Big city guy finding semi-rural life way more interesting than I thought, looking for a woman who is fun, sweet, and a little old-fashioned.

Hobbies include: beaches, writing poetry, gardening, movies, second-hand stores (have been known to find more than the occasional bargain), walking, art museums, exercising, cooking....

I am a little on the chivalrous side, even formal: I open doors for ladies, pull seats out for them at dinner, and even help them give their cat a bath! I travelled a lot as a child and learned the value of respect, loyalty, and community, the three most important survival skills. I hold strong opinions, but am capable of listening and changing my point of view. I am a Quaker, so am not surprised or shocked by most (nonviolent) world views.

I also throw a great party and know how to make people laugh, like to get in the car and go somewhere I've never been before, or spend the day loafing with someone special.

While I like getting to know people, I am also approaching the big 50 and would like to meet someone I click with. While looks aren't the most important consideration (affection and good, feminine energy are), I would like to find a lady who is comfortable with her body/self image. Humor will earn you flowers and extra kisses.

Goals & ambitions: 1) success in romance, $$, and life; 2) return to Hawaii for another 2 weeks; 3) take a martial arts class; 4) anticipate some of the fun stuff waiting for me (us?) on the other side of 50.

Musical tastes: classic rock; traditional celtic (go Chieftains!) and some contemporary celtic stuff, too (U2, The Road North); Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, Bruce Hornsby, Bonnie Raitt....twangy country and rap are about the only things that I really don't like....though come to think of it, I do like "The Wichita Lineman."

Come on! Give me a chance--at the very least you'll have a couple of good dates.

Nice get-to-know-you over coffee, then the real first date would be travel someplace fun (say Frederick or Winchester) for lunch and a walk. Second date is up to you....