Here are a few things to know about me:

**I generally like to walk, and tend to walk fast by most people’s standards. Though I appreciate the value of (literally) slowing down, I’m hoping to find someone who inspires me to do so more often.

**I like taking pictures of random things that strike my fancy. It’s my way of recording/remembering the beauty and humor in everyday life.

**I love a good, engaging conversation. Intellectual connection is a must—even if we don’t share the same viewpoint.

**I am on a never-ending quest in search of the best apple (pie) dessert, burger, and slice of pizza—roughly in that order. If you’ve got a contender for any of the three--but *especially* the apple pie--contact me ASAP. =)

**I enjoy the sheer exhaustion felt after a good workout, be it on the treadmill or in a class. I find yoga especially soothing.

**When it comes to cats, the concept of “stranger danger” is lost on me. If I see a cat, I must pet it, or at least attempt to.

**I believe that everything has its place—even if that place is the junk drawer.

**If someone asks me for directions, I will usually stop to help them, even if it takes a while to do so.

**Given the choice between a loud, packed club w/the best dj or dinner and a movie (either out or at home), I’ll take dinner and a movie 7 times out of 10. I like to go out on the town now and then, but generally like low key affairs—movies, walks in the park, recreational activities (rollerskating, bowling), etc. Quality conversation and company can make any activity/night special. =)

Like all too many other people in this country nowadays, I am currently looking for work. Until I land that new job, I'm keeping myself busy by keeping in touch with former students, doing volunteer work, and spending time with family & friends.

I'm pretty good at remembering details--birthdays, where someone went to school--even if they only mention it once. Names take a *little* more effort though. =)

I'm also really good at and enjoy helping/teaching others. I have a fair amount of patience that enables me to work with people and make progress, even when they're struggling.

My smile--not that I flash it to just anyone though. You might have to do a little work to get one out of me. =)

Books: The Awakening, Jane Eyre.

Movies: LA Confidential, Fight Club, Oceans 11, Chocolat, The Bourne trilogy, Blade Trinity. I don't necessarily stick to one genre; I'll watch any movie so long as can keep my interest and/or suspend disbelief/ criticism. If I'm heckling at it within the first 20 minutes, it's no good.
**I must mention my love of Batman: The Animated Series and most other things Batman--save Batman Forever and Batman & Robin--curse Joel Schumacher!!

Music: It'd probably be easier to say what I *don't* listen to--country. I have a little bit of everything in my music collection, but listen to alternative rock (what they now call "classics"--Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, etc), classic rock (Stones, Hendrix, Zeppelin, Bowie), dance/ techno and current hip hop/R&B most often these days.

Food: I've always been something of a picky eater. I'm a big fan of the classics: lasagna, burgers, rice & beans, soul food, etc. As of late, I've been trying to expand my palate and try new cuisine.

*Music is my savior! There's nothing like a good song to set or elevate a mood.

*Sunshine. I find it invigorating!

*Nature in general--flowers, trees, the beach. There's something very calming about laying in the grass and listening to the wind rustle the trees.

*Pen and paper. There's always something to doodle or jot down--an interesting thought, something I need to get or do, etc.

*Sweets. Mmm...(dark)chocolate candies, ice cream, cake--you name it!I don't think I'd last very long anywhere without 'em.

*I love cats, and most other four legged furry people. Though I've lived without a pet before, there's just something about having one that makes a house officially a home.

I spend a lot of time thinking about what I want to do in my life and what steps I need to take to make it happen.

I am usually watching tv/a movie, talking or out with a friend.

I tend to shy away from big crowds, and noisy, crowded spaces. I don't like having to shout to have a conversation with someone less than two feet away from me.

You should message me if you have a good sense of humor and like a good, intelligent conversation. If you consider yourself to be serious, confident and put together when necessary, but have a playful side that you're looking to share with someone, then we should talk. I'm interested in meeting people, and seeing where things go.

**Animal (especially cat) lovers are a big plus!!**