Deep Breath....

Okay everyone, before you read this, you may want to sit down.  This is big news.
I will assume you have followed my instructions now, so I shall continue.

Some weeks ago, I went on the first date I've been on in roughly a decade.  I hesitated to announce this right away, because of several factors, one of which was that I wasn't quite certain of what the relationship was at that point.
Also, it was partly because of who it was I went on that date with.  She's been mentioned here before, in less than kind terms, and I'm sure that many of you will be baffled/disappointed/angry at my decision.  Believe me, I had quite a while to think (or maybe even overthink) about it, and I am sure about this.  In short, Number Three and I have decided to try dating again.  
It all sort of snuck up on me really.  It started through the magic of Facebook, where we chatted and caught up on things, which led to a few phone calls, and before I realized what was happening, we'd planned a meetup/date, and that's how it all happened.
Number Three and I are still very different people, but I think it's worth trying this to find out where it could go.  I don't think she's 'the one', but perhaps she doesn't need to be.  At the moment, I'm just happy to have someone who wants me for who I am.
That being said, this relationship might not be easy.  She lives in Toronto, for starters, so meeting in person will take preparations and such.  As well, there are other various differences between us, some of which I may discuss here in the future.  The point is, there are a few reasons that I don't see this being an indefinite thing.  I've actually told Number Three as much, and she has been nothing but supportive and understanding about everything, which is one of the reasons I want to be with her, at least for now.  She has shown me a kindness I forgot she had in our years apart.  If I ever do find 'the one', she's said that she won't stand in the way of my happiness.  I imagine it would still hurt me to leave her, even considering our past, but I suppose it's not something to concern myself with now.
Insecurities and differences aside, I'm quite happy with this arrangement as it is now.  I realize that a few of you probably still think Number Three is a treacherous snake-woman who shouldn't be trusted, but all I ask is that you give her a chance, and refrain from slagging her in comments.  She does know about this blog, after all, and I wouldn't want to create any undue conflict.  On the off chance that I'm all wrong about this, I will gladly accept your bag of I-told-you-so's after it's all over.

But to reiterate my original point, I have a girlfriend now, and I'm happy about that.