6 years in a bed death (5.5 yrs) relationship with my best friend and I finally went on a date again. Single mom, 47, a witch, therapist, and generally smart, fun, and beautiful woman all around (I'm 45).

It felt like I was young again, happy anxious energy all around. Neurotically, I even asked "This is a date right?" out of worry I can't even tell any more what's "cool I made a nice friend, don't make it weird for her" and whats a "no this is a thing". She said "Yes, I mean... I hope right?". I wasn't even able to maintain eye contact consistently, my gut was doing flip flops.

It feels wonderful to just feel alive again. It's coded into so much of this world that women have some sort of "shelf life". Even if nothing works out, I'm letting myself be happy for a little bit!

Just putting a little positive energy and love out there for anyone who is dating, struggling, or worried about their age or body. There are good things in this world.

(Oh and above is me)