My family is a big part of my life. I don't have any kids, but I come from a large family, so I'm really good with kids. (I have 18 younger cousins that I try to mentor). Would like to have my own, but realize that may not happen at my age.

I like meeting new people all the time. I think it's important to always be making friends of both sexes. I'm also a big animal lover, especailly dogs and cats. Have a Newfie-Golden-Lab named Barkly. He's a good dog!

I like to explore new places with great scenery that offer any of the following activities: camping, floating, fishing, biking, and hiking. I like a good conscious party (i.e. a fund-raiser for a worthy cause). I love to hear live music-all kinds, especailly reggae, blues, and bluegrass. I also like to go to ballgames: Cards, Rams, Blues, college, highschool, little league, whatever.

I enjoy getting to know a woman and making her feel good. I like to know what a woman likes and needs. If you are my woman, I want to give these thing to you. I have been called a hopeless romantic and I wear my heart on my sleeve. I want to be best friends with my significant other. I believe friendship creates intense passion. I have plenty of that to offer someone with a kind heart and an open mind.

I spent 14 years skiing in Colorado. Decided to grow up about 5 years ago. I have my own little place on a wooded dead-end street in the bluffs in Belleville, Illinois(12 miles from Busch Stadium). It's small, but recession proof and plenty of space for me. I work full time in my family's business, but I am also currently in school in pursuit of my teaching license. I finally found my calling at age 40. Can't wait to start teaching! Life is full of opportunities. I believe in helping people.

Anything spontaneous works for me. Like the great outdoors for 2nd dates. Prefer to sit and talk on the first date.