INTRODUCTION...
Although born and raised in the Bay Area, I am basically a simple country boy, stuck in the big city for the geographical convenience of work, shopping, and family, including my 2 grown daughters. Occasionally I enjoy the energy of city life, but hate traffic and big crowds. A quiet evening at home cuddled on the couch with a movie or something local suits me fine. I am straight up with people, so If you are looking for Mr. perfect, I am not your man, but always trying to improve. Not much into Politics. A gourmet chef I am not, but can grill a burger, make a mean french toast, and even own a juicer. Anyone up to the challenge of improving my culinary skills?

"Life is like a dogsled team. If you aren't the lead dog, the scenery never changes"! I enjoy the freedom of being self employed because I don't like doing things by the book or having too much structure, but always on time, or at least will call if running late. Music with a good danceable beat is my style, anything from Rock to Pop. I am somewhat reserved in public and get embarrassed when people sing happy birthday to me in a restaurant, because I feel like all the noise is disturbing others. Goofing off with those close to me is natural using my dry sense of humor, even to the point of being politically incorrect at times, but always on good behavior when meeting new people.

For those who follow astrology, my sign is Cancer/Leo and have traits of both, but don't necessarily believe in it. Compassionate, playful, humorous, affectionate, loyal, very practical, laid back, and part maverick would describe me best. A t-shirt and blue jeans are my typical default, but will dress up for my lady. I believe in respecting differences, not arguing about them. I am not judgmental and ask the same from you. Alcohol, smoking, drugs and gambling are not part of my life, but don't mind if you drink socially or even like casinos. When it comes to life's challenges, my glass is 1/2 full! How about you? "Life isn't about surviving the storm, but learning to dance in the rain."

INTERESTS...
Ballroom dancing, bowling, Alameda county fair, NHRA drag races and local car shows are some favorites. Machinery such as aircraft, steam locomotives or submarines fascinate me also. I frequent Urban Ore, antique and thrift stores looking for unique treasures to possibly keep, or sell on eBay. I don't watch sports on TV because it consumes too much time, but when I do watch, documentaries, comedies or home improvement shows keep my interest. In the evening I relax on the computer researching topics of interest, or composing short humorous stories about recent events for friends and family, but must confess, I sometimes rely too much on spell-check.

Some refer to me as MacGyver (from the TV show) because I can fix almost anything, except a broken heart, so please check any baggage at the door. I appreciate old school craftsmanship when things were not made of plastic, so you might find me touring old mansions to get restoration ideas for my house. Art-Deco is a favorite. Design and construction create a great sense of accomplishment for me. Various home projects or tinkering on the 68 GTO I drove in high school and raced at the Fremont Drag-strip years ago put a smile on my face.

LOOKING FOR...
This part isn't complicated, I really don't care about external accessories like fancy cars, or expensive jewelry, however, I appreciate someone who cares about her appearance. What is in your heart is what matters. Don't take yourself too seriously either. If you are high maintenance, high drama, or high on drugs we will not work well together. However, if you are high on life, optimistic, laugh allot, not too intense, keep your word, communicate effectively, and are loyal, we will click.

I will be proud of your accomplishments, but much less impressed with your social status, or job title if you are arrogant or mean spirited, although I do appreciate some edginess. Narcissistic people are a definite turn off to me: "A shallow brook makes the most noise." I communicate my feelings very well and will respect yours also. A witty affectionate partner who knows when it is appropriate to be serious is very attractive. Drama belongs on the stage, games on the field, but not in my life!. Just be honest, be yourself, accept me as I am, as I will you, and we just might hit it off. Preferable distance is under 20 miles.

Repairs are a way of showing I care as long as you don't take me for granted. Someone who is comfortable just hanging out together doing whatever is a plus, especially if you don't mind getting your hands a little dirty, but don't be alarmed, it is not a requirement. Someone who respects others opinions whether they agree or not, is important.

I am realistic and understand beyond an initial attraction, relationships require nurturing, communication, and compromise with a generous sprinkling of humor to work, they don't magically thrive on their own. Now enough about me, what can you tell me about yourself?

DATING...
Initially I am not looking for fireworks, only a spark. Lets take things slow, develop a friendship, then see where it goes. Something simple besides the typical coffee date default. Start with emails, a phone conversation or casual lunch, then if things click, anything we agree on. I am open to new adventures but will not swim with sharks, bungee jump, or skydive... tho I am willing to take pictures.

To me, it is less about the activity and more about who you are with. You can really get to know someone just walking in the mall eating a hot dog, and sipping a coke after a movie. Intimate walks or long drives with no agenda always turn out well. Even grocery shopping can be fun - with the right person.