Oh dear, now I feel bad for coming on here and chatting about stuff other than dating, and for being 40 something, and for not being welcoming enough even though I do try and say 'Hi!' to newcomers and answer any dating queries as best I can.
It's a real shame, if this thread is perceived as cliquey or unwelcoming, because there is so much advice and support. I've never seen anyone being criticised for using the 'rules' or not, for liking casual sex, or not, and so on. Sure, someone might express a different opinion, but that's helpful, isn't it?
Velvet, I think I might agree with what you're saying about the sort of men that approach you (and you did something different to get Cuthbert, so in a way, it was something you were doing that was preventing you getting the second dates - you were waiting for men to approach you, when the only ones that did weren't good enough).
Where I live, in a new town with no university, there appears to be a definite shortage of professional, educated men on OD sites (so slate me, it's my ideal, not exclusion criteria). I do wonder if I come across as intimidating to men who aren't used to strong, independent women, and that's why I got so few dates from OD.
Wine, very pleased for you, you must be very proud that your hard work is reaping just rewards.
WFF, glad you are feeling positive.
In other news, I think I have found my libido. I mislaid it during my split with ex nearly 2 years ago, and it seems to now think I have some catching up to do. I'm currently in a battle with it, as it wants me back OD, and I just don't know if I can face it.