You’re Dating Again, Now What? Part One

Not all single parents date. As a matter of fact, I would hazard to guess that many of us take a break at least once in a while and it might even take several months or a year or more after a major break-up (or death, divorce, etc.) before many of us are ready to entertain the thought of going out on a date. Once you make up your mind to get back in the game, it is only just the beginning… It can look so easy on ads for internet dating sites—one simply throws her hat in the ring … Continue reading

Alternatives to Hysterectomy

Each year, approximately six hundred thousand women undergo surgery to remove the uterus — a hysterectomy. For many women with menstrual difficulties, hysterectomy seems like the best (or only) option. However, a study from UCLA found that nearly seventy percent of women could have been treated with non-surgical means — with equally positive results. In some cases — uterine cancer, for example — a hysterectomy is the best option. In other cases, you may want to investigate non-surgical alternatives. If you have heavy, painful periods but may want to become pregnant in the future, talk to your doctor about hormone … Continue reading

Maybe I Really Am Unmateable?

I have written occasionally here in the Single Parents Blog about my own experiences with dating and definitely about my journey as a single parent. I date, I have dated, and I have had one heartbreaking attempt at a long-term relationship since my divorce several years ago. Most of the time, I feel nothing but gratitude and appreciation for my fabulous life. I have absolutely nothing to complain about—three terrific, healthy kids; marketable skills and a work ethic that allows me to a decent job of providing for everyone’s needs; and friends and family who love me, or at least … Continue reading

Dating when Your Kids are Older

There is definitely a difference between being a single parent of small children and dating, and being a single parent of older teenagers and young adults. There are different considerations, and even though the older kids may be just as forthcoming with their opinions as younger ones, they probably have different concerns. As many of you know, I have been a single parent for several years. My kids were quite young when I first stepped in to the world of a single parent attempting (occasionally) to date and my concerns were very typical. I was very protective of who got … Continue reading

Author Interview – Lindsey K. Rietzsch

Yesterday I reviewed a fun new book, “How to Date Your Spouse.” Today we are joined by the author of that book, Lindsey K. Rietzsch. Lindsey, you just released your first book. How does it feel to accomplish the goal of being a published author? It’s been such an amazing experience and very humbling. Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of publishing a book someday. To those who know me, this came as no surprise. I’m happy to say that I accomplished my dream and the journey has been worth it! Your book is designed to help … Continue reading

How to Date Your Spouse – Lindsey K. Rietzsch

Are you looking to put a little zing back into your relationship? Remember how exciting things used to be before you were married, when you’d get all dressed up, put your best foot forward, and go out for a romantic night on the town? What happened to that sparkle—did it just disappear once you got married? No, it didn’t. But you stopped dating, didn’t you? “How to Date Your Spouse” by author Lindsey K. Rietzsch is a fun and lighthearted book that reminds us how important it is to keep creating special moments together. Now that the goal of marriage … Continue reading

Sixteen in No Time – BJ Rowley

Celinda and her friend Mandy are looking forward to the junior prom. Celinda has been asked to go by Travis Foxx, the hottest guy in school, and Mandy has her eye on a guy of her own. The dance is just a week away and they’re full of high hopes. . . but there’s a problem. They each have rules in their homes that they can’t date until they’re sixteen, and the prom comes right before their birthdays. Consequently, their parents say they can’t go. Heartbroken, Celinda decides there has to be a way to get around her parents. She … Continue reading

Answering the Probing “Relationship” Question

I try to remind myself that I am not alone—I am in a big club of other single parents who are constantly asked by well-meaning friends and family members if there is “anyone special” in my life or if I have any “relationship” prospects. Even knowing that I am not alone and that there are others coping with these often rude, insensitive and annoying queries, it doesn’t mean that I enjoy it! I know that everyone from my mother to my best friends is really trying to be concerned about my well-being but there are several things wrong with asking … Continue reading

Integrating Someone New into Family Rituals

One of the issues that come up for single parents who begin dating is when and how to integrate a new adult person into established family rituals and activities. It is seldom just a simple matter of having someone come along or join in. There might be some resentment and annoyance on the part of the child or children, you may wonder if rituals will be changed or ruined by adding a new person, and there might also be concern as to whether it is appropriate or not. I think that this can be such a touchy and tough subject … Continue reading

Being the Date I’d Like to Have

I toyed around with how to name this article and decided this is the best I could come up with—the topic is deciding as a single parent that instead of waiting for someone else to come along and be that perfect “movie” date, we decide to be that for ourselves and others. Maybe by making our lives the way we dream, we will attract those people and adventures that we crave… There are certain things that I would absolutely LOVE to have happen in my life—dream dates, adventures, conversations, etc. I think we all have those little scripts playing out … Continue reading