Finding my life’s partner has been my greatest desire, but not my highest priority, and this isn’t the only paradox in my world. Music is my greatest passion & inspiration, but I’m committed to minister to and among deaf people. There is no stereotype or ‘box’ that I fit into, and I like it that way – variety, after all, is the spice…
I date rarely, subscribing to the traditional view that the guy does the approaching & inviting. Although I clean up very nicely (and have been referred to as beautiful), I tend to focus more on being comfortable and/or the task(s) at hand and upcoming deadlines than I do on looking like a magazine photo in stilettos when I go to the grocery store. (why do ladies wear heels for grocery shopping??!!)
I’m more domestic and cerebral than sporty, yet I thoroughly enjoy fishing, shooting (not at live animals), hiking (health considerations apply), and horseback & motorcycle riding. Although raised in Ohio, I don’t qualify as a Buckeye – I’d rather be watching bobbers on water than a football game. I dabble in all the creative pursuits like scrapbooking, sewing, cake decorating…and really dig into debates (as long as everyone agrees to part as friends).
I’m not an early riser, by a long shot, unless the fish are biting, the sun’s coming up over the beach, or the campfire coffee is ready. I love to travel, though budget constraints tend to apply. My ‘bucket list’ includes skydiving and another cross-country tour.
I’m looking for the one God designed for me, realizing he’ll probably be a bit different from the pattern I’ve been watching for all these years…
He loves music, he’s at least able to appreciate analyzing lyrics and artwork and discussing them occasionally. He’ll have a strength and dignity that isn’t harmed by a healthy playful streak. His sense of humor stretches way beyond the crass, cruel, or locker-room variety, preferably to the exclusion of those.
He knows the difference between protecting and controlling, between a little breathing room and desertion, and isn’t threatened by either lavish affection or a week apart. He has friends of both genders with appropriate boundaries, and accepts my friendships. He knows how to fight fair, and doesn’t run away from uncomfortable discussions, recognizing that everyone has valid input.
Above all, he’s a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ, the one identified in the KJV/NIV Bible. He knows the difference between religious rules and a thriving relationship, and pursues the relationship with determination and grace. He’s ready to lead his family and carry the responsibilities of being the final (not only!) decider on matters of importance. He’s alert to the culture, standing firm and bending gently as needed.
He is comfortable in blue jeans as well as a nice suit. He likes variety in dining and entertainment, and has a healthy view of time & money. He knows himself and wants to know me.
Ideally, the first date would start in a coffee shop, just in case…
After a cup of coffee and initial chatting, assuming all is going well, we would head to a tourist spot or art gallery…something that invites/suggests conversation. Dinner would be in there somewhere, before or after the gawkin’ & talkin’. Then a movie or concert would be nice, followed perhaps by another trip to the coffee shop to discuss the event & wrap up the evening.
It’s the first date, so we would meet at a designated place/time safely distant from our respective homes. He won’t mind when I take a moment to check in with my security contacts. He’ll shake my hand warmly or offer a quick hug on parting, and give me a clear statement of whether we can expect to go out again and about how soon.
Yup, I do hand shakes – they can be warm and friendly or casual and business like. Slurp-fest is reserved for a serious monogomous relationship (which is why you won’t see me on ‘The Bachelor’ – well, that, and I’m beyond their demographic…).