Online Dating Etiquette

Ok, I'm in a quandry, and I know some of my readers are internet daters (or have been), so I have some issues/questions...but then again, maybe it's just a rant. ;)

1. How soon should you expect a picture?
Honestly, I think this should be within the first couple of emails. If you're legit (non married or attached in any way) or telling the truth (as opposed to saying you're "athletic", when in fact you're far from it), you shouldn't have anything to hide, right?

I usually put my pic in my ad, or I send it on my first response, they don't even have to ask. I have nothing to hide, nor am I embarrassed of myself. When a guy doesn't send a pic within the first couple of emails or says "I don't have one on my computer", I think it's total bullshit and I become completely leery of him. Come on, in this day and age of technology, you should have an electronic pic of yourself. Even if it's a grainy one from your cell phone.

In addition, if you won't send a picture, what are you hiding from? YOUR WIFE?

So if I don't get a pic, you're kicked to the curb.

2. Swapping phone numbers.
When IS the best time to do this? I'm on the fence about this one. Some guys are really hard up to get your number immediately, some are willing to wait till a few emails are swapped. Either way, makes no difference to me. Although I'm always super curious to hear the voice that goes with the face, know what I mean?

3. Sex
When the topic of sex comes up immediately in the initial emails, I become leery again. It can go from cheesy to down right perverted...the cheesy guy will say "I'm a passionate guy" or "I love pleasing a woman" or something along those lines. The pervert will come right out and ask "what's your favorite position?" or "are you shaved or natural?" WTF.

Seriously, I enjoy sex just as much as the next person, but that's information that can wait until the timing and chemistry is right. Patience is a virtue. :)

4. Meeting
When it comes to meeting guys, I typically play it by ear. Once I'm comfortable or have a good gut feel, I'll meet the guy. I think my barometer for that kind of thing is relatively decent -- but who knows. Then again, there are always those sneaky little bastards that fly under my radar, and that ends up pissing me off more than anything for wasting my time.

5. Talking about yourself
I usually look for an even exchange of information -- you tell me stuff about you, and I'll tell you stuff about me. When the guy is holding back or giving me really cryptic answers about himself, that's my cue to walk away.

Grrr...dating sucks. Oh yeah, I've said that before, haven't I?