<human>: Can you give me a shortened version of the text?

As some background information, let me reveal that I have not been on a date in about three years.  I haven't had a serious local (by which I mean in-state) relationship in ten.  Essentially, I am brand new to dating, and I am absolutely terrified about screwing this up.  I beg you, r/dating_advice, help save me from myself.

I went to a speed dating event the other night, and had an absolutely marvelous time.  Met a very nice girl that I had a lot in common with.  After the event, it was revealed that we had felt a connection with each other, and we were given each other's emails.

1)  How should I proceed?  I know enough that I should probably be the one to email her, but how long should I wait, so that I don't seem desperate?

2)  When I do contact her, should I keep things casual to start, or should I suggest a date in the near future?

3)  When/If I do get a date, what are some good conversation topics?  Where's a good place to go to?  I figure nothing serious, not on a first date, but I've never been the most skilled at carrying on conversations.

4)  Really, any other advice you can give an absolute novice to the dating scene.
<bot>: HELP ME.  I'm interested in a girl that's interested in me, and it's such a rare occurence that I don't know what to do.