Mike Witte

Yes

First: Life is good. I've been blessed with a simply amazing family; my wife Barb and daughters Kate and Emily are the beacons in my life. I have a son-in-law (Justin) who, likewise, is a joy to be around and who adds his light to Kate's. We love to laugh, and are always ready to.

Second: We like birds, wildflowers, mushrooms, snow. Sun and warm is just fine, too. We've lived in Columbus (~20 yrs), outside Portland, Oregon for 2 and are now back in northeast Ohio (Geauga Cty) for the past 16.

I enjoy playing guitar, mandolin, and singing. Bluegrass, folk, off-the-wall stuff; all are fun.

Here's the soapbox part: I'm a political moderate with a general tendency toward conservatism. I am a believer in environmental stewardship, sensible consumption, and thoughtful choosing of foods. I like farmer's markets when they're in season. I like locally produced meats. I buy cable TV service with zero premium channels...more for internet connectivity than for TV. We all like watching birds, wildflowers and wild critters...even deer, though there are WAY too many for the ecology to support them and keep them healthy. Culling herds is a good thing. We had a bear in the back yard in 2006.

I believe nothing is as immediately nurturing as is laughter; it is the finest of seasonings in daily life. We don’t dodge serious discussion either. I believe we are all teachers and students. One of life's great mysteries is that we seldom know which we are unless we give conscious thought to what we say and what we hear before we do both. I am a Christian with a faith that points me forward to what's next rather than looking back, arguing about what's already behind. Hearts are for touching and healing, not for pounding into pre-determined shapes and forms.

No matter what else, my day is always improved with a relaxed breakfast, coffee and newspaper. If I don't have time for that, I need to rearrange my priorities.

OK, that's the soapbox part, and a snapshot of who I am. Even if we had no connection during high school, and I was a very low-profile kid, please know I'm interested in your story as well.

Smiles to you,
Mike