Date men from United States / California / Winnetka, 45 year old

Date a man from United States. One popular definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” I’m not insane (yes, I encourage you to make that determination yourself), so I’m going to make the leap and apply that definition to online dating. Although I’ve dabbled in cyber-dating in the past and met some nice people, I’ve generally grown disinterested (or disillusioned) with the process during the trial period and made a quick exit. Being commitment-oriented, it’s time to commit, so I’m here for as long as it takes (or at least three months…whichever comes first).
Since you’ve made it past a glance at my photos, there are a few things you should know: I'm a nice, honest guy with assertive, independent tendencies. Mothers, fathers and pets like me (not just my own!). I believe in honor, integrity and respect, and would be lost without them. Speaking of pets, my loyalty is said to rival that of the family dog. Although I'm generally easy-going, I can be strong-willed. A soft touch and a warm smile work wonders in getting around that. I'm proud to say that my grandparents were married over 75 years and my parents have surpassed 50, so my commitment compass defaults to true north. I'm told that my moral compass is similarly calibrated.
If I’ve sent you an e-mail (I don’t wink), you know that I left cut-and-paste on the cutting room floor. I thoroughly read your profile (probably more than once) and was attracted to more than your photos. Physical attraction is important in developing a relationship, but I crave substance (substance: intelligence, character, integrity and humor). I’m in it for the long-haul, so model looks and the body of a 22 year-old only go so far.
I'm health-conscious and exercise regularly. I won’t be competing in an Ironman anytime soon, but my last Wii Fit age indicated that, with a little work, 40 could actually be the new 30. Given a choice, I'll leave the car parked and use my own two feet. I grew up and spend my days in the concrete jungle, so I'm grateful when I have an opportunity to hike or kayak or just get out in a different environment.
I love my job and am very fortunate to work around music, which pervades my life. I work with a great group of people and have a strong relationship with my team, because they know through experience that I have their backs, just as I'll have yours.
I use turn indicators, wear eye protection around power tools, recycle, floss regularly and leave the seat down, so I come fairly well-trained (although a little in-service training never hurts). I believe in making a difference, however small. I’ve had the honor of being one of the guys who runs in when the smart people are running out, so you can expect me to be there in a crisis.
A romantic optimist, I've run with scissors, played with fire and stayed in the kitchen longer than I should have in relationships, but I have no regrets. Those experiences have taught me what I'm looking for in a partner, and how to be a better one.
My upbringing taught me chivalry, so it's meant as a sign of respect and affection when I pull out a chair for you or open a door. I’ve also learned when to apologize, and that discretion is, in fact, sometimes the better part of valor. I'll do my best to be your strongest advocate and, when necessary, your gentlest critic. I want to be with someone who will do the same for me. More importantly, I know that nothing you wear could EVER make you look fat!
If you’ve made it to the bottom of this narrative, you’re probably either breathing a (huge) sigh of relief or enthusiastically composing a message/reply to me. If the latter is true, I truly appreciate your effort, and rest-assured that I’m saving a (or, hopefully, the last) dance for you…