[atskitty2]

Yes, he's a Sag, I'm a Cancer. Not really into all that, but ok...fire and water.
He will be 42 so, my age.
Not really sure what bred the trust and faith in him so early. There's a genuine vulnerability and openness I think, that I have rarely encountered with a man, while remaining strong and uncompromising. He is flexible and giving but doesn't give up himself too much either.
It just is natural to be close to him, sort of that feeling I've known him all my life.

I got him a sweater from his favorite store for his bday. I'm debating whether to hold it til Christmas and get something more low key for the bday...or give it now. It was a bit expensive, and I'm wondering if I should do a scarf or something else instead. He would be happy with anything, even if I just baked him cookies. I never know what to do in such situation...
Thoughts?

[Something_Awesome]

Yeah, I totally know you are not into that astrology stuff... But I am

And I don't bring up that he's a Sag for compatability reasons (any pairing can work), but because I know quite a few and they can be quite horny!

A Sweater? So you already have a good sense of his style eh? I don't think there is anything wrong with the sweater as a bday gift. Does he wear scarves though? Sounds like a banana republic guy!

[atskitty2]

Yes, he wears scarves a lot. He dresses beautifully so it is difficult to know for sure what color or texture he will prefer.
I am still not sure I chose the best color.

[Selya]

That is great!!! the beginning of a relationship is great. It's all fun and teddy bears. Don't try and finish this stage to quickly, it's a fun time and you can never bring it back.

[effy2014]

This was a wonderful read. Both of you have approached this relationship as a journey and are enjoying the moment. I wouldn't overthink the intimacy . . . you have established the "relationship" and are clearly not bed hopping. Let it happen naturally so, even if that is a bit fumbling, the sex won't be disappointing.

As for the gifting, go with the sweater for his birthday. Way more important then Christmas on the calendar. You won't miss and he will be delighted.

[jns]

kitty, it sounds like things are going in the right direction. Looking back over the posts, it seems that it took only a short time to solve the kissing problem. May every thing else run as smoothly.

[Something_Awesome]

Not too many people wear scarves in LA now that I think about it (the weather does not call for it I guess). GF wears them though (and she wears them quite well). Up until yesterday it was 70-something degrees.

Anyway... Kitty is hard to impress, so the guy must be amazing. I guess this is just one example of proof that people should not "settle."

[atskitty2]

Today is his b'day. We've spent last night together & most of today. He'll be picking me up for the evening soon. I bought a new dress for the occasion, as I expected he'll dress up.

SA, you're right, I don't impress easily, and he made an impact on me quickly. I can say things to him with no fears of it being taken personally, or as anything but a constructive effort to communicate & see each of our needs are met. I've discussed my career in detail with him, my volunteer work & the struggles I've felt recently. He doesn't try to rescue me, just listens & offers encouragement when applicable & then asks questions, & asks permission to offer some advice or thoughts, alternative perspectives if he has them. We communicate similarly, and it's had a very calming effect on me. It is just easy to be with him, he's strong enough to be next to me & hear me, and isn't shaken by my strength either. I have enormous respect for him, which has made the difference for me. Many men, I lose respect for them in the way they have carried themselves, but he just brings me to new levels of admiration almost every day.

There are still reservations, on both our parts, and we discussed those again last night. I am so glad we can discuss things openly, and confront the demons in our potential future.

He is a classy guy...that sums it up. He has dignity & treats everyone around him very well, and me even better than those...it's just so refreshing.

[Euphoric]

I attempted to reply to this great news a few days ago, but after having formulated a response, I was prompted to sign in, although I was. The message went into cyberspace because autosave didn't work. Shortly thereafter, I saw where updates to the recent upgrade had taken place. I see a vast improvement with speed and accessibility.

Kitty,

I sent you a message after the above mentioned glitches, but I wanted to touch base here. This is wonderful news. I'm glad you didn't settle for less than you deserve. Patience and persistence have served you well. I can almost see you beaming through the words in your post. Meeting a person that stirs these positive emotions and makes you happy has been a long time coming and much deserved! I can't wait to hear how wonderful the birthday date went. Congratulations :-)

Euphoric

[atskitty2]

The birthday weekend was great. We spent all of Saturday together and went out for a beautiful dinner and drinks Saturday night.
At some point Saturday, he asked if this was real? Is this really happening to us? I answered and told him I don't know that answer, that only time will tell. It's been crazy.

He loved the sweater, it fits, and he was surprised I think. Sunday we took my dogs out for a hike, and took a lazy day the rest of the time, just cooking together and lounging with a movie.

We posted our first pic on social media together, and it got quite a bit of attention.

I have to say that I'm growing concerned that this truly is a rebound for him. Only time will tell, but I am concerned.