I am a thoughtful, active man who likes to walk and talk, walk in silence, ride my bicycle on road and off, listen to music (classical, jazz, rock, folk and some more traditional country). I have read a lot and like to discuss any subject from rocket science to silly nothing things. My unique sense of humour is based on quick wit, imagination and a gentle sense of the absurd.

I had my own business for 30 years, buying and selling used and rare books then worked in the hospitality industry for a few years but now Sam Jakes Inn has closed and I find myself without a paying job at the moment. I am volunteering with a national association working with youth and our local hiking trails development group so I am still quite busy. No matter how often I walk in the woods money has never fallen out of the trees but I make the most of what I have and live well. My work has always involved interacting with a wide variety of people, multitasking and problem solving, all of which I am very good at and can bring to a relationship if needed. I will appreciate your friends and family, I can juggle a relationship, my job, your job, my kids, your kids, my wants and needs, your wants and needs, with whatever else may come up. If you ask me, I will offer a positive and creative opinion on any problem - which you are free to reject.

I like to travel (mostly by car) and do things like winery tours, visit other cities, explore the country side and find small hidden things to appreciate and value. I am very in tune with nature, the environment and other people. When not at work I am walking, hiking or cycling, listening to or playing music, reading or socializing with family and friends.

I believe in environmental responsibility and sustainability. I have a spiritual relationship with all things natural, from all the stars in the heavens to the smallest grain of silt at the bottom of a puddle.

If you believe that objects and things do not matter then I may tax that belief. All of my possessions occupy two small rooms and they consist of books, music and the things required to get out into nature.

What my life lacks right now is; someone full of curiosity and wonder to share my love of the outdoors and music, a female voice to talk and discuss with, a woman's heart (kind, sensitive and giving as well as open to receiving), a partner in honesty and trust, and another inquiring mind to share both the big things in life and appreciation of the smallest. I believe in spontaneity, random acts of kindness, random acts of affection and unconditional caring. I always give another the benefit of the doubt and strongly believe that if you treat another as a real human being then they will respond as a real human being. I am kind (to a fault if that is possible), affectionate and passionate about many things.

Physical attraction is the great white shark in this pond. Lust makes a lousy foundation for a relationship but can be a sound roof to keep out the elements or a fine furnace to keep us warm through the coldest seasons.

I am not looking for someone to keep me young or grow old with, but for someone who realizes that life is a process of change, development and growth. A long term relationship is my goal along with a best friend, an activity partner, a ready, steady date and even someone to just hang out with in quiet ways. I am looking for someone who is active, independent, confident and non-conventional (which is different from unconventional). I believe in equality of the sexes and non-stereotypical roles. I will respond to anyone who contacts me because they like what they see here. I will read your profile carefully and respond to you as the person you have chosen to reveal. My e-mails can be long but I do not like having a long correspondence with someone before we meet. Life is for living and relationships are for sharing, neither is just for talking about.

The photos below, not of me, are taken on my walks, bike and kayak rides. They change every couple of weeks and perhaps say more about me than all these words ...

Success oriented, "A type" personalities are welcome but I will want you to stop and smell the roses.

Carpe Diem ...

A first meeting to confirm the idea we have formed of each other in this virtual world can be short or long, a coffee, a glass of wine and perhaps even a meal. For my ideal first date I would like you to come out to Merrickville and we can tour the town before dinner. Bring your kayak and we can explore the river, or your bicycle so we can explore the countryside or just bring some good walking shoes and we can walk some of the local trails (or bring your skis so we can do any of the above in winter). Of course you may have other ideas and I welcome them.