Hello beautiful,

I want to spend a bit of time today talking about Suf—the guy I’m currently chatting with on Hinge. He’s the one I mentioned where we’ve almost exclusively been sending voice memos instead of texting like normal people. From the start, he made it clear that he’s looking for companionship and nowhere near a partnership right now, which I respect.

Right off the bat, we’ve been exchanging voice messages in the morning, throughout the day, and even right before bed. Remember how I used to feel frustrated with the state of modern dating, especially with people in their 30s who seem too busy for meaningful connection? I know it’s possible to lead a full life and still make time for others. I’m doing singing and piano lessons, hitting the gym, journaling—and yet I still carve out time to connect. Surely there must be others like me, right? And sure enough, there are. Suf works ten-hour days as a veterinarian, and yet he still makes time. Even if it’s just for friendship, it reminds me that when someone genuinely values connection, they’ll show up. I needed that reminder. And I’m so grateful to him for it.

Also, I invited him over this Sunday. I kept it low-pressure, told him there’s no obligation if he’s not comfortable—but I did let him know there’d be a home-cooked meal waiting if he came. That put a smile on his face, and he accepted. So now I’m quietly excited to see how it all pans out.

I want to mention Phil for a moment, too. We haven’t spoken in a few days, and interestingly, he hasn’t really crossed my mind either. I’m grateful to the universe for bringing Suf into my life, because his presence has helped loosen the emotional grip I had on Phil. A few weeks ago, I was talking to our old man, and he said that if Phil and I ever crossed paths romantically again, I could decide then whether or not I even want to date him. At the time, I remember saying, “Of course I would—I’ve been hoping for that.” I couldn’t imagine saying no.

But now? That’s starting to shift.

When we meet again, we’ll both be different people, walking different paths. If you asked me today whether I’d say yes to dating him, I think I’d say 70% yes… and 30% no. And honestly, that 30% is growing. I think it’s because I’m starting to see the ocean again—the vastness of it—and even though the good ones are few and far between, there are still fish in the sea.

I’ve also been chatting with other guys on Hinge, but none of them have sparked my interest the way Suf has—even though, again, it’s just friendship. Maybe it’s the honeymoon phase of meeting someone new and wanting to build something strong from the ground up, or maybe the others just don’t click. Either way, I’m trusting my gut. And right now, my gut is telling me to keep building this connection with Suf, however it unfolds.

Have an awesome night, buddy. And remember—give Kevin tight hugs, always.

Chat soon xx