Entering that dreaded empty nest time frame - my daughter has just graduated, my son is in his sophomore year in school. I have devoted the past nine or ten years to raising them; I can now begin to look after my future. I am quite shy initially, but if you become my friend, you will find me fiercely loyal. I'm opinionated, but mature enough to recognize the validity of others'.

I am an avid reader; historical fiction and non-fiction, science fiction, horror. I always have at least one book going at all times. I enjoy various movie genres, though I must admit I usually rent versus doing the theaters. Good food agrees with me - my waistline confirms. Cooking is fairly enjoyable; cleanup is a chore. Aside from rap and hardcore country, I enjoy most types of music. I do not do clubs or the bar scene; I find intimate conversation at 120 decibels tedious. I rather like small groups. An evening with another couple; shared food prep, some nice music, a few hands of bridge. Not to say that I don't enjoy the occasional maniac live band outing. I enjoy the peaceful place where I live - woods, mountains, views, wildlife. I enjoy the wind in my hair (what's left of it) and taking the time to just stare at the stars and wonder.

I think of the many places I have seen and the lives of the people that once lived there. I can sometimes stand in a spot and see the past unfold, be it a pueblo, a Mayan temple, Gettysburg, or Versailles. I intend to see much more of this world and learn more of its history. I will walk on Hadrian's Wall.

I'm looking for a woman that values honesty and honor, and will repay in like coin. She must enjoy intelligent conversation and have a good, perhaps quirky sense of humor. Holding hands and cuddling is a must. If you smoke, that's pretty much a deal breaker - I'm a reformed ex-smoker.

By the way, the view above is from the house I'm having built. The dog is my daughter's baby - guess that makes me a grandsire. In the last one, I am having fun beating up small kids at my school.