Dear Annie, I just signed up for a new online dating service, and I'm inundated with messages. It takes me hours each day to politely respond to them. Many of the men seem desperate for company. I can sympathize with them but just don't have the time. What do I do? Suzanne

Hi Suzanne, It's great that you're utilizing the power of the web to meet people. If you want to be polite to those who you are not interested in, just create a cut and paste message like "Thank you for your interest, but I don't believe we are a match. Best of luck in your search." You don't need to tell them why. It's kind of you to reply--many don't, so most people appreciate the communication.

While you're online, be pro-active. Play around with the site until you learn to use all of it's features. Don't think "Oh, I'll never use that feature..."--experiment! Do your own searches. It's fine for you to contact men who interest you.

If you want help with online dating, contact me. Get A Love Life's Online Profile Tuneups and Webinars will have you navigating online dating with ease in no time! Here's to a great love life! Annie