A little background. My first job was an operations manager for a transportation company. I worked 90 hours in a week, but on a bi-weekly schedule. Each week in-between, I had off, and was paid for it. At the time I was in my 20's, had summer houses at the Jersey shore, and this work schedule really allowed me to do a lot of traveling and satisfy my appetite for adventure and curiosity to visit new places. After almost four years on this schedule, I needed a change. I took a job with a management/benefits consulting company, and ten years later this company continues to be my current place of employment.

I still love to travel but these days my vacations are less frequent and typically involve nicer accommodations. Looking back, it seems I have traded quantity for quality. I love to cook but do enjoy fine dining. South Jersey restaurant week is one of my favorite times of the year. Other interests I have include hiking, canoeing, kayaking, participating in almost any sport (never been hang gliding or kite surfing but would love to try), definitely going "down the shore" (as mentioned above, spent many summers in Sea Isle and Avalon), attending craft shows, (love going to Lancaster - the Amish are unbelievably artistic and creative), visiting places such as Longwood Gardens, and just taking in all the culture in our area.

My interests are fairly broad and I always enjoy trying something new. I do believe that opposites attract, but for a long term relationship, which I am looking for, I feel it is extremely important to have as much in common as possible. My three biggest passions are the beach, traveling and of course my two dogs, Sophie and Tessa. If you are someone who does not like animals and prefers a cabin in the Pocono's and a set of skis to a house at the beach with a wave runner in the bay, I am sorry to say that I am probably not your best "Catch"

If you however do feel that you have similar passions and interests, perhaps I can encourage you to read a little further.

I am certainly a bit of a romantic, I enjoy moonlit walks on the beach, snuggling on a park bench in the fall while watching the leaves come down, staying at bed & breakfasts while on vacation (The Mermaid and the Alligator in Key West is still my favorite B&B, probably because of those amazing house dogs), and just sitting in occasionally to watch a good movie with a nice bottle of wine.

Other qualities I look for in a woman might include; a girl who is smart, outgoing, personable, (loyal and honest go without saying, but I'll say them anyway), has strong family values, someone who likes to discuss current events over a cup of coffee, and a girl who might just enjoy sitting in on a winter day to play trivia or put a puzzle together.

I am proud to say that I put a good deal of effort into my relationship and I am looking for someone who is willing to contribute an equal level of effort. I am a person who does not mind cleaning the house, cooking, ironing, sewing, food shopping, washing/folding clothes, cutting grass, etc. I'll just say that a little help every now and then will go a long way.

I am definitely adventurous, most of my traveling has been to more exotic destinations, and I would love to spend a summer with the storm chasers on the Discovery Channel or even ride out a hurricane one day (from a safe location of course). There is just something about the awesome energy in weather systems that fascinates me. Well, so much more to say and so little space left. I've been out of the whole dating scene for more than ten years so this approach is certainly new to me. Once again, if you are looking for a long term relationship and feel you have similar interests and passions, I would really enjoy hearing from you.

Honestly, for a first date, I'd like to start by meeting out for a drink or a good cup of coffee. If the chemistry seems to be moving in the right direction, then I would suggest that we continue the conversation over dinner. Since this is the first time we are meeting in person, I'd prefer to not have something too elaborate planned. We can save the mystery dates for a later time :-)