My friends would tell you that I am sincere, open-minded, and caring. I like to be engaged in interesting conversations and to learn from the experiences and perspectives of those around me. I have a sense of humor and like to laugh. I love to be by the water, be it walking, riding the waves, swimming, sailing, canoeing, etc. I'd love to try whitewater rafting. When I have time, I like to read, go to museums and visit other interesting or peaceful places, including parks. Perhaps my favorite pastime is traveling; I have visited at least 30 states and 12 countries. I am very fond of taking pictures, especially when I travel.

I like to sing in groups and to go to concerts and plays. I tend not to watch TV. I love swing dancing. As a kid, I used to read all the time, and I wanted to become a writer. I still like to choose my words carefully and play Scrabble. I also used to play softball and basketball, but now the kid in me wants to find a kickball league to join. One of the characteristics my friends tend to share is that they want to make a difference, in a variety of different ways (aren't I lucky?). Finally, I am very fond of baking sweets to share, particularly chocolate raspberry bars with almonds. I'm looking for good company and good conversation.

I recently got my dream job, in the marine policy field! And I seem to have an awesome set of colleagues to work with. I feel so fortunate!

I look younger than I am? One of these years I'll come to appreciate it, but so far I think of it as something that tends to translate into less respect at various workplaces where I've worked temporarily (and hence often been new).

(A) Last Chance to See, by Douglas Adams; The Hero and the Crown, by Robin McKinley; Short Stories by Mark Twain and others; and Walden and On Civil Disobedience, by Henry David Thoreau. (B) The Princess Bride, The Philadelphia Story, Buster Keaton movies (C) Anything I can sing along with (if I'm alone or with good friends only, I promise!). My favorite artist is Katie Melua. (D) Chocolate and raspberries (especially together), and exotic mushrooms. Vegetarian mock chicken is pretty good too.

My friends and family, chocolate, books, backrubs, the Earth and the ocean. Well, I could do without the first four for limited periods of time, but I'd rather not. I _can_ live without a car, which is really nice.

Watching the sunset, whenever possible. Preferably going out to dinner, cooking with friends, going out to a happy hour, or listening to live music when it's available.

I'm allergic to cats and strongly scented, perfumed products can set off my asthma or a headache. It's very inconvenient!

If you are interested in finding out more about me and think we might be a good match, I'd love to hear from you! I am looking for dating prospects in the DC metro area, not pen pals or casual sex. My hobbies include listening to live music, theater, museums, swing dancing, and going to beaches (and to other waterfronts), so those interested in activity partners for those types of things are welcome to contact me, as well. In general, I like people who are genuine and who care about making the world a better place. I hope to hear from you.