Lesson Learned

It has taken me quite a while to get up the nerve to write this last blog. Honestly, I am not sure how to adequately express all of the lessons I have learned not only about dating, but about myself as a person. I will try my best to illustrate them here, but know I could never do justice to the year that I just had.

First off, a few stats for all you crazy folks:

• TOTAL # of Different Bachelors: 33
• TOTAL # of Bachelors that Got a 2nd Date: 8
• TOTAL # of Bachelors that Got a 3rd Date: 4
• TOTAL # of Bachelors that got more than just a date...lol: 6
• Most Creative Date Activity: Date 45
• Dates I could of Lived Without: I can think of 3 dates that I wished never happened, if you read the blog you can figure those out on your own.
• Total # of Engineers:3

Let me know if there are other stats that you are looking to know from my 52 in 52 journey and I would be more than happy to share.

Everyone in the past few weeks have asked me what I have learned or taken away from the past year. Here is what I got:

• It is easy to complain about being single when you are sitting at home not doing anything about it. The hard part comes when you have to accept being single even if you are dating.
• There are hundreds of people that I could "date" but there is a huge difference between a date and a relationship.
• I may not know who I want to be with forever, but I now know some things that I won't accept in a partner.
• I'm no longer afraid of the process. You can make dating as easier or difficult as you choose. It's up to you.
• I would of never admitted to having a poor self image or self esteem before this experience, but looking back over the course of this journey I realize how much value women put into the opinion of others about themselves. I no longer let others dictate my self-worth/ image. I'm a pretty cool chick!
• I am reminded of a quote: "When you drop the ball, it never bounces back as high" I had very minimal requirements for a potential bachelor. I dropped my standard this year and never regained the lost ground. Although is was a somewhat "game" is is important that I remember what my standards are.
• Don't dictate to others if someone is good enough for them or not. Let them decide. If you don't provide the opportunity for me to make decisions for myself about a person by not introducing us, I will never learn to make a decision in general.
• Time is valuable. Choose carefully the people you choose to share it with because you can't get it back.

To go this entire journey and come out on the other side just as single as I began could appear to be a failure. I have the right to be frustrated, upset, and even angry. But I am none of those things. I am wiser. I am stronger. I am ready. Ready for what.......no idea. That is the beauty of it.

A week after I completed my dates, I decided to celebrate with some friends! Any excuse for a new outfit. I headed to the mall on a Saturday at 2pm (the busiest time of day). Now many of you know that I am a creature of habit, so I park in the same section of the parking lot every time. It is what I know. It is what is comfortable.

I spent the next 20 minutes circling the parking lot looking for an open space. Up and down every aisle with hopes of an opening. I would race other cars to follow shoppers as they exited to their cars only to be outmaneuvered. I would spot and then realize it was just a silly motorcycle. I debated on just parking illegally, as many others had done before me. I even went to back corner to see if I could find a spot that nobody else wanted.

But......I waited. I continued to circle knowing eventually that something would pop open and I would be at the right place at the right time. I wasn't in a huge rush so I just keep looking. And to my shock, as I drove up the row right in front of the door, the front space opened up and I was the only one around. I pulled right in and walked the few steps to the mall entrance.

As I walked into the mall, I laughed. I realized that my timeline to find the right spot (or man) is my own and if I wait long enough and don't settle for less, that the spot that is meant for me will free up. I just need to be ready to park and shop once I found it.

What a year!

Mary Jo

Date 52- LAST ONE!!!!!

I know you all have been waiting with baited breath to hear about Date 52. In a movie script, I think I would end up falling head of heels in love with Date 52......if only we lived in the movies.

First off, props to my good friends Carri and Spencer for this set up! But not only did they set up the date, they went on it with me! (Double Date). Now for those of you who are avid blog readers, you will remember I tried this early on in the process (Date 4) and it proved difficult. Would Date 52 turn out the same way.......?

The crew picked me up from my house (technically this breaks my only rule) but at this point.....who cares! We headed to a local hot spot for some delicious mexican. Conversation was easy and everyone had a great time at the table but it did prove difficult to ask Date 52 questions about himself because everyone at the table besides myself knew the answer so it seemed silly.

LESSON LEARNED: Double dates can be great but should not be first dates

Date 52 was extremely laid back and easy to chat with. I honestly wish we could of chatted longer because I think we had more in common than we had time to figure out. After dinner we headed to Bricktown for a movie. You can learn a great deal about a person based on what movie premieres they enjoy. We played the thumbs up/thumbs down game during the previews and DAte 52 and I had the same rankings for movies. So...thats a plus!

After the movie, we headed over to marble slab for a treat. I won't lie, I was feeling REALLY guilty that this guy had paid for my dinner and movie ticket and he didn't even really know me or get the chance to know me. So I totally pulled the independent women card and paid for everyone's ice cream. You can blame my mother for this trait. I think he was shocked and I can't tell if offended him or not. Some guys are stuck on things like this, but as you can tell I AM NOT TRADITIONAL! Is it nice when I guy holds a door for you,yes. But after awhile, it looses it's luster.

Date 52 and company dropped me off at my front door. After they were gone, I won't lie. I threw up my hands and did a little jig in my middle of the street. I FINISHED!! I walked down to the local bar (location of Date 49) and had a martini by myself at the bar. IT WAS DELICIOUS:)

I wish something crazy and outrageous would of happened on Date 52...but it didn't..

Now that I am finished I will blog some of the behind the scene things that I left out over this past year and a final recap of what I learned on my dating adventure. So...don't stop reading even though I stopped dating.

Thanks for all the support over the last year.

Date 51- Oldie but goodie over Breakfast

As my timeline was quickly approaching and I had a few dates fall through, I was starting to panic that I would finish (or I would have to pay off my guy friends to take me out..lol) But much to my surprise an old bachelor from the beginning of this adventure offered to get back involved. Date #5 (for those of you who don't remember you may want to go back and review)

Due to my limited availability, we decided to go out to Cattleman's Steakhouse for breakfast. Who doesn't want a huge hunk of cow on their plate for breakfast???

Date #5 picked me up in his crazy little sports car that NO LADY could ever get in and out of graciously. I am pretty sure it was more like putting the car on me, rather that actually getting in to it. It was really great to see a familiar face again on this journey even if it had been almost a year and he had "defriended" me on facebook. I rocked my "Team CoCo" t-shirt and didn't have to worry because I already knew Date #5 would appreciate it for its awesomeness!

He ordered steak and I stayed safe and got an omelette. The food was AWESOME! I liked it better for breakfast than I did for dinner. Conversation was easy and laid back. Date #5 is a funny kid and I pretty much laughed at his awkward jokes and funny random facts.

After breakfast we had to take the opportunity to go and poke fun of all of the cowboy gear in Stockyard City. It was actually hilarious to wander around in real cowboy territory.

It was great to see Date #5/51 again!

This day was actually a double header as I had a date schedule that evening!

ONE MORE....

Two more dates

I will post about date 51 and 52 tomorrow.......BUT on another note...52 in 52 COMPLETE!

Date 50- What's the Difference

Date 50

This was date #3 in 3 days, so I don't think Date 50 had much of a chance to succeed with me. I could write about our conversation but I thought it would be more fitting for me to list the red flags comments that Date 50 uttered over the course of the evening. After this many first dates people keep asking if I have found what I am looking for. I haven't found it, but I had figured out a few things that are a plus.

Red Flags:

• When asked what he does for fun, he answered "Scrabble on my phone"
• When asked about his family, he mentioned that he wasn't close with his family and hadn't talked to his brother in years.
• Somehow gambling came up, and he mentioned being addicted to it...
• His favorite movie (yes...i had to dig to make conversation) is Top Gun. Typical
• And to top it off, he is just separated, not divorced legally yet. BUt don't worry everyone he hates his ex-wife or I mean wife.

I could go on and on with the red flags but to top it all off he still contacted me after the date to see if I would want to go out again. I tried to be as nice as I could but I didn't think I gave off that impression. Dating is a rough game of reality checks and I had another one tonight. Divorce is scary...I pray that I never know that fear.

What am I a looking for....

• Someone who cares about their family
• Someone who believes in love and relationships
• Someone who is funny and laughs at my jokes
• Someone who makes me laugh
• Someone who is driven in the workplace
• Someone with hobbies
• Someone who is a REAL sports fan
• And so on.......

I guess I am still looking for this "someone"

Date 49- In the Neighborhood

Date 49 was an online dater who was not aware of his role in my adventure. Little did he know I was on the start of a dating roll!

Date 49 suggested we meet at 7:30 at Sage. I included the time for a reason. I walked over to my neighborhood dining spot about 7:30 and meet up with Date 49. The menu was already on the table so I started reviewing it and said "I'm starving." Date 49 said he had already eaten and thought we were just meeting for drinks. Now, I could of misread the invitation but when someone suggests meeting at 7:30...prime date dinner time at a restaurant and is sitting at a table, not the bar I guess I would think that dinner is involved. MY BAD........

We actually had really interesting conversation! His childhood was not normal and I enjoyed learning about someone unique. His parents are missionaries and he lived out of the country all through high school but couldn't stay away from OU and had to come back to Sooner country. Boomer!

Honestly the conversation was easy but nothing earth shattering. Easy going but after 2 hours I thought it was time to wrap it up. Date 49 went to the restroom. I am friends with the bartender and thought it would help speed things along if he brought the check. So...i asked them to. Not that I wasn't having fun but I think I can only have so much first date conversation.

The funniest part of this date actually happened after Date 49 left. I walked back by the restaurant on the way home and the waiter stopped me and said "I know I don't know you, but you can do way better than that guy!" I almost died laughing because the guy is right. I asked him why he felt like this and he described the awkward moments that occurred previous to my arrival at the restaurant. Apparently he has some issues picking the perfect table and had some weird exchanges with the waiter. I chalk it up to nerves but it still makes me chuckle.

Overall, Date 49 was a super nice guy and I enjoyed the evening. If these is a next time I hope that he can loosen up and have fun!

Date 48- Lunch, who knew?

Date 48- The count down has begun....!

Thanks to my good friends at my work place for this set up! Even though it is at the tail end of the adventure, it still counts just the same! Thanks guys.

With the challenges of my work schedule this month and trying to fit in all of these dates, Date 48 and I decided to make it a lunch get together. To be honest, I can't believe I didn't think of this sooner! With an evening date there is always the pressure of adding on activities to the initial plan if the date is going well or figuring out when to call it a night if now. Well..the lunch date avoids both! It is known going in that you have to return to work, so no stress! Brilliant if you ask me!

Date 48 was well traveled and an extreme thrill seeker. I like to think that I would be able to skydive or go camping, but when push comes to shove, I doubt I would be able to jump. (But am still willing to try..I think). We talked about all of our crazy stories from various traveling adventures. It is great to meet others who have seen the outside world otherwise known as anything outside of the Midwest. I think there is a lot to be learned out there and we should all take advantage of it.

Date 48 is a Dad! I still have a hard time wrapping my brain around the whole parenting thing. As many of my friends become first time mommies (Congrats to Jen and Seth who had their little one today!!) I realize that I am not ready to give up my spare time for someone else yet like you do a child. Maybe someday....!

Date 48 and I didn't get to deep into anything due to the limited time frame of the date but I enjoyed his company and bet with more time we would of gotten into a debate of sports, OU or something.

Thanks to all of you who have been setting me up on these dates. I am still in disbelief that this adventure is coming to a close, BUT I STILL NEED YOUR HELP!! Deadline is TUESDAY, JUNE 1st!!! 4 more dates...5 days!

2 minutes drill

Alright....you all know I speak best in sport analogies thanks to my brother so here goes...

I have 5 date to complete by June 1st. I feel like I am down 7 and am setting up for the onside kick to get a chance to win the ball game. I am confident I will make it happen but could use your support!!!

Keep the potential dates coming!

Date 47- STELLA!!!!

First off, another shout out to my LOYAL buddies for setting me up on yet another date! thanks Kristi! :)

Date 47 and I did all our initial correspondence through email, which after doing this for awhile now I think I prefer. It keeps you from having the first date on the phone instead of in person. If you ask all of those questions first, then you are left with nothing to talk about on the date. So we decided to try out a new restaurant in midtown called Stella! I really had no expectations on it, so was excited to give it at whirl.

Now, for those of you who know me, you know that I am not a short person. I am actually 5 ft 8 inches tall. I always struggle on my shoe choices because I never know how tall any particular bachelor will be. I really wanted to wear some new heels so I took a chance and wore then hoping that I wouldn't tower over my date. Wrong! I hoped that he wouldn't be bothered by this fact, but he did mention it. What can a girl do.......I love those shoes!

Date 47 was intrigued by my adventure and totally on board to participate. He was recently out of a relationship and ready to get back out there. We had a wonderful conversation about all sorts of topics including Kansas sports, family, friends, work, etc.

We had planned to head down to Live on the Plaza event but with the crazy weather we changed plans and headed to a movie in Bricktown. I laughed because Date 47 was down with seeing a chick flick. Not sure if that is b/c he wanted to be nice to me or he wanted to see the movie. Either way.....I got to see a girlie movie.

I think I mentioned this early on in my blogging but I noticed it again on this date. Bricktown on a Friday night is filled with couples! All ages, shapes and sizes. It must be Datetown instead of Bricktown. LOL

On the home stretch and still need some help........HELP!

a quick update

A quick update for everyone....

Date 47 happened

Date 48 scheduled for this week

And the plan is to do the last 4 dates NEXT WEEK!! Need to schedule them...so if you know anyone that can help me round out the last phase of my project...LET ME KNOW

MJ

Date 46- Something about Mary......pisses me off!

Alright, I have to start off with this one because those of you that actually know me know how much my blood boiled on this. Date 46 called me "Mary" three times even after I corrected him the first two slip ups! HOW HARD IS IT TO CALL ME BY MY NAME??????? I mean really.....after 3 times I just give up and realize that you either don't care or are not listening.

After 46 dates, I would classify myself as a seasoned pro at this first date thing, so I think I am recognizing more signs that the bachelor is nervous now since I've figured out how to not be. Date 46 must of been pretty nervous because some of those nervous tick type things came out early in the date. I try my best to look over them but they are hard not to notice. Clearing your throat, cracking knuckles, and not making eye contact are all signs of nerves and Date 46 struggled with all three to begin.

I could review the entire dinner conversation for you all but to be honest I don't think we had anything in common. This caused us to bounce from subject to subject. He was the most comfortable when I asked him about himself, as most are, so I stuck to that subject the majority of the night. Date 46 proved to be an interesting character to say the least..lets review

1)He is a magician in his spare time

2) He can ride a unicycle

3) He traveled a year with the circus (for real)

yep! I said it, traveled with the circus. That totally beats my year of traveling as a professional sorority girl for sure. Right??

We had a very nice dinner and the headed over to Harkins to see "Date Night" I will admit is was pretty funny movie and I laughed the entire time. After the movie, I decided I was finished with this date so before Date 46 could propose the idea of another activity I went ahead and called it a night. Some may call that cruel, but it was better than dragging it out.

Date 47 tonight.......

Date 46- TONIGHT

Date 46 is scheduled for tonight........that will leave me with 6 more to finish before June 1st! Talk about cutting it close!

DAte 45- I guess you can call me "yeller"

Date 45 took this thing to the next level when it comes to actually planning a date. I have to commend him for trying to steer clear of clique dating trends and thinking outside the box......! If only I wasn't a big chicken!

Normally I post a pre-date interview on the blog to preview to all of you out there my thoughts and knowledge on the bachelor, date plans,etc. Well,... Date 45 beat me to it and actually sent me a pre-date questionnaire. I have included his questions below....

Here's your pre-date questionnaire to help me firm up the options that I am weighing for our date.

1. Are you a smoker?

2. Are you afraid of heights?

3. Is there any kind of food that you just DON"T like?

4. Can you do the moonwalk?

5. Would you walk under a ladder or cross the path of a black cat?

6. Can you crack an egg without getting shell in the pan?

7. I'll bet you're really freaking out right now! :)

8. Don't get too worked up.

9. Remember....

10. No pressure.

Well, how bout that! Without hesitation I fired back my response knowing that this was not going to be your average "date." So, it was determined that we would meet up at Star-bucks and that I was suppose to bring tennis shoes. So..I packed some shoes in my purse and marched myself down to Bricktown to meet this bachelor. Within seconds we met, and hoped in the car and headed north on I-35. Now, I did know that Date 45 works in entertainment doing stunts, so the second we pulled into Frontier City I started to crack up.

The park was closed down and Date 45 took me to the old country western set in the middle of the park to attempt to learn some stunts. Honestly, I kinda actually felt like I was on the show the Bachelorette for a second, because this felt very staged but cool at the same time. When he turned the stage lights on and started performing his stunts....I gave in.

My stunt was to fall off the 3rd story holding onto a ladder. Simple.....Yes! It appears that way until you are standing on top of this ladder with the 45-mph gusts of winds blowing in your face. I think I might of "attempted" this stunt like 6 times but every time I got close I chickened out. Date 45 was a WONDERFUL teacher and NEVER made me feel silly for chickening out but I was mad at me. I kept flashing back to the movie "Back to the Future 3" (the wild west one) where they call him yeller...aka chicken. As I am sitting in this western themed set I could feel the criticism and people calling me chicken. "Nobody calls me yeller"...Except in this case of course because I totally chickened out.

After giving in and leaving the park, I already know that I have to go back to conquer this stupid stunt. (Mark my words on this one..I will do it)

We headed to dinner back in downtown and ended up being THOSE PEOPLE, who sneak into a restaurant right before they close and expect to be served. Lucky for us the bartender was cool and actually sat in on this portion of the date. Honestly, he never left the bar and we talked to him the entire time. I think he might of enjoyed being on the date more than Date 45 or myself.

After dinner Date 45 challenged me to a game of darts at Tapworks! Now, I have never played before for real but I gave it my best shot. Never won, but I hit the board. Most of the time...! We meet some Canadians on our date who also thought it would be cool to play a supporting role in this story instead of just making a cameo appearance. But hey...they are Canadians: They don't know better. They actually LOVED the fact that we were on a blind date and kept telling stories of how one of them married their blind date. Cute huh.....

Overall, there were 7 people on this date:

1) ME

2) Date 45

3) The ladder

4) The bartender

5) Canadian #1

6) Canadian #2

and

7) the guy that set us up...someone couldn't stop text messaging to check in on us!

To sum it all up, I had a blast! I could tell Date 45 put some effort into making this fun for both of us and I am sure he accomplished that for sure.

This leaves me with 7 dates to go....HELP!!!

Date 44- OKC Arts Festival

As I look back over my dating adventure, I have noticed that I have attending some of OKC's best annual events so it made sense to include the OKC Arts Festival in the mix of great Oklahoma City events to attend.

Since Date 42 outline all of the benefits of going to the Museum of Art on a date, all of the same rules apply to this date with the addition of food and lots of people! Alright onto the details of Date 44....

Many of you may remember Date 38 that occurred on St. Patrick's Day..well, this he is back for a second dose of MJ. The cool thing about this bachelor is that we had not seen each other in over a month but he wasn't afraid to just give me a call out of the blue to see if I was interested in hanging out. How refreshing....I know that I shy off if contact has been lacking since the initial date. It is easier to just let it fizzle out than try to strike another match. Props to Date 38/44!

Ok, so Date 44 had a car issue so he asked me to come pick him up. Now this is not an issue, but it did feel funny to go pick up my date. The funny part was I actually thought I should open the car door for him.......I refrained myself but it did cross my mind. HA! I don't know how you boys do it. It felt funny to drive my date back to Bricktown but I did get to show of my AWESOME parallel parking skills. Date 44 even comments on how kick ass they were. (See everyone, all women are not bad drivers!!)

Now, the art at the festival is a bit more festive and commercial than we one can find in the art museum. But, one downfall is that you can't make fun of it because the artist is sitting two feet from you. Art from 1600 doesn't present this issue so I had to quickly learn to keep my comments to myself. Or at least wait till we walked away. Date 44 helped me spot some awesome art but I didn't get a chance to actually purchase anything this year. But....my favorite quote that I spotted was "The deadline for complaints was yesterday." How awesome is that! I am so hanging that on my office door.

Now, some people will say the main reason for going to the festival is for the art but we all know it is for the food. Now Date 44 is on a vegetarian kick which limits his options so I laughed to myself when he sat down with a rice bowl thing and I come with a spicy brat covered in onions. Another role reversal....who knows but I should really thing about ordering a wiener on a date...lol! And of course, I wouldn't leave until we got the fried peaches!! SOOO GOOD!!!! And I will say that Date 44 enjoyed a few bits as well, but I handled that dessert

Ok, now the funny part of this date! I will admit I dressed a bit preppy for this evenings occasion with top siders, button up with matching sweater and scarf. I thought it was cute but looking back I will admit it was a bit much. Date 44 has a unique laid back style that if I must classify I would put in the alternative/ hippie arena but nothing crazy. When we ran into a large group of his friends at the festival......I realized how much I stuck out. The game from Sesame Street came to mind. "One of these things is not like the other, one of these things doesn't belong." I tried my best to act cool in this moment but I have never wished harder to be wearing a headband that I made myself out of bamboo or something organic. Oh well.....they were all nice and I am hoping the didn't notice my extreme preppiness but that is doubtful. Date 44 is so laid back, I doubt it event matters!

I have really enjoyed getting to know Date 44 over the course of 2 dates and think he is a pretty neat fella! This is exactly what I wanted to come from this experience...the chance to meet people I would have never crossed paths with otherwise.

To recap, I have been on Date 45 and will blog about that soon along with another interesting topic. People's reaction to my adventure. It always seems to come out in a new group of people and I am still amazed at the reactions I get......keep reading to hear about both!

ONLY 7 more.....and one month to do it! Help a girl out

Date 43- Left the City Limits

Date 43 took me out out of the city limits and my normal stomping ground of Bricktown! I headed south to Norman to meet up at a great restaurant. To be honest, I wasn't all that excited about having to drive that far but it was really nice to get out of the rut of Bricktown.

Before I get to far into the details of this one, gotta send props once again to my LOYAL class for another date set up. You all are awesome!

I arrived at the restaurant and realized that I had not done sufficient enough pre-date research to have any idea what this bachelor looks liked. So, I went ahead and sent the "I'm here" text message. I instantly received a message back inviting me to meet him at the bar. He invited me to have a drink, so I ordered a Mojito!! Can't go wrong with those....! (Date 43 informed me that they are a pain to make as a bartender..but I feel like that is what makes them so good).

Now, we met at 9:00pm, so I assumed we would order some dinner upon arrival but as we continued to chat I started to panic that I had assumed incorrectly. Had I misunderstood the timing and now I will starve to death. I know this sounds silly, especially after the roll incident last week, but I worry about stuff like this. I can't drink anything on an empty stomach and then expect to not act a fool. Proven fact......

Date 43 was full on fun, vibrate conversation and we seemed to hit it off right from the start. Conversations flowed and never seemed forced. Always nice not to be reaching for conversation! Had quite a few moments that I feel you all would enjoy...

He ordered for me! Yep...this is a true statement. Still not really sure how I feel about that but apparently Date 43 was good friends with the chef and likes to risk his meal on the whim of the chef. I am a bit more conservative and like to ensure I have chosen something that I know I like. I threw what some of you may call a fit to ensure that I did not end up with fish but I went along with it and ended up with a fantastic meal. I guess it is nice to push your boundaries every once in a while!

Another good story: While Date 43 was in the restroom, I felt a tap on my shoulder. Two college women who seemed to be out having a few glasses of wine had been listening in on my date and were intrigued to find out if I was on a blind date or not. After I confirmed their suspicion, they asked how we got set up which then forced me to go into the readers digest version of 52 in 52. The girls freaked out and LOVED the idea and next think you know I am writing the blog address on a napkin at a bar. Date 43 returned to the bar and I filled him in on our bar neighbors interest in our date. Next thing I know, he has tapped them on the should, covered my ears and asked the ladies how he was doing on the date. I am pretty sure he could not of handled that better. I cracked up......! Now I doubt Date 42 picked up on this but when the girls left they leaned over and said "so is he the winner, or what?" I won't divulge how I answered that question but only time will tell if I am right.

The evening turned out to be filled with good food, good company and good atmosphere. Getting close to the end.......

Date 44 post to come soon......9 dates left! SINGLE DIGITS!

Date 42- Is that Art?

Sorry for the delay in posted about Date 42. I find that sometimes I am torn on what to discuss on the blog so I put off doing it in order to make sure I know what components of the date I want to "report on."

Another shout out to my LOYAL class on setting this date up! Thanks girl!

Date 42- After a seires of emails and phone calls determining both the activity and timing of the date, we decided to check out an exhibit that was closing at the OKC Museum of Art. After living in OKC for almost 7 total years, I had still yet to go to the art museum to look at the art, so I thought I would give it a try.

I was suppose to meet Date 42 at 6:00pm. I was so engrossed for a meeting at work that day, that when I looked at my watch, it was 5:50pm!! I literally stormed out of my meeting, grabbed my purse and ran to my car. I drove home, changed clothes, touched up make-up and brushed my hair and still made it to the museum by 6:12. Ohhh the beauty of living in Bricktown!!!

We went to see the closing of an exhibit that was all about "Anti-Gravity" which featured some random "art" made out of chairs and buckets. I will admit it was pretty cool to see what someone can do with such normal objects but it makes me question the definition of art. My date was an engineer so I think it was difficult for him to appreciate the randomness of this exhibit. Random is not beauty to someone with an engineer brian. LOL

We walked around the entire museum to check out all of different pieces of art. I will honestly say that this is a FANTASTIC first date activity for a few reasons

1) There is ALWAYS something to look at, read and discuss. There is never an "awkward silence" because silence is acceptable in an art museum.

2) Continuos movement: Since you are always walking around, you never have to worry about where to put your hand, how your sitting, etc. This also allows for natural contact between the daters if desired.

3) Conversation can't get to personal: Since you are surrounded by other patrons in the museum your conversation about personal issues can't get to deep. This keeps anyone from diving into "non-first date conversations."

With all this being said, I have no doubt that an awkward person could break all of these rules and make it miserable, but I was lucky enough to not have that happen.

After the art it only seemed natural to continue the evening with dinner at the Art Museum Cafe. First off, I want to discuss the choice of food by Date 42 because those of you who read the blog will get a kick out of it. So, before we even ordered the waiter brought each of us a roll. Without evening thinking i snarfed mine down, because WHO DOESN'T LOVE ROLLS! I sat there and watched my date never touch his stupid roll. At first I thought he was being polite but he never touched it. It sat there alone and abandoned all night long. It took everything I had not to reach over and just stuff my face with it. Poor roll....poor MJ. But, that is not the ironic part. Date 42 ordered THE DUCK. If you guys go back to date 7 I think, he also ordered the duck. I just can't get into it, but apparently the men of Oklahoma City can. Ohh well.

Throughout dinner, Date 42 and I discussed all of the normal first date topics but a few components of the conversation ring in my ears. I really do feel like I have learned something from this experience about more than just dating, but about people in general.

Date 42 was a triplet and had two additional siblings on top of that. To an outsider, this is an extremely cool fact, but it seemed like Date 42 wasn't blown away by that fact anymore. I could tell he loved his family but he told me he wasn't extremely close to them. Now, I talk to my parents pretty much every day (don't judge me) but as I have grown older I really look at them as my dearest friends. I think it is easy to assume that anyone with a big family has the "Brothers and Sisters" relationship with everyone they are related to, but I guess not. For me, family is my #1 and I never make a decision without their input and support. I think it was just a learning experience for me to know that not everyone relies on their family the way that I do.

Both Date 41 and Date 42 were engineers. To be honest, it was eerier how similar the conversations were about careers, families, etc. I am not saying they were identical by any means but a few times I felt like I had just had this same conversation with someone else. It took me a while to realize that I HAD indeed had that conversation the week before. I think this happens when you are searching for something you have in common that you can discuss in more detail. People jump from topic to topic hoping to make a connection.

Also, for reference: Never both go to the bathroom at the same time. The wait staff may think you walked out on your check. :)

Now, I titled the blog "Is that Art" because I went to the art museum but I wonder if there is an "art" to dating. I know I have mastered the awkward scheduling, meeting and conversations but is there a true art to it. I wonder..........

Date 43 tomorrow! Help me finish these last 10! SET ME UP!

Date 41- Silverware required!

First off, I apologize for not getting a pre-date interview posted for Date 41. I was unsure of the best person to ask to interview me because I was honestly not sure how Date 41 got tuned into my dating adventure. Midway through our date I remembered to ask Date 41 how he found out about 52 in 52 and the credit actually goes back to Date #1. First date of the bunch also gets credit for Date 41....well done! Thanks!

Ok now onto the recap...I meet Date #41 at a local Ethiopian restaurant for dinner. I give this bachelor some credit for trying to do something that was unique and not just another Bricktown restaurant. To be honest, when I read the menu I was a bit intimated but I just went with the flow. How bad can it be.....right?

Well at first the waiter brought us towels on a plate. To be honest, I wasn't all that sure what the hell to do with them but I followed the lead of my date and figured out they were meant to clean your hands. I should of figured this was a sign of what was to come but I was still pretty naive. The appetizer came out and were delicious. Fried something....:) Yum!

Next was the main course! They set down a huge plate filled with various different piles of food, non of which I could identify. Then came some funny sweet tortilla type things that were more lunch sponges. I waited for the serve to remember to bring us silverware, but as I soon found out, silverware is not an option. YOU EAT WITH YOUR HANDS!!!! Ok.......on a first date? I was pretty unsure about this but gave it a good try. The food/mush was not bad, but I felt like a kid with bad motor skills trying to pick it up with the bread and eat it while still looking lady like. Remember, I am on a date!! :)

Lesson Learned: If you want to be creative with your restaurant choice on a date, just ensure they have silverware! :)

Date 41 was easy going and excited to be a part of 52 in 52. I respected the fact that he understand the notion behind the whole thing and was willing to play a part in it. I drilled Date 41 with questions about his job, background and hobbies. Funny thing is, he never really asked me anything about me. Either he already knew it all from reading my blog, forgot to ask, or didn't think it was important. Another tip, this one I learned from a professor in college.

People like to talk about something that they are an expert in. Everyone is an expert on themselves! So give them a chance to shine......Date 41 forgot that one but no biggie! I think when people get nervous they just rattle on and forget they are having a conversation instead of telling a story. This is not the first date this has happened and I doubt that last but those of you who know me know I don't need to be asked to talk about myself!

I enjoyed the conversation with Date 41 about traveling, politics and family but I would alway recommend leaving out any past relationship drama out of the first date conversation. When this stuff comes out you always run a risk of not coming off the way you think you should. Past relationships are not first date conversations, no matter how much they affected your life. No need to discuss failed relationships, engagements or marriages fellas. I doubt you want to hear about my old boyfriend so if you find yourself headed down that road in the conversation, find the next exit ramp and get off!

Now, Date 41 suggested that since the dinner was a bit difficult to eat that we head to Melting Pot to have dessert. Melting Pot drives me nuts that you pay more to cook your own food at your table, but I can not deny their dessert. What a GREAT IDEA! We enjoyed some great drinks and chocolate to end the evening.I will say that I ate WAY more than my date and got self conscious and stopped. I totally could of finished that entire plate of goodies. I should of just gone for it....but no girl wants to be that girl.

Now many of you who know me are aware of the Dewey Decimal system first date that I experienced a few years back. Now, I'm am still not sure who but this story came up and I told it in all its glory to Date 41 and I think he felt a lot better about himself. Rest assured guys, there is always someone out there that is worst that you at dating! :) (For reference, I went on a date with a guy who shared with me that he organized his personal bookshelf with the DEWY DECIMAL SYSTEM!!!)

All in all, the date was a nice evening of interesting conversation and difficult to eat food. Mark another date done....Date 42 is scheduled for Thursday! Get ready!

Date 40- Rock Climbing.....how cute can you look doing that?

This past week I got grilled by a group of friends about the "perfect" date and what the skeleton of this so called date would look like for a guy to use to plan off of. It was hilarious to field all of these questions because to be honest there really isn't a true answer. But I do have a few thoughts on it, that Date 40 could of used.

Date 40 Recap:

I met Date 40 at OKC Rocks, a local rock climbing joint in OKC. Now, the last time I went rock climbing was my freshman year of college, so it has been awhile. What does one wear to go rock climbing and a date at the same time?? I struggled with this but ended up in a hat, tennis shoes and the "cutest" work out clothes I have. Not my normal first date attire!

Right out of the gate, Date 40 and I had to get our harnesses on! Not a lady like adventure, but I went along with it. Rock climbing is a team activity so we had to work together right off the bat. I will admit it is hard to try to impress someone climbing rocks, but I sure tried. I was actually proud of myself because I made it up both of the walls I attempted. Now, my muffin top was hanging out the entire time, but that is beside the point.

Now, the next part is a learning lesson for Date #40 and any other gentleman. I had parked my car in another lot so I asked Date 40 to a ride to my car since it was raining. He was happy to drive me over. When he dropped me off, before I even got my hand on the car door, he drove off. Now, this caught me a bit off guard. My parents taught me that whenever you drop someone off at the car or house, you wait for them to get in the door or till the car starts just to make sure they are ok. When Dat 40 pulled off......I feel like that demonstrated a lot. This doesn't make him a bad person, but it does lead me to think he is not the most considerate of folk.

After going home to change clothes, I met Date 40 and his roommate and roommate's girlfriend for dinner in Bricktown. Although they were very interesting people and it made it easier to carry conversation, I don't think that a double date is the way to go on the first date. It is difficult to get to know someone when you are the only one at the table who doesn't know everyone. Inside jokes and funny memories are hard to keep straight when you are new to the group. After dinner, Date 40 suggested that we meet up with more friends at another bar in NW OKC. Now....I would of preferred to stay in Bricktown or just call it a night, but I went along for the ride. Here is my point, no need to keep adding on activities to a date on the fly. It is ok to just let it come to a close naturally and not force it. The last hour was difficult because the plan didn't really pan out. I guess I am saying end on a high note!

There are so many potential topics to discuss with this particular date but I will keep it short and sweet!

Date 41 is planned for Friday...so keep reading!

DAte 39- A few to many

After a double header weekend of dates, I thought I would go ahead and blog about Friday night first so nobody gets behind:)

Date 39 was a true friend of a friend....thanks Holly! (That is 3 dates from Holly)

The recap:

I had honestly no idea who I was meeting for this date. I did not do my regular online stalking bit to at least have an idea who I am looking for. So....when I walked in the door to Zios and it was packed, I was not sure what to do. I decided to grab a seat at the bar and wait. After 5 minutes of waiting, I got anxious and sent Date 39 a text letting him know I was at the bar. After his response that he was having trouble finding a place to park, I went ahead and got a table. After reading over the menu three times and catching up on Facebook on my phone, I was getting a little annoyed that he was almost 20 minutes late. Then..when the waiter asked me if I had been stood up...I thought "well crap, this would be the just my luck". What waiter actually asked that...jerk!

Date 39 walked right up to the table and introduced himself. I almost stuck my tongue out to the stupid waiter who thought I had been left out to dry. This was not the end of the annoying waiter...! Every time either of us tried to tell a story or say anything I swear he was back at our table getting in the middle of the date. I think he might of wanted to sit down with us. But that is beside the point...

Date 39 and I had an good dinner. Conversation was light and flowing so all was pretty easy. After dinner we didn't have a plan, so we ended up at Michael Murphy's Dueling Piano Bar. I would of thought this was not a great date place, but honestly......it was pretty easy to hold conversation but not feel like you had to talk the entire time. Now..we had a very nice waitress that felt the need to keep bringing round after round of drinks...and I never seemed to turn them down. I can say after 5 drinks, Mary Jo is a bit more relaxed and fun. (Flirty may be the word). It sure is amazing how much fun people can seem when you have a few drinks in ya!

Date 39 said a few things that made me laughed. He didn't want to be set up a date until he heard about 52 in 52 and he was totally game after that. I admire anyone who will sign up to be part of my silly adventure. He also mentioned that he didn't know how I was single. Comments like that are very cute, but I am never really sure what to say to that. Am I suppose to tell him WHY I AM SINGLE? Nobody wants to tell someone all of their flaws.......come on! So I just said something like, "who knows, but aren't you glad I am". LOL

We had a great time at the bar but I was responsible and walked home around midnight. Date 39 was so nice to escort me to my front door. Even though I am pretty darn independent, I have figured out that if a boy wants to walk you home, just let them. It is just easier and lets the boy feel good about himself.

I had a great time with Date 39 but knew I had Date 40 the next day.....stay tuned to hear about Date 40 went.

Pre-Date Interview- DAte 39/40

This weekend is a double header of dates......so this predate interview will cover both dates and is presented by LOYAL Class V.

What is your favorite thing about this bachelor so far?

Honestly, that fact that I know VERY little about them before going on the date which allows a lot more potential conversation topics.

Has this bachelor ever dated any of your friends? If so, is that a good thing or a bad thing?

I don't believe either DAte 39 or 40 have, but this would be funny if it did happen!

What is the plan for the date?

Date 39- Dinner in Bricktown

Date 40- Rock Climbing and then dinner

Compared to the other 38 (?) dates, how excited are you about this date?

My excitement level is normally the same for just about all of the dates. I am really just excited to be so close to 52 !

Which is more important date “activity” or date “person”?

They have to be a good mix. A good activity can cover up a bad person and vis versa...but I would rather watch paint dry with an awesome guy then go to a nice dinner with a stiff.

What is a helpful hint you can pass along to the men who are reading regarding planning a good date?

Just remember that it is suppose to be fun, and that not to try to hard. When you have such a detailed plan, sometimes you forget to enjoy the date b/c you are to worried about the PLAN.

Make sure to read the blog to hear about Date 39 and 40!!