I clicked on her profile, and we just kept clicking
Levi is a 49-year-old chef who lives in High Park. He says, “As a chef, I spend 12 to 14 hours a day in my uniform. When I step out, I like to dress to the nines. Otherwise, my look is ‘working-class spiffy.’ Close-cut hair, trimmed beard.” Levi says, “My friends would describe me as fun, sometimes foolish, dependable to a fault.” Levi says, “I’m always ready to host a dinner at my place. I like museums, long drives to the beach or just picnics on Ward’s Island.” In a date, Levi is looking for: “Honesty, character and the ability to laugh.”
After being married for many years, I found myself single. I started dating again right away. I found that I was ill- prepared for the influx of dating apps, profiles and how many people post things about themselves that are wildly exaggerated.
I found that I had a lot of first dates and few second dates.
That said, when I came across Deanna’s profile, I thought, “Wow.” Her profile picture was of a beautiful woman in a swimsuit against a tropical background. I also really liked the way she seemed: smart, funny.
She seemed like a person who didn’t compromise. I assumed I didn’t have a chance. I’ve always been comfortable with myself and with women — when my friends were interested in meeting a girl, it was often up to me to start the conversation — but Deanna was clearly out of my league. I steadied my nerves, sent her a message and hoped for the best.
She agreed to go out with me. I wanted to plan something a little different for our first date. I thought that taking her to an exhibition at the Gardiner Museum would be fun.
It’s not where I would normally take a date. It felt like a make or break, like Deanna would love it or hate it. We planned to meet at the Museum subway stop in the afternoon. It wasn’t long before I spotted her. She was even better-looking than I had imagined. Deanna had a beautiful smile and she was wearing a huge hat. I thought to myself, this girl is unique.
We walked through the exhibits, easily chatting and discussing the history of the work on display. I hadn’t imagined for a second that we would have connected on history and art, but there we were.
We also talked about our hometowns, where we’ve travelled, our exes and what we’re looking for in a partner. Deanna had a quick wit and was a class act.
We spent close to three hours at the museum when Deanna turned to me and thanked me for organizing the date.
She seemed like a person who didn’t compromise. I assumed I didn’t have a chance
I was disappointed and said, “What, is the date over now?” She said “No, I just wanted to thank you.” That made me feel great. I was smitten.
We continued to the rooftop bar at the Park Hyatt for drinks. I think that Deanne really liked the vibe and the posh setting — it might have given her the impression that I’m hip. Ha!
We talked about our needs and wants, about the times we live in, and about music and art. We kissed for the first time in a corner booth.
It was getting late, but things were just going so smoothly. Deanna suggested we get some dinner. Sounded good to me. We went to Hemingway’s in Yorkville and shared a steak dinner outside on the patio. Looking at her, I just thought to myself, this is one of the most beautiful and attractive people I’ve ever met. I came to learn that she’s also one of the most honest and decent people I’ve ever met.
We realized our date had lasted about 10 hours. Deanna looked at her phone and saw that her family had been trying to reach her; I had a long list of missed calls, too.
We thought it would be best to part ways then. Deanna is the kind of woman that you have to prove yourself to. I wanted to earn the chance to take her out again.
Deanna and I often go back to the Park Hyatt on our anniversary. We always remember that day as our last first date.
Deanna is still my favourite person to go out on the town with.
Levi rates his date (out of 10): 10