I searched the country for a Valentine's date. Here's who I picked.
Four weeks ago, I announced my countrywide search for a Valentine. Single at 37, I hadn’t had anyone to celebrate Valentine Day's with since 2019. Roll your eyes and call it a “greeting card holiday” all you want. As an unapologetic romantic, it’s my second-favorite day of the entire year, behind Christmas. How could you hate on a day when so many get engaged or hear “I love you” for the first time? It's an occasion that reminds you to stop and show those in your life how much you care.
But I haven’t had much luck finding lasting love in the 20-plus years I’ve been dating. So I thought I would take my search to our readers, hoping to catch the eye of someone fantastic or his mom, sister or friend who would nominate him for an opportunity to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime, “Sleepless in Seattle”-inspired Valentine’s date in New York City.
My editor invested in me finding my Hollywood happy ending, and I sifted through applications. I selected three finalists and enjoyed virtual dates with each of them. Casey was charismatic, and I thought we had a lot in common. Eric seemed stable, reliable and ready to find a partner to enjoy life with. Michael appeared genuinely kind and excited to connect. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know all of them.
And I am elated to announce I will be sharing this unforgettable experience with Casey.
Original story: I'm 37 and single, so I persuaded USA TODAY to find me a date for Valentine's Day
Despite my list of about 40 questions (it’s an occupational hazard, and a girl has to make an informed decision) my conversation with Casey flowed effortlessly. I found myself telling him things I didn’t share with the other finalists, and I enjoyed hearing about the journey he’s been on since getting sober more than a year ago.
“I just was living in such a negative headspace,” he told me. “And I was like, ‘What's going to make me happy?’ And I remember I thought about being younger, and I was like, ‘Helping other people, being close to God, being close to your family, having community.’” I also like that he coaches a kids’ baseball team and has drive. And as I shared things about my own life, I appreciated how he applauded my ambition.
I can't wait to venture to the Empire State Building. Yes, living out this “Sleepless in Seattle” fantasy includes being hosted by the New York City landmark and dinner at its restaurant.
I feel incredibly grateful to have been given this opportunity and I'm thankful to everyone who applied. I hope if you’re single like me you also find the courage to put yourself out there. It’s scary. It can lead to heartbreak. But when I look at those around me who have found their true love, I know it's worth it.
Stay tuned for a recap of my date.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Reporter, 37, searched the country for a Valentine. Who won?
