I recently visited a friend of mine who just got married this year. After a two year courtship with a woman in China, he finally tied the knot. It was quite an undertaking, he in Alaska, and her in China. There was a service that translated their emails back and forth. There was a visit to China by him. There was page after page of documents to be filled out, and there was a lot of money involved. They have now been married for about a year and he recently confided to me that he has approximately 10k invested in the relationship. They are very happy and her English has really improved.

 I visited them one evening for an authentic Chinese dinner. She had started the soup in a slow cooker that very morning. That evening she presented four entrees that were very good. After soup (it was good too), we were served rice as a base for the entrees.

 Dinner was fabulous, and soon we were at another table for tea. During tea I was presented with pictures from their latest trip to China. The conversation was a bit awkward, but my friend was able to translate whenever I was in the dark. A lovely evening with a traditional Chinese flair.

 During tea, the wife was very interested in finding me a wife as well. She showed me pictures of possible spouses (friends of hers), and even invited me to accompany them on their next trip.

 I graciously declined, explaining that China was too hot for me. She responded that it was mild in February. I told her that I have five kids and was not interested in any more. She understood, and said that she could easily find me a wife without kids.

 I gracefully changed the subject.

 Later, my friend asked me what type of woman I was looking for, because she could set me up, and after a few moments of thought, I told him.

   My buddy is about 57, and his wife is only 43, but that is too old for me. I was looking for a younger vintage. I need a companion born in the time frame of 1978 through 1981. That's right, about 24 to 27 years old. Yes, that is at least twenty to twenty three years younger than I, but hey, that's what I'm into. She must be low maintenance and have not had too many owners. I want one that still has a little giddy up left in her, and isn't worn out. And I don't want one that nickel and dimes me too much.

 Now, I know that might be a lot to ask for, but that's what I'm holding out for.

 Oh yeah, she must be "American made".

 He looked at me like I was nuts! Well, maybe I am.

 So now that I have a clear image of the woman I want, I've started saving all my extra money. I'm hoping that by this time next year, I'll have enough. Yeah, it's clear in my mind exactly what I want. If it's going to cost me ten grand, I'm getting a corvette! She'll be a '78 to '81 model with not too many miles. I'll name her Roxanne. I'll treat her as well as she treats me. If she runs ok, we will get along great! If she tries to nickel and dime me, she'll be locked in the garage. I know she'll never give me any lip, and I won't ever have to suck up to her family. Sounds like the perfect arrangement.

 Thanks to my good buddy O for making it all come clear!

Until next time, see ya.