Date women from United States / Alabama / Oxford, 55 year old

Date someone special from Oxford, United States. Hmmm...something about me. I'm always smiling and happy. I love to laugh and have fun, but I have my serious side as well and know how to find a healthy balance between the two. I can usually find something good in just about every situation. I enjoy doing little things that make other people smile...a kind word, a little hug, an encouraging note.
I guess you could say I am the creative type. I am a classically trained pianist and have played since I was a little girl. I constantly sing and hum and like pretty much all kinds of music (except RAP!!). I also paint in oils, acrylics and watercolors. I love bright colors - reds and blues are my favorites. I read all books by Stephen King, Dean Koontz and James Patterson, but like a lot of different authors.
I've lived in the South my entire life and I love it! I've travelled a good bit with my job and also just on vacation. My plans are to one day visit the U.S. states I haven't travelled to just to see what I can see. Who knows where else, but I intend to experience as much of life as I can. I am constantly looking for new things to learn and experience and absolutely love to go on a good adventure. Pretty sure I won't try sky-diving.
The first thing I notice about a man is his smile, the kind of smile you see in his eyes. I also think respect and honesty is very important in a relationship. I don't like drama or playing games with people's feelings and don't have the patience for it. Open and honest communication is important to me. If you don't like something I do or say, just come talk to me about it.
Guess I should tell you that I am a hopeless romantic!! I love cuddling, holding hands, kissing and hugging, talking, and just enjoying time together. I want a companion that enjoys not only going on those great adventures, but also enjoys the quiet times at home spent together. Things like snuggling on the couch watching a good movie or counting the stars from the back deck.
I'm well educated and proud of the fact that I have advanced in my job. My job is fun (most days), demanding and rewarding. I like it because it challenges me to always do my best. But, I also know there is more to life than work and manage to find that balance. I enjoy the interaction with the people I work with, but there is so much to see and experience in this world and I am looking forward to having the time to create new memories.
So, enough about me. I'm interested in you. Care to share?