How to start DATING again??

Ok, Ladies this is really scary!!

My DH died 6 years ago this month. He was disabled for 20 yrs before that. we were married 30 yrs. I've been working full time (had to find a job that would actually support me) so job change in there. I took guardianship of my Mom just a few months after my DH died along with this job change.. Mom passed away almost 2 yrs ago and Im thinking that it just may be time to start dating..Now that my life is finally my own.

But guess what?? I don't know a comfortable place to start looking. internet match making scares the daylights out of me I actually signed most of the way up for eharmoney and chickened out at the 'paying part'.. I don't do bar scenes.
I'm not from around here originally, most of my friends are younger, and the ones my age are all in the single mode too without a clue. No family except kids in the area to be on the look out.

I work with women mostly or married men.

And I sure don't see a path being beaten to my door.
any ideas?

Hi Blue Skyes,

My daughter's friend used eharmony and met a great guy. I know how scarey it sounds though. But there is one case where it worked.

You've been through a lot. You deserve to meet someone good for you. How about volunteering situations where you could meet new people? I wish I had more to offer.

Wilma

Hi Blue Skyes,
My sisters DH died in 1996 and she had gotten very lonely, I introduced her to a man from my church and they dated a few times. She is now dating a man who is 15 or 16 years younger than her. He is divorced and has 3 children between 7 and 11. Her kids are both grown and married and she has a grandchild. She is 56 years old. The man she is dating is from the church she attends and we grew up attending. Do you go to church or is there a church in your area that you have friends that could maybe introduce you to some single men? My sister also tried to get on the dating web sites but she also was too scared by that. You just don't know who is out there lurking. Maybe even some of the men you work with could introduce you to some of their single friends. Good Luck, you deserve to have some companionship and happiness. Be safe and careful. s

Thanks for replying ladies.. I mentioned this idea to one of the ladies at work and she said that the 'new girl' tried a matching club through one of the radio stations here.. guess I'll have to talk to her about it too..

I'll keep you posted if anything works!!

Blue Skyes,

I can empathize with your situation. Been there. I think internet dating sites vary so much. Where I wouldn't suggest certain kinds of on-line dating scenarios, E-Harmony, as was mentioned, might be a more controlled situation. I think most of these sites keep it safe by not divulging any information such as phone number or address until you decide you want to do that yourself. Still, I know how you feel.

Believe it or not, there are many singles in our 'age range' out there stumbling around with the same dilemma. Church is another good suggestion. The thought of an actual "singles" group makes me cringe. Any hobby group meetings might be a fun way to meet people. Friends many times hesitate to introduce you unless they're absolutely sure about the person's credentials in terms of being a warm, quality human being -

(You know, good enough for you!)

I wish you luck... I'm sure opportunities will present themself... especially if you are open to the possiblities.

I did it.. signed up for eharmony.. we'll see how it goes.. thanks for al the support ladies!!

I'll keep ya posted!!

Blue Skies,

My fingers and toes are crossed for your good luck with eharmony!!! Best wishes. Please remember to share with us how it goes.

Wilma

Dear Blue Skyes:

I met my husband on line and we have been happily married for 6 years. So I know it's definately one way to meet people in a safe and neutral forum. It also allows you to meet people outside your immediate area. My husband lived in New Hamptshire when we met online and I was in Virginia.

Church is a great idea as is volunteering at the local hospital or getting involved in a group who supports and/or fundraises for a charity or cause you are interested in. Taking a class is also a good way to meet people. Many of the community colleges have non-credit courses on a wide variety of topics specifically for adult students.

You have done so much for others and clearly have an open and loving heart. I have no doubt that those lovely attributes will help you find a new relationship.

All the best,
Peggy

Blue Skyes;

YAY! Good for you! I'm sure there are hundereds of happy stories, just like our own Peggy's.

And I like her point of the opportunity to meet people from all over. .. You just never know.

Please, Please, Please Keep US POSTED!!

Wishing you all the happiness you deserve!

Mindy