I guess I can start by saying I am confident and have a strong personality. However, I have a great sense of humor and I'm very laid back, which, surprises many people. I don't dominate conversations, and I like to think of myself as a very good listener, but I certainly lend a strong voice to a majority of situations. It's safe to say that I would certainly never be considered shy.

I have a Master's Degree in history, and probably spent far too much time in a classroom during my 20's, but I guess it paid off in the end. Education and intelligence don't necessarily go hand in hand, but somehow along the way I managed to get accepted into MENSA. Still trying to figure that one out. ;-)

I am reasonably fit. I still work out and try to stay active by playing sports and other physical activities when I can. Despite playing a few contact sports in my younger days, I still have great knees and hope to keep them that way, therefore you wont find me running outside on the pavement all that much. I'll stick to the indoors, although I guess I do miss the scenery.

It is also safe to say I am a man's man. I love sports, good beer and, at one time in my life, I even liked professional wrestling. ;-) With that being said, I am very much a gentleman and I still know how to treat a woman like a lady. There is a part of me that loves the romance, ritual and courtship involved in dating. Though I have a hard exterior, I am the type of man who holds the door open for you, brings you flowers and will make you blush with flattering compliments.

I'm a Republican, but not a radical. Politics don't really run my life, but like most intelligent people, I do have my opinions on issues and I respect others for theirs. To elaborate, I once told someone I am fiscally conservative but socially moderate or a little right of center. While we may not always agree politically, or maybe we would always agree, I'd still respect your opinions and would expect the same in kind.

I love fine wine and dining. However, I'm also constantly on the look out for the next great hole-in-the-wall. For example, I love that show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives but I also have a copy of Zagat on my shelf. I love to hear of others favorite restaurants and eating establishments/water holes. If you have favorites, I'd love to hear about them.

I'm in to sports and wont pretend I am not. Most Saturdays in the fall, you'll find me either at Byrd Stadium, or out somewhere cheering the Terps on... and March.. Yeah, expect me to miss several days of work to watch the NCAA tournament.

...as you can probably tell from this ad, I am self assured, but what might not be apparent initially, is that I am also humble and modest. Those two personality traits might not show through in my profile, I mean, after all, I am using this space to grab your attention. I guess modesty and humility go out the window when one has to "sell" himself in some way. ;-)

I guess I should also say that I don't smoke and pretty much find smoking repulsive. Sorry, I just do.

Lastly, I want to say that I am a father. I am the non-custodial parent of wonder 3 year old son. Although he lives in another state with his mother, he and I very close. I guess you are wondering why I put this first. Well, I realiz many women arent willing to date a father. I think this is very shortsighted. Personally, I think being a good parent, shows responsibility, loyalty and maturity, traits women should find admirable in a man they wish to date. ;-)

Ideally?

A fine restaurant along the water.. Perhaps in Baltimore, Annapolis or St. Michaels. I have plenty of favorites..

After our meal, a nice walk along the water or through the town, talking, laughing, getting to know one another.