I'm a folksinger, songwriter and guitar-slinger with several CDs to my name. I'm also a professional journalist of twenty years who still freelances on the side. So music and writing are my first loves, along with a serious spiritual life and a passion for nature. Politically, I'm a Jim Hightower/Molly Ivins Democrat. Spiritually, I'm a Unitarian Pagan and serve on the board of my church.

I have no kids or ex-wives, though I've long been seeking a life partner. In the words of Bono, I still haven't found what I'm looking for. I'm getting back into dating after a couple of years of focus on my work. I'm a romantic at heart, though it might not be obvious at first, because I've learned to open my heart one petal at a time.

When it comes to interests, most of us like music, movies and travel, so I like to get a little more specific. I get on best with other writers or musicians - being creative, articulate and well-read are all turn-ons for me. As is a strong sense of humor. I also do best with someone who's done their psychological homework, who's self-confident and keeps close friends alongside their romantic relationships. Some of my literary touchstones are Joyce, Twain, Dante, Jung, Yeats and Nietzsche. Some of my musical touchstones are Townes Van Zandt, Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson, Nanci Griffith and the Kerrville Folk Festival.

Other hobbies: Camping, bicycling, Two-Stepping, cooking (especially BBQ, Cajun and Tex-Mex) and gardening. I'm a sucker for anything cowboy and anything with chili peppers. I've traveled most of Texas and most of the lower 48, much of it on musical tours, and I'm fondest of the Southwest and the Rocky Mountains. I want to see a lot more of the world. This year, I've been sticking closer to home while I raise a golden retriever puppy, but I expect her to grow into a great traveling companion. By then, I dream of having a two-legged companion, as well.

I like getting to know a lady slowly, the way I enjoy a glass of good wine. A great first date is mostly about conversation, at a favorite restaurant or coffeehouse. Or sitting on a porch and swapping some songs. If we strike sparks, a great second date would be going out to hear music, dancing, a hike on the greenbelt or a movie.