Remember, this is a self-description; nothing objective. So I will unzip my fly, just a little.
I was born 1945, bred and educated in Chicago. I have been married to the love of my life since 1971. Together we used to own, run and work in a small award-winning cafe in Ireland, as such we have achieved a tiny bit of fame. We currently own, run and work in a VERY small award-winning bakery specializing in artisan breads and sweets.
In the cafe, I worked more than 60 hours a week. You could say I was the business; if I went down for an extended period, we'd have to take extraordinary measures or the business would fail. With the bakery, my helper could carry the load alone for a while.
I am still struggling to adjust to a foreign land. (Ireland's fine but it ain't home; Chicago's home, but it ain't mine no more. Apologies to Neil Diamond). Even after 18 years, I'm still trying to figure out Ireland.
I began this post thinking that I am just a typical guy -- average height, below average looks, overweight, typical male-pattern baldness. Then I realized I'm creating my own blog. In the last 4 years I've had 4 surgeries, got my ear re-pierced (first done at age 50), learned how to text and send photos, opened two social network pages (even with a lot of help, I'm still a techno dummy) and invented two new cookies and a chocolate granola bar, opened a new business, developed the brookie (a brownie covered cookie) and the mookie (milky way bar baked into a chocolate chip cookie) and a couple of new breads. Ain't dead yet I guess.
I think I have a pretty good sense of humor, although warped. I think sardonic might describe it. A mix of sarcasm and irony. I like it that way. Love a good laugh, especially if it's at my expense. Be warned, there will be no "lol's" on my blog. On Twitter and Facebook, I have to include lol, because people have been misunderstanding me. They sometimes think my jokes are meant seriously.
Although my wife might see it differently, I think I'm a good listener. I tell the truth, at least as I see it. If I say to you I believe something to be true, you can be sure I do. I won't offer an opinion on something important unless asked, and I am very reluctant to give advice. I do my best to be the best. At the risk of being labeled a braggart, I'm a credible chef, an excellent cook and a fine baker. Former careers include secondary school teacher, supervisor at senior citizen dining sites, business and personal development consultant, school administrator, chef.. I have a B.S in Psychology, M.A. Geography, 30 graduate hours in clinical psychology, A.A.S. Culinary Arts.
More personally, I'm not a very good son or brother. I might be a better than average husband, but just barely.
I may be one of the few men who look a woman in the eye, when we first meet. For me, the eyes tell all. If I see interest or life in her eyes. then I might speak. I find women more interesting than men, don't know why. Do know it has nothing to do with sexual attraction.
My favorite songs are Slow Hand--Pointer Sisters, Like to Get to Know You--Spanky and Our Gang, Lady in Red--Chris Deburgh (this one make me cry), Better Place to Be--Harry Chapin (also makes me cry), I Want To Learn a Love Song--Harry Chapin (yes, I cry with this one too). I think my number one favorite song in Scotch and Soda--Kingston Trio. Don't cry with this one, but it just says it all.
In 2016, Ruth died. Even typing it is hard. Before, I could not imagine this must emotional pain. For 45 years we were lovers, partners, best friends. I know she's in a better place unhurt and no pain. See you later my friend.
So now I'm trying to fashion a new life. I'm retired, but looking into part-time work to help me re-fashion. Been through 2 jobs already. Looked into one volunteer group...naaah!
