Housewarming with an Accent of Drama

Remember a few months ago how I had that awkward Facebook run-in with a friend of a friend? Where she thought I was hitting on her when I was just looking to meet other ladies to hit the lady-lovin' scene with? Remember how I learned clarification = being an adult?

Well. Said friend had a housewarming get-together last night.

I met this girl.

... And the awkwardness of the moment was so stunning it almost circled back to being refreshing.

But the kicker? ...... I was the non-awkward one. Yeah. Despite her initial misinterpretation of me and my intentions, I was calm. I mean, I didn't waltz up to her and introduce myself -- Kyle C. was clever and lured her into the kitchen with the promise of a fresh drink while Ship Sharp and I happened to be chatting there. When I shook hands with her, I was almost tempted to say I was "that creeper from Facebook," but the look pulsing in her eyes let me know she knew exactly who I was.

It's unfortunate to see a potential friendship fizzle out before it even has the chance to grow, though. Under different circumstances, I bet we would have hit it off and impressed quite a few foxy femmes across Toronto's queer scene. Alas, such is the fickleness of online introductions.

And Ship Sharp can vouch for me that I handled the situation in a cool, adult sort of way. A+, Moffatt girl.

As for the housewarming, it was delightful. The Kyles have a gorgeous new condo just on the fringes of the downtown core. Pure posh, those lads are. The gents were flooded with a whole new wine collection from their guests, Ship Sharp and I included. I have to note: it's such a welcome change to talk queer with Kyle S. We went to high school together and he was one of the first people I hung out with in grade nine. We were both so heavily closeted as young'uns, though he came out years before I did. But yeah, just getting the chance to make the jokes about our younger selves and to understand where each other is now coming from is a great place to be with someone.

Ship Sharp and I left at around 10 PM and carried on our own after-party chez Ship (RE: Tea-infused discussions about writing/writers we admire, books-to-film, and other intellectual endeavors). I realized this morning how much I miss talking shop like that. I mean, I know I'm a member of Ladies in Writing, but we don't discuss professional writers with the kind of detail Ship Sharp and I did last night. I tell you, tea brings out the absolute best in people and inspires the greatest conversation. I would argue it's a better social lubricant than alcohol, even. Yes, you just read that. And yes, I am a nerd.

On that note, I'm off for another evening with Ship Sharp and The Advocate before a work-intensive week starts anew.

Crisis Averted

Lesson Learned: Clarification --> Understanding --> Good Vibes

--> Possible New Friend.

... It appears I am a little too quick with the posting. Remember that whole Facebook fiasco I detailed yesterday? Well, I decided to attempt that whole "adults deal with issues and do not ignore them" perspective and, lo -- I am no longer deemed a creeper.

*EPIC RELIEF*

So there, kids -- don't feel intimidated or awkward when some clarification is needed. I think folks appreciate that extra effort and, who knows, you might even broaden your social scene as a result.

Facebook Fiasco

I appear to be challenged when it comes to first impressions. Or, rather, I am challenged when it comes to impressions made via the Internet.

Case and point: Readers will note that back on Jan. 16/2010, the Kyles recommended I send out a note to one of their friends over Facebook. Kyle C. knows me as "one of the nice lesbians" and he wanted to make sure that his best gal pal was treated well as she started her fabulous journey out the closet.

Now, I am also quite new to the queer scene in Toronto. I am fortunate enough to know an amazing, stunning, and drop-dead gorgeous group of gay men and straight allies who are more than willing to help a gay gal out. However, I'm not actually close friends with ANY queer women.

I know. Weird, eh? I seemed to miss out on that experience in those vital undergrad years and it's proving difficult to find a collective of open, kind, and relaxed gay gals in these parts.

So, I think the Kyles were of a sound mind when they suggested I introduce myself to another queer gal who is currently in the same position as me.

Alas, I've stumbled across another awkward situation it would appear.

The introduction was mistaken as a pass. I became a creeper without intending to.

I ignored the initial urge to write back and clarify my position. However, after discussing said issue with The Advocate and Ship Sharp this evening, it was agreed that perhaps another message was required. And send it, I DID.

Ah, first impressions in written form are such fickle things. I have the sinking suspicion I've blown the chance at a friendship with this particular girl. I know I shouldn't take it personally -- I mean, this WAS a Facebook message here. The forum is notorious for breeding creepers and I would have carried out the same screening process if I were in her position. Still, I hope that I haven't soured a future, in-person introduction. I mean, we're friends with the same folks -- I'm more than certain we'll meet at this year's Pride parade whether it's planned or not.

Weird -- if Facebook's meant to connect people, why is it helping to disconnect me further?