Hi Sadeyedlady,

I so recognise your feelings. I will add just a little to the discussion. Many of us recognise our foot in mouth and I wear size 11 so I tend to get them really stuck. I think when we go in we so worry about something we did or said being taken out of context that we continue to add to it when we try to fix it up with explanation. Shoving the foot further in, in our attempt to retrieve it!

I suggest you keep your note brief and unconditional. That is yes, express your delighted surprise to see him again without reading too much into his motivations just yet. Clear communication is important and you can mention your companion in some way that clarifies he's not your partner, to subtly establish you are single. Certainly express your availability to catch up on your next trip to his town. Then leave it there. If he made the 7 hour journey to see you he will likely see his window and take it. If he was there on whatever business and you have not been his motivation he may or may not respond as you anticipated. In any event it is best we don't project too much about what OTHER people are thinking, coz in my experience that's when my foot in mouth rises to excruciating embarrassment.

It sounds like a lovely potential and as for all things continue to be optimistically cautious without attaching too much to the outcome. Please don't think in terms of later regret, in my book, the future will continue to bring opportunities and regrets over could've beens is mis-spent energy.

By no means am I suggesting not to go forward with it, just keep it simple and succinct to avoid any egg on face from jumping to conclusions. For example, I wouldn't bother to explain how you got his address if it was through normal means.

Leeann Womack's words are poignant in her song "I Hope You Dance". GO FOR IT.
Regards Frances.

PS If the ladies would all like to salute the men coz they put themselves on the line for rejection so much more than we do!!