There were tears when he spoke about his late wife
DATING PAST?
I was married for 33 years and widowed in 1999 when I was just 52. while I’ve mainly been on my own since, I have had a couple of relationships. The problem is, I’d go out for dinner a few times with someone and then they’d be angling to move in.
I tend to avoid dating apps, but I read this column during lockdown and thought: ‘I could do that.’
PRE-DATE NERVES?
I hovered between being terrified and excited. Friends who knew about the date were sworn to secrecy, as I didn’t want too many people to know, but my sons and their wives were very excited for me. I planned my outfit carefully in advance — at best I envisaged a lunch with someone who might turn out to be charming.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS?
when I arrived at the restaurant, I thought Jake was very casually attired. I did expect him to wear a jacket — instead he had on an expensive pair of walking boots, casual trousers, a lightweight jacket and a sweater. I even spotted a rucksack next to him. on the plus side, he has a nice face and an open manner, too.
EASY TO TALK TO?
Jake is British but lived in Canada with his late wife and children. he asked if I would be prepared to live there for part of the year. I was surprised by his forwardness and, while I’d love to visit for holidays, I wouldn’t want a permanent move, as I have a life in the Uk with family and friends.
he is a fascinating man; he sculpts and showed me pictures of his work — one was of a beautiful pair of hands.
I felt really sorry for Jake as he is still raw after losing his wife three years ago. There were tears in his eyes on a few occasions when he spoke about her. I did ask why he applied to Blind date if it was too soon and he said he needed to move on.
EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?
no, ThankFUlly. reassuringly, we both stuck to one main course as we’re not big eaters. I had two glasses of prosecco and Jake had a glass of rioja, then a glass of port.
DID SPARKS FLY?
Jake said he’d leave it up to me to get in touch with him. we’ve emailed since — given the increasing government restrictions, it’s probably the best way to stay in touch, for now.
WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF
YOU? I Did confess that I don’t normally wear this much make-up, but Jake told me I looked nice.
WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HIM? yes, there’s no other side to Jake and he is very frank.