I've had several personals ad's posted on various sites on the internet. Think about what you want to say before posting an ad. Do you want to be creative, give a description of yourself and what kind of person you're looking for or show your humorous side? Before posting my first ad, I read the ads that others had written and took notes.

The first three are copies of the ad's I've written. At the bottom, I've included two creative, well written ads, posted by men in search of "Ms. Right."

I've read many personal ads and don't feel that listing a series of activities/hobbies gets to the heart of what I deem important. The following are some of my views on what I feel matters in a relationship:

Communication: This is the key to any relationship. I enjoy conversation on all levels � intellectual and personal. I can talk about almost anything and love learning. I want to grow with my partner, exchanging ideas and experiences, sharing thoughts, hopes, dreams, fears and feelings. I want the kind of relationship where I can tell my partner everything and anything. Not that we have to agree on every point of view, it would be boring if we did, but it would be nice knowing that you're willing to listen. Keep the lines of communication open! Even if it's something small, get it out. Little things have a way of festering when ignored.

Sexual practices: Although I'm an avid proponent, there has to be more to a relationship than just raw sex... there has to be romance. I like holding hands, cuddling, staring into each other's eyes, touching, and moonlight walks. Romantic, sensual acts make everything else happen naturally.

Stability: Basically I am a stable person � comfortable with who/what I am, but I try not to get into a rut. There is a lot to be said for being comfortable. I love that feeling, but when a relationship starts to become too predictable/stagnant, I might look for ways to bring back the spark. After all, variety is the spice of life....

Humor: I'm not looking for a comedian, but value a sense of humor. Taking oneself too seriously makes for a very boring person. Laughter is a great way to relieve tension/stress.

I'm looking for a well-rounded man. Intelligent, but not Einstein; stable, but not stagnant; spontaneous, but not erratic. I don't think it's much to ask for. Do you? I'm not perfect and don't expect that you will be either, but I believe that we can always find ways to improve ourselves.

Me? I seldom meet a stranger, almost always wear a smile, prefer activity to being motionless, can pay my own bills, will let you have the last piece of cake, am not afraid to say I'm sorry, will give you your own space, lend an ear... can start the fire, pour the wine and will wear that lacy little teddy, believe in standing beside my partner, not in front of, nor behind, am optimistic, will dry your tears, laugh at your jokes (as long as they're funny), and understand that we're all human.

Fun/Enjoyment: Vacations in the sun, rolling a strike or spare, exchanging thoughts and ideas, sand between my toes, the silver screen, turning the page, sinking the eight ball on the break, expanding my mind, cheering for the Panthers/Red Wings/Braves, landing an arrow or dart in the bull's-eye, titillating my palate (Italian & Mexican), reloading a full magazine, creating a literary work, carrying a tune, exploring new software and exercising my creativity.

You? Stable, mature, somewhat intelligent, and adventurous, with a sense of humor. Being attractive may begin with the physical aspect, but certainly doesn't end there. A winning personality plays a key role in my assessment of 'attractiveness'.

Requirements: Single, white male, 38 - 48, 5' 9" +, with an average/athletic/few extra pounds build. Intelligence and the ability to communicate effectively, a must. Being creative, ambitious, romantic, fairly active and sensitive, a plus.

Do you know the power of magic? Have you longed to feel the romance again? Just look in to my blue eyes, run your fingers throught my brown hair, feel my arms around you as we embrace. Let us walk together holding hands beside the water's edge, watch the moonlight reflect from the water, without speaking, we know what we feel. The warmth, the love, the music of love and the excitement of the moment all rolled into a feeling that is overwhelming. Side by side we stroll as equals, as friends, and as possible lovers. The magic begins with your response and continues till we are both consumed. Re-live the magic, feel what you have missed, take the chance and be happy. You have the power of Magic and the warmth of love is just an email away. Feel like a kid again, recapture the romance and let us begin that beautiful sojourn to love. The magic is real, email and believe.

I am seeking a partner who still has a sense of wonder and joy about the world, but yet is wise in the ways for building relationships. This woman celebrates the differences between men and women and recognizes that both male and female energies bring excitement and mystery to relationship. She knows what it takes to tame her own dragons and dance with her shadow. I want to relate to, and connect with, this special woman on an emotional, spiritual, intellectual and physical level. Mutual respect, honesty, open communication, and no game playing, are important to me. A sense of humor is necessary. When I'm not at work, I enjoy time with friends; listening to jazz, blues, classic rock,Celtic and classical music; going to movies, particularly science fiction and comedy; dining out; creative cooking for 2; watching TV, the Simpsons, X-files, Ally McBeal and Pinky and the Brain; reading; gardening; or just hanging out with my dog and cat. I am making a concentrated effort to be more physically active by walking, exercising, contra dancing and learning to Roller blade. I feel that doing almost anything is better when shared with someone, such as reading the Sunday paper and good coffee; a weekend at a bed and breakfast; cuddling in front of a fireplace watching a video; sharing a bottle of wine; watching the sun set over a pond; taking classes, swing dance or Tai Chi, or anything else you could teach me.