I love being a single mom. But it's definitely different when you're dating.

It was tough being a single mom. It was tough being in a divorce with children. Very, very hard.

This isn't the life I thought we'd have, my love. This isn't the way I thought we'd be living, my dear. This isn't the way things were supposed to happen, my angel. But yet here we are. Here we are still smiling. Here we are still laughing. Here we are still loving. Here we are still learning. Here we are together. The way I knew it would be. I have you. And you my dear, will forever have me.

The formula I've figured out: Stop being so damn picky and let go of the mental image of an ideal; talk to more strangers, because it builds confidence and helps you feel more connected; be open to every opportunity, and when you do meet someone you like, keep dating around. And there's the mother of all lessons-the one I'm still working on: follow your instincts and even if you're wrong about him (or her), you'll know better for the next time.

I was born to a single mom and raised by her and my grandparents.

I didn't plan on being a single mom, but you have to deal with the cards you are dealt the best way you can.