THE RESPONSES have been tremendous. The letters made me realise that there are a great many women out there looking for someone. However, if we don't put it out there then potential candidates won't know that we are looking.
This experience has also made me realise that a great many men read the Flair (who knew?)
The responses have been encouraging. Some even had advice to offer such as this: "I just wanted to advise her that her chances of success would be heightened if she gave herself a make-over, hair and make-up to enhance her true beauty".
Well, I gotta tell you, picking a picture from a small thumbnail on your PC and sending it to the newspaper is not a good idea. I was mortified when I saw myself, large and in living colour, looking none too flattering. At that point I had to console myself in the knowledge that any man chose to 'apply', based on those images, had be be a man of substance (someone not expecting physical perfection. (Who needs that kind of pressure, anyway?)
YOU CAN'T DRIVE A LANCER IF YOU ONLY HAVE TAXI MONEY
One reader questioned the validity of the article. "You are from a beautiful parish and I find it difficult to conceptualise that you're unable to find the right person down there.........photo shows an attractive woman, and that's what most, if not all men see first".
Now, I'm not sure how the beautiful parish, or being 'attractive', for that matter, increases my chances of finding a suitable companion. Finding someone compatible goes way beyond being able to attract male attention. This seems to be a common misconception among many men -- the thought that if they're attracted to me it follows that I should also be attracted to them.
Here's the thing, "you can't drive a Lancer, if you only have taxi money".
The same respondent also stated: "While I do fit, and go well beyond your criteria, I'm not ready, nor am I in a position to relocate, as well as I'm not able to accommodate you at this time."
I think this statement proves my earlier point. This gentleman seems convinced that since I said I was looking, then my ad must have been directed specifically to him. Well, I hope he won't mind if I go ahead and check out some of the other candidates who expressed an interest.
INTELLIGENT AND WITTY MEN ARE OUT THERE
The bulk of the male responses were positive. It was refreshing to know there are still some intelligent, witty, funny men out there.
One guy mentioned: "I'm no Apollo, but neither am I the Hunchback of Notre Dame ... maybe I should add that I don't think I'll be needing taxi fare".
Another mentioned that he worked with a distribution company but assured me he was not into the distribution of 'agricultural produce' of any kind.
Then there were the formal yet funny applications such as this:
"Dear Madam, I hereby apply for the position of being your man.
I have included in the attachments, details of my qualifications and experience and the names of two 'referees'.
I have a special interest in the Woman Industry, and am prepared to work hard to enhance my qualifications in the field.
I shall be willing to attend an interview if you find it necessary".
Yet another included a formal Curriculum Vitae which, in addition to his professional history, included the following:
Marital Status: Single (never been married) Ps. No kids either
Personal Attributes: Very loving (but selfish with it), adventuresome, quiet when ready, hate being late! Don't like dressing up (but have been told suits fit me well)
Sexual Competence: A bit adventurous but depends on partner and mood. Overall, I believe I am a bit average (sorry bout that but I'm my harshest critic)
Financial Status : Decidedly middle class. Just have about Ja$XXX amassed in funds and assets so far. No house yet, but have a nice car. Working on the house thing though.
PROMISING PROSPECTS
Some of the prospects seem promising. Plans have been made to meet and so the adventure continues.
Will he look like Adonis or Quasimodo? What are we going to talk about? I hope I don't accidentally dump my plate in my lap at lunch.. These are some of the anxieties that I'm facing at the prospect of the blind dates to follow. But, as they say, nothing tried, nothing gained. Stay tuned.
