My Husband Contest

Am I a cougar?

2008-05-13T08:32:00.003-05:00

As my 35th birthday approaches, I've been wondering what will change? Maybe nothing except that every time I have to fill out my age on any form or survey, I now have to mark the "old box" of 35 - 44!

It also get me started thinking about older women dating younger men, something I really like to do! When are you too old to do that any more? Is it this new age bracket that I'm reaching?

And then I was thinking about what it means to be a "cougar." Am I fast-approaching "cougar" status? That seems impossible. I don't feel old (well sometimes I do). I don't think I can pull of a Mrs. Robinson-type seduction move at this point in my life, but according to the urban dictionary, I just may be a cougar. Crap. How did this happen? How is it that I'm almost 35 and have rarely dated anyone over 30. Sure, many of them have turned 30 by now, but they were never in their 30s when I dated them! (aw...remember Scott Bailey?)

Lately, I've been feeling out of touch with the 20 somethings so how, you ask, do I date one? Well, for the first several months, you're just getting to know someone and it's fun and age doesn't really matter as you like a lot of the same things. But now, another milestone is approaching, a year of dating the red head! And, I can't help but wonder if soon, he'll wake up and think he's dating a "cougar" - a woman on the prowl for younger love. Maybe he's already had that thought!

Since many of my readers are women also approaching or already over the hill (35+), I'd love to hear what you think. Would you consider yourself a cougar if you were in my shoes?

And, for anyone reading that is in their 20s, give a girl ("cougar") some advice! What's it like to be under 30? I fear that I no longer remember!

So glad I'm not SARAH MARSHALL

2008-03-19T13:32:00.003-05:00

Breakups are hard. No one is going to challenge you on that. But this guy...he had it real bad for Sarah Marshall. On your way to work, you learn that his mom hates her, she looks fat in her jeans and he is so over her!

For those of you wondering who the hell Sarah Marshall is, you should go to the site
ihatesarahmarshall.com and read about how badly she messed this guy up.

It's pretty funny and definitely going straight to DVD!

Seriously, have you all been seeing these signs all over the city?

Woman are crazy

2008-01-21T18:42:00.000-06:00

The other day I caught a few minutes of The Eric & Kathy Show and was reminded that women are crazy.

For those of you that do not know of this morning radio show, I'll give you an overview. Women in Chicago love this show! It's hugely successful among women women, 25 - 45. I know this because I buy radio on behalf of my clients and advertising on this show does not come cheap.

Eric & Kathy are the main characters - both are happily married (the second time around) and have children - anyone that listens to the show knows that Eric's wife is Jen and Kathy's husband is Burt. Kathy had a boob job and Eric went to the University of Iowa (my almamater) and has twins. Barry (a nice man from Wheaton) with a really deep voice does the news and Melissa does the traffic and weather. Cynthia was the intern but is now a full-time player on the show. And, I mean player. Both Melissa & Cynthia are single and their single life is often (very often) the topic of the morning talk show. They send them on dating escapades, set them up on dates and are always taking calls on what these single ladies should do!

Anyway, men, if you listen to the show, you'll never admit it. Women, if you listen, you love it!

The segment that I caught was Eric & Kathy taking calls from single women who were calling in and admitting how far their obsession with getting married had taken them. I mean, I do author a blog entitled "Find a Husband for Lisa," but all I wanted was to get some dates. These women had magazine subscriptions to bridal magazines. Some even had wedding dresses already purchased and hanging in their closets! I found it really frightening. Then, I imagined that they were probably in their 30s like me :(

Let me tell you something about me...
I have never flipped through a bridal magazine. I have never even tried on a wedding dress. I don't own a veil. I have not reserved a reception hall and I don't have a favorite florist on call. I don't know if there will be a live band or a DJ. I don't know what color I'll be accenting with and if there will be slipcovers for the chairs.

After listening to female callers, I wondered...do I want to get married? I mean, they acted like that was all normal. Dreaming of their wedding day to the point that they half planned it! They already knew who would be in their bridal party too. I have done none of those things, but then again...there is this blog!

I feel crazy for not being crazy! Does that make any sense?

I have been such a slacker

2007-12-10T20:19:00.000-06:00

Thanks for calling me out on my inability to keep my blog going! So, here are some updates as to what has been going on with me and the red head:
- Only 2 centipedes killings since Halloween (the red head took care of both)
- I have met the red head's family
- I went car shopping for entire Saturday with the red head and had to play the role of "significant other" for all the slimy car salesman (one of whom suggested that in a few years I'd be back buying a mini van for the little ones!)
- I dog sat with the red head for his sister's humongous dogs in the suburbs!
- I let the red head participate in one of my hurry date parties (big mistake – you never want to watch your boyfriend meet a bunch of single girls – even if it's only for four minutes!)

I'm sure there's more, but it's been so long since I've been on my own blog, I don't want to bore you with all my updates!

But, as far as the "reveal" goes...he didn't really have much to say. I didn't know what to expect, but I was pretty sure that he'd find it amusing. Since the reveal, he continues to send me text messages and emails that read something like, "Dear Blog, I killed centipedes at my girlfriend's house. I'm nice" or "Dear Blog, My girlfriend should make me dinner tonight. I like tacos." I don't think he's actually gone so far as to write his own blog, but you never can be sure.

More later (I promise).

The reveal

2007-10-31T15:13:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I am showing "the red head" the blog. It slipped. I made some comment about having a blog and realized that it was not something that I had ever really planned on sharing (at least not in the first few months of dating). I'm sure he'll be thrilled to know that it's entitled, "FIND A HUSBAND 4 LISA!"

The good news is that he is not someone that I met through efforts of this blog! He also knows that I affectionately refer to him as "the red head" so he won't be offended by that either (at least I don't think so).

Where to go from here? I'm not sure.

I have accepted a new part-time gig with a company called HurryDate, which does provide hours of entertaining dating stories, just not ones about me and all my woes. Basically, I run speed dating parties in Chicago for singles aged 24 - 60! So, if you know anyone that you think would want to attend a speed dating party, let me know!

Also, if you have thoughts on where I should take my blog, let me know. If you want, I will continue to tell you how things proceed with "the red head." Just because we are dating, does not mean a marriage is in the works. I have plenty to write about, just not sure you all are interested in hearing it! Lemme know...

I HATE VALENTINE'S DAY!

2007-10-02T15:38:00.000-05:00

Who says that to the girl they are dating? And, what am I supposed to do with that piece of information?

I'm a girl.
I love Valentine's Day! Well, I say that now when there is the potential of a V-day date. Hmmmmm....let's see what I said about v-day earlier this year.
Oh, I remember now. It was when I had a stalker from the auto show sending me texts of love. Gross.

Back to the current situation...
The red head mentions that he thinks Valentine's Day is stupid and that he doesn't celebrate. We're in the car so I turn up the radio. I need to think through my response. Guess I should forget about Sweetest Day later this month. Pretty sure, he didn't grow up with a mom that celebrates everything. We aren't Irish, but I get a present every St. Patrick's Day!

Fast forward to later this same day...
He can't find his keys so we're basically turning his place upside down looking for them. I enter the "disaster area." A non-functional office that is really the dumping ground for everything! It is in this very room that I find...
LOVE COUPONS
Seriously. You know those dumb books that say things like, "Good for one night of snuggling" or, "Good for a game of strip poker?" They are super cheesy and just wrong, but there they sit. Untouched. Collecting dust, unredeemed. Good thing the have no expiration dates!

Then, I am reminded of another time that I found "love coupons" in my boyfriend's house. Do guys hang onto to these "gifts"? What does he think that he is going to redeem one with me? "Hey Lisa, I have a coupon for a night of passion, what do you think?"
Needless to say, I took 'em, put 'em in my purse. It doesn't appear that any have been used, thank God or I'd probably puke.

Just waiting for the right time to redeem one? Maybe Valentine's Day?

Was I the only one that didn't know he was gay?

2007-09-17T21:40:00.000-05:00

I was cleaning out some old files on my computer and came across some old bf pictures. This one startled me. I dated a gay man. His identity has been masked, but many of you knew him. Dear God, what was I thinking?

Then it got me thinking...

When I look back a few years (all the way back to 2004), I remember dating him and how the whole time I knew something was wrong. Now, I know. He doesn't actually like girls. We had so much in common from our love for One Tree Hill to shopping to owning lots of pairs of shoes. It's all so clear now.

I think I'm at that phase now, where I'm comparing the new boy (the red head) to other bfs. Everybody does it so don't judge me, it's normal. And, I can tell you that he's not gay. He hates shopping, loves camping, doesn't even know what One Tree Hill is and in my opinion, does not own enough pairs of shoes.

Ewwww...

2007-08-30T01:31:00.001-05:00

The red head may have passed the birthday test, but he certainly did not pass the damsel in distress test. Here's what happened.
The biggest bug in America (see photo - I had to show it because it's so scary!) decided to move into my apartment. Not a crunchy cockroach. A many-legged creepy crawler actually. And, not somewhere where I could stomp on it and be done with it either. The creepy crawler was in my bedroom above my bed on the ceiling, near the ceiling fan, nearly 12 feet feet from the ground.

There are two problems with this situation.

1. There is absolutely no way I'm going to bed while that thing is on the ceiling.
2. Even if I were to grin and bear it, I can't turn on the ceiling fan because it would fling leggy onto my bed.

It's summer, I need the fan on. It's nearly midnight, I need to go to bed.

So, I called the red head, it wasn't that late and he only lives 5 blocks away so it should have been an easy, "Sure, I'll come over and kill the bug!"

NOPE.

He said, "No Lisa, it's just a bug, kill it and go to bed!" So, I hung up on him and went to sleep on the couch. I woke up every hour from either a "concerned call" from him or the nightmare of thinking that creepy crawler was coming to get me.

I'll forgive him, but the next time he's "sick" -- boys are so dramatic when they are sick -- I will tell him to suck it up and get some soup.

Girls, am I right -- boys are the biggest babies when they are sick?

Pink things

2007-08-17T17:29:00.000-05:00

He passed the birthday test! I got a bag of pink things and a Matt Murton t-shirt (another red head that I have a crush on). And, we went to Deleece for a good dinner. What's next?
A cottage trip?
So, this is the weekend of the annual trip to Michigan with the mostly-married crowd. The one where I sleep in a room with twin beds. Anyway, contrary to the "being married and boring" stigma, this group is really fun. Flippy cup, BBQs, beach, casinos and more fun stuff.
Should I bring the red head? Thought about it a bunch. I know he'll have fun. And, I do have an extra twin bed in my bedroom.
Hmmmm...
So, I asked. Kind of a a big deal.
And he couldn't go. No big deal now. Or so I thought.
He just called (the cottage is wireless so yes, I'm blogging from vacation) and his plans changed so now he's on the way to Michigan!

Things that I hope do not happen while he is here:
- Someone brings up the blog
- He freaks out because there is an 8-month old here
- He freaks out and wants to have kids! (Austen is really cute, it could happen)
- He can't swim and I have to save him from drowning
- He sucks at flippy cup
- He can't juggle (then, he won't fit in with Perry!)

Wish me luck!

Thanks for all of your comments on camping, but...

2007-08-13T15:27:00.000-05:00

...I still feel the same. I love not camping, like she said.

The camping weekend came and went and despite my non-attendance, he's still talking to me.

The red head that is (just in case you have not been reading).

And, then there was the b-day test...

Yes, I'm another year older and very, very aware that I am still single, without child or even a mortgage. I do; however, have a job. So, I got that going for me. Anyway, back to my birthday.

I was out of town for the big day, but on Birthday Eve, he surprised me with long stem pink roses. And as my sister pointed out to me, he gets extra points for pink roses. So true. So true. I love pink. But, that's not all. Tomorrow, he's taking me out for my birthday. No idea what the plan is. All I know is that he is planing it and he's not bugging me with thousands of questions about where I want to go. More point-earning activity from the red head. A few more weeks of this and I may have to come clean about the blog. But, for now, I do what I want!

Tomorrow, I'll tell you about a really funny job interview I have for a position that I applied for 10 months ago. It has to do with dating and speed.

Intrigued? I bet you are.

A camping trip?

2007-08-01T13:32:00.000-05:00

Not so much.
When I was younger (in my 20s), I would have said yes to a camping trip with new, pretend boyfriend, but old lady Lisa said "no way" to going camping with the red head.

Think it was a good move.

For those of you that may not know or have simply forgotten, I HATE CAMPING and I've already written about it here in the blog. I mean if it were Marty, I would have gone camping because he would have never spoken to me again after camping. And that would have been an easier way to get out of that mess compared to what I actually did to end it -- which was to tell him I moved away.

So, the red head will be camping without me this weekend and I'll be running around at Lollapalooza looking for a band member makeout!
What? It's not cheating, the red head and I aren't officially going steady yet!

Are we dating?

2007-07-25T16:43:00.000-05:00

That's a question I haven't been asked in months. All this "dating" that I have been doing and none of it has gotten to the point of asking, "are we dating?"

Well...I'm there. The red head asked the question.

Christ. All this work to get a boyfriend (potential husband) and I've never once actually thought about the fact of what to do if one of these set-ups were to actually work.

So...as per usual, I found a witty way of getting out of answering that question to buy myself some more time before becoming insta-girlfriend!

Then, it got me thinking...
What exactly does it mean to be "dating?" Found a ton of really entertaining definitions when I googled it. This ivillage one cracked me up...I feel like if a guy were to tell me that he wanted a "night of hugs," that I'd throw up on him first, then dump him exactly for the reason he's afraid of...for being unmanly! Anyway, click on the link, it's kind of funny. I need to go think about what "dating" means to me. Any thoughts?

I have another date...

2007-07-17T09:04:00.000-05:00

...and he doesn't live with his Mom! (See below for all the drama on the potential set-up that lives with his Mom)
This is date #2 with the new red head. He has a sense of humor, a job, a car, owns a building on Clifton (a block from Wrigley) and likes the Cubs almost as much as I do. I did meet his Dad already (after Saturday's Cubs game) and well, he's a good sport -- his Dad played 3-man at Murphy's with the rest of us!

More later...

Date night

2007-07-11T11:45:00.000-05:00

I got a date all by myself. And, it's with a red head. This doesn't mean that the blog is ending or that you should stop thinking of me every time you meet a nice, eligible bachelor. It just means, I have a date.

Things are looking up though, as I have a few others in the mix:
- JK has "softball guy"
- Brooke has "Davey boy"
- Karyn has "lives with his mom, but is rich boy"

Anyone else?

No fireworks, but not because he sucked...

2007-07-05T09:22:00.001-05:00

...but because he wasn't at the party!
So, "JK" will have to try again. Better luck next time. In the meantime, Adler's Mom has a live one. And, for once, he's older than me! But, he lives at home so he better be so good-looking it makes up for it :)

Will there be fireworks?

2007-06-26T19:21:00.000-05:00

Well, since it's a July 3rd party in the city, there definitely will be fireworks, but sparks may fly should I like new bf potential party attendee.

Frequent poster on my blog, "JK," is hosting a party at his condo which provides the perfect high-rise view of the fireworks. He also invited the "new guy" from his softball team for me to meet.

As I prepare for the big "meeting," any conversation tips? I mean, what if he's a dud. I know not to ask him if he wants a summer or fall wedding? I know not to ask if he wants kids. I know that he won't want to talk about shoes or purses.

Since most of my blog posters are boys, how about you boys give me some advice! Should I ask about fantasy baseball? Should I ask him to flex?

Help me out!

Damn split ends

2007-06-21T08:48:00.000-05:00

Bad Hair Day #1
Many of you already know about my breakup with Roots hair salon, but for those you that don't, here's a recap.

Marty (remember over-achiever, leave-behind dater) was my hair stylist's brother in law. Let's just say it didn't work out so I really don't want her to take scissors to my hair. They're Italian and well, the "family" is real important so I don't want to mess with that. It's the risk you take when getting set up...

In search of a new hair salon, I ask the work girls. I get a glowing referral to place called J Gordon on Clark.

Appointment made. It's been 6 months since I've had a haircut so I'm ready!

Bad Hair Day #2
Last night was my hair appointment at the new place with the new stylist. I was expecting to pay a little more, sit in the chair a little longer explaining my do, but what I wasn't expecting was my ex-bf's new gf to be my new stylist!

Yes, I'm serious.

Old bf's new gf is now holding the scissors. Of all the salons, stylists in this supposedly big city, I just happen to be in her chair waiting to get my hair cut!

We'd met briefly a week before at a street fest where I had the pleasure of meeting up with him and new gf. (If only I'd had a really good looking red head to introduce, it wouldn't have been such a big deal!)

I don't think it's possible to overstate the irony of this! So please, feel bad for me and all of my coincidental happenings and find me a date! Wouldn't it be fun if my ex-bf were to run into me with my new bf?

You know the answer to that...

It's my blogerversary!

2007-06-18T13:50:00.000-05:00

Yep, it's been a year since I created my husband contest blog! Wouldn't it be fun if I were celebrating my 6-month anniversary of dating a really cute red head? Yah, I think that would be fun too. But, I'm not.

Instead, I'm celebrating another year of singledom.

How did I celebrate you ask?

Ummm...I drank too much on Thursday night and made out with a random boy. Do I feel better? Not really. But, it was fun. A good anniversary present to me.

So, as I look ahead to another year of blogging, I'm asking you to not give up on me. For one of these set-ups will work one of these days, right?

I have one other favor to ask you, my friends, please post your comments! It's way more fun if I know you are reading because you are posting rather than going to check my site stats!

No date for the Cubs game!

2007-06-10T15:59:00.001-05:00

Of course I still went, just not with a guy that would make Matt Murton jealous. Sorry it took me so long to update you all. Not sure I have a good excuse, just "busy," I guess. Which is one of my biggest pet peeves -- people that think they are more "busy" than everyone else. Aren't we all "busy?"

Hmmmmmm makes me wonder though...are all of you too busy to find me a date? I'm never too busy to go on a date. How about we make a deal? I'll continue to post my pathetic dating experiences and you promise to look at all eligible, single men through an new lens. Try thinking this, "I wonder if Lisa would like him?"

Let's review some must haves:
- Non-smoker preferred
- Love red heads, but will date other hair colors as well (as long as it's real, no guys that dye their hair)
- No couch potatoes, they have to do something active (and often)
- He can't think that camping is a real vacation
- A wardrobe must -- more than 2 pair of shoes
- Sense of humor -- please, you know me! No boring guys.
- A job -- he has to have one

Thanks (in advance) for thinking of me while you are out and about this summer!

I need a date for May 30th!

2007-05-18T11:36:00.000-05:00

I have tickets to the Wednesday, May 30th night game at Wrigley! So, this weekend, I'll be looking for a date. Not that I don't trust you all to offer up your single friends, brothers, half brothers, cousins, probation officers, etc. -- it's more that I haven't been "out there" looking for a date in a while. So, I'm going old school this weekend. I'll have to work on my "charm."

Requirements:
- He has to be free on Wednesday, 5/30
- He must like baseball
- He doesn't have to be Cubs fan, but he can't be a hater (don't want to listen to Cubs bashing all night unless I start it)
- He should probably like beer (I'm NOT sitting with a guy for nine innings that is going to drink Mai Tais)
- He has to wear a shirt that he didn't get for free (I guess technically if it were a gift, it's free to him, but at least someone bought it. I'm talking about a shirt that says "Nextel" on it, or "Hormel Foods" -- seriously, I met or been on a date with a guy sporting both of those)

WISH ME LUCK THIS WEEKEND!

#82

2007-05-11T23:15:00.000-05:00

Went to my 82nd wedding this weekend (alone). Well, not really. I went with my parents. One of my oldest friends, Robby, got married. While at the wedding, my other oldest friend (Meghan) had her first baby. I've known them both since I was 6 and what's really funny is that when we were all in 4th grade at Lowell School, they were boyfriend/girlfriend.

So after the weekend, I was going through all my mail and was reminded of how desperately I need to get moving on this getting married thing. I mean, I'm already getting "Working Mother" magazine so I'm well aware of how to balance my family and my career. Just need to work on getting that family started.

Got any suggestions? I get the birds and the bees part of it, I'm asking if you know of any eligible bachelors.

Dudes that are loosely "in the picture" include:
- Marty (just haven't had the "not feeling it" conversation with him yet, mostly because he bought me a gift certificate after my 1/2 marathon and then he donated money to the Y-ME race that I did on Mother's Day
- Sean (no progress really. nothing good or bad to report, just kind of moving so slow that I almost forgot to mention him)

Dudes that don't know that they are going to be "in the picture" include:
- One of the pornstar's friends that I think is adorable (for those of you that fear another pornstar set-up –– remember the auto show date –– he is getting a second chance for a successful set-up and I've already seen the guy and he's cute!)
- Matt Murton (I know that he's married, but I feel like he winked at me from right field the other night. If he'd just reply to his fan mail...)

Should I?

2007-05-07T22:02:00.000-05:00

Am I at the point that I need to attend a Meet Market Adventure? Don't laugh. It's not funny. I'm running out of ideas. And, just when I thought I'd tried almost everything (besides match.com -- which we already talked about and I am not doing that), I came across an ad for Meet Market Adventures in Chicago.

According to the advertising, it's the place "where singles and adventure meet." Sounds sort of creepy if you ask me.

I think the "EF" (entertainment factor) could be ridiculous. Can you even imagine the guys that would sign up for MEET MARKET ADVENTURES? Sick.

I mean, if you all think I should do it, I'll give it a try. Maybe I'll have to sky dive or go white water rafting or something who knows.

Yee haw - I'm back from Nashville with my new cowboy boots

2007-05-01T23:43:00.000-05:00

I'm tired of talking about boys. Can we talk about my new boots instead? Seriously, I love them. And, for all of you that are wondering...they are not pink!

In addition to loving my new boots, I found that I don't hate country music! In fact, I have more in common with those country singers than I thought. Their cars are always breakin down, their hearts are always breakin, someone's always losing (stupid Cubs) and yet through it all, they don't sing the blues, they sing country!

And, I did have a Tim McGraw sighting (only I didn't know it was him until after I'd made a fool of myself in front of him). See, I was overserved and showing off my new boots to Beaker and almost fell over only to look up to two cowboys laughing at me. One of those cowboys was the one and only husband to Faith Hill, another country hottie. He is not ugly.

About the race? It was hard. I kind of sucked. Hills bad. Goo gel bad, wanted to barf mile 9 through 13.

Looking for a nice country boy

2007-04-25T23:01:00.000-05:00

I'm headed to Nashville for the weekend but not to look for love. I'm running the country music 1/2 marathon. So, if you are out and about this weekend in Chicago (weather is supposed to be real nice), check out the guys for me. I promise to keep an open mind about country music lovin' boys in Nashville, but...

I gained a little insight last night

2007-04-24T20:11:00.000-05:00

What do guys talk about? Doesn't every girl want to know? When two good guy friends hangout (at a Cubs game) for a couple of hours, what could they possibly talk about?

Assumptions I'd made:
- Fantasy baseball
- Hot chicks (as they walk by)
- Fantasy football
- The a-hole at work
- Fantasy baseball

Turns out, their conversations are a lot more like girl conversations than I thought! I sat next to two 30 somethings that allowed me to eavesdrop the entire night. I was cracking up. They sounded like two chicks, but with longer breaks of silence between topics!

Reality check -- this is what they actually talked about:
- Working out
After 7 innings of looking at Derek Lee, one guys said, "I bet D Lee does a lot of lunges. I should do more lunges" His friend's reply, "No, you should do more squats. D Lee definitely does squats"

- Food
After getting their second helping of nachos, one guy said to the other, "I went to this great place the other night, where they serve small plates. I thought it would be gay, but it was really good and I wasn't too full when I was done so I could drink more." His friend said, "Did you drink wine too?"

- Making plans
One guy said, "You should come over with your girlfriend next weekend, we could grill out." His response, "Can I bring her parents? They always make me pay when we all go out."

- Exes
"Remember Suzie? Well, I heard she got married. Good for her." His friend, "Poor guy."

- Gaining weight
"Do you really think squats would work to help me drop a few? The friend said, "Yah, look at D Lee!"

- Girls
"We hired two new chicks at work." The friends expected response, "Are they hot?"
"Not bad, one has a boyfriend, the other is really young."

I did learn from these same two guys that if they had even one more friend with them that the conversation would be totally be different -- it's only acceptable two guys by themselves to talk about that stuff, but in a group, no way.

Interesting.

Doubt I'll meet anyone tonight...

2007-04-20T10:32:00.000-05:00

...since I'm going to a Divorce Party!
No one is going to introduce me to any of the eligible bachelors since the guest of honor is newly single.
Why am I going then? For inspiration.
Not to settle for the wrong guy only to have a "Divorce Party" later. (sorry, friend hosting the party, nothing personal, I'm just sayin' that this'll help me to be on the lookout for the creeps and not to jump in too quickly). As if any of you were really worried about that since I don't like any body for more than 3 dates, it hasn't been too much of a concern, I'm sure.

Looking forward I'm relying on baseball and summer street fests for cute boy potential. I'm also signed up for the marathon so maybe they'll be some cuties on the running path. I've been known to fake an injury before to get attention.

Your homework this weekend: think of some guys for me to date! I know there are more out there, I'm counting on you all.

My mom always said...

2007-04-19T07:13:00.000-05:00

...if you have nothing nice to say, then sit there and be quiet.

I am full of mean things.

The Decemberists show was pretty cool. There, that's something nice.

Marty is nice, but not the guy for me -- confirmed last night.

Stay tuned for when I have nice things to say...

I'm the worst

2007-04-17T07:29:00.000-05:00

I canceled on Marty again. I hung out with my parent's instead on Sunday. I wanted my Dad to do the utility stuff I needed done at my house rather than Marty. Think that was a good decision! I feel bad, but if I really liked him, I would want to hang out, right?

Today, I'm going to a Cubs game with a bunch of co-workers. And, we're a part of a 350-person group sitting in the left field bleachers. You never know who you might meet. I mean there has to be at least one eligible bachelors in that group. Oh wait, I was introduced to one of them more than 5 years ago when I started going to Cubs Fest with my client, Jen. Hmmm...if he's still single?

I'm no hoochie mama

2007-04-14T06:51:00.000-05:00

So, I canceled on Marty on Thursday night. I was on deadline at work and needed to work late. Wait, that's what I told him, but really, this is what was going on.

Usually when I go on multiple dates in one week, it's just a bunch of first dates and mostly they've all been flops. But, now that there are two boys in the "past the first date" range, I felt kind of dirty. Must be the "good Catholic girl" in me that is making me feel guilty. And, the problem is the wrong one likes me. I like the red head and while he appears to be interested, he certainly isn't making the move like Marty, the one that I only sort of like.

Ugh.

I know poor me, right? You don't feel bad for me because I asked for this. I asked for dates and now I'm whining. That's not really it. I'm just sayin, I never thought it would be so weird to date a couple of guys. So, I can't "date like a guy" after all and I'd make a terrible slut!

Now, I'm going to brunch with Marty on Sunday -- safer date, more time has passed since the red head date, feel less guilty and so on.

One good date deserves another

2007-04-11T07:23:00.000-05:00

I still have not returned a phone call to over-the-top Marty after putting on the brakes, but I'm giving him one last chance to woo me on Thursday. He sends texts, IMs, emails and leaves voicemails so I had plenty of channels to choose from to get back to him. His first idea for a date was "hanging out" while he makes me dinner. Shot that down. No way. The new plan is he's picking me up at 7 pm and he's made all the plans. He likes cliche dates (his word choice not mine) so I'm guessing "dinner and a movie!"

As for Sean, I'm trying (hard as it is for me) to let him do the asking. The Cubs game was my idea. His turn now. Stay tuned.

And, don't forget Jack Wilcox! I have to give him a call too. Maybe I'll have another date this weekend with a newbie.

2007-04-10T14:30:00.000-05:00

Finally, a makeout!
Promise that's as x-rated as this post will get. I know that you are not supposed to kiss and tell, but...

Sean was a great baseball date! It was also the longest date that I had ever been on (even longer than the marathon date with Angry Brent Bunker a few years ago, remember that?). He met me at Murphy's Bleachers at 10 am and drank beers with me all day and evening with some late night dancing at Casey Moran's. And, I hate dancing. So does he, which is good because it wasn't pretty.

I'm not saying that wedding bells are gonna chime, but I at least think they'll be another date (and makeout)!

Cubs opening day & I have a date!

2007-04-09T07:41:00.000-05:00

Remember Sean? The needle in the haystack?

Check back tomorrow to hear how the date at Wrigley Field goes. If he doesn't like me after I take him to a Cubs home opener game, then there isn't much I can do! :)

Go Cubs! (and, Lisa)

Putting the brakes on Marty

2007-04-03T09:20:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I got the utility date out of him, but there was something about "hanging out" that wasn't doing it for me. Think it was too much too soon -- having him at my house -- checking out all my stuff, commenting on everything and fixing my TV. Now, he feels like he's "in." And, when he left he said something that really annoyed me, like "so, now I'm your boyfriend?" I almost barfed.

Not a good sign.

It was so awkward and creepy that I didn't return any of his phone calls for a few days -- you know my motto, "when in doubt, ignore."
Thankfully, he was out of town all weekend. Now, he's back. And, wants to hang out. See, what happens when you "hang out" too soon -- it becomes an excuse to not go on dates any more. No thanks. Need some more dates before we start "watching movies" and making one another dinner!

Anyway, there is still a redhead in the picture that I'm hoping to see again soon.

Marty did the "leave behind" date

2007-03-27T19:57:00.000-05:00

So, as many of you know, I finally upgraded to a big girl TV! But, every time you upgrade, there's that annoying thing about setting up all the other things that hook up to the TV. Enter Marty. (Every once in a while, a girl needs to use a guy for utility!)

He said he wanted to set it all up for me, so I let him. I got carry-out for us and sat at my computer while he mumbled behind the TV tangled in the various cords hooking up my Tivo, DVD, cable, etc.

Of course the power goes out on my block of Lakeview. So, I'm in the dark with a guy that I barely know unable to hookup my TV! Why do these things happen to me? Thankfully, there were only a few awkward moments and the power was back on -- no need for a spontaneous romantic candlelight dinner!

So, now it's midnight and I'm pushing him out the door -- I have to get up early to do a training run. He leaves, I admire my TV and I notice a DVD on my new TV stand. Sneaky, sneaky. Very George Castanza-esque that Marty is. Leaving something at my house so there's a reason to come back. Nice try.

Not sure when or if they'll be another date with the TV repairman, but the movie is mine now. Finders Keepers.

One thing at a time. Husband first. Baby next.

2007-03-23T12:56:00.000-05:00

According to direct mail list vendors, I should already be married and with child. Today, I received my first "complimentary" issue of Working Mother magazine. Demographically speaking, I'm their target. Little do they know – for I am unwed and without child, but I do have a job! Which makes me think, am I going to also start receiving "complimentary" issues of Depression Today magazine or Knitting Your Way into Old Age or Cat Lovers magazine? Seriously.

Maybe there's hope, I have been on four dates with Marty! And, the cute redhead has been emailing, but if he doesn't ask me out, I'm going to end our penpal relationship for I don't need any more friends! (Ok, that sounds harsh, but come on...another guy friend? No, unless they have lots of available single men, don't need 'em!)

So, as you go about your weekends, think about who you may know that I may need to know.

Another set-up in the works

2007-03-19T09:56:00.000-05:00

It pays to keep in contact with your old co-workers and their brothers! At my first job (more than 10 years ago), I met Sue and have kept in touch ever since. This will be her second attempt at setting me up. The first one didn't go so well, but I still trust her judgment! Sue and her brother, Brian, are bar flies at Catch 35 and met a nice boy named Jack. So, I'll be calling him later this week to see how he fits with the "must-haves" list.

Saw Marty again this weekend, but I don't remember much of it since I'd been celebrating St. Patty's Day for nearly 8 hours before I met up with him. He must not have cared too much because we're going out again this week.

Prize patrol

2007-03-14T11:40:00.000-05:00

The following friends will be receiving prizes:

Set-up that has lasted the longest prize goes to Karyn – she's right, I have been on the most dates with Marty!
Cutest set-up prize goes Kim, Merrideth & Katie W – a second date with this cute red head is in the works!
Most set-ups prize goes to Leigh – I went on two dates thanks to Leigh!
Consolation set-up prize goes to Katie B – she can't help that the date was "crabby!"

For the rest of you out there, keep your eyes open! It's spring soon and the boys will be in full bloom.

Like finding a needle in a haystack

2007-03-09T17:21:00.000-06:00

I went out with a "good one" last night. Cute, funny, charming, smart, etc. Katie, Meredith and Kim are approved for setting me up any time. Prizes will be awarded. Speaking of prizes, now that I've been on a few dates that have been what I'd consider to be successful, we should all start discussing what the ultimate prize will be for the lucky setter upper -- any ideas?

Katie, Kim & Meredith will definitely get a "best match so far" prize! And, if he calls, I'll be so excited that they may get two prizes.

I have to go now because I have another date in two hours!

A dating first

2007-03-07T14:48:00.000-06:00

I had my first date ever with a guy closer in age to 40 than 30! Whoa! That's huge. Nevin is 37! And, one of my dates next week is with someone even closer to that hill – he's 39!

For those you that have shared all the joys of my dating over the years, this is a big deal. I typically look for the guys that could be on "One Tree Hill" rather than over the hill. Sorry, couldn't help myself.

What happened to flirting?

2007-03-06T11:45:00.000-06:00

Do boys over 30 remember how to flirt?

Here's a quick definition - flirt, verb, to pay amorous attention to someone without serious intentions or emotional commitment; a play at love

It's taken me how many dates to figure out what's missing with the over 30 crowd! They are reluctant flirters. The 20 somethings are so much better at it. For instance, Scott Bailey (remember him?), my 25 year old Cubs boyfriend, he was a genius flirter. In fact, he was so good that I thought he liked me. Maybe I needed a definition refresher - "without serious intentions or emotional commitment."

Anyway, that's what I'm looking for! Can they just flirt a little? Marty is great. Date #2 was fun, but something was missing. No worries, he's going to get another chance. He's planning a date with a little less loud music, drunk Irishmen and Mardi Gras beads. Three dates – there better be some flirting or I'm going to bat my eyelashes at Seth, Sean, Mike or Nevin!

Stay tuned to here more about this week's dates! Here's my schedule:
- Thursday is a date with Sean
- Friday is an informal "meeting" of Seth
- Next week, Date #3 with Marty & Date #1 with Mike
- Still waiting to see if Nevin wants to advance to round 2

I still like red heads

2007-03-05T13:16:00.000-06:00

This much is confirmed.

I went on a date Saturday night to the Aqualong/Pete Yorn show at the Riv and it was a good time. It's been a long time since you've heard me say those words, huh?

Yes, Nevin was a cute, funny, talkative, non-smoker! Just a few of the things that are must haves. He met a lot of my friends and didn't get dinner until almost midnight, but he hung in there with no complaints.

So...what happens now?

We'll see. If he calls, I'll go on another date, if he doesn't, I'll still like red heads.

And, I have a date tonight with Marty -- date #2!

And, Sean makes three

2007-03-03T06:28:00.000-06:00

That's right, I have three dates on my calendar!
Tonight, it's Nevin (client set-up)
Monday, it's Marty (Date #2)
Thursday, it's Sean (Kim, Katie W & Merredith set-up)

And, I still have one guy, Mike, that I'm trying to set something up, but I'm busy next week already!

And, two out of three of my dates are red heads! In yer face, Matt Murton!

Wish me luck, and don't worry, I'll be back to tell you all about it!

Marty makes a comeback!

2007-03-01T12:34:00.000-06:00

I still don't think it's an absolute love connection, but since the date, he's been real cute, like this puppy. I know that word is overused, but it works in this instance. He writes witty emails and does not call too much, which I like. In fact, he has only called me once and I like it.

I'll be going out with him again on Monday night to see The Pogues, the ultimate Irish band, in his words.

Oh...one more thing I should mention. The text stalker is back. The friend of the bad date from the Auto Show text me again. He took two weeks off and then thought it would be a good idea to see if maybe now I'd be interested. He has since been renamed in my phone from "Random Dave" to "Don't Answer!" Only one other person has had the "Don't Answer" name. Do you remember who?

C'mon Meghan, Shannon or Karyn...you know who it is. I'll give you a hint. He called me on the day that Cubs tickets went on sale. Haven't talked to him since German Fest, but apparently I'm still affectionately stored in his phone.

Research and rate before you date!

2007-02-27T20:55:00.000-06:00

Did you know that you can search a database to see if the guy you are dating is a "known cheat?"

Neither did I.

But the google ad on my blog is advertising this free service. And, there is added value -- the same site offers you a searchable database of sex offenders by zip code! What a resource -- cheats and sex offenders all in one.

They also have fun "celebrity cheat polls," like:

Which celebrity is the worst cheater?
- Jude Law
- Brad Pitt
- Kobe Bryant
- Woody Allen
- Charlie Sheen

The good news is that none of my potential dates are cheaters or sex offenders! So, I'm not going to lie, I put in a few names of some previous boyfriends, but they aren't cheats or sex offenders either. So maybe you'll have more fun than I did, visit www.womansavers.com

So, let me know which celeb you'd vote for and if you know any "cheats."

My Mardi Gras Date

2007-02-22T18:02:00.000-06:00

Well, it was definitely an improvement from the Auto Show (although, it wouldn't take much to improve upon that), but it still was not an instant love connection, which is why there will most likely not be a second date.

If you are just catching up, here's how I met Marty.

Karyn, a new mom to Austen, has been spending her maternity leave searching the neighborhoods for dates for me. Since she's not working, she's not taking the 65 bus down Grand so she had to look elsewhere on Grand. Enter Roots @ Grand and Racine.

While getting her haircut at Roots, she noticed many a good-looking guys also getting groomed. Got her thinking...

Next thing I know, I'm going on a date with the hair stylist's brother-in-law!

What I knew going in:
- He's a probation officer for bad kids
- He's 30
- He's a non-smoker
- Has more than 2 pairs of shoes
- Lives d'town
- Has good hair!

What I know now that I've been on one date:
- He's funny (he has some good stories)
- He's a self-proclaimed music snob (we may have 2 of the same CDs, but that's it)
- He's a little cheap (he missed the bus and instead of taking a cab and being on time for our first meeting, he walked)
- He's social (he met a bunch of people that were also out celebrating Fat Tuesday that I knew)
- He loves Guinness (I had one waiting for him when arrived)
- He's smart (he said I didn't look anywhere near 30!)

So maybe I'll go out with him again and see if a real date (dinner or something besides a few cocktails) that he plans yields a good time!

February is heating up

2007-02-19T14:45:00.000-06:00

Not only is it above 20 degrees today, but I potentially have (my digits have been handed out) six new dates. And, none of them have anything to do with the stalking texter from the auto show!

Date #1 - Tomorrow night! A Fat Tuesday date. I will not be posting his picture for you all to ridicule, but I will let you know how it goes.

Date #2 - In the works with a cute, redhead! (Reminder: I LOVE red heads)

Date #3 - Fun guy that works in advertising also with red hair.

Date #4 - Six degrees set-up: my sister's friend's boyfriend's boss' boss! He's over 30! (Reminder: Ideally, I'd like to date guys over 30)

Date #5 - Another friend of a friend's husband. (Also with red hair and over 30!)

Date #6 - Co-worker Katie B has been working on a guy for me for a couple of months and he is finally game for the set-up.

Date #7 - This doesn't count as "new" because it would be my 4th date with a guy that I was set-up with in December.

Just so you all know, it is NOT the intention of the blog to ask my friends to set me up so that I can go on dates and then turnaround and make fun of the guy. Unless of course, he deserves it. And, I think you will all agree, the auto show guy deserved it.

If you see this man, hurt him

2007-02-14T09:08:00.000-06:00

This is a picture of my friend, Chris. He set me up on the blind date (see previous post) for the Charity event at the Chicago Auto Show. He is also a 30+ single person looking for love in Chicago so if you know someone that really, really sucks, let me know because I'd like to set him up.

The bad blind date from last week is still haunting me. The guy (affectionately referenced as "porno man" in my last post) gave my phone number to another guy after our date! So, I've been getting random text messages from a guy named, David, that I have no intention on going out with. I mean, after all, he's friends with porno man!

How many unanswered texts will it take before he stops? Today's text, "Happy Valentine's Day!"

Is he kidding?

There will not be a second date

2007-02-10T20:53:00.000-06:00

Many of you have been asking me to share more details about the dates and, if possible, to share some photos. Hope you're happy. Here he is, my blind date.

Many things were wrong with this date, starting with him picking me up and not even getting out of the car to meet me. Instead, he put down the window and said, "Hop in" to the girl (me) standing in 4-inch heels and a black tie dress. Classy. Some may think this is petty, but it's not. Besides, his lack of manners only gets worse.

Once inside the Auto Show , he continued to walk about 15 feet in front of me, never looking back. He did; however, find the champagne right away (the one positive) and handed me one, but only after he began chugging his own. Again, classy. He was on his phone a lot trying to meet up with some of his friends, which I looked forward to talking to since he didn't have anything interesting to say. (I did plan ahead and had a backup plan in place – my friends, Shannon and Perry, were at the event and on standby to rescue me). I was feeling a 911 situation coming on as this date was not getting any better. At one point, I stepped away to take a picture of a beautiful, chocolate brown Bentley and when I turned back around, he was gone. Lucky for me (read: sarcasm), I found him, amongst a huddle of his friends. You will probably need to read this next part several times because you will not believe what he was doing when I finally found him. Like a 14-year-old looking at his first Playboy he was showing off to his friends with a porno movie on his phone.
Again, class act.

Am I serious? Yes.

My date was looking at porn on his phone, in public, on a date!

What happened next? I went to the champagne table.

Then, I executed my emergency plan and met up with Shannon and Perry. Never saw porno man (my date) again. Left him at the Auto Show.

It's date time!

2007-02-07T21:55:00.000-06:00

Well, there's a first for everything. I'm going on a black tie blind date! No pressure.
His name is Alex and well, that's all I know. A guy friend of mine that started a job less than 2 weeks ago set me up with his new co-worker! And, we're going to the Chicago Auto Show First Look Charity event. So, he's charitable, that's got to be good, right?

It just so happens that my car is dead too, so I may be in the market for one of those bright, shiny new cars.

Come back tomorrow and I'll tell you all about my date.

The COLTS ruined everything.

2007-02-06T22:03:00.000-06:00

So, there were a ton of cute, appeared-to-be-single guys at the Superbowl party that I attended on Sunday; however, the party was more like a funeral in the second half.

Thanks, Colts.

All the boys that were actively chatting up my table of girls were crying in their beers for the last hour or so.

Moving on...to college basketball. Have to get ready to meet boys during "March Madness."

Refilling my prescription

2007-02-01T16:22:00.000-06:00

In case you are wondering...I'm still single.
Volunteering at the Cubs Convention didn't work out. Skiing didn't yield any hotties. So, I'm back asking you all to help me! It's been a slow start to 2007, which is unlike me. Usually, I have a great first quarter, but not this year -- I am O for 31 on dates in January.

I'm beyond worrying about a Valentine's Day date and am now just looking to get a date during the month of February!

New things that I'm doing to try and meet boys include...bowling on a Chicago
Sport & Social team on Tuesday nights and signing up to run many a
races in the next few months. Shamrock Shuffle, Race to Wrigley, etc.
I'm doing my part, now, I need you all to do yours -- find me a
date.

I appreciate all your hard work and thank you in advance!

Volunteering for a cause! (my cause)

2007-01-19T18:23:00.000-06:00

If I had a dollar for every time someone told me that "volunteering is a nice way to meet people..."

So, I'm going to try it out. I'm volunteering all day tomorrow at the Cubs Convention. Hmmm...I like baseball. I like baseball players. I like a certain Cubs player, Matt Murton. He even made the visual highlight of one of my posts. Unfortunately, my mother called to let me know that he was busy in the off season. Busy getting MARRIED! So, there goes that idea. Too late to get out of volunteering now so I guess I'll go and look for a guy that has season tickets and a lot of time on his hands to hang out at the convention!

This will serve as the true test -- will there be a lot of other women there under the same false pretenses hoping to meet Mr. Right. I'd be happy with Mr. Right Now to be honest. Winter is boring. I need to find a date soon!

Wish me luck!

Buh-bye 2006, hello 2007!

2007-01-07T18:54:00.000-06:00

My year (dates) in review...

Ok, well I didn't exacly have 50 dates, but things were going pretty well for a while. After my first six months of blogging, I went on more than 25 dates and at least 10 of them were set-ups from you, my blog-reading friends! I went out with a cop, a trader, a doctor, a copywriter, an employed dude, a media buyer, an accountant, a lawyer and one that I'll just refer to as a "hottie!"

But 25 dates a wedding did not make! So, I'm back! Took some time off over the holidays and was having some blogging "issues" -- all of which have been resolved. Thanks to all of you that have checked on me to make sure that I wasn't busy planning my wedding and not blogging.

Here's a toast to 2007 -- may all of you find wonderful men for me to date!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

No wimps allowed

2006-11-27T22:43:00.000-06:00

Thought you'd all enjoy this photo of me from my vacation in Cabo San Lucas. I'm all geared up to go on a canopy tour. Bascially, I was harnessed and helmeted and sent flying from one side of a cliff to another by my tour guide, Alejandro. It made me think of another "must have" for my potential date.

Must have #11: No wimps. If my 60 year-old Dad could do the canopy tour, then my guy will need to be able to do it too. No, "I'm afraid of heights," or "I don't want the helmet to ruin my 'do" guys." (Altho, I do like guys with good hair!)

As you find yourselves getting really busy with holidays nearing, remember, that most of you, have to buy gifts for the special someone in your lives. I too, would like to be shopping for my adorable boyfriend, but wait, I don't have one. Ladies, and the few gentleman that read my blog, all I want for Christmas this year...is to go on a date with one your eligible friends. So, make your shopping lists, go to your holiday parties and remember to keep your eyes open for potential mistletoe smooches for me!

Hola de Mexico!

2006-11-17T18:46:00.000-06:00

The Bachelorette is working on her tan in Cabo San Lucas. She'll be back on Tuesday, 11/21 to let you know about any muchachos that she meets on her trip.

Just to clarify...

2006-11-02T07:15:00.000-06:00

...I am NOT the the female in the costumed makeout in my last post. No, Halloween came and went with no masked makeout. Maybe my "bitch kitty" costume was intimidating or maybe I already knew everyone at the party since I hosted it. So, since you all aren't really getting me the dates that I need, how about you start getting me invited to parties where I'm not the host? That way, they'll be some new prospects...

I did meet one cute boy at the party only to find out that he had a serious girlfriend. Of course he did.

So, it's November. A new month, let's start over. All previous contestants are officially kicked to the curb.

MUST HAVE #11: I really need a guy that isn't wimpy! I like scary movies, not Texas Chainsaw stupid movies, but some real "thrillers." You would be amazed how many guys in the past couple of years have told me they don't like scary movies. To me, that's a red flag. Does that mean that if I hear a scary noise in the middle of the night that I should plan on being the one to check all the closets and go to the scary basement without a flashlight?

It's the eve of the biggest makeout night of the year...

2006-10-26T22:43:00.000-05:00

...so wish me luck! Just in case you didn't know, the top nights that guarantee a makeout include:

5. First day that the temperature goes above 60 degrees in Chicago -- usually in early April -- everyone is in an unbeliveable good mood -- "boys are in full bloom" and you start to notice them, wink at 'em and next thing you know...

4. St. Patrick's Day -- you don't even have to be wearing the "Kiss me I'm Irish" button on this day for everyone looks better after a few too many Guinness

3. Thanksgiving Eve -- everyone is "home for the holidays" and going out in their hometowns -- good chance at making out with the captain of your high school football team

2. New Year's Eve -- sort of a "duh" -- it's a mad dash of everyone looking for someone to smooch with at midnight!

And, the number one night is...

1. HALLOWEEN -- something about kissing and costumes mixes real well! It may have something to do with the witch's brew or maybe how cute you look bobbing for apples, but you always guaranteed to seal the night with a kiss!

Since Halloween is on a Tuesday this year, that makes both weekend nights fair game for costumed makeouts!

Greetings from Dallas

2006-10-24T18:26:00.000-05:00

While I'm not opposed to kissing a cowboy, I haven't seen any yet! I guess I'll leave Texas tomorrow still single. :(

Don't make me read this book!

2006-10-22T19:29:00.000-05:00

Bad Lisa. I have not been good about keeping you all up to date. There has been little to no progress with the current list of husband potential.

1. The cop -- works too much and since I'm never free on Wednesdays at 3 pm for a date, I have not been out with him in a while. He calls enough, but again, I'm looking for dates not a phone buddy!

2. The guy my friend met in a bar and gave my email to -- saw him last weekend, but he was a bit overserved and had the hiccups, which was pretty funny, but again, not too charming as you're looking at him as your future husband! He did buy me some pizza at the end of the night, which was nice. He's got 4 weddings to go to over the next three weeks, which gave me a reason to flee. That's all I need is to be a date at four more weddings -- get that grand total to 85! No way. Anyway, I'm pretty sure I'll go out with him again sometime in November. Until then, it's strictly an email relationship!

3. The waiter that my friend met at an event -- I was given his email and his phone number. I chose email. Sent him an email and well...never heard back from him. So...do I call? I say no, but then again, what if he never got the email? I can't get too upset about this since well, he never met me so at least, it isn't personal!!!

Rumor has it that the following people know someone for me...
- Carol, "TV producer guy"
- Amy & Scott, "guy named Jim"
- Kelly, "bald guy"
- Ann, "hockey guy"
- Kristin, "new guy at work"
- Dena, "contractor guy"

Get busy people, I'm not getting any younger!!!

Do I have any dates this week, you ask?

2006-10-09T18:12:00.000-05:00

Not yet. I stress the "yet" because I'm optimistic. Who is still in the dating hopper you ask?
1. The cop
2. The email guy
3. A waiter that my friend Brooke met at an event she went to (he had red hair and he is single so he met at least two must haves)

For those of you that read my blog and NEVER post, then complain that I don't update frequently enough, I must remind you that this blog is not for your entertainment! I ask, "What have you done for me lately?" Keep reading, but keep looking for "my guy!" And, if you're going to read, you gotta post! Give me some dating tips if you must, but don't just laugh at my dating failures and go on with your day :)

Must have #10: A passport! I have a lot of places to visit and I'm going to need someone to travel with. And, while I haven't been to all 50 states, I think Oklahoma can wait while Bora Bora calls.

I'm a dating machine this week!

2006-09-27T09:56:00.000-05:00

HA – I'm kidding. But seriously, I went on a date Monday, Tuesday and then came to work on Wednesday to find this email waiting for me. Don't be discouraged if you want to win my contest, I still need to fulfill the quantity portion of the contest. Remember what I said, lots of frogs need to be kissed before I find the right guy!
Below is a pretty interesting email ask out that I thought I'd share from a boy that my friend Katie met at a bar...

HI,
My name is (had to remove real name)...the guy who was out with your friend Katie the other night.She gave me your e-mail and thought we should meet for a drink such as coffee, tea or a shot of whiskey. I know you must be skeptical about some random person e-mailing you but what I can tell you about me is that I am 5-11, brown hair, blue eyes, good physical shape and grew up in Northbrook which is a suburb of Chicago. I am nice according to my mom, I don't own a Speedo bathing suite and I know 2 magic tricks. You may not find me to be your type or vice versa but I figure It never hurts to meet new people.
If you are interested in getting together you can e-mail me or text your
number or you can give me a call at (no real numbers, duh!).

Date #2 is tonight!

2006-09-26T17:35:00.000-05:00

So, I'm going on my second date with the police officer tonight. I'm actually looking forward to it -- which hasn't been the case much lately. Oh, did I mention that I went on a date last night too? He was a set-up from Erin, another co-worker, that had a good looking friend, that is over 25, has more than 2 pairs of shoes and hates camping! And, a bonus with last night's date is that he's a huge Hawkeye fan! It really doesn't get much better that that. Oh wait, he has to call me first...

More later, have to get ready for my dinner date!

I don't mean to brag...

2006-09-18T16:42:00.000-05:00

...but I have another date!

But, let's talk about Officer Friendly first. Yesterday, was my date with the Chicago cop. Very "normal" -- if there is such a thing. Blind dates are tough and he was one of the better ones for sure. He was fun, talkative, cute and I didn't have to "deal" with any of those weird situations in which I am fully prepared for (how to save a date from choking, bad kisser, too drunk, etc). Wow, all that reading really has me paranoid that something completely bizaare-o is going to happen on my dates. I feel like I could have listened to arrest stories all day, but thankfully, he didn't only talk about work. Now, cross your fingers and hope that he thought I was interesting and cute.

My next date...is more than a week away, but I'm getting ready. It's on a Thursday night, which I'm a big fan of because as many of you already know since, I'M BRINGING THURSDAYS BACK (yes, JT was my inspriation). If you don't know who "JT" is you probably want to stay in on Thursdays anyway.

Must Have #10: This isn't a must-have, but more of a consideration. I love red heads! So, as you flip through your rolodexes, check out boys at the gym or on the bus and you see a red head, pay special attention. Check if he's married and then ask if he'd like to meet me! My favorite red head, Matt Murton, plays left field for the Cubs -- if you can get me a date with him, you automatically win the contest!

This could be a big week!

2006-09-17T10:02:00.000-05:00

First, I have a Noon date today (Sunday) with one of Chicago's finest. That's right - a man in uniform! He's a set-up from Donna, a co-worker that's been looking to family and friends for an eligible bachelor. She found one, gave him my number, he called and now we're going to watch the Bears game.

The work girls are taking the contest pretty seriously -- Erin has a date for me this Friday -- a casual, Happy Hour set-up. Like it. I mean, he won't be in uniform with a gun and handcuffs, but I already have a visual (saw him at German Fest) and he's cute! Good hair!

And then, Katie is out one night and decides the boy that she's chatting up may be someone that I'd like more than her. So...there's another potential set up -- he has my email so I may be hearing from this new lad soon!

And to make for a perfect dating week, I'm going to a Red Light/Green Light party on Saturday night. Party goers wearing red lights are spoken for (married, engaged or seeing someone) and any one sporting a green light is fair game! It's a single person's dream come true. May make for an awkward party -- a bunch of green lights running around ignoring all the red lights. Red lights sitting in the corner all comfortable with their red light status cheering on the green lights -- "Go on, there's lots of single people hear, don't be shy!"

You get the idea...

Dating stinks!

2006-09-13T19:10:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I haven't been keeping you up to date on my "dating life," but...I needed some time to read all of the books that I've either been given or I bought as a part of my search to find THE ONE!

So, in case you had doubts on whether I knew how to handle myself on a date or you thought I might not know how to dress for a first date, I am completely educated! A few other things I learned include:
- How to deal with a drunken date
- How to deal with a bad kisser
- How to deal with a date that's choking

I'm ready for anything so even if you are unsure as to whether it'll be a love connection, I know how to "deal" with almost any dating situation. Try me.

A few of you have mentioned some potentials. Amy & Scott? Donna? Kelly? Anne? Erin? Dena? Post something about this boy on my blog if for no other reason but to get my other friends busy finding me a date!

I might as well live on a far away island...

2006-08-25T14:20:00.001-05:00

...because all of my blog set-ups have turned into great email buddies. I don't need any pen pals! I need dates! So...we're back to the beginning. There may be some progress with one of the set-ups this weekend, but if not, he's getting the automatic email response stating that "I am out of the office until I find a boyfriend, I will follow-up with you upon my return. In my absence, please feel free to contact someone else. Thanks!"

For anyone that is interested, my vacation was great! Over the 10 days that I was gone, I went on two trips -- one single girls trip to Beaver Island, Michigan and another trip to Union Pier, Michigan with a bunch of friends (mostly married). While on the single girls trip, I did practice my flirting skills and wooed one cute sailor! But, I don't kiss and tell. Oh who am I kidding? Of course I do! While being very cute, he wasn't real smart. Definitely hadn't read a book since Dr. Suess!

The Bachelorette is on vacation, but...

2006-08-16T16:25:00.000-05:00

...she'll be back soon to let you know about any out of towners that she met. But, just because I'm on vacation does not mean you get to stop looking for my Mr. Right! He's out there...I just need your help finding him so get busy.

I have a second date...

2006-08-07T18:45:00.000-05:00

...but not with the same guy as last week! Date #2 from my blogging friends is tonight. The date from last week was fun, but not a love connection. One of my better set-ups I must admit and Karen did get a prize for making the connection.

Tonight's date is one that has been in the works for a few months. I don't know much about him except that he'll be meeting me for drinks after work. I do know that he's pretty funny over email, which meets at least one "must have" -- he has a good sense of humor.

Come back soon to find out whom the next prize winners are!

Just because I went on one date...

2006-08-02T14:14:00.000-05:00

...does not mean that you can all stop setting me up! This was just something to celebrate -- the first successful set-up. I do have to admit that there have been some other small successes along the way too. Shannon & Perry (the guy with the feathered friend) not only are my most frequent viewers and posters, but they did introduce me to one hot prospect! A very cute, 30-ish boy that lives in the city and even came to my BBQ a few weeks ago. Problem is, I need to get him to ask me on a date now. So, I think they deserve a prize as well!

More later as I'm working on a flirty email to send the above mentioned hot prospect.

Must have #8: He doens't have to be a fancy chef, but he should be useful at a tailgate and know how to use a grill. It's almost football season and I need a tailgate assistant! Go Hawkeyes!

I have a date!

2006-07-31T12:22:00.000-05:00

That's right, ladies! My co-worker, Karen, set me up with a guy that she used to work with at a different ad agency. So...here is what I know:
- He has a job (same industry, so that's conversation at least)
- He wears shoes (he had some on at lunch when Karen told him about me, but she didn't ask how many pairs he as at home, but I'll work it in tonight)
- His most recent vacation did NOT involve camping
- He has a sense of humor (he moonlights once a week at Improv Olympic)
- He is over 25, actually 31!
- And, he is planning the date -- didn't do the "so what do you wanna do?" Or, "you pick the restaurant" -- just said I'll plan it and pick you up at 7:30 pm. Fun.

So, now I need to award Karen with a prize for getting me my first date! I will let you know how the date went and what she wins later this week.

For the rest of you, I hope this inspires you to get busy! Heather B said she doesn't like to lose, but...I have yet to hear from a boy that knows her.

Where is he???

2006-07-25T13:22:00.000-05:00

Well, I know you all are reading my blog because you tell me and you tell my Mom (Dena Howser), but you are very shy about posting! Ladies, tell me what you think, tell me that you are thinking of my prince (and my impending happiness).

Come back soon because there are "dates in progress" and some prizes will be distributed if all goes well...

Must Have #7: Taste buds that exceed restaurants that only deep fry their menus! Meaning, once in a while, he'll want a nice dinner for two!

Desperate times calls for...

2006-07-14T16:49:00.000-05:00

...desperate measures.
Oh, I'm not talking about me. I mean, I have all of you working on dates for me, but this poor woman (her mug shot above) in Aloha, Oregon should be so lucky. She had a real love emergency! She was arrested for calling 911 to find the 'cutie-pie' cop that had just left her house after following up on a noise ordinance complaint! Don't let his happen to me...

Was it a sign?

2006-07-10T21:49:00.000-05:00

When was the last time that you actually saw a real frog? It's been about 15 years for me, but I saw him. My prince! I'm taking it as a sign. He hopped across the patio at my parents house. My Dad called me outside to see it (strange, I know, but maybe he was thinking the same thing as me -- it's her prince!) Frogs are really kind of gross. My sister, mom, dad and I stood on the patio staring at it, watching him (I swear he winked his bulging eye ball at me) and then he was gone, hopped off somewhere. Hmm....Does this mean that one of you is withholding a prince potential? Get on it, ladies (and gentleman!) This frog is cute and soliciting a makeout and I know you have some single friends that need a smooch as well.

I went to my 81st wedding and all I got was...

2006-07-04T02:18:00.000-05:00

...a headache!

Here I am with the groom...He's showing off his new wedding band and now he's off to Fiji and I'm back to logging into my blog and asking all of you to think real hard about "the guy" -- the one that is supposed to sweep me off my feet. Or, at least, take me on a date.

As you consider all the single men with promise, remember...it's not cool to show them this blog!

Must have #7: A favorite book. It's real boring when a guy doesn't even have a response to that question. It can be "How the Bears won the '85 Super Bowl" -- that's fine as long as he's read a book!

80 weddings, really?

2006-06-28T07:09:00.000-05:00

I have had more inquiries about the number of weddings I've been to than potential dates. Focus, people, focus. Today's photo shows the first wedding that I was ever in -- 5 years old, a flower girl. Tony, my date, wasn't much of a dancer, but I'm thinking I should google him and see if he has a job, is a social smoker only, owns more than 2 pairs of shoes and is funny. Hopefully, he hates camping too!

Must have #6: Hopefully, he'll have a lot of married friends so that I don't have to go to 80 more weddings!

Should I just settle...

2006-06-23T15:13:00.000-05:00

...for Brian? (hint: click on this, it's a link!)
My friend, Jen, sent me an email about another singleton looking for love in Chicago. Check it out and post whether you think I should send him an email and ask him out or not!

Other dates that are coming my way include:
- Lawyer in Houston, TX (through college friend, Nicole)
- Red head actor guy in Chicago (through co-worker, Erin)
- 40 year old, highly recommended guy in Chicago (through college friend, Abbie)

I feel this is going to be quite a contest -- which ever of the above gets a "meeting/date" scheduled first will win a prize for being first! And, it'll be a good one, but...you'll have to keep checking my blog to find out.

It's Friday -- wish me luck on finding some candidates this weekend.

MUST HAVE #5: Already gone thrugh the "camping" phase of his life. I'd love to say that I'll go camping, but I'd be lying.

Another weekend has come and gone...

2006-06-19T21:05:00.000-05:00

...and all I got was a BACKSTAGE PASS TO MADONNA! Ok, well it wasn't that cool, but I did get to go with three friends to tour backstage and see her changing rooms, her makeup, her guitars and her crew of about 250 British men.

Once again, I find myself taking the advice of my married friends and family -- "you gotta go where the fish are." I went fishing this weekend. I went to a Cubs game on Friday, Taste of Randolph on Saturday and the Madonna show on Sunday. (Ok, well no straight men were at Madonna), but I was definitely out there. The hightlight...meeting a Brit that works for Madonna and going backstage. Other than that, nothin.

This is where you come in, people. I'm going to continue to tell me all the ways in which I'm trying to go about meeting someone until one of you comes through with a date or two! Get busy, ladies!

♥ MUST HAVE #4: A sense of humor. It sort of goes without saying, but let's not consider any guys that can't take a joke, make a joke or get a joke!

Let's get serious ladies (and gentlemen) -- this is a contest!

2006-06-15T23:07:00.002-05:00

I'm going to keep it short and sweet today. Thanks to all that have visited my blog --- also thanks for passing it along. I've had so many emails from people that I haven't spoken to in so long. But, no more time for catching up...this is a contest and someone needs to take the lead early. Don't you all know at least one non-smoking guy that has a job? It's only going to get harder to win as the "must have" list gets longer. We should probably start talking about the prize. Would love to hear some fun ideas of what you should win for finding me someone!

♥ MUST HAVE #3: MORE THAN 2 PAIRS OF SHOES. HE DOESN'T HAVE TO LIKE OR EVEN UNDERSTAND MY LOVE FOR SHOES, BUT HE HAS TO OWN MORE THAN A PAIR OF "WORK SHOES" AND "WORKOUT" SHOES."

A photo so you start to understand my pain

2006-06-13T09:52:00.000-05:00

Here I am in Vegas during the height of the single boy season -- March Madness and this is what I meet. This is a picture of a guy that was later named "the spanker" -- thinking that smacking butts added to his charm. And, as you can see, he's ready to smoke whenever the mood strikes - leading to my next "must have."

♥ Must Have #2: NON-SMOKER PREFRERRED. OCCASIONAL SOCIAL SMOKER IS OK.

Welcome friends!

2006-06-12T21:21:00.000-05:00

Thanks for checking out my blog! Most of you have heard my plan to host this contest, but I needed something to motivate me to get it going (as if 80 weddings weren't enough). This weekend I found it. After another date with a sub-25 year old "boy," I realized that I can't keep up. I don't do kegstands any more. I don't have 4 roommates any more. I graduated college in the 90s! So, I need your help. I'm excited to meet a whole bunch of "men," not "boys" and find THE ONE. Yes, that's right, you read right. I'm ready. Some of you thought I'd never give up on Durkin's as my dating breeding ground, but...I have. I've tried speed dating, I play extracurricular sports (hard to believe I know) and I've even given my real phone number to boys that I've met, but it's all been pretty disappointing so far. Each entry will include a "must have" for my future mate. You can decide how seriously to take them all as you consider my husband of choice.

Your assignment this week is think of some prize ideas for the winner. Winner is someone that sets me up and I date the guy for more than 3 months! Don't worry, there will be other prizes along the way for "Best First Date (to Date)," "Best Dressed Date," or "Cheapest Date." -- the list goes on!

♥ Must Have #1
Let's start with the basics (I've done enough writing today). A JOB. HE NEEDS TO BE EMPLOYED.