Relationship/s

[lighter]

Hops:

I like the sound of your poet friend's experience with Scots.

Sorry he's reeling from his deeply felt loss....will likely be reeling for a while.

You're both open to new connection and that can be enough.

Looking forward to updates.  I love reading you and pooch have energy for walks in town. 

Lighter

[Hopalong]

Thanks, (((((y'all))))).
I am trying to be open but carry things lightly as I meet anybody.

I noticed as I met the Scot that I felt comfort, a sense of equality. Too early to be sure.

As to the guy I'm meeting today, I'm nervous (just somewhat intimidated). His pix show perfect children, and an attractive and very fit man. He did respond well to my openness. I just dunno.

But I ain't freaking out. I'm feeling more comfortable these days just showing up, and just being myself. Open to what happens and more accepting of what doesn't.

Will report back!

hugs
Hops

[Hopalong]

Mr. Lovely (fit guy) turns out to be a sweet and humble veterinarian who's very very Christian (which I'm not) and that's too bad, because he's quite attractive and totally into animals (Pooch loved him) and we talked for more than 3 hours and so on....

I'll probably see him again as a FRIEND but the religion thing is a big barrier to anything more most likely. Too bad. He's appealing in a lot of ways but I fear all the creepy stuff.

Hugs
Hops

[lighter]

Too bad about the religious stuff.  I feel it's sort of comforting and safe, at times, when good men really believe they'll go to hell for acting on impulses, but understand the fear. 

Wolves cloaked in religion have bitten me more than once.

I was thinking about the marching orders to go share Jesus with others.  Brilliant, marketing strategy but very concerning when it's pointed right at me.
WHY does this person want me or anyone to think they're a "good" Christian? 

Sorry it was creepy, Hops.

Lighter

[Hopalong]

Actually it wasn't creepy to be with him for this occasion, Lighter. Only sign of his religiosity I noticed was sad eyes and I think wafts of guilt coming across and a mention of himself as a sinner.

What I meant by "creepy" is that I WOULD fear getting involved with someone who's soaking themselves in that kind of evangelicalism. I recognize it and know what would come up for me. Not his fault and he should stay where he finds the comfort.

I'm pining for the Scot (kidding) and thinking after a month has lapsed I'll send him one email and just ask for clarity: he's the one who mentioned getting together for "lunch." If I don't hear even a lunch suggestino soon I'll figure he's either: 1) dating around or someone else, 2) not attracted to me as a potential partner in the first place, or 3) not ready emotionally.

[Hopalong]

Heard from the Scot! He wants lunch week after next. Mentioned he's setting up "dog play dates" for his pooch while her usual walker is away. So I mentioned that once we know if he and Pooch are compatible, his dog could also come play in my yard, though Pooch's not much for playing rough. Had fun telling him "a little preemptive forgiveness might be in order...."

We'll see if he's interested in that, but regardless I'm delighted I'll be seeing him again.

Woo and hoo,
Hops

[Hopalong]

PS The veterinarian is involved with a local church that was seeded and is supported by a famous very right-wing and mega-rich (all those tithes) Xian "university" (which has no academic respect) that has intentionally worked to plant its graduates in every government office they can be hired into, along with all sorts of influential other places. I consider that institution a festering fascism farm and absolutely fear what it's already contributed to undermining our democracy, which is teetering on its last legs.

No matter how "nice" he is, I think the good doggie doc is absolutely brainwashed and is volunteering for more of it. I think it's nice that we had such an enjoyable date and conversation, but it was the first and last one for me.

[sKePTiKal]

Well now, that's happy news about your Scot! Excellent....

[lighter]

Woo hoo!  Glad you're pleased, Hops.

I adore the vision of you and Pooch walking through lovely fall breezes to have lunch and fellowshing with the Scott.  Playdates in the yard, with that fancy fire pit. 

Ya.
::nodding::.

Lighter

[lighter]

How are things going with the boys, Hops?


Is the weather beautiful there?  It's glorious here...perfect for walks. 

Lighter

[Hopalong]

Hi Lighter --
The Scot had to cancel lunch as he's gotta bad cold, but we'll be rescheduling after I get back. Leaving for beach today, and so unready! Slept thru alarm. Just now having enough tea to pry eyes open. It'll all work out.

It's gray and foggy here today so far. The beach will be partly cloudy low 70s today and tomorrow (my idea of perfect), warmer (78) and sunny Friday and we leave Saturday).

Really looking forward to this getaway.

hugs
Hops

[lighter]

I just landed in Florida, Hops.  A good day to travel.
You're right....it will work out.

We're going to see lemurs and do yoga with bunnies.  I know you'll have a wonderful trip.  Is pooch with you?  I saw a lady with a Maltese in each arm at the airport.  Hands full!

Lighter

[Hopalong]

Nope, Pooch is home with her friendly dogsitter, my kind friend who's also in my Covenant Group. Plus she's a solid (and long) 20 lbs so I couldn't tote her for long in the crook o' my arm.

Yup, all will change and all will be well.

Speaking of Relationships, I'm renewing my fondness for this wacky group of UU women. We're all vaxxed and boosted-as-applicable and tested negative...so we're hanging out in this huge house mask free. HOPE it's safe but sure am enjoying it.

And the ocean view is right out front and absolutely gorgeous. With beach as far as the eye can see we've spotted about 3 people. Sooooo lovely. I'm happy to be here!

hugs
Hops

[lighter]

I'm staying with my niece and her bf in 90degree still Florida.  We ate Thai outdoors last night.....beautiful and breezy with bats flying about...I can't take the heat of the day, or....I don't want to anymore. 

I'm glad you're enjoying face to face fellowship In a group again.  Soak it up and keep updating. 

Sometimes we think an it flying with the pug, but she's 5 lbs bigger than your pooch!  Chubby pug!

Lighter

[sKePTiKal]

Which beach did y'all go to Hops?