THE DATING ZOO

For those happily married people, you are so fortunate. Dating at a late age is difficult. Someone told me, “All the good ones are either married or gay”. There is a lot of truth to that. There is a reason we are single!

Before I moved to Key West, I was on a dating site. I had numerous “meet-n-greets”. Most, I put in the friend zone at that first meeting. A few, it took a couple weeks. Nobody wanted to hear that dreaded request;  "let's just be friends". When I got to Key West, I continued on the dating site, and again started meeting guys. And again, there were many one and only meetings. Then I met Chuck, we hit it off and it lasted three wonderful years. Now, I’m back on the prowl again. I have scoured the dating sites, and read a thousand profiles. They start to all sound the same. EVERYONE loves to travel and listen to live music. EVERYONE is honest, trust worthy, down to earth and knows how to treat a lady. Occasionally, a unique writer creates an interesting profile. Profile pictures. Listen, nobody cares what you looked like 20 years ago, or wants to see a picture of your grandkids or motorcycle. Save those for the third date. 

Here are a few of the statements in profiles I have read:

His perfect match:

• "Someone who appreciates a man's perspective!" What does that even mean? I asked, he did not respond.
• "She should be very sharp and "with-it" with a great sense of humor." With-it? humm
• "Warm. Feisty. Good negotiating skills." Why, is he bull-headed?
• Another sent me a message and said, "I make pretty pink blankets." Is that code for something? I ignored that one.

What is my type? I’ve been asked this question, and I haven’t figured that out yet. Looks are not everything, but lets be honest, they are important, as is common interests. Couples have to be involved in some of the same activities, or they will grow in different directions. You have to spend time together to form a bond. 

So Lezlie, what qualities does a man have to possess, to peak your interest? 

I’m glad you asked! 

1. First and foremost, he has to love being on and in the water. Having a boat is a plus, preferably a sailboat. 
2. Under 6’ tall is preferred. 
3. The ability and desire to dance is not required, but it makes going out on the town more fun. 
4. It’s nice if he knows his way around a kitchen.
5. A good masseuse and kisser makes nighttime activities more enjoyable. 
6. He has to have a good sense of humor.
7. Must be a non-smoker. I’m firm on this one.
8. Age between 55 & 62. If all other qualifications are met, this one can be overlooked.
9. A good voice to serenade me would be delightful.
10. Knowing a second language gets you extra points.

I have been asked numerous times if I would ever marry again. I seriously doubt that I would. Have a long term relationship? Absolutely.

I am presently taking applications. All applications will be reviewed for consideration. Thank you.

PASSPORT STAMPS

While getting ready for my trip to Canada, I pulled out my passport and looked at the stamps I had received. It seems that I can only leave the U.S. on even numbered years. In 2010, my passport was stamped when Dale and I went to Belize. This was the first time I had been out of the country, so my first stamp. The second time I traveled internationally, in 2012, was when Kelly and I did our "brother/sister trip" to Belize. In 2014, Chuck took me to Cozumel and Costa Rica. The Cozumel trip was on a cruise ship, so I didn't actually get a stamp. A little disappointing.

Now, in 2016, I cross over into Canada. I really wanted them to stamp my passport, just because. What is it about even numbered years? Does this mean I cannot cross the border next year? Don't tell me I can't do something, I will prove you wrong! Hummmmm, where shall I go...

ROAD TRIP - HOME SWEET HOME

MONDAY, JULY 17, 2016

Luckily, Jackie and I made it as far as Springfield, MO last night, so it was a short drive to Jackie’s home. We drove over to the storage unit where Jackie keeps her boats. I patterned Cowboy Cookies and her AF3, a Jim Michalak design, for cushions.

We had lunch at Jackie's favorite restaurant in Eufaula. My fortune cookie was spot on.

Happiness begins with facing life with a smile and a wink.

Jackie and I spent the evening recounting stories of our youth. When it was time to call it a night, the trash can was sporting 3 empty wine bottles. They weren’t all full when we started… I swear!

TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2016

When I checked in at the airport to fly home, I didn't realize that I was "TSA PRE". Didn't see it on my boarding pass until someone pointed out to me. I suppose I looked harmless. Didn't have to take off my jewelry, pull out my computer, take off my shoes. Another first.

It is nice to get away and see other parts of the country, but it’s alway good to get back home.  Cleaning out the pocket on my bag, I found a collection of room keys and business cards. I wondered why my bag was so heavy. Unpacking it, I found the four rocks I picked up at the Lake Michigan beach. They are not big rocks, but they are heavy… and pretty!

Tomorrow, it is back to work. It's back to a schedule for me.

ROAD TRIP - part 11

DAY 14 - OHIO, INDIANA, ILLINOIS, MISSOURI

SUNDAY, JULY 17, 2016

Jackie and I stayed in Mansfield, Ohio last night. We got off a little after 9:00 this morning.

We kept driving until about 3:00 for lunch. There is a little place called Charlie’s Pub & Grub… listed as the #1 place to eat in Terre Haute, IN. I had the Jr. Melt. Either it was the best I had ever eaten, or I was starving.

Today was National Ice Cream Day. In observance, we stopped at a Culver’s and had a treat, because we had to!

We made it to Springfield, MO before we stopped for the night. Cheese, crackers….and wine was my bedtime snack. I’m pooped. Good night!

ROAD TRIP - part 10

DAY 13 - ON THE ROAD AGAIN…

SATURDAY, JULY 16, 2016

After breakfast, Jackie and I headed south on I-90. The weather was clear, a little traffic, not too bad. Poor Dickens was feeling shunned at one of our rest stops.

Another stop we parked next to this guy with a motorcycle. When we came back to the truck he was still sitting on the curb. It wouldn’t start… but it’s pretty!

We left New York and entered Pennsylvania. We saw many vineyards, so Jackie started looking for wineries. We found 6 Mile Cellars. 

Tony, a sailor himself, served us 5 tastes and we got to keep the glass. We left with 6 bottles. That might get us home. :-)

It has become tradition to open a bottle of wine at the end of our day. We couldn't break tradition tonight, so our choice was this lovely Niagara.

ROAD TRIP - part 9

DAY 12 - CICERO, NY

FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2016

Jackie and I have been hold up in Cicero, NY after having problems with the Stella Maris trailer. Al, from Northside Collision, told us the tow truck would pick up Stella Maris at 8:30 this morning. Jackie and I arrived at the parking lot at 8:00 to make sure we didn’t miss them. We turned the corner and Stella was gone. My stomach turned a little bit. Visions of her being taken away by someone other than the planned move, ran through my head. An immediate call was made to Al, and he said the tow company decided it was best to get there before the traffic got heavy. We drove to Northside and there she was. She was being taken off the trailer as we entered the lot.

Northside Collision will have to use parts from the original maker of the trailer for liability reasons. This is unfortunate, because the trailer was built in Canada, and it will take a while to get the parts. It has been discussed, and the conclusion is that the trailer should have tandem axles instead of a single, due to the weight of the boat. So, not only will the repairs be done, another axle will be added. This process will take an estimated 2 or 3 weeks. Stella Maris will be left behind, Jackie and I will continue on to Oklahoma.

I asked Jackie about cushions for Stella Maris. The cockpit will be much more comfortable, and give her a more complete look with cushions. We went to Lowe’s and I purchased materials to pattern the cockpit and in the cabin. The canvas has already been chosen, and I will start on them as soon as I return to my shop in Kemah, TX. She will look snazzy! Jackie’s scamp, Cowboy Cookies, doesn’t have cushions either. A cockpit without cushions is a sin… and uncomfortable! She will get cushions also.  

While Jackie rested, I walked over to the Gander Mountain next door. My keen sandals have seen some better days. I am very thrifty… okay, I’m cheap, not wanting to spend $90 in the store, thinking I can maybe get a better price online. But not sure what size I wanted. The ones I have now are a little big, but when I bought them I needed a pair THAT DAY, and I had to get a pair that was a little big. Gander had them, I tried them on, and now I know what size to look for. Yay!

My dinner, not yours!

ROAD TRIP - part 8

DAY 11 - HEAD FOR THE BORDER

THURSDAY, JULY 14, 2016

Jonas Abromaitis hands over the key to s/v Stella Maris.

s/v Stella Maris was ready and waiting on us this morning when we arrived. The truck was loaded with the rudder, outboard and spare tire. The hitch needed a little adjusting, but was an easy fix. Off we went. 

Crossing into the U.S.

We crossed the border at 1000 Islands. The view from the bridge was magnificent. When I get around to making a bucket list, getting out on that water will be on it. The border guard informed us we didn’t have a license tag on the trailer. We ignorantly assumed it had one. We then learned that the boat would have to be imported, but could be done at a later date, but before it can be registered. We again, were asked what our relationship is. He did not ask if we had anything to declare. So, the fresh strawberries, lemons and alcohol were not even mentioned. He was preoccupied with the boat. So, all the warnings from everyone about crossing the border, worried us for nothing.

The weather was good, we were putting the miles behind us, when we decided to stop in Cicero, NY for a break. Stopped at a light, a man comes running to my window and tells me that my wheel is burning. We pull into the bank parking lot, get out, and the left bearing in smoking. Being a stranger in this town, we had no connection here for help. I sent a text to Chuck Weitzel in Key West, FL. I asked him to get on his computer and see if he could find a trailer repair place close. He gave me a number. We called Northside Collision, and talked to AL. AL was getting off work in a little while, and would come by and take a look at the trailer. He helped us move the boat to a better location in the parking lot, and unhook it from the truck. A tow company will be coming tomorrow morning to pick it up on a flatbed and take it to the shop. We were told that parts have to be ordered.That sounds like a long stay here in Cicero, NY, doesn’t it?

Worn out, Jackie and I booked a hotel room, found a place to eat and had a nice meal. Then to this room we went and opened up a bottle of bubbly! It’s time to put this stressful day to bed.

.