I decided I was interested in another man on the site––one who was looking for someone with whom he could share his retirement years. We emailed each other a few times, graduated to chatting on the phone, and went out on a date. Of course, we met in a public place, and my son knew where I was and when to expect me home.

We decided on a restaurant. I chose my outfit carefully. We had a nice meal together. We laughed and talked and laughed some more.

But I didn’t feel a glow. He was polite and called one more time. Then we let the friendship die.

Memorial Day approached. It’s always a tough day of remembrance for me because my dad died on Memorial Day. I didn’t want to spend the day alone, so I decided to give Captain Kangaroo another chance. So what if I needed to fetch carrots for Bunny Rabbit?

I emailed the Captain and explained my dread of the day. He seemed sympathetic. Again, we made plans to meet in a public place––a small restaurant in my neighborhood where all the servers knew me.

I arrived at the restaurant and saw the Captain’s red ‘stang out front. But inside, no single men. I sat down, and soon a man came in the door and headed toward me. He was not Captain Kangaroo. He wasn’t even Mr. Green Jeans.

He smiled at me, and his eyes smiled, too. I was smitten. We chatted non-stop as we ate. After he paid the bill, the server, who appreciated his polite conduct and generous tip, whispered to me, “He’s a keeper”.

We’d reached a big moment. Was it time for the date to end, or would I . . . could I . . . ? I did. After texting my son about my intentions, I invited my new fella to my house to meet my three dogs. He sat on the floor so the dogs could gather around to sniff him. He didn’t care if the dogs slobbered on him. He didn’t mind if they stepped on his feet. They liked him, and he liked them. Better yet, we liked each other. A lot. We were amazed to learn how much we had in common.

We’ve been an item ever since. We don’t live together, but he and the dogs and I have our own little family. We go out to dinner once during the week, and we spend the weekend together. I sparkle and fizz with him. Occasionally, we disagree. We’ve learned to settle an issue and let it go. We laugh a lot. We take care of each other in sickness and in health. Mature love is a fine wine that’s aged and full of flavor.

I’ve reached a new phase in my life. The do-what-I-please and take risks phase. The not-be-too disappointed if a risk doesn’t work out phase. The try again phase.

I didn’t need a friend to ask this guy if he wanted to go to the senior prom with me.

We asked each other, and we don’t want the music to stop.