The worst part of dating apps, of spaces like this, is playing it cool. Acting blasé, wrapping our deepest desires in language that softens or dampens them, makes it casual or silly or wraps it up in cliches and little jokes. Acting nonchalant when we want to be bubbling and enthusiastic and maybe over-earnest.

It’s not to say I’m impractical – I am, sometimes to a fault. I take things seriously and love the details, the work it can take, to build something special. But I’m a romantic too, and someone who isn’t going to be unbothered about feeling extremely bothered (in the best way) by the right kind of connection. I’m hoping to find someone who brings that same energy and isn’t concerned about playing it too cool.

I’m looking for something serious, a committed, loving partnership with someone who’s looking for that, too. It takes time to get there, of course – you can’t know how something will be before it’s begun – but approaching it from a similar mindset is important.

I’ve been described as thoughtful – not just in a kind way, but in a “full-of-thoughts” way – I’m endlessly curious and love to learn, especially about someone’s passions. Watching someone’s face light up as they talk about something they truly adore is one of life’s best moments. Most of my favourite things are like that – I’m a small moments, simple pleasures kind of person – grand gestures aren’t my jam.

Life with me looks like:

• slow weekend mornings lazing in bed, canoodling, and having silly, sleepy talks;
• getting to show me all of your favourite movies for the first time, since I’ve most likely never seen them (I am notoriously behind);
• encouraging your curiosities, hobbies, and passions, and keeping mine, too;
• a safe place to land on the hard days, a cheerleader for the successes, and a teammate for everything in between;
• co-working nights on the couch, taking turns refilling hot beverages or picking the next playlist and trying to distract one another with smooches;
• a secret language of hand squeezes or across-the-room-glances so we can coordinate leaving the party before we run out of extrovert energy;
• an expert IKEA furniture co-builder, itinerary planner, calendar synchronizer, and DIY project buddy;
• tender trash talk for trivia night, board game parties, silly low-stakes bets, or mariokart showdowns;
• seriousness and practicality well-balanced with playfulness.

You should be: in your thirties/forties, serious about getting to know one another, and most importantly, yourself. I guess it helps if this post resonated with you, and you don’t mind short blue-eyed brunettes who wear glasses. I’m biased, but I’m kind of a babe.

Something important to know: I’m not looking for someone to start a family with. Children of my own aren’t in my future, but I’m looking forward to being a fun (and trusted) adult for the little ones in my orbit. I would love to have a pet or two someday (I am that girl who stops and asks to pet your dog).

So if you’re interested, say hello (chat or DM is fine). But if you message me, PLEASE say more than just "hi" – I've told you about me, here, please return the favour! Tell me about yourself, what you’re looking for, and what experiences you hope to share with a partner. Let’s see if it clicks!