I have no plans on getting married or having more children, so if this is your agenda, don't consider this a challenge: please just move on and don't waste our time.
I am a divorced woman, mother, and employed. I have a good career that in this economy, I highly regard. I do not consider my place of employ a viable dating pool as I do enjoy my job and will continue to do so without the complications of nepotism. Therefore personal ads appeals to me as a quick and very concise medium for discovering potential partners. I have found many interesting and attractive men in cyberspace, just not the "right" one. Yet. I'm far from perfect: packing some excess padding at this moment, as an oldest child and head of household for three decades; I am sometimes a bit assertive and controlling as to how I do things. Something of a challenge to men whose masculinity depends on being the alpha in a relationship. I also come accross as indifferent or cold when I percieve my vunerabilities previously shared will be a target.
Despite those traits, men are attracted to my interior and exterior, having being called beautiful, vixen, articulate,irresistible, engaging, fun, goofy, athletic, strong, confident, beautiful, sweet, caring, passionate, imaginative, sexy, remarkable, etc... by even my male co-workers. I have also heard this phrase: "I love independent women!" but it eventually evolves into "You don't NEED me for anything." If you know anything about strong confident women you'll understand the diference is choice. Just like anyone I respond negatively to ultimatums.
I also enjoy the water and activities around it, something in this arid valley I constantly seek out. I get to the coast far too seldom! Hiking, camping, fishing, frisbee, catch, gardening, hard-work induced sweat are other things I like. I enjoy movie nights, in or out. Homemade meals, outdoor bbqs and the smell of bacon and coffee in the morning ;) I like HGTV and discovery channels, movie hopping and dry aged steaks. Always on the lookout for the best mexican food. I do like live music, from loud rock concerts to the quiet piano lounge. What was the last "concert" you attended? What CD is in your car player right now?
ABOUT YOU I want and need a partner who can share my life, my family and who can endure the "weather" of being a loving couple. I don't care about the superficial compliments, I enjoy mindful wit, considerate friendship and deep committed passion. I am unyeilding and particular about the triggers that turn me off: Insults, guilt throwing, smoking, drug use, impatience, conciet, deception and indignance are the primary characteristics I avoid. I love the one liners I get from those who don't know me, insinuating I'm single because of this reason or that, but the bottom line is all my exes regret they did not do more to keep me...yes I have references.
I prefer STATURE over status, deep soulful eyes, natural male characteristics (ie.: please don't be a guy who waxes or shaves body hair, if I wanted hairless baby smooth skin, I'd be dating women) So please, whatever "male attributes" you have ie: more hair, less hair, etc...know there is a woman (not a silly grossed-out girl) who does appreciate it. Please have a sense of humor, a dedication to family and friends, good work ethic no matter what your profession. I also prefer a man who doesn't have a short fuse, i know there are many annoyances, but ability to pick worthy battles is very important.
Gentlemen; I have applied communiation restrictions on my account based on my preferences, such as location, age, etc..Unfortunately no height restrictions, but please be considerate of my preference for a taller man. I don't want to waste your time if you do not fit my criteria. Thank you for your consideration.
I expect you will be interesting enough to capture my attention in one email.

First date will always be short, kind of a pre-date interview to see if all the online stuff was real and if there is any spark. It may be a challenge getting it together the first time, but be patient! If we feel the chemistry, "whoohoo" some quantity time getting acquainted needs to occur -- otherwise moving on.