I believe that as human beings we are constantly evolving. Part of that process is affected by the experiences we have and the people we meet. Living in the moment is essential for me to maintain sanity and fully appreciate what life has to offer.

I feel that anyone who wants someone "without baggage" is either nuts or living on Pluto. Our "baggage" is what forms us as adults, and anyone that's lived has a bit of it sitting around, along with a few regrets. It's what we learn from our mishaps and mistakes that mold us into a better person. My opinion...

I posted as wanting friends, as in friends first before anything else. The internet way of communicating, while convenient, imposes a false sense of familiarity too quickly. Until you talk to someone on the phone, and meet them in person (if it gets that far), it's difficult to get the whole picture.

I've been very fortunate in love, but have so much more to give. I want to be in love again, but until that happens, my family, friends, and especially the grandchildren will have me all to themselves. I have many projects to keep me busy along the way.

I think anyone contemplating a relationship should be required to take a long road trip together. If you can stand someone after miles on the road, in a fairly confined space, inconveniences of construction delays, getting lost, restroom habits, eating habits, driving skills and personality, then it might just work.

Most of my career has been spent in nursing, sales and teaching, but interwoven with those is an extremely colorful palette of experiences, with a long list of things I'd still love to do.

I'm not judgemental or critical by nature, but some habits are deal breakers. Integrity to me is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Lying, meanness, negativity or an Eeyore complex would have me heading for the hills, as would heavy (regular or daily) drinking, drugs, jail record or lack of hygiene.

It's a plus if you're musical, love road trips in the Spring and Fall, enjoy the water, are not afraid to let the inner child out to play, like to help others in need, appreciate animals, from small to large, are not sports fanatics, work out addicts or workaholics.

I don't ask for more than I can give, which is only fair and I'm very patient and loving, but won't be anyone's doormat. Life is too short.

Most importantly, I love to laugh and keep my friends and partner happy. Laughter is good for the soul, and should happen frequently.

I wish you all well in your search for the perfect mate.

I'm wide open to suggestions. The zoo, the water, a slow dance in a little pub, visiting the childrens' ward at the local hospital,handing out food boxes, feeding the pidgeons (do they have pidgeons in Charleston?) or ducks at a small pond. I'd love to go fishing, but can't bait the hook if it's something alive, sorry. Or, we could do the old standard walk on the beach.. Wonder who first wrote that? I wish I had a nickel for every time that's been printed in the personal ads...!!