It’s sad how people bar the door to happiness, Joanna. Dealbreakers should be things like active addiction, history of domestic violence, and (these days) political ideology, not how much hair the guy has. I’m sure Pitbull doesn’t spend many Saturday nights alone.

Also, there are degrees. Well-groomed could mean anything from regular bathing, clean nails and teeth to looking like he models for Ralph Lauren. Financially stable could mean he has a job and is debt-free to he has 17 million in an offshore account.

I can imagine what kind of list I would have made when I was looking for someone. I’m not sure my husband would have made the cut. But here we are, 3 months away from our 38th wedding anniversary and it’s been 44 years since our first date.

A lot of people are afraid of “settling” for less than they’d hoped for, so they pass some great opportunities by. The only thing you shouldn’t settle for is a lack of unconditional love and friendship.

If you laugh a lot, have some interests in common, and share similar values, you’ve got a great shot at happiness. And ladies, always remember, you might not be that big a prize yourself. Look for someone who loves you despite your faults and imperfections and to whom you can return the favor. Keep an open heart, an open mind, and always do a background check!