I am the mother of three wonderful boys, all away at college. Someday I will have grandchildren! But not so soon -- all my boys have to get their degrees first. I have been sober with the help of God and the 12 steps for 22 years. My idea of partying involves a lot of fun and no drugs or alcohol. My Family is important to me. So is my church and spirituality. If you can't reconcile that with someone who enjoys the sensual and physical side of life, I'm going to be hard to understand. But I'm going to be hard to understand no matter what. I'm deeply liberal. I read a LOT-of everything. I like movies, flea markets, walking, and a whole bunch of other things. I like talking, so maybe we can talk about everything else I like, and everything you like. I like making new friends, and that sounds like the way to do it. write me a quick letter, and I'll write you back.

I am seeking a strong man, one willing to be in control of his household and himself as well as our relationship. Other that that, it would be nice if you were older than my children. I hate to admit to out and out prejudice, but here it is: intelligence is important to me. Sorry. I like to think of myself as open-minded, and I wish I were more open-minded about this, but conversation is important to me. This is not meant to be a wish list for Santa: please be funny, wise, and kind to dogs. I want to be open to what the Universe brings. What I am looking for is a real friendship, because nothing of value can develop that is not based on that. Get that, and we can see what develops from there.

A first date is for getting to know as much as possible about each other. It should be in a public place, but a place where you can talk together. Maybe dinner, or a park. Not a movie, certainly, that is for later, because it limits conversation too much. Somewhere where you can talk candidly to one another. Not a group activity, hopefully, because it would be nice to concentrate on one another.