Dear Final Exams,
I know we have upcoming plans and before we meet I just need to say that I am uncharacteristically nervous to meet you. I don’t know what it is but there is something about you that just has me on edge. Maybe it’s your reputation as a bad boy or the fact that you’re older than me but I have never been this anxious before a first date.
You see, your younger friend high school finals treated me well. We had a strong relationship where I was confident in my ability to woo and impress. Yes, I prepared for our annual encounter but, not very hard. I would take a couple of days and go through all of the usual steps. I straightened my hair. I painted my nails. If I was feeling particularly motivated, I would maybe shave my legs. I didn’t have to work hard to impress him and I took full advantage of that.
You, on the other hand, are a completely different story. What I failed to realize prior to this week was how just EXTRA you are. When I told my older friends about my typical pre-date preparations they were shocked at how laid back and casual I was going to be. Apparently I seriously need to step up my game. Gone are the days of at home manicures and doing my own hair. Now I have to get a $60 blowout at DryBar and a $40 gel manicure. I suddenly feel the need to have everything waxed prior to our meeting.
In addition to that, you have made me so unbelievably nervous. I can’t sleep, I can’t eat (ok maybe I can eat but not much). My stomach twists into knots every time I think about our date and I occasionally break out into spontaneous (and grossly unattractive) sweats. I’m not even sure if “date” is the proper term for our approaching introduction.
I know that we have plans on Wednesday, December 13th. I’ve been told to meet you in ESJ at 1:30 and not much else, so I could really use some more information. Are we going somewhere formal or casual? Do I need to spend a lot of time preparing or should I just show up and see what happens?
Ultimately all I can ask is that you treat me with kindness and respect. I promise to bring my A game, as long as you bring yours. Regardless of what happens between us I know that this first encounter will always hold a special place in my heart, mind and (potentially) nightmares.
Love,
Rachel
