Would love to hear your opinion ......

[squinney]

My partner and father of my child left me when I was 37 weeks pregnant. He was unfaithful. I have been through every emotion under the sun, to he'll and back!
Now 8 months down the track, I couldn't be happier. I love being a mum. Dd's dad and I have compromised on an amicable relationship for the sake our daughter.
Just recently I have been lurking on some online dating sites. I'm not quite ready to pounce yet, but it is entering my thoughts.
So I'm 36 and my daughter 7 months. When do you think it is sociably acceptable to start dating again?

*hell and back

Socially acceptable is nothing to do with it. Go with what feels right for you, you will know when you are ready.

Dating: Whenever is right for you. Absolutely.
If you were asking when it would be acceptable to have a new partner moving in and share the parenting role I might raise an eyebrow - but if you can get the babysitting sorted you go on every date you can get!

Thanks. I just think I may never get past a first date when I mention I have "a baby". :)

I'd dive right in, but I would make sure that the access agreement is set in stone before. If your ex was to start getting jealous or 'taking a walk down memory lane', you'd need legal guarantee that things wouldn't change for your DD.

You're right, if and when it happens, I will be completely open and honest with exP, and yes get legal guarantee.

Whenever you want! Its great that you and your ex have an amicable relationship. My DP and his ex split up when their DS was less than a year old. She got together with a new partner and had another baby with him quite quickly. DP found me after three years. We all get on great, and I like being part of a blended family. It's thanks to the continued amicable relationship between DP and his ex that we have all been able to make our situation work in a non-stressful, familial way.

Good luck!

Thanks everyone for your thoughts. Just like to get people's thoughts on potential new date's reaction to having a 7 month old?

I think that is entirely up to you! You've been single for a a while now, and I'm sure you can gauge it for yourself.

Also it depends on the type of man you'd be dating - a guy in his twenties MIGHT be a bit thrown at first, but an older divorcé with kids of his own would be more likely to take it in his stride. But everyone is different!

Wow, okay, surprised. I thought announcing to a potential new partner. , let's say 35+, would be a definite instant dismissal . Has anyone had a similar experience where it worked?

and if you did date with a baby, how did you juggle the needs of a baby with the needs of a new partner?

I'm so happy for you, thanks for the positive story. In your opinion though, do you think it would have been a different outcome if your DS was younger? I feel like I may have to wait until she is about four, or so.

My goodness! Downstairsmixup, that's awesome, good on you! You've given me hope!

I think society will cope .
Do what feels right for you.

Hi Squinny

I say go for it when you're ready. Now is fine. Make sure you like them before you feel you have to reveal too much.