I know it's been a while since I've posted, but I've been out enjoying life and trying to get back in the swing of dating again. After one total disaster, I started to err on the side of caution for a while, and then I met a really cool guy. He's a bit younger than I am (I'm 30 in a couple weeks...he's approaching 23) but he carries himself very maturely (much to my surprise).

We have been out on three dates, the last of which was Sat night (Sept 3) and when we parted ways, it was with our first kiss and a promise of a phone call from him the next day. Up to this point, I thought things were going great. Well, Sunday comes and goes, no phone call. I told myself, "He got busy with his friends". Monday comes and goes, no phone call again. I was beginning to wonder what happened that he wouldn't call me. We had been speaking to each other everyday either on the phone or computer for almost three weeks now.

So, before I put myself too far into my own head, I came here and chatted with very dear friends (whom I have missed very much!), and he came online. I told him hi, and it took him a few minutes to even respond to that. I asked him how he'd been, and I could feel the tension in his vague responses. So, I decide to ask him why he hadn't called. He said he didn't feel like it. That stung. I asked him why and he fires back that I'm being clingy and moving too fast. OK, stop the bus. HE has been the one asking ME on dates, to which I accept his invitations, and we have shared ONE good night kiss, which was on our last date.

Many of you know how I was burned by my ex going on 7 months ago. I have my guard up so high it's not funny. So, am I really being clingy? How am I moving too fast when I'm letting HIM set the tone because I don't want it to blow up in my face?

Maybe I'm reading too much into it, or not enough. I'm just confused as to what happened after our last date, and after his responses online last night, I won't call him. I've decided to leave it up to him, and if he doesn't call, so be it. But, it still leaves a mark. I sometimes feel like I have this huge red "A" on my chest or there's a stamp on my butt "damaged goods" and it makes men turn and run. Or, maybe it's the topics we discuss. I just don't understand!!!

My T says that I'm doing great since the break up (she's been there thru it ALL) and thinks it's wonderful I'm getting out and dating again. She can tell the ex is ancient history to me. After some very scathing remarks made by him, it gave me the closure I needed to get over it. I don't even talk about him unless it's to my Mom or T (that's dating death - talking about ex's) and it's usually not anything nice (I know, not good, but it gets the anger out somehow).

Sorry this is so long-winded...just very hurt and confused right now and could use some constructive input. Thanks for listening.

Dolfin