So tad, the OM has so much power to have you miss your sons wedding? No way. He's an insignificant POS who is completely not worthy of you missing out on your sons biggest day of his life. You need to walk in there with confidence, and perhaps that woman on yours arm and focus on what the day is all about. Your son and his new wife. Because it isn't about you, OM, or exw. It's about them. And I'd bet not everyone is crowding in the house, it will be outside and you have no reason to go inside.
Yes, this woman clearly likes you. I'd ask her out. You did before? I can't quite remember.
And what do people your age do? Well, more like what do YOU like to do? Any hobbies? Exercise, bowling, trivia nights, darts, whatever. Find a meetup group in your area of people who share the same interests. You seem to like animals. Volunteer to help at a shelter. So many things you could be doing. Now is the time! If I had freedom to get out more often, I'd join a meetup of people who enjoy the same activities as I do.
Your are getting in your own way. I really do understand the anxiety and the feelings towards the OP. But as it stands now my biggest regrets are letting them get in the way of my own life.
