February 9, 2002: Take one California raised professional ballerina. Add one midwest man with a motorcycle. Have them meet on a blind date. And end up with an incredible 20 year love story that continues to make them happier than they both knew possible.
The Set-Up
“I know this guy I think you should meet.” I clearly remember these words from my friend, and also boss, at the dance-wear store I used to work at. “He’s a bit older but funny, nice, and I think you would like him.” It had been six months since I had a horrible breakup with a long term ex-boyfriend and my heart and mind were finally ready to enter the dating world again. I agreed to let her give him the phone number to the dance-wear store and didn’t think much more of it. Who knew that this conversation would be the catalyst to my last first date and begin the love story of my husband and I?
The Phone Call
He did call. Out of the blue one afternoon, the dance-wear store phone rang and it was Derek. We chatted a bit, exchanged numbers and then arranged a time to go out to dinner together that weekend. When I hung up the phone, I realized I had just agreed to go on a blind date with man I knew nothing about except his name and number. Yikes!! My co-worker, who had answered the phone call first, tried to reassure me and said that his voice sounded nice and sexy.
I immediately called my boss and told her what happened. And my concerns of not knowing much about the man I just agreed to go on a date with. She managed to find a photo of Derek; remember this was pre-social media and having pictures on your phone, so it was an actual developed photo. Hysterically, this picture was from a New Years Eve party where Derek was wearing a NYE tiara. Now, I kind of knew what he looked like and I figured a man who wears a tiara must have a good sense of humor.
The Date
Deciding on my “first date outfit” was tricky. It was February, so I had to dress warm but I also wanted to look hot. I decided on a sweater and some VERY tight shiny satin pants. Like in so tight they would rip if you bent your knee too much. But they looked good and I felt good in them.
I met Derek at our arranged place. After some small talk we walked to his car to drive to dinner. As we walked up to his car, which in fact was a truck, I realized climbing into his vehicle with my VERY tight satin pants might be an issue. Ever the one to play it non-chalant, I grabbed the handle on the side of the truck, delicately placed my foot on the sideboard, and then used every last bit of upper body strength I had to hoist myself up into the truck. It was a small feat and a huge victory that I did not rip my pants.
Dinner was delightful. We ate at a seafood restaurant on the waterfront. Beautiful views, delicious food, and easy conversations: we both knew that this was something special.
The Kiss
After dinner and a visit to an ice cream parlor, it was time for the date to end. There were was no doubt in my mind that night, as Derek walked me to my car, that he was most definitely getting kissed. And by the way my kiss was reciprocated, I think he felt the same way. When we both came up for air, we agreed to meet for a second date and the rest is history.
Four houses. 2 Kids. 1 Dog. 4 Fish. 1 Cross Country Move. Thousands of Adventures and Laughs. A Couple of Tears and Sadness. But a life and love way better than I could have ever imagined. So cheers to February 9, 2002 and My Last First Date.
