So yes, you might randomly notice me on the street (I do clean up well). Maybe a passing glance at my unexpectedly intense hazel-greenish eyes; a curious look as I distractedly stop suddenly to thoughtfully look a colorful splotch of melted ice-cream on the sidewalk; or a surreptitious look at my remarkably well-shaped jogger's rear as I hop off my bike. Yes, you might notice me, if you're the observant type, but you might not. Often, in my confidence of my own personality, I fade and blend. I don't often make a scene, and I'm under the impression that the hoi poloi don't necessarily notice when I walk into a room. That's fine, it's not in my nature to swagger or be be boisterously extroverted, and I (for one) have put behind the subtle societal pressures of the cultural expectations to be loud when I don't feel like it, or to chatter when I have little of importance to say. (Though, when nervous or excited, I can babble on a bit. Charmingly so, I hope.)
By self definition, I am an extremely patient, an intellectual in interests, and an introspective/self-aware person. I'm supportive and criticized by my friends and family, admittedly so, too self-deprecating. Again, this is difficult in the 'dating' scene, as who wants to blab about oneself? Yes, countless folks out there of all persuasions (shy or otherwise) but it's hard to do. It feels like a waste of time to say I'm a great person to know, when it's easier to show that facts through actions.
This isn't to say I don't ramble when either comfortable or nervous (the type of train-of-thought way my mind works can start by talking about monarch butterfly migration and end up speaking of neuroplasticity) with it not always being clear to the listener which was the motivating factor of the babbling.
In general, when it comes to conversations tangents are intriguing and I like hearing others' thoughts connect and disconnect over time.
I've been a secure and, in general, good significant other. At this point in my life I've learned lessons and know very much of what I want in a relationship. How that desire will materialize itself is up for grabs! No, perfection isn't necessary, just a mutual recognition of the journey.
As for some of the details: Eclectics, the curious, and people who are non-dogmatic are very appealing (hopefully I am all of these things myself). I look at my life in a balanced way: I exercise, I work, I play, I have time for myself, I spend time with my extended family, I have close friends that I care very much about. But, and this is always an issue with dating, I have private passionate side that I need to bring out more often. While reserved I, once comfortable, am more touchy-feely than my 15-year-old-"girls are so amazing, and terrifying, at the same time!"-self would possibly believe is possible. I live very much in my head, but I am aware of the physical and it is an important area in any romantic relationship. Yes, that is a roundabout way of acknowledging that, on each of our levels, people can be "perfect" in many ways for each other but if one area or another, including the intimate, is missing then the relationship can only go so far.
I'm a good conversationalist if the other person can hold up her end, but I'm innately a shy guy. Educationally I have a Master's Degree in Journalism, and a secular science upbringing. I have an inquisitive, investigative spirit, which combines my musical/artistic interests with my haphazard scientific studies. I will continue to be an academic nerd as I like keeping my brain busy. Taking a class in bioethics right now and am greatly enjoying the challenges.
Fancy car? Nope, but I have two vehicles (three if you count my bike, which I use to commute to work with) and can help you move. Huge home? Nope, just a convenient apartment that fits my needs and has enough room for my pool table. Makes butt-loads of cash? Nope, but make enough to get by and save some; and, more importantly, I don't hate my job. Fancy clothes? Some, but I'm not fashion conscious. Sometimes I miss-match, other times I'm dress-to-a-T. I do own a three-piece tuxedo and can clean-up as nobody's business...but most of the time I'm just not concerned about my looks in a vain-leaning manner. All this isn't that I don't strive for more (a better paying job, a home of my own, a more consistent wardrobe) it's just that what I find more important are the basics. If you're caught up on a man who's overly distracted by the trappings rather than the substance, then I might be frustrating to you sometimes.
The type of woman I'm attracted to is intelligent, comfortable with herself, strong-willed, forgiving, and mentally flexible. My interests include all sciences, Sci-fi, Nature, Travel, Hiking, Books, Current Events, Classical Music, Biology and pretty much anything. I have an odd, quirky sense of humor, often amusing myself more often than others. Heh. Basically I like people that are curious and always learning. Being non-religious and having liberal politics are musts.
And finally...I'm a sucker for a woman in pin-striped pants. Oh, and gummy bears. Yum!