Mozza, just wanted to chime in, especially since you've commented on my thread numerous times and are aware of my experiences over the past month.
PM makes some good points. I too sense that your debating on dating/sex is more out of feeling hurt and rejection than it is feeling detached and fully ready to move on. You're 'only' 6 mos into S, so my recommendation would be to wait until you feel fully detached and know that no guilt will come of your actions (I remember 6 mos in, thinking I was going to explode if I didn't have sex- I didn't). You could easily justify your actions considering the status of your sitch, but I sense that you'd have some regret afterwards.
However, the decision is obviously yours. We can only provide advice based on our own situations, morals, what you've posted, etc. I don't recall names, but I know I've read posts on these boards of LBS's dating prior to D being finalized and they've received positive feedback. I've also seen the opposite- posters being discouraged from dating (the way your thread seems to be leaning). I think a variety of factors go into that- who's commenting on the threads, the situation, the emotional status of the LBS, length of the S... you get my point.
With that being said, I see no problem in you getting out and flirting and would actually encourage it. It's a huge boost in confidence simply exchanging smiles/eye contact or giving compliments. I actually did it earlier with the older, married cashier at Bath and Body Works! Big smile, friendly conversation, some jokes about a guy being in a candle/fragrance store on my own...Because there's 0% of anything happening, I treat it almost like a game or test. While these little encounters don't meet your 'primal need', they do build up over time and help to fill your 'need' of having that male/female connection that you're missing.
Long story short (too late)- whatever you decide, make sure you aren't acting out of impulse or revenge.
