~My exterior is deceiving, I may look like a middle-aged mom on the outside (mostly- I've got some ink that probably gives me away a bit), but inside beats the heart of a rebellious artist and free-thinker.

~Non-conformity runs deep in my soul. I seem to be compelled to question the status quo. I have no interest in being "normal or typical," I never have been and I want someone who values making your own way in the world.

~My three kids are my heart, but there's an unoccupied chamber available for the right tenant.

~Laughing at the absurd, inane and mundane in life keeps me sane and I often laugh at myself. If you can't laugh at life, it's a tedious trip to the finish line.

~I have a dry, often sarcastic, sometimes dark, somewhat silly sense of humor and enjoy a good wit.

~Honesty, integrity, loyalty, empathy and compassion are very important to me. I will always have your back and I will always be there when you need me.

~I'm an artist and I am passionate about it but I'm not flaky or irrational.

~I am curious, creative and intellectual and I seek a partner who is not intimidated by a woman with confidence in her intelligence and abilities.

~I'm well educated and seek the same. It's not ego or elitism, it's about compatibility. That being said, education comes in many forms.

~The only deity I believe in is the corner brownie- I cannot deny it's divine healing powers. However, I'm respectful of the beliefs of others and expect the same in others.

~I go camping, hiking, swimming, and road tripping whenever I can.

~I love seeing live music and visual art! I like a lot of different genres and can appreciate creative expression even if it's not my taste. I support anyone who puts themselves out there creatively.

~A good conversation is one of the great pleasures in life and I try to really listen when I'm in a conversation with someone.

~I enjoy being quiet too. I tend to like people who don't mind some silence and contemplation.

~The only kind of games I want to play involve cards, boards, or a ball; mind games are a waste of time and energy. I'm honest, sincere, open, direct and I try to be self-aware; I'm looking for the same in friendships and romantic relationships.

~Wanderlust is alive and well in me. I love to travel and want to experience as much of the world as possible!

~I make mistakes; I try to learn from them.

~I remain hopeful in spite of some rather daunting experiences in life. I think it's true that what doesn't you makes you stronger (if you let it.)

~There's no specific set of qualities I'm looking for, but integrity, a sense of humor but knowing when to be serious, liking kids, an ability to be self-deprecating, an open and curious mind, intelligence, embracing your "weirdness" and emotional maturity are all very appealing traits. I'm not perfect and I don't expect you to be.

~I don't believe in soul mates, I believe there are many ways relationships can work. I think the "spark" everyone talks about is overrated, some of us require longer to reveal our true selves. The hardwood that makes the best coals for long-term compatibility is very different from the paper that a spark ignites instantly (but burns up just as quickly.) I'm a complex, passionate, caring, empathetic, reliable person and I want a partner who appreciates that and reciprocates.

~I am VERY tall for a woman, 6'1" to be precise. I'm Amazon warrior kind of tall, not runway model kind of tall. If you are looking for a petite waif (which, frankly, most of you are,) I'm not your girl.

~I am finding it difficult not to start all of these with "I." I'm sure my high school English teacher would be appalled!

Enough about me, what makes your heart race or mind spin?