My goal is to live a life that would not embarass me if I was a fly on the wall at my funeral.

I've traveled to Hawaii and really enjoyed it. The Cotswolds were beautiful. Israel was inspiring, and I would love to go back. Paris was a day-trip from London on the train via the Chunnel. Italy would be a future destination, as would the South Pacific. Also, anywhere that serves a great breakfast.

I thought about changing my age to a few years younger, but I had a client that said my best quality was my integrity, and I just couldn't bring myself to make that change. I'm looking for integrity and character in someone I want to get to know, and I have to exhibit those characteristics too. I believe there also must be a physical attraction- the "chemistry thing". If a woman is beautiful (to me) on the outside as well as inside, she is something to be cherished. Inner beauty includes character, integrity, honesty, compassion, and one that loves unconditionally. I enjoy going to a quiet beach and listen to the waves, birds and breeze. Just the sun, the breeze and someone that I can laugh with, walk with, and tell of our dreams and fantasies. Have you ever had a date read to you? (Do you have a tickle spot?) After a beautiful day at the beach and a ride back with the top down, to have a nice dinner with soft music, then maybe a walk down Park Avenue to window shop, sit and talk or take in an art gallery. I also enjoy car shows, antique searches, and viewing model homes (since I'm an architect and realtor, it's a natural). My music interests range from classical, jazz, Broadway shows, Oldies, and even gospel. I don't believe in "love" at first sight, but a strong attraction is a must. It takes time to get to know a person, as we are all on our best behavior during the initial dates. After spending some time together, we could decide whether a relationship is developing into a friendship or could develop into a more intimate (not physical) relationship. I have some definite opinions about intimacy and relationships, which may be a good discussion topic to get to know each other. There is a statement in the first paragraph of The Purpose Driven Life that says "It's not about you." If you think it's all about you in dating or in a relationship, we definitely won't match. Thanks for taking the time to read this. Now it's up to you. My ideal match is compassionate as well as passionate. One that loves life, laughs easily, and can accept the person unconditionally. She should be witty, have friends that look up to her. Her attractiveness comes from her character. She has imagination, creativity, and eyes that can drive a man crazy. She likes to hold her man's arm when they walk and let him open the door for her. I enjoy being a true gentleman and like for my date to appreciate that. She should be strong in her beliefs and value system. Please don't expect a man to read your mind. I will ask directions if I'm lost. She should want to be a peace maker, not an argumentative type. Her cup is not half full, it overflows and touches many around her. She loves her family and children. She is not perfect, nor pretends to be. As the title of a John Ortberg book says, "Everybody's Normal Until You Get To Know Them". She will have many of the qualities of a Southern lady. I can't help it if I'm from the South. She is an encourager and will give support during the difficult times, just as I would to her. She believes in continual spiritual growth. Her vertical as well as horizontal are balanced. She must be a good conversationalist, as that is the way to know about someone. I ask questions and I need for her to ask also. She sees beauty in all the world around her. She likes sports cars. Forget the "being comfortable in jeans as well as an evening gown" thing. She will be comfortable around me in whatever we are doing and look good in my eyes dressed in whatever she wears. She is not looking for a man to give her financial security. I'm just a down to earth guy looking to meet a down to earth, fun, caring, compassionate, witty, crazy, encouraging, independent (not a feminist) real woman, who is also intelligent, creative, a great mom (if she has children), devoted to her passions, and loves her God. If that's being "picky", so be it. You're out there. We've probably passed each other.

I don't like "first dates". I would enjoy meeting at a quiet place over coffee. I would want an atmosphere conducive with talking and getting to know each other. I am all about asking questions, and I expect the same from the person I'm meeting. If it's a one way conversation . . . forget it. There would be no way we could learn about each other.