First Impression

February 9, 2026

I had never been hugged so hard in my entire life!

He is really strong! I thought to myself. Yet he seemed sincere. . . I didn’t think he meant to hurt me. And that was my first impression of Terry.

Well, that and the fact that he was NOT 5’6” tall like his bio said. But that is a story for another day.

Since I had endured quite a few more first dates than Terry, I was cautious, guarded even. I tried not to be overly optimistic.

Sure, he checked quite a few of my “must-have” boxes. But was he the Real Deal?

So, I went through the motions. Answering questions, asking a few of my own. I avoided most eye contact as I didn’t want to make a connection and just get my heart broken, yet again.

But as the conversation continued, I felt myself loosening up a bit and started to enjoy his company. He was very witty and made me laugh easily, something I hadn’t done for a very long time. Something that I had really missed doing.

By the end of our date, I realized I really wanted to see him again. Thankfully, he agreed. We made plans to go to the Butterfly House Saturday morning.

As I drove home that night, I thought about how easy it would be to fall in love with him. But I couldn't, I told myself. He’s just going to hurt you, like all the others. And have you forgotten your most recent failed relationship? The one where you almost died?!

You’re right. Of course, you’re right. I can’t go through that again.

But don’t I have a right to be happy? I countered my own thought.

I just wasn’t sure anymore.

The photo is of a plaque we found at the Butterfly House on our second date.

Please Like and Follow us to find out what else we found on that date.