What day is it? Oh yeah, it's Friday. I've been off all week, and nursing a cold the past couple days. Almost like my body told itself that it's time to rest! And I agree... Winter is about recharging, community, and preparing for the year ahead. It's also a time for reflection.

What happened during your 2023? Momentous or not? I'll throw a few tidbits below:

- I bought my first new car and installed some awesome upgrades (a 2022 WRX, pics here)
- I went back to therapy, woot!
- I had a heart to heart with my mom about the past, and got to connect with blood family a bunch.
- I closed on a house in November.
- I received recognition from my boss and coworkers for covering everything my coworker was incapable of and then some.
- I built a family of friends up here in Oregon with my friend's family, and have enjoyed the process.
- Discovered my friend's nephew's girlfriend went to the same elementary school at the same time that I did (1,000 miles from where we currently live, no less).

With all that said, and all that awesomeness, why would I want or need a partner? Material success, emotional evolution, I already have companionship, what's left? Especially seeing that I don't want kids at the moment, what can I offer to a partner, and what can they offer me?

- Well first off, cuddles, snuggling, hugging, etc. are all awesome bonuses. I don't often get to use my love language of Physical touch, and would love to put it to good use (receiving is nice as well).
- The tax benefits are pretty stellar as well. And with inflation / *vaguely gestures at everything*, having someone in it for the long haul makes the dreary days less dreary.
- Having someone to drive to the coast with on a whim, go stay in a cabin for the weekend, just adventure in general, is a big perk to me.
- Having someone to share the joys and trials of life with is high on my list as well.

Apparently I enjoy bullets, maybe you do as well. I can be bougie one day, and beers around a campfire the next. Not a big fan of going into the big city, but willing to do it for the right event / occasion.

At the end of the day, I'm looking to saddle up with someone for the remaining adventures of life, while being able to take solace and rest in them, and have them be able to take the same in me. I've lived a few different lives, hit a few different highs, and a few snags. Just looking for someone to rest with, love with, and adventure with.

Here are some photos of me. The last photo is from 2016 when I was a big backpacking nerd before my ankle injury. Feel free to chat, DM, etc. if you'd like to get to know me more. I'm open to Discord, and really to enjoy voice chats. I'd prefer someone in the US, but willing to put in the work for a special spark anywhere.

Happy Holidays and take care!