putting my big girl panties on

[flowmom]

I've been toying with the idea of getting involved with a man. It's interesting to hear people's ideas about how to move on after being dumped.

One friend feels that I should work on myself until I'm ready and not settle for anything less than a truly fulfilling love relationship.

Another friend assumed that I want to remarry as soon as possible and encouraged me to move on with finding someone (!!).

I have different ideas. Realistically I think a "friend with benefits" would suit me right now. It would be nice to have some companionship and some flirtation (and more), without the commitment and the "happily ever after" crap. Also, I don't want to deal with a guy who demands a lot of time. It would have to be something that could be compartmentlized from the rest of my life and not involve my children.

Any thoughts on how I would go about creating a FWB relationship? My impression is that most men in my age group either want to be in a serious relationship or they want random sexual encounters, neither of which appeal to me right now.

This is largely theoretical since I'm still trying to figure out what I want. I am clear on wanting some male fun and flirtation in my life though. Among my social circle and even when I GAL at restaurants and listening to live music it seems like unattached men are rare. So unfortunately there would probably have to be some effort on my part if I wanted to meet an unattached man.

It's important to keep in mind that I have had very little love, companionship, sex or flirtation in my M for six years. It feels like it's been too long, which is partly why I would consider pushing the envelope in terms of my emotional readiness.