I'd like to do something simple, like a casual meal followed by a walk in a scenic area. It's important to have fun and be relaxed while we're getting acquainted. I'm not impressed by having a lot of money spent on me. Sincerity and a sense of humor will get you a second date.

Pay attention to these time-tested adages: "Know thyself" and "Knowledge is power." Take the time to know yourself as intimately and honestly as you can. Be sure you know the difference between what you NEED and what you WANT. Become the person you are hoping to find. Keep learning about yourself and about human nature. Simply enjoying someone's company is not enough to sustain a long-term relationship.

Adventism is the faith that has nurtured and sustained me all my life. It is not perfect, but I love my church and what it has taught me and the many opportunities it has given me. Being an SDA means that I can always find someone who knows someone I know, somewhere in the world. Being an SDA means I have fully participated in its education system, served it, worked within it, and claimed ownership in it. It has pleased me, disappointed me, and challenged me. If you had to put a label on me, I'd be a progressive Adventist. But please don't label me; we are all in this together and all have the good of our church and its members at heart.

I hope to continue and expand my involvement in volunteerism to help my fellow man. I will take good care of myself, as there is no "going back." I will listen more to God's nudges. I will continue to help my special-needs son become as independent as possible. If God brings someone special into my life, I'll do all in my power to have a healthy and successful relationship.

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:2, 3. This is the promise I claim daily. The Lord HAS been with me through great trials, just as He promised.

I hope you'll look past the number of my years and be willing to take a risk on the caring, fun-loving young woman in me. "Older" women still have it going on, you know! I'm not looking for someone to complete me or to fix me or to support me. However, I am -- just like you -- looking for a connection that may someday grow into love.