Single, Employed & Literate

It's not a lot to ask for is it?!

In the time I've been online dating, I've encountered all sorts.  It's pretty amazing what a guy will do or say online that he would never say in person to a woman out in the real world.   I mean really?  What makes them (men that is) think that I'll be impressed by a gross come-on or some generic "hey, how's it going"?

So, I've come up with some rules to follow when 'approached' by men online.   After a few crazy encounters with socially inept or even sociopathic individuals you generally learn what not to entertain.

For example, I do not accept invitations to chat from profiles with no picture.  I've discovered that a guy who doesn't want his image floating around on the Internet is probably not at liberty to date freely.  Is it just me or when you say you're looking for a long term monogamous relationship, why does that seem to attract married?  I'm pretty liberal but adultery is not in my vocabulary.

Rule number two.  I'm not a vocabulary snob (well maybe I am) but what's wrong with using spellcheck?  If you can't say hello and ask how I'm doing using correct punctuation and grammar, then move along.  A girl has to have some standards after all.  I really don't feel like I'm being that picky.  After all, we'll need to be able to communicate once we meet too won't we?

That leaves me with the employment status of my potential mate.  This sort of goes without saying.    I'm pretty liberated but come on, I don't want to be the only bread winner in the family.  I live with my parents because it's so fricking expensive in Toronto not because I lack ambition.  I'm by no means raking in the dough and don't expect my future 'husband' to be rich or anything, although it would be nice.  I would like to know that we'll be able to live somewhat comfortably once we get to a point in the relationship where we might want to pool our resources so to speak.

Needless to say, if my suitors don't meet these three criteria at the VERY LEAST, I'm probably not going to even give them my private email address let alone a phone number. 

Maybe I'm picky? I think that I have high standards and don't want to compromise no matter how cute the guy is.  Although, good looks do have a place in the mix.  :)

Next time, video chatting and the surprises I've had with a first on screen encounter.

Until then, stay safe, be happy and don't compromise!