Dating

First, my new month's resolution is to post a blog at least once a week. That said, onto my topic. No, I'm not dating yet, but on the road. Last week, I finally signed up with eharmony, an online dating service. For those of you less familiar with the process of this particular mating ritual, let me elaborate. First, you have to fill out 30+ forms online about who you are, what you like, etc. I wouldn't have gotten past this first step if it weren't for Andrea (see pic), a coworker and good friend that loves doing online dating (she unfortunately/fortunately is in a successful and longterm relationship, which means she lives vicariously through others, ie. me). The word on the street here is that eharmony is for those interested in relationships (the questions act as a filter) while match.com is more of a meat market (and craigslist is just scary). That said, I have several friends who have found a mate on match.com.



Next, once you've paid of course, eharmony acts as the intermediator and introduces you to who they think will be a good fit (think Fiddler on the Roof's matchmaker, in modern day). This is based on the questions from part one. Each day you get introduced to a dozen or so people. You get to read their answers, see their pictures (if posted) and if interested can "start communication".



But it's not that simple. I "started communication" with one fellow, and we are just now finally getting to the point where we are setting a time and place to meet. It's taken one+ week with the back and forth eharmony puts you through. First they send questions (multiple choice), you answer and send your own questions. Then they answer and send "must haves/can't stands". You read them and send your own. They read yours and send round two of questions (short answer), you answer and send your own. They read and then communication starts in that you can send a message. In no time do they have access to your email, or any other personal info. Very good in the guarded sense, but figure a day minimum for each and you are looking at a courting ritual of at least 8 days before you even meet!



So, it's been fun and safe - I've not had to go too much out of my comfort zone, and when that's happened, Andrea's there to do some friendly pushing. A little something to highlight the day (when it's not too busy). At first it wasn't looking too good, but now it gets a little overwhelming - so many people, so much communication. I thought I'd share the possibilities (plus wouldn't it be funny if someone knew one of the guys). Here's the short list:



Amit: The first guy I started "communicating" with and who lives in Cambridge (one point for convenience). He seems really nice and is also new to this whole process. We're still working out logistics but hope to meet up with him this weekend. He suggested friday but I was going to to hang out with friends and see my "crush" perform (see below). He is younger (29) and doesn't drink, but am keeping an open mind.




Kevin: As I was writing this post, I've been simutaneously writing to Kevin- which negates my previous comments about how long it takes. I guess if both are on the computer and have time, it can move a lot faster. He seems really nice (honestly I don't say that about everyone) and just started his own business as a home inspector. He communicates really well (his personality comes through) and even owns a cat! Unfortunately he lives up in Nashua, NH, which is just under an hour away, so still is in the picture. Also, did I mention he is a red head (yummm) and a leftie. Hopefully we'll be getting together this weekend/next week.




Derck: I just started communicating with Derck (or is it Dereck and he can't spell?) today. But thought I'd add him to the list as he also loves Sedaris and am sure that's we he started communicating with me (I have a reference to Sedaris in my answers). Not sure how well the match will work (look at the size of those thighs - there's no way I could keep up), but you never know.




Adam: He's my crush. My friend and coworker Colleen has been trying to set us up for months now, he's best friends with her husband. I'm a little hesitant as he is a musician (yes, that's his day job) and I don't think he wants to settle down yet. But he's really sweet and super nice and we definately had some chemistry when we met briefly - a perfect candidate for the crush category. Isn't he a cutie?




So, that's all for now. In knitting news, I finished the sweater for Jackson (6 month old version of baby sweater I knit for Ann's son), but don't have buttons - you know that'll take me a month to finish now - so close...