I have been planning for months, doing my review watching and reading the Newbee board all for the purpose of treating myself to a first venture into the hobby. And then the local events happen.

I need some help Ladies and Gents, I was going to ask for advice on how to feel comfortable getting started -which I still want, but now I need to ask "Am I nuts for still starting this in the next say 30 days?"

Help me answer the 2nd question first, then if I'm going to move forward, we can visit the funner one!

Old Rookie

Your not nuts at all.This is a great hobby.Just proceed with caution. Stay away from CL and pick quality providers that are reviewed here.We have many great ones to choose from.Be super safe and Enjoy.

I don't get up to MSP as often as I used to but have a trip coming up.  Can you please refer me to a source that would provide background on the "local events" mentioned above.

Thx.

I'd suggest picking a few providers that fit your mind, and email them. It's a good way to lean about someone.
When I started, I went with one of the top providers in the area, one with a lot of experience.
We emailed a little, and she was excited about the prospect of being with a hobby virgin, also very easy to be with.
Be sure to allow plenty of time, at least two hours, I think.
If your reference is towards the LE activity, talk to your provider, she doesn't want any trouble either.
Best-o-luck

Thanks Penguin ..... what puzzles me is 550+ reads and only one comment either way ..... hmmmmmm.

I very much appreciate the advice, now I just need to find a newbie friendly provider. Anyone have advice there? Volunteers for the position perhaps?

Still interested in opinions on the first question.

Thanks again,

Old Rookie.

you either are 13 or... well wtf knows. get a pair first, secondly avoid shitting in your pants when you call and last but not least loosen up so you can actually enjoy.

call or email and say "i saw your ad on ____ and i'd like to set up an appt"

from that point on, it's our job to make you feel comfortable so just sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

geez. pu the phone, say hello, saw the ad on xyz and I'd like to see you. then simply judge how she reacts to you. happy to have you call? smile in her voice? pretty much the same thing as in real life except now you dance the financial mambo.

you sound like one of those chicks who think they're 'extra special' because they are virgins. and want to make a federal case out of it.

I know, i know, you're just looking for good info but you come across as somewhat needy and a bit whiny.

"550 reads and only one response to my post??' waaaah!!

like the man says, grow a pair!

The all those grizzled "hobbyists" who can't remember their first foray, or perhaps looked at providers as less than deserving of respect and common courtesy.

Perhaps there are reasons why I don't just pick up the phone and call every provider that tickle my fancy. They happen to be mine and while I'll not judge your choices since I haven't a clue what it's like to walk in your shoes, I certainly hope you can consider that mine may be important to me.

Having read what I have that providers have provided their is a common theme. Be respectful, be courteous, and they will appreciate you no end. Guess, what? I've got a nice enough pair that I can admit I'm no well traveled whammer bammer or a wannabe. My guess is they see though that macho out of touch routine and smile and do their job.

I'm a decent gentleman that wants to know enough before I pick up the phone that she won't have to train me, just guide me. I may be the eternal optimist, but I choose to believe that the person I pick for my first time will appreciate my honesty, respect and appreciation for her accepting my appointment, and she'll make damn sure it's a good one.

Thanks Ana, Penguin, xxp, and remy for the assistance!