Looking for better love: I'm a quiet reader who loves a nice bike ride and fun conversation

Gender: Male

Age: 74

Looking for: A long-term monogamous relationship with a woman.

I’m a quiet kind of person. I enjoy coffee with friends (or by myself). I can go dancing or simply enjoy a game of solitaire. I’m interested in a wide variety of subjects, from political and economic systems to advertising and cooking. I’m a good listener and enjoy conversation about pretty much any subject other than sports.

I worked in a variety of non-professional fields, although I have a degree in computer science, which I liked very much. My career was not so glamorous. I was drawn back into playing chess after many years, and I also enjoy playing card games. Currently, I’ve been playing bid euchre. I’m also interested in playing the stock market. I tend to have a new theory of what works best about every six months.

I enjoy reading fiction, especially historical fiction, and non-fiction. When I watch movies, I tend toward the dramas, with a very light sprinkling of rom-coms.

Exercise-wise, I go for bike rides almost daily, especially in wooded paths along creeks.

I’m an easygoing person — I smile a lot. I’m pessimistic about where this climate crisis is leading us, but I carry on as if tomorrow will bring another wonderful sunny day.

My dating history

I’m divorced with two adult children.

I date occasionally, usually meeting folks via social media or on dating apps. I love the possibility of a new relationship; even if it doesn’t work out, I always enjoy meeting new people. Love is the ultimate high, after all.

What I’m looking for in a relationship

I see partnership as a relationship of equals, of people who are good friends, not just lovers.

I’d love someone with varied interests, even if they’re different from mine. I like a person who can carry on a good conversation. No matter your interests, I’m sure we’ll find something to talk about — even sports!

I don’t have the travel bug, but I don’t mind joining you to go somewhere interesting. One thing I haven’t done that I’d like to do is travel by train across Canada. I’d love to quietly enjoy some beautiful scenery together.

I’m also keen to find someone to come to the movies and the theatre, and go out for a meal together. It could be simply breakfast or a dish one of us creates — or maybe we can cook together. I’d also love a picnic at Centre Island; the ferry ride to the Toronto Islands alone is worth it.

I prefer a patient partner who leans more optimist rather than a constant complainer. I want someone interested and involved.

I enjoy my independence and have had long-distance partners in the past, but I’m open to living with somebody again.

My only real dealbreaker is smoking.

Why I’m doing it this way

I don’t want to live in the past — I’m excited for the future, and hope to make a connection with a wonderful human being who reads the Toronto Star, too. Could it be you?

Lightning round with Alfonso

What was the last fun outing that you had?

I had a lovely chicken bucket picnic in the park.

What are you most afraid of?

Incurable pain.

What is your favourite food?

I tend to lean toward Italian food (surprise, surprise). Pasta dishes are what comes to mind first. And maybe ribs and pizza.