I'm an individualist who doesn't fit into anyone's mold. Although I have an intellectual job and my own reference library, I'm a down-to-earth guy with family values and an appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. I am financially disciplined but not a slave to materialism. I'm looking for someone who is kindhearted, considerate, loyal, affectionate, imaginative, and enjoys nature and the outdoors. After all, isn't it the beauty of subtropical nature and the almost limitless opportunities for outdoor recreation that make Florida a paradise to live in? A creative side and an entrepreneurial outlook, or at least an appreciation for someone (me) with those, is a big bonus. You don't have to be an athlete - just enjoy having fun outdoors! I'm especially interesting in meeting someone who wants to go canoeing or kayaking, but I enjoy many other activities as well. Although I have to be prudent about sun exposure, I love hiking the beach and going swimming. I'm interested in finding someone who has the versatility to laugh and be playful sometimes but have meaningful one-on-one conversations other times.

Many forum postings I read give me the impression that a lot of people these days don't want to take the time to build a friendship. To me, a friendship is not only necessary for developing a healthy relationship but is a valuable experience by itself even if it doesn't turn romantic.

The "Undecided" selection in the children box means that I'm open to dating a woman with children of her own. I have one son, 17 (turning 18 soon), who lives out of state but whom I maintain a close relationship with and travel to visit when my school vacation schedule permits. (Note: I have been asked why I don't have more photos up. Almost all of my photos also have my son in them, and I don't wish to post those on the internet.)

Since I use the forum section occasionally, my email settings are mostly open in order to facilitate communication with other participants. Since my goal is an ongoing relationship, however, I strongly prefer getting to know someone who lives within 50 miles of me.

My own preference is a date with an outdoor theme - either an activity like boating, hiking, or going to the beach, or meeting at a place that offers the option of eating on a deck or patio. If the date is an evening one, something simple like a movie would by OK with me. I wouldn't prefer going to an indoor concert or anything else similarly loud for a first meeting because I would want to concentrate on our conversation.