I think I might be dating my gynecologist. Something I don't think her husband or kids will be happy to hear about.

When I went to my appointment last week, I felt like I was getting ready for a date, not a dreaded trip to the doctor. I shaved my legs ankle to ass, not the usual "I'm wearing a skirt so I'll shave to my knees" deal. I even used shaving cream to prevent rash, which I rarely do. I followed the shaving up with my fancy lotion, not the daily cheap shit I use. I took special care in dressing that day. Not only did my bra and panties match, I purposely chose ones without holes. Plus, I wore heels, and I hate heels.

This is exactly the same way I prepare for a date, well from what I remember anyway. It's been a while. I've been so focused on school and work that I haven't had time to date, which is why my most intimate relationship is with my gynecologist.

This is a problem. I can't very well take my gynecologist to family and work holiday parties. I guess I could, but that would just be uncomfortable for everyone. "Hi great-aunt Viola, this is the woman who inspects my lady parts. Will you pass her an extra roll?" Yeah ... awkward.

Rather than explaining to my family why I'm inviting my doctor to events, I decided it's probably in my best interest to just start dating again. Sure, I worry about the complications of jumping into the dating scene right before the holidays. In the past I've always found dating new people around the holidays can be problematic. Are people genuinely interested, or are they just trying to find a date for the company holiday party? For me it's both. I want someone other than my gynecologist to be my "plus one," but also want to meet someone I connect with.

With graduation less than a month away, I'll finally have enough free time to date. Dating is time consuming, frustrating, exhausting and only occasionally worth it. This may have something to do with the fact that I'm lousy at it. What I wouldn't do for some one-on-one dating lessons. Not from the LDS institute, but from cupid. That's right, I want to hire cupid full-time.

Until I can afford to hire that little fatty, I'll get started on my own. I started by making a list of qualities I want in a mate. Once that's finished I'll spring for an online dating membership. I'll also make an effort to get out more, and most importantly shave my legs way more often. I'm scared. Hold me.

Sarah Nielson can be reached at snielson@inthisweek.com. Follow her daily on Twitter (twitter.com/sarahbellum) or read her blog (sarahnielson.com).