coat with shearling. It was warm, soft and simply gorgeous! OMG! I had to have it! Plus, but this point I needed it! It was freakin' freezing outside!

He looked at me and said: "You should get it. It looks amazing on you."  I thought to myself I should, huh? Okay, I'll get it! Wait a minute. Dammit, I can't get it! I left my purse in the car. I have no money, no ID, no nothing! So I tell him, "I left my purse in the car, I have no money on me."  Kamar, again being the kind gentleman that he was: "Don't worry about it. I'll get it for you."  I told him I couldn't have him buy me a coat! It's our first time meeting, our first date, that was crazy! But you know I really wanted that coat, right? So I told him that if he bought it I would pay him back for it. Once we get back to my can, I could get my purse and go to an ATM to get him the money. He assured me it was fine, that he wanted to buy it for me. And since it was so cold out, he wanted me to wear it right out of the store. So he bought it, and I walked out in my new leather coat. Love, love, love the coat!! Good going, Kamar!

We walked speedily back to the car because it was cold and I was the only one now wearing a coat. So we made it to my car, where I offered again to pay for the coat, but he declined. So I thanked him for the generous gift, we hugged and said our good-byes. With that, we were setting up our second date. What?! I rarely make it to a second date! So yay!

It just so happened that I had box seat tickets two weeks later for an upcoming Cirque du Soleil performance, so I invited him to join me for it. Over the next couple of weeks, we communicated every day either by talking, texting or emailing. We were both excited and looking forward to seeing each other again.

Before we knew it, the day for the show had arrived, and he drove back up from San Diego. This time, however, winter was back with a vengeance! Kamar was running late after meetings earlier that day, so we agreed to just meet in front of the theater. Since it was right before the holidays, I decided to give him a little Christmas gift-- a Michael Kors scarf. It was black and white, very nice, and since the weather had totally turned on us, I thought it would be perfect for him. After all, h
e was very sweet, and I was already kind of smitten with him. Of course, I wore my new leather coat, on top of an all-black ensemble of black skinny slacks, and a black sheer top. He arrived wearing a long black wool trench, slacks, and a collared shirt, looking extra dapper. We greeted each other with a hug and kiss on the cheek. I could wait to give it to him, so I presented him with his gift. Kamar: "What's this?"  I told him it was an early Christmas gift. "No one ever gets me gifts. I'm usually the one giving the gifts."  He seemed genuinely touched. He opened it and put it on immediately, and modeled a bit for me. He mentioned how cold it was on his boat when he went to change clothes that evening before heading to the theater, so the scarf was a befitting gift. He loved it! 

We decided to go inside for the show, and an usher escorted us to our seats. We had the entire box to ourselves. He was super impressed! It was his first time seeing a Cirque production, and he thought it was creative and simply amazing. Now I was winning major points! Good going, Gab!

After the show, we decided to grab a quick bite at a nearby restaurant. Again, great conversation, he held my hand and I think we were both a bit enamored with one another. I think I may really like this guy. Finally, it was time for this wonderful evening to come to a close. It was beyond cold walking back to the parking garage, so he held me close as we braved the chilly winds that night. Once we made it into the warm garage, he asked if he could come to my place and stay the night since it was so cold on his boat. Oh is that where he was going with that when he mentioned it earlier?  Is he for real? Hmmmmm, I guess that was his set up. Well, this sucks because now I have to set his ass up for a reality check.

"Oh, no love you can't come home with me. I mean, we've had two amazing dates, but I can't let you stay at my place. I barely know you". He assured me that it would be okay, that I did know him. Uhhh, no I don't.  Really? Two dates and a coat has not earned you enough of a right to come and sleep up in my house, let alone sleep in my bed! Ladies, if you don't want to do something on a date, don't do it! And don't let anyone else try to convince you to do it! I mean, did he really think that I would say yes to him? Ummmm nope! Although I really liked him a lot, I still needed time to really get to know him. He accepted it and said our good-byes. It was obvious that he didn't appreciate being turned down, and I figured he'd be a little disappointed tonight, but understanding in the morning when all was said and done. Little did I know he wouldn't be, and that was actually our final goodbye. I called and texted him a couple of times afterward, but he didn't respond. I never heard from him again, he was gone. Oh well, at least I still had my dignity, and could say that I finally had a second date with someone. The bonus… I got a fabulous leather coat out of it! As a matter of fact, I'm wearing that shit right now! Hope that scarf helped keep his bald-headed ass warm on that boat! Blahahahahahaha! On to the next!
0 Comments

GET ON THE GOOD FOOT!

8/27/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
I’ve been very hit or miss with online dating, however, I decided to give it another try.  Signed up. Created my profile. Ready! Then it happened… I received my first message from an older, somewhat handsome man that we’ll call Sean. So I checked him out. A doctor, oh a podiatrist—even better! If you’re a grown woman and have two bad feet like I do, you’d be excited about that, too. I know the ladies feel me on that one! 

So we arranged to do a meet and greet at a local coffee shop. He showed up looking casually nice—jeans, white collared shirt, untucked. Okay not bad! I was casual as well—tan flowing skirt, tank top, and wedge sandals. We kept the conversation short and sweet before deciding to continue things at dinner the next evening.

He handled everything, which I loved! Folks who know me well know that I’m not a foodie at all, so I will always defer to the person I’ll be dining with to decide on a place.  Reservations were for 7:30 pm, and he would pick me up at 7 pm. I put on my new black and cream striped dress, gold earrings, gold diamond necklace, and of course, my stilettos! Like most women, I kind of have a thing for shoes. You fancy, huh? I certainly thought so. 

It’s almost 7 pm, so put the finishing touches on my make-up and done! I said and done!  I’m ready! Hello? I’m ready! Well, he wasn’t. I decided to call and ask his ETA, and he said he was close. So I waited.

It’s now 7:15 pm and I’m still waiting. Sean finally arrived at 7:30 pm. So much for punctuality. He parked out front, and I walked outside of my apartment to meet him. He got out of the car to open the passenger door for me and that’s when I saw it!  Old man pants!!!  He was wearing collared shirt and tie, with pants that went all up to his rib cage! Is he for real? What happened to the man I met yesterday? It was as if the night before I was vetted by Stefan, then Urkel showed up for the actual date! Really? Were we going to dinner or dancing at the Flamenco Room in his zoot suit pants? Then I hit me, he probably had on old man jeans the night before, but I couldn’t tell because his shirt was outside and covered the waist of the jeans. Okay, okay take a minute, it’s just pants.  All right, I can roll with them for one night. Besides, a wardrobe is cosmetic and you can always help someone spruce up their wardrobe and find their “new” waistline, so not a deal breaker. 

Since we were now late, I asked if he had already called the restaurant to push the reservation. Cocky he replied, “They’ll wait for us.” I thought to myself, oh he’s that guy…  great. You know the kind of guy who thinks his money affords him all types of courtesies even when it doesn’t?

The car ride. “Do you mind if have music playing?” Being accommodating, of course, I said I didn’t mind. I really didn’t mind, as long as he kept it low so that we can hear each other talk. After all, this was our first real time together. At least I didn’t mind until the next song came on and he turned the volume all the way up! I mean all the way up! “This is my jam!” Yeah, I kind of just caught that, as well as a headache from the volume being on blast. 

I’ll admit that we all have our “that’s my jam” moments that can overtake us. But his jam was a Freddie Jackson song! Really? I knew the 80s were back in fashion, but come on! Are you for real? And just like that, the hip older guy that I thought I met the night before was gone, only to be replaced by nothing more than just a plain old man! I guess he decided that hearing his jam wasn’t enough, so he took it to the next level and began to sing along. I’ll admit, he could hold a tune and initially, I was complimentary saying “Wow! You’re a really great singer!” Apparently, that was a big mistake because he took that as permission to continue singing. And so he did. I’m sorry, I don’t think you guys understand, I said he continued! Like he didn’t just sing that song, he continued to turn his singing into a full-blown, old school R&B performance and sang every song that he played! My sarcastic remarks like “You should really go on one of those shows like America’s Got Talent” and “The Voice is really missing out on you” were completely lost on him. It only served to feed his ego. His one-man concert lasted all the way over the hill to the restaurant, not offering an ounce of conversation to the stranger sitting in the car next to him. You already know like I knew right then and there… this was going to make for a long ass night!

So after carpool karaoke ended, we pulled up to this chi-chi-frou-frou restaurant in Beverly Hills. He was definitely trying to impress. Now I’m really not that fancy, but I clean up well. Very well, I might add! The valet opened my door and offered a generous compliment as he assisted me out of the car. We entered the restaurant and the hostess immediately escorted us to our table. As we passed by the other patrons, two other men complimented my dress and my beauty. Note: Sean still had not! However, after hearing the compliments of others, he finally did as well. Well thanks a lot, Late Leonard!   

The evening was rolling along, but I’m a teeny bit salty about him being unapologetically late and inattentive, especially since he had previously told me how chivalrous, and gentlemanly he was, neither of which I’m seeing at all at this point!
Dinner conversation... sigh. It’s polite. You know the kind, where I’m listening, but I’m not really invested. Especially once he began telling me about how he doesn’t do “typical” black men things. So he’s one of those? Trying to impress me with what he believes are “non-black” activities like golfing or skiing. Dude, please! Every Black person I know plays on courses, hits the slopes, snorkels or jumps out of planes! Go somewhere with that outdated foolishness! I was probably rolling my eyes by now.

Sean moved on to talking about his career and spoke at length about his job examining and correcting feet! Boring to some, maybe, but this was actually when my ears perked up to hear the good part because remember… me + my two feet = a pair of bad feet! Yes, tell me all about it, while I take mental notes of which services I’m going to need to get these bad boys in tip-top stiletto shape! Collapsed arches, neuromas, metatarsal pads... Yes, yes! More! More!!!! However, before I could get more delicious podiatric  details out of him, he switched subjects on me rather abruptly. “So let me tell you what I’m looking for.” Ummm okay. Mind you, he didn’t begin by asking me what I’m looking for. I guess he figured he was the total package, so I was looking at everything I wanted. Um no. HA! That was fine. Let’s have him go through his little song and dance and get it over with since he already had some marks against him.

“I’m looking for companionship, someone that I can travel with and enjoy life.” Then bitterly stated: I am NOT looking to get married nor have children.” Let’s take a step back here for a second. That is NOT what his profile said, but that is, in fact, what mine said that I’m looking for—marriage and kids. So knowing that why would he bother to contact me? I’m sure he found out that if he did write that in his profile, his options would be significantly lower, so he kept it out and hoped that his profession, money and overwhelming charm would win the damsel over. How about NOT! So now you’re wasting your time with me, but more importantly, you’re wasting mine!  

I immediately realized by his tone that he was trying to bait me. However, I didn’t go for the okey-doke and give him what he wanted— black girl attitude. “Well marriage isn’t for everyone,” I said. “Nor is having kids, it’s all about choices.” He was stunned. “Wow, that’s not the reaction that I expected at all.” Told y’all I knew what he was doing! So I had to ask: “Well what were you expecting?” He had yet to realize that I’m smarter than the average bear, and only asked to confirm what I already knew. Now when someone is dead-set firm in their beliefs, there is no way that I will try and dissuade them. It’s a waste of energy and again, my time. So no thanks! “Usually when I tell women that I’m not interested in those things, they immediately blow up and get an attitude like what’s wrong with getting married and wanting a family?” Again, I didn’t react the way he thought I would, so he relaxed and I continued to disarm him. “No, I get it. And if that’s what you’re looking for you should absolutely get everything that you want.” I’m sure he thought to himself, okay. She might be a keeper! HA! He’d love that! I am a keeper, but not for his ass. 

Fortunately for me, that’s when the waiter crossed over and saved me from having to delve deeper. “Your dessert.” Ahhhh, the chocolate soufflé! Yes, I am absolutely having some dessert, the sweetest thing to happen this evening! Thank you, Lord! The night was finally coming to an end and I was indeed thankful. That was some damn good dessert, too. I’m just sayin’.  

Oh, look at the time, time to go! Yes, please.The valet brought the car around and I couldn’t wait to get in so I could get home. Shit, for all of the fooleywang tonight that I endured, my ass could’ve stayed home and had a V-8! 

I know what you’re wondering… Did he sing in the car on the way back to my house? Think he didn’t when he did? Damn sure did! But this time, I sang along with him because I knew it was his swan song goodbye. Plus I can’t sing a lick, so I was totally messing up his show!   

Finally, we were back in front of my apartment, ending much like it began. Getting picked up and now dropped off by a virtual stranger. I exited the car and thanked him for dinner.
“Yes, it was great. Hopefully, we can do it again, Gabrielle.” Well keep hope alive, brother because that won’t be happening anytime soon! HA! 

As I walked to my apartment I reflected on the evening and how disappointed I was with its outcome. Not because of the date itself, I mean Sean was a total hot mess of a grown man, but no, it wasn’t that. It was really because I still have two bad feet and my hope of free podiatry services is now gone!!!  

But y’all know he called the next day, though, right?! Please! I don’t think so wannabe Freddie! DELETE! Next!!!
0 Comments

THE BEGINNING OF MY MS. ADVENTURES

6/14/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
My dating life is like anyone else's. It's filled with beginnings and endings, laughs and pains, highs and lows, love and foolishness! On this site I will be sharing some of those stories with you. To hide the identity of the guilty, I will never use the real names of the men I’ve dated in my postings.

However, before we get to those stories, I wanted to let you know how I ended up here. Last year on my birthday, I went to a lounge and ended up running into a guy that I've known for years. We'll call him Patrick. Medium height, dark, handsome and was looking mighty spiffy in his suit and tie that evening.  Patrick and I would always see each other out at events or birthday parties, shared a few laughs and even a few dances, but that was it.  However, this particular night, I was all done up and fancy! Hair was laid, dress was short and tight, and stilettos rocked!  It was a version of me that he had never seen, so he was a bit taken aback, to which he admitted. He was like "Wow"! Yeah, I know, I was working what my momma gave me!  

Before I left the lounge for the night, he caught up with me and asked if he could have my number and take me out. My reply, “Of course, you may!” And that's how it began. He called and invited me to dinner and a movie. I had no expectations, and I don't think he did either. We both had really busy calendars at the time, but managed to find a couple of days a week here and there to go out. For two months, we did regular date stuff. He would call and make plans for us in advance. We spent a lot of time together, movies, bowling, parties, breakfast, lunch, and dinners, etc. We communicated daily via phone, text, and email. He was a total gentleman. It was so nice having a companion again, instead of doing everything solo. Most importantly, a companion whose company I thoroughly enjoyed as much as he did mine.  

Our physical relationship started as it should, slowly! When we saw each other we would of course hug as we had always done as friends, but that was it. We didn’t even hold hands or share a kiss until we were a couple of months in, we just really took our time getting to know one another. Nearly three months into dating, we finally decided to take things to the next level. It was nothing short of AMAZING! Did I say AMAZING?! Oh I did, but no really, it was more like AHHMAZING!!! It was AMAZING, CONNECTED, and CONSISTENT!!! And it would be that way every single time for the next 9 or so months.  

Eventually, Patrick introduced me to some of his close friends and family members, to which I was a bit apprehensive at first, but went with it. I came to adore them just as much as I did him. It seemed as though we were becoming quite the couple without even realizing it. We were in our own little dating bubble.  Everything was going great, he was the calm to my storm. We never had an argument, any cross words, not even a minor misunderstanding. Those who know me know that I have to fight at work, fight in my career, so I don’t want to come home and have to fight there, too. I need my relationships to be easy, I need them to be my refuge. And he was. Little did I know that was all about to change...  

One night we attended a friend’s birthday party and someone asked if us why we were leaving together. Um, because we’re together. That’s when he mentioned to me that someone else had asked him the previous week if we were in fact together. And just like that, the bubble burst! It was kind of odd since our relationship wasn't a secret; we weren't hiding it or hiding from anyone. We did everything and went everywhere very much in plain view, even showing public displays of affection, but we also weren't widely publicizing it. I'm not sure if that was where the shift happened, but from that night on, things seemed to slowly, but surely change. 

I noticed that he stopped planning to go places and do things with me in advance, and would instead hit me up at the last minute and ask if I wanted to go and do something. He would attend an event and then text me and ask me why wasn't I there. Ummmm, maybe because I didn't know about it and you clearly didn't think to invite me, so that could be the reason. He was becoming distant, our time together became less and less, and I saw it all rapidly unfolding.

Then one day after we left the movies together, I got out of his car and realized that things really just weren’t the same anymore. So I sent him a text about an hour later saying "If whatever we had is over, it's okay. I really enjoyed our time together, so thanks for the ride."  His reaction kind of threw me for a loop. Instead of texting back, he called me immediately and asked, "Who do you think you are? It was a nice ride?" Ooooh weeee, he was mad at me!!! 

I simply stood by what I wrote and explained to him that things simply were not the same. He reluctantly admitted that they weren’t, that his schedule had gotten crazy with multiple work projects coupled with personal issues with his family. You see, I would rather leave when I see it’s going down than have it go down and not like you anymore.

Long story short, we decided it would probably be best to be less than what we had become. It wasn't easy, which we both soon found out soon enough. I knew that I would be weak to see him, spend time with him, and be with him, so I asked him not to call, text, or email me. That worked for all of about a month, which is when I broke down and called him. He followed my request, however, and didn't answer my call. Yes, he did it!  He stayed strong!! Relieved, I left him a voice message-- "Oh my goodness! I'm soooo glad that you didn't answer my call! I was having the dirtiest, nastiest thoughts about you and I don't need you to participate in my foolishness! Whew! So thank you so much for not answering. Remember! Don't ever answer my calls or texts! Have a great day!" I'm sure he listened to that message and thought to himself, she's totally lost it!

A few more weeks went by when on a Saturday afternoon I was leaving a store that was near his house, so I called him. Again, he didn't answer, but this time I was actually disappointed. He really wasn't answering my calls anymore. Voice message "Hey, it's me. You know you don't always have to not answer my calls." I mean-- Just then, my phone rang right back! Yay, it was Patrick calling on the other line! He told me he wasn’t sure if he should return the call but was glad he did and to come on by. I was nervous but excited to see him again. We sat and talked for a couple of hours, catching up on each other’s lives. He told me how hard it was for him to not answer my calls or contact me, and I echoed the same sentiments. A few I miss you's and kisses before I left, and that was it. That is until I got home. I sent him a text asking if he had plans that evening, and that was all it took. We were back! The next morning when we woke up he said, all of this from one phone call, huh? I replied, “I told you not to answer my calls!!!”     

After that night, we did a few more go-outs and a few more sleepover visits, but they faded away because it was still too hard for me, I wanted more and I wanted it back to the way it used to be. A couple of months later, he took me out to lunch for my birthday. Although I wanted to sit right next to him, tell him so badly how much I missed him, hold his hand, shower him with kisses, but I refrained and we sat across from one another and just talked as friends do. Near the end of lunch, I’m not sure how it came up, but he mentioned that someone in his family commented that they didn't think he would ever get married, while another family member said they thought he would eventually marry. He said that he’s always remembered what his father told him about meeting the right woman. He said, "Son when you know you'll know." My heart immediately sank! This man who I love, admire and adore just sat across from me and said, "When you know you'll know." This meant one of two things to me-- after being with me he still didn't know yet, or after being with me he knew and he knew that it wasn't me. Neither of which were good. I was devastated, heartbroken and could barely hold back my tears. I excused myself and went to the ladies room to try and regain some composure. I stood and looked at myself in the bathroom mirror, tears streaming down my face, and tried to figure out why it’s so difficult to love someone and just have them love you back. I often wonder to myself if people truly know what qualities they should be looking for in a life partner. And what if when they finally realize it was all in a person they’re no longer dating, would that person still be available to them? I guess that's one of the risks of love you take, right? After a few minutes of sulking, I wiped my eyes, took a few deep breaths, then went back to the table and asked if he was ready to go. 

We walked to the parking garage, he gave me a kiss goodbye, and we went our separate ways. We still run into each other every now and again, but not as much. The hardest part has been losing him as a close friend, especially since he had become my voice of reason in my times of frustration. To this day I still don’t actually know what happened, why things went south, which has left me with many unanswered questions, but I had to keep moving forward.  

That is the story, that’s how I ended up right here right now. The ending of my most recent relationship, which has landed me right back into the dating pool. As Jerry McGuire so eloquently stated, "Jump right into my nightmare, the water is warm."   

Now you know a little bit about how I got here. So let the stories of my dating misadventures with all of their glorious fooleywang begin!
0 Comments

    Author
    Gabrielle Collins

    We all have hits and misses in our dating adventures, and these are some of mine.
    The names of the guilty have been changed to protect me! 

    Sponsored by:

    Picture

      JOIN IN MY
      MS. ADVENTURES

    Subscribe to Newsletter

    Archives

    June 2019
    April 2019
    February 2019
    December 2018
    October 2018
    August 2018
    June 2018

    comments
    compliments
    ​Questions

    I do not post my comments. However, please feel free to send me a comment, compliment or question via my Contact page.
    I'd love to hear from you! 
Proudly powered by Weebly