<human>: Me: 36M, divorced, custody of one kid. 

So, after a long-ass divorce I'm finally done and ready to get back into the game. I posted a question a [while ago] about an early dating experience before I was actually divorced, and I learned a lot as that relationship cratered. The key takeaway (pointed out by AMerrickanGirl in that thread) was don't let your emotions get ahead of you, and don't get too emotionally invested before you figure out if the person is right.

I did it the wrong way, and hurt the girl in the process. Oops.

But now I'm back! My idealized plan to casual dating is something like: meet a girl, maybe have lunch or a low-pressure dinner, and if we hit it off, schedule a follow up to see if we can do something more normal together (see a movie, go to a concert, etc.). If that works out, I'd just keep her in the rotation. When I have a free weekend, call her up to see if she wants to do something. Don't get emotionally invested, just have fun.

That sounds great right? But as an older dude, the ladies willing to go out with a 36 year old single-dad, are probably more interested in finding a guy and locking things up. So, how can I keep them on the "hook" while playing the field a little?

Also, we've all got needs. Is it possible to be intimate, and still keep things casual? I guess this is a situational thing, but I'm curious what others have experienced as far as casual dating goes. Does having any serious physical contact (making out, etc.) negate the casual-ness of the relationship? I understand that sex is kind of an all or nothing thing. Either you meet someone sex-positve and just do it, and keep it casual (booty calls?) or having sex turns into an exclusive relationship. I'm talking more about making out, no sex.

Provide a brief overview of the text.
<bot>: 36M, divorced, one kid. What does a casual dating relationship look like? When your dating pool is "highly motivated" can you still slow-play things? Can you suck-face with someone without it becoming serious?