Although I strongly believe everything happens for a reason and there's always a lesson to be learned, I'm not going to lie...sometimes those "lessons" suck! I've spent most of my life focusing on my education and career while taking care of others. I've recently completed my masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
I have a very small but close family. My dad laughs harder when I jokingly ask him for money rather then telling him a joke(fyi, he never actually gives me money, just laughs at the thought of it) and my mother is often the life of every party. They are hard workers and have given me the strongest respect for what a family should be and how a couple should act, even after 35 years together.
While I believe a good work ethic is important, I think it's important to have hobbies in order to keep you sane. I have finally come to terms with the fact that I am NOT a night owl by any means. I love to work on projects around the house. I love to travel and have my summers off to do just that. I would love to try backpacking around India or Asia at some point. All of my trips overseas have been very scripted and well planned for various purposes including weddings, friendly visits and even a 5 week trip with an auditioned orchestra from the US.
I believe that you don't have to be blood related in order to be considered family. Friends are equally important. Although many of my close friends no longer live in the area, we are always able to pick up as if no time has ever passed. I believe relationships should be built on respect, common interests and friendship, without underestimating the importance of physical attraction.
I always considered myself one of those girls that didn't have a timeline (when I wanted to get married, have kids, etc). Unfortunately, I've dated several individuals where these milestones in life didn't even register. I now realize that I want these things and I need someone who wants what I want or at least has them on their radar.
Likes: artist ability (even minimal), glasses, personal independence, respect for my independence, strong family values, honesty, good conversation skills, sarcasm, goal oriented, level headed
Dislikes: Those who are clingy, co-dependent, and have no life goals of their own. While I appreciate a healthy lifestyle, being obsessed with looks, working out, and/or food is a turn off.
