Figure It Out (W17)

Woman 17 (W17) has been a professional acquaintance of mine for years. I had occasion to ran into her at networking events but our interaction never progressed beyond light, social communication. She has always been someone I respected and hoped to get to know better. I guess you could call it charisma. She just has that thing!

We met over happy hour at La Bodega and enjoyed some sangria (of course), tapas, and people watching on the Boulevard. Turns out she is as interesting, insightful, and charismatic as I anticipated. 

What works best in my life right now is family. I have two kids and three grand-kids. I’m not sure it could get any better. I have a really good relationship with my kids. 

My best moment in memory is moving to Kansas City 20 years ago when I got married. Three weeks later - mid September -  I saw wild flowers on the highway and realized it would be okay. I go back to that day every fall when I see those.

If You Don't Ask The Answer Is Always No (M13)

People misunderstand that being single is not about sleeping around.

Apparently not all single guys are players. Go figure! This guy is focused on his career. He wants to date. However, he is looking for someone who is also career driven, family oriented, and self-sufficient. If you have been single for six months or more you may be able to relate to what a tall order that seems be at times.

At 31 years old Man 13 (M13) is excited about where his life is going. As he should be! He is accomplished, well respected, and has incredible social and professional circles. And, interesting! I actually had to interview him twice. The first time I got so caught up in his professional accomplishments that I didn’t get enough personal info to write a blog post about him.

Sorry! Imagine how awkward I felt emailing him again to ask for two more drinks.

New Beginning (M5)

I know I'm a good father. I don't know anything else for sure right now.

Man 5 (M5) was divorced last fall. Talking about it with him was refreshing. That may sound strange but it was. His take on being single at 39 years old was pretty light hearted. He is enjoying dating. He is enjoying some freedom, along with the calm and quiet it has brought with it.


My job is working for me right now. I am also learning guitar. I have wanted to learn since I was 10 but thought it was too late to start. I also enjoy music. I like seeing bands at BB's Lawnside, Knuckleheads, and The Phoenix.

He told me that he decided to meet with me because he is an open book. He said he has nothing to hide and since he knew me through mutual friends he decided to take the chance.

I asked him what he thinks people misunderstand about what it's like being a single guy. He told me that he thinks it's partnership. Men want a partner for the same reasons women do. It's not just about sharing responsibilities. He wants someone to be glad to see him at the end of the day.

(Don't Laugh!) At one point he said, "Men are like dogs." Of course, I quickly agreed. I have to say that when he expounded on this cliché it was actually fairly enlightening.

Trust Yourself (M2)

"I hate TV; the only channel I actually enjoy is PBS. I enjoy playing guitar, riding my bike, and hanging out with friends."

He shared his view on KC music venues saying Starlight is his favorite for a concert. He likes Knuckleheads and the Clarette Club for smaller venues. (The Clarette! I had to smile. My Grandma used to go there. It is great for darts and pool. What a dive.)

Part of our discussion was about books we are reading and where we get our recommendations. He said one of his favorites is The Journals of Lewis and Clark (Lewis & Clark Expedition). He said he thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it highly.

Man 2 (M2) agreed to meet with me out of curiosity. A mutual friend made the invitation and he said that coming from someone he trusted and liked he agreed without hesitation or question. When I arrived to meet him he had not seen the blog and really didn't know what it was about other than meeting single people. He felt the interview was a chance for introspection.