1000 web dates an in-the-trenches view of dating and relationships today

Frustration

I don't get it. I'm talking to various people through online dating sites. But for the life of me, I can't seem to get from the online chat to real-world meeting. I'm finding it incredibly frustrating.

It used to be that I'd talk to someone for a couple of days - not long enough to build too many expectations, but long enough to know if there was enough common ground to yak for an hour or two over coffee. A phone call usually came out of it within a week, if not a full-fledged date. And I distinctly remember men falling over themselves to ask for a date, and I was the one holding off just a bit longer to make sure they were someone I wanted to meet.

Now? The interest is there, but the intentions seem.. different. More libidinous, less respectful. Less about getting to know who I am, and more trying to jump into something serious without the commitment.

Am I crazy? Is it just me? Or has online dating evolved into a smarmy pickup bar?