When I was a child my parents were swingers. I did not comprehend until way later as an adult what was happening in my childhood. I can remember going to one of my friend's house with one parent and my parent and I would have a sleepover together. I also remember several of my friends parents would stay the night at my house with their children. This was not one or two couples there were a handful of them. There were also many parties that I guess at the time they were having an orgy. I was always the oldest child and most likely seen the most. Like one of the group parties I remember seeing everyone passed out naked or half naked everywhere. Liquor and beer bottles all over as well. Because these things occurred so often these were norm's to me. I would say I was no older then 8 years old during this time. I have never talked to my Mom or anyone about these events other then my current boyfriend.

We grew up so differently. His parents were together his whole life on the same piece of land only a mile from his father and grandfather's childhood home. He had stability and morals and values instilled in him from his upbringing.

My parents had 3 kids by the age of 21.There was always Rock and roll music, marijuana and a party. (Product of the 80's) I love my parents and accept they did the best they could under the circumstances. I hold no resentment or judgement towards them.

With all that being said I have been with the same man since I was 22. He was 38 when we got together. We met in a drug treatment facility....Too much to text. Desperation, resentment, poor childhood and wanted a new lease on life. (Today M/56 F/42)

I feel like now as an adult with life and it's twist and turns I understand why my parents were swingers. I get why they would seek pleasure and affection from someone other then their spouse. I've read many post and comments on this sub. It seems as though swinging is a lifestyle.

So I'm seeking info from active swingers on how you ended up getting to the point in your relationship that you were open to the idea of sharing your partner? How did you tell your partner if you were the iniater? How did you decide to go about meeting your first couple? Does anyone do this that has children? Do you tell your kids the truth or hide it? (We have two daughters 17/11) Do you have anything you regret or would do differently? Is this a secret to your friends and family or everyone knows? Do you do this with multiple couples or find one couple? How do you not get emotionally attached to the partners? What are the pros and cons? Is this a lifestyle?? Thanks in advance to anyone and everyone who takes the time to answer my questions or provide input. Im open to being with another couple and sharing my partner. I just really don't understand how it works and how to you begin to incorporate something like this into your life that you know nothing about.