Ohhh, Arpad ... thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and to share your beautiful comments.

Yeah, what can I say ... I kept trusting that I'd find the love, connection, and "home" I never had growing up.

Now you know why I am always so deeply touched by your stories about your family, about your daughter bringing home friends, about the love and kindness that are central in your world.

I tried so hard to create that, but here I am, alone in an apartment and living a solitary existence. I'm content enough, I suppose; I've accepted that this is just how it is. But this sure isn't what I had envisioned for my life.

And it doesn't look so good when trying to date. Oh, you've been married - how many times?????!?! If that doesn't send them running, there are other family issues amongst my five kids that'll do it, not the least of which is that my son was convicted of first-degree murder last year.

Oh, and the fact that he was originally my grandson but my 14-year-old deeply troubled (understated) daughter was pregnant (at the same time I was) so ... husband number 3 and I adopted him.

So you can see why in the dating world, they sure don't beat down my door!

I'm alone virtually all the time. But I keep busy with creative projects so it's all good.

Thanks so much for your kindness, Arpad. I appreciate you and your beautiful heart.