Gulp :-) Okay, here goes...people say I am a deep thinker. Hmmm. Probably somewhat true...love the exchange of wit and banter, find intelligence (without arrogance) very attractive. Make me laugh, be endearing but sincere, and you will win me over.

I enjoy spending time with people, entertaining friends or coordinating get togethers but also really like being quiet with someone, just having them around, hanging out. Great cook, artist, creative, good with new folks and strangers but can be a bit shy around someone I'm really starting to care about. I believe things happen for a reason, but also believe that sometimes, things don't happen for a reason too. Hoping that some of God's greatest gifts truely are "unanswered prayers" (yes, I like country music, and rock, and pretty much anything mainstream plus some quirky music from my college days.) Always looking for new challenges and I love to learn.

I don't believe we are meant to travel life alone and want someone to spend my days with, create memories alongside, and build a life together. I think having my own children is an opportunity that has passed for me. I grew up in a stepfamily and know their blessings and challenges. When my stepdad married my mom, he told me he didn't want to replace my dad, but wanted to be another person in my life who loved and supported me. I hope I get to pay that forward someday, but if you don't have kids, that's okay too.

I am looking for a friend, companion, and soulmate...someone who challenges me and encourages me to be the best person I can be, for myself and the world, and someone who can knock my socks off showing me that love, caring and kindness really exists. Dating and possibly a longer term relationship, but I'm not in a hurry.

A little new at this and a little cautious, so patience is appreciated. I do understand not wanting to waste weeks chatting only to finally meet and find there is no attraction, but I would like to chat a little, perhaps by phone, and learn a bit about you before meeting.

First date...something comfortable and easy, nothing too fancy necessary. Grabbing a beer at Founders, or lunch at the Omelette Shoppe...well, not sure those qualify as "dates" but perhaps a good way to initially meet and chat, then we could make plans from there.