Lately I’ve felt like the female version of Jerry Seinfeld. No matter who I date, the person seems to have an obvious flaw that I just can’t accept. By all means, I am not perfect. In fact, I am far from it. However, I contribute well to the relationships I value.

At this stage in my life, I no longer have the desire to “throw caution to the wind” and see what happens. I want to know that the person I am spending time with has the potential to be more than just a date, which is why there are certain characteristics that I wouldn’t even consider in a partner. I am looking for the real deal.

I crave intelligent conversation and a partner who is proud of his accomplishments. The man I will include in my future is not afraid to feel or show love. He is not addicted to cigarettes or drugs. He's emotionally available and ready for a partner. Politics is a topic for which we both will share passion and many great, lengthy conversations. Because I am liberal, my ideal partner should be too.

Adventure is a must. Relaxing together at home is great, but it shouldn’t be something we do night after night after night. Hopefully, we will take dance lessons (maybe swing or ballroom) together, plan sporadic weekend trips, read books, play Scrabble, go to the movies, take walks, enjoy music, attend political events, seek out conferences for which we both share an interest, host get-togethers, drink coffee, contribute to the community, and just live life. I am ready to meet a man who is ready to nurture a friendship and a love, someone with whom I can grow.

Education is important to me, but I realize that intelligence isn't determined by whether a person has gone to college. If you don't have a college degree, you need to be someone who seeks to learn because you like it. I believe that people either progress or regress. If you aren't growing either intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, or physically, then you are probably regressing, which is a turn-off for me. I prefer intellect to brawn; however your looks do matter. I’d like to meet someone who’s proud of his physical attributes. Your race is unimportant, but your geographical location is. I live in Keller; you should be within twenty minutes of me.

I'd prefer to meet someone who has enthusiasm for just being alive, someone who has not had a perfect life. If your background mirrors Leave it to Beaver, we most likely won't be able to relate to each other. I'd like to meet someone who is willing to take risks and fulfill dreams, who strives to overcome life's obstacles instead of submitting to them. I have not had a “silver spoon” life, but I’m able to comfortably mingle with anyone, no matter his socioeconomic status or culture. I am extremely tolerant because of the life I’ve lived, and I am also a very upbeat, optimistic person. I do not want to immerse myself into anyone’s negativity or drama. I believe in the old adage, “What goes around, comes around.” I try to live right, but I am not traditional in any sense of the word. Please don’t e-mail me if you want to convert me; I like who I am.