Date men from United States / California / El Sobrante, 53 year old

Date a soulmate from El Sobrante, United States. I am a chronic underdog. I like to upset the status quo and beat the favorite. (Lord knows what would happened if I *became* the favorite!) I am unpretentious and, according to one ex, the least self-conscious man she has met. I have also been described as having a very big heart. Repeatedly.
Some people sink into a routine (rut) as their life proceeds. I seem to be the opposite. Everything in my life can fit in the back of my car. I have become more curious in the last decade. I devour history and science books. My travel bug has strengthened significantly. I composed the travel wish list (elsewhere on my profile) about six months ago.
I am loyal, committed and reliable. I choose my words carefully and try to mean them exactly. I am an extremely diligent father. I'm generally not that much for parties. I have retired from drinking alcoholic beverages and I have a vocal cord problem that keeps my voice decibel level down. I am happiest in a group from one to eight people.
I love to tell stories. I think my interest in the world actually makes *me* more interesting. I am gifted with great health and feel good most of the time. It shows.
You are trim and active, maybe athletic. You live in today, not the future or the past. You can write, and sometimes do. You understand humility and are not afraid to admit being wrong. I will try to do the same.
I have gravitated toward long-term monogamous relationships but I don't measure anyone out for a lifetime of unified bliss . . . at least, not on the first date. I do seek two core things:
~ A partner-in-crime; adventures, romance and relaxation
~ Someone who will have my back. I will have hers.
I am enormously loyal to my core family and will pass through a hail of bullets for my loved ones. That could ultimately include you and yours. Let's leave the hail of bullets metaphor in the distant future and concentrate on history, science, travel, romance, strenuous activity outdoors with the occasional slightly scary adventure.