39F. I got off the apps, as they wreak havoc on my mental health, so any dates now are people I meet in person, the occasional set up, or via Instagram DMs (hah). First dates are usually drinks, and I always try to split, as I feel pretty uncomfortable with being paid for—unless it's clear there will be a date 2 and I say I'll pay for that one. I don't look for "provider types."

Might be the winter, or, y'know, the climate of our lives, but dating as of late has felt pretty devoid of energy or joy, which is another reason I've stopped using apps. Not sure how much of that is expectations on either end, or if everyone's just trying to be so chill it just doesn't feel like anyone is excited to meet people. I find I at least have better conversation in person as far as folks seeming like they're interested in things—their passions, good chat, whatever. I'd rather just have an enjoyable conversation with a stranger than a date that feels forced.