I am a 51-year old widowed mother of one 15-year old son and our two cats - Tika and Gordo  My son helps me out a great deal by doing most of the chores around the house, such as cleaning the oven, cleaning the bathroom (yes, even the toilet!), vacuuming, emptying the garbage cans, changing the kitty litter, doing the grocery shopping, getting the gas for our car, dusting and folding laundry.  He is an awesome support for me. My husband (my son's father) died about two years ago from COPD and schizophrenia.  While our relationship was far from perfect (we lived in our own apartments), we had a fantastic friendship and talked every day - mostly about our son. 

 I work every day (dealing with angry customers) and then I come home to my small family.  After I cook, I generally read women's magazines and go on the Internet to check my e-mails and to go on these sites (forums).  It is so inspiring to read about people who have gone through similar experiences and yet, it can be difficult to read some of the stories.  I often feel the pain of some folks, but on the flip side of that, I feel their joy.  I am not actively looking for a man to be in my life.  I don't want to introduce a potentially scary dynamic into my son's life that could be difficult for him to handle.  I would really get excited about making and meeting new friends - male or female - who just want to read, play games, shoot pool or any other number of activities.  For now, I just live my life from day to day - enjoying my son, playing with my cats and reading magazines, as well as all of your posts.  I only wish I had discovered these forums weeks ago!  Ah well, it is never too late to get started.  And, for now, I want to wish ya'll a pain and worry free day!  Until the next time . . . . .

kay