[Tink]

Judy, I have really missed you on the site. While I love the younger ladies here, for me it's such a treat to have women more my own age to talk with! I spent years working on a parenting site so most of the online friends I made are in their 20's and 30's and at totally different stages of life than I am. Finding you, Janet, and DianaB posting here has meant so much to me! I just wish we all lived close enough to actually get together and visit in person. I know I'd have a ball.

I used to be on anti-depressants and still struggled to enjoy my life. So I can relate to where you're at. It's a lonely cold place that no one should have to be in. What helped me was to finally take control of my own life. I pray you can do the same.
The Serenity prayer helped me...
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change, (your daughter being married to an abusive butthead certainly fits in this category)
the courage to change the things I can, (If you want a partner, by all means go out and find one! You're beautiful, loving, fun and smart! Any man would be lucky to find you!)
and the wisdom to know the difference. (Which I trust you already have)
Even if you're not a "religious" person, there is wisdom to be found in it.

What did you enjoy doing prior to having kids and responsibilities? Any hobby, or causes you'd like to return to? I know my going back into breeding dogs has really increased my daily smiles. I bet there's something you'd enjoy too that you gave up due to lack of time and freedom that you could enjoy again.

If you want to look for a partner, go to the places you'd like one to go to WITH you... and hopefully he will be there alone wishing he had someone to share the experience with too. Don't discount a younger man... I dare say you could keep up with one just fine and he'd be at your side longer than if you choose someone older.

You SO deserve to be happy. The hard part is getting off your butt and out the door to make it happen. HUGS