Our first date was awesome. We went out for a late dinner at a bistro, then to a cozy piano bar for a drink. We really got on great. Lots of laughs mixed with just the right amount of casual “getting to know you” conversation. At the end of the night, we agreed to go out again next week.

Our second date was just as enjoyable. “What a catch!”, I thought to myself. As we walked back to my car, Rob asked me if I’d like to come up for a drink. We hung out in his apartment and chatted for nearly 2 hours. There was definitely good chemistry between us. And this guy was intelligent, charming, and easy on the eyes.

(more…)

Back in September ‘07, I sat alone in a coffee shop one morning. I’ve always enjoyed hanging out in places where people meet and eat. Even when I’m preoccupied reading or working, I can’t help but “people watch” between sips. This morning’s crowd seemed different, probably because I was not in my usual coffee joint. I was on Bay Street in Toronto, and the endless stream of characters that lined up for their brew was diverse and fascinating.

There were flawlessly groomed men in fine dark suites, and women who could have strolled a catwalk. There were casually dressed students, and labourers in their grubby clothes too. But most were just regular folks wearing typical office wear. When a labourer lined up behind a sharp dresser, the contrast was striking. I imagined how their day would differ from one another, and which person would claim to be happier.

(more…)