A couple of weeks ago, I shared happy hour with a dear female friend. We talked about friend stuff, and I lamented my rustiness at the dating game.

I spent at least 12 years in the previous relationship, and a lot has changed since then. I went into that one almost immediately after another 10-year run, and that puts me back at the dawn of the Industrial Age.

I mean, the last time I was single, truly single, there was no such thing as text messaging on cell phones and e-mail just started rounding into shape. So even the basic methods of communication are completely different now.

She suggested I use this forum as a means to make known my availability for a dating or hanging out companion because, ya know, it’s worked so very well before. This is really the first time I've questioned her judgement but here goes.

Really, though, I’m not looking for a relationship. Did that for too long with precious little to show for it except a bag I don’t like and a broken printer I hardly ever used in the first place because I work online. She knew me so well.

No, all I’m after is a friend to hang out with, someone to go to the movies with, or hang out on the Stan’s patio, or walk and talk around White Rock, or catch a Stars game.

If she’s a friend with benefits, that’s cool. I’m all for fundraising for a good cause. What? Well, what does it it mean? Oh, ooh ... uh [hee-hee] never mind.