This has been the most inspiring thing I have seen you write in quite some time. (I mean all your posts are equally awesome, but this one stands out to me more for some reason). Anyway, you are well on your way. Putting out that needy vibe, and reeking of desperation is a magnet for the users, abusers and just guys that KNOW you NEED them so badly, that they can treat you however they please and you'll totally put up with it because of how bad you need to be loved. That scenario, has been my past dating life of 20 years! Talk about an endless circle of pain and nonsense!

Thank you! I do feel a bit... well... maybe just differently now? You all have helped me to find the strength to be on my own two feet for once... or finally, after several years of being in relationships. I now see what I must do.... ie, work on myself and my own life.

And yes, that scenario you laid out has been my own dating life and circle of pain and nonsense for years. Ridiculous.

As far as this new guy goes, (and I am sure other people will provide input too), but all I am going to say, is pull the brakes. Marriage at this stage, is what starts the spinning that goes through our heads when we get the slightest recognition of affection, or when we build the whole fantasy because, we think, "oh wow, I wasn't looking, is it fate, is he the "one?"

As nice as that is, (and hey he might be), but don't start that this early. That hamster wheel in your head is going to start spinning like a thousand miles an hour. Forward Eve! Not backward! Always Forward!

Still though, you had a great time, and you do like him, and he seems to like you too. So enjoy that.

I know .. that thought naturally just popped into my head last night because I do find myself being attracted to him... not just physically, but who he is as a person. But you're right... I need to be forward thinking, not backward thinking... it's just a thought that automatically came up since I AM ultimately wanting a marriage partner.

Rooting for you as always!!

Thank you!!!! You're the best!!!