I want a balanced life. I did a lot of soul searching recently and realized I no longer want to be alone. I had a really horrific relationship in the past and have done a lot to "protect" myself from being hurt again (including gaining a ton of weight so I wouldn't be attractive to my stalking ex). Only recently did I remember the conscious thought years ago to make myself unattractive. I also realized after graduating college - finally after many years of going to school at night - that I used school as an excuse for being too "busy" to date. Well, I finished school and realized I didn't have that excuse to respond to the question of if I was dating anyone. That is exactly when I realized that lack of time was just an excuse. Now there is a person I would love to be in a relationship with. We are friends but I would like it to be so much more. I don't know if it is possible and it is even limited time wise because he is in the US on a temporary (but long term - it has already been almost 2 years) work visa. Even if I don't end up in a deeper relationship with him, he has made me realize that I am capable of wanting a relationship again and that I can trust someone again.

 1. Working with a great group of people. 2. Work that is challenging - but not only because of time constraints. 3. Having the ability to contribute and offer opinions to people who actually listen. 4. Pays enough for me to live comfortably. 5. An employer who appreciates my efforts. 6. Working with intelligent people.

 I have to list 2 here can't choose between them: 1. Tiger 2. Penguin

 Tiger - big and strong, powerful, yet beautiful. Penguin - they're just so silly looking - they make me smile whenever I see them.

 Cats - although I am allergic.

 Cats are very intelligent animals. They are very specific about which people they like and, if they don't like you they will not go near you. They're true to themselves in that respect. If they are happy they let you know it through their purring. When a cat loves and trusts you they are very open (for lack of a better term) with you and will and display full trust by doing things like sleeping on your lap.

 Lobster Grilled asparagus Pasta And Roy's (see roysrestaurant.com) chocolate souffle and of course a cup of cappucino with dessert

 The meal speaks for itself - it is a combination of wonderful treats.