I’m an extroverted introvert from, ah, let’s face it, low life on the high plains. Seeking if not fame and fortune then at least distraction in the sunshine, I long ago came west to Los Angeles where I’ve unexpectedly discovered something better—a place where I could be myself. In fact, it’s been in L.A. where I’ve found unlikely redemption and authenticity and success. Manifest destiny manifested happiness. The irony is not lost on me, and it fills me with optimism. I mean, if integrity and good humor and good friends can be found in Hollywoodland, it must follow that romance can be found on the internets, right?

Presently, I’m writing a somewhat pretentious self-summary on my OK Cupid profile…

I’m the guy who strangers approach and just start talking to. Sometimes people will even approach and NOT speak. Recently on a flight a woman sitting next to me wordlessly took my hand and gripped it tight as we took off. After we were in the air, she shyly looked over and gave a little nod. That was it.

Books: I majored in English literature 100 years ago but despite my annual New Year’s resolution to read more novels, I find these days I’m much more likely to be reading professional journals or blogs or internet news sites or that sort of thing. The last two books I read were The Moviegoer by Walker Percy and In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick.

Movies: I’m a bit of a movie snob and love a good Criterion commentary on a random Buñuel film or something like that. (BTW, if you work for Criterion, please find a way to do up more Altman films. Most of the cast of Nashville, say, is still with us!)

Shows and music: When it’s special, live theater can be transporting, but given the choice I’d prefer live music. Recent and upcoming concerts include John Grant, James Blake, Grizzly Bear and Vampire Weekend.

For food, I’m a big supporter of the farm to table movement. I love to savor great food!

--Travel plans
--Peaches
--Goofy dogs
--Listerine Mint Strips
--Thunderstorms
--Bob Dylan records

…how much better off I might be if I didn’t spend so much time thinking.

I used to spend many of them hanging with my beagle. Old girl went to dog heaven this summer. I miss her and her smelly farts and ornery behavior.

I like to slip into conversations that I ride my bike to work. It makes me sound sporty, environmentally correct and like an all around good person. The truth is it takes me about 10 minutes on a flat path and I save $200 a month in parking.

You aren’t looking for someone to complete you but you are looking for someone to complement you; You have a passing knowledge of the concepts of humility and compassion; You are ready for something more.