Let’s outline the typical dealbreakers first so we don’t waste each other’s time. I am liberal as can be, not religious or spiritual, and if you don’t have similar views we would not be a good match. At this point I do not want kids, if you have one, maybe two tops, that might be workable.

I am single, never married, no kids. Monogamous only.

I would prefer someone in Michigan but that’s probably a tough sell these days. I am on the eastern side of the state by the thumb. If you’re not in Michigan but think we’re a good fit, reach out anyway. I will warn that if you're not in Michigan it would still be best if you're eastern or central timezone. I tend to goto bed earlier than many (9:30-10PM) and wake up early (6AM) and I've found that usually this causes issues with other time zones and we end up missing each other on both ends of the day.

Adopter of strays. I have two cats that I brought in from outside. They’re idiots and can’t get along but they’re my idiots that can’t get along.

I am looking for a deeper connection with real conversation. So many of these posts say virtually nothing and to me that’s disappointing. I want to know someone, not just small talk our time away. I don’t expect a post to say it all but it would be good to know if someone at least vaguely fits what I am interested in. Does anyone else feel the same way? There feels like no effort from most people in their posts.

I am looking for a friend first. If we are a good match, more would be great. I want someone that can be beside me, not behind or ahead. Next to me please. Someone whose wins in life can be celebrated together. Someone that doesn’t see a fight as something between us but instead a fight between us and the problem as we find a solution.

My hobbies rotate but some interests include continual learning. I love reading and have several books in progress right now. I am really enjoying Nettle & Bone by T Kingfisher, which will probably be finished this afternoon. I’m also diving into several books on mental health and stoicism as I prepare for the next 4 years.

Minimalism. I am trying to remove a lot from my life right now. Removing the chaos, time wasting services and scrolling. Simplifying as I seek less noise and more signal. I use paper and pen, a normal watch, and prefer reading physical books as examples.

I play guitar, not well, but it’s enjoyable so I keep at it. Music is an amazing thing and while I don’t listen as much as I used to I still love when I find a new artist that just puts me back in a place in my past somehow.

I stay active. Typically with rowing or running. Walks, hikes, and body weight workouts get thrown in throughout the year. I’d love if I could find someone also interested in keeping active and moving. I’ve had to take a break from fitness for a couple months due to a health issue so someone that motivates me would fit right in.

I am more a homebody. To me, relaxing with a friend and/or a book is preferable over constantly being on the move. Travel stresses me out.

If any of this sounds interesting tell me about what you’ve read recently that has changed your mindset on something, strengthened you, or given you a new perspective. Or a song that you discovered that puts you back to when you were younger. Or about a major milestone in your fitness like running personal best.

Chat is preferred. Please say more than hi there. Conversation is a two way street, just saying “hi there” is basically admitting your lane is closed for construction.