The College Dude

After having deleted all of the dating apps and taking some much needed time for myself, at the end of last year, I decided that I was interested in getting back into the dating scene. I also decided that I wanted to be more thoughtful about who I dated and I wanted to be in better control of how the dates went. I was looking for something more authentic, genuine and real. All of that said, I was still terrified of any sort of commitment.  I re-downloaded the apps and began to go out on dates again. What was different this time around? I went into each date with confidence. Really knowing and believing that I have a lot to bring to the table, I deserve respect, that I am worth it and truly went by the mentality that if it didn't work out, that was okay - it is all just practice.  I dated a few people between December and March and really enjoyed myself. I felt like I had more control over the entire experience which made dating more enjoyable for me. Less desperate, if you will, to have the other person like me regardless of if I liked the guy or not. Then, into my life walks this dude who I met in a marketing class in college, and he completely flipped my world upside down. In the best way. In February, he posted a picture of a Pliny the Elder beer on Instagram and in similar fashion to every other post since 2008, I liked it and I commented that I had just had the Pliny the Younger and loved it. He responded to my comment, which was not the norm, we exchanged numbers, I went to NOLA for Mardi Gras and he told me that he wanted to take me out on a date. I told him to slow his role and that I would let him buy me a beer 😜 When I got back from NOLA, we met for that beer and had a great time . I even let him take me out on that first date the same night! He was clear about his intentions. He wanted to date me. I told him that I was scared. He told me that we could take it slow. I told him that I wanted to be pursued. He told me that he was old fashioned and liked to open doors. I told him that I was nervous about commitment. He told me he would be patient. We went out for more dates. We went on more adventures. We introduced each other to friends. We introduced each other to family. We started dating at the beginning on March and in the middle of April he asked me to be his girlfriend. Is it just me, or does 'girlfriend' sound silly for someone who is 30? I call him my 'Manfriend.' Yes, I realize that that sounds just as silly! Since March, we have made an intentional effort to be thoughtful, honest, patient, kind, loving and open to ourselves and to each other. He teaches me to breath, how to savor all of the little moments and how to focus on the big picture. He has been patient and calm and understanding. I have worked hard to break down the walls that I have put up and to trust him and to trust that what we have is special and long lasting and I am so glad that I have, because it's totally worth it.

found here