When I was younger, I thought a relationship would cure all ills.  Having someone to love, to take care of, to slog through life with, seemed like a wonderful cushion against all the bad things life can hold.  I’ve dated exactly three men in my life (with a few casual dates sprinkled in here and there, few of which are worth mentioning unless you want a laugh.)  I married one of them.  So I wouldn’t say I have a vast array of experience compared to other people.  But I’ve been with a manipulative bastard, and a kowtowing doormat, so until my husband, I haven’t had your usual relationships.  A whole lot of learning was packed into two very extreme situations.

But I found my One, married him, and figured that was it.  happily ever after, here I come!  I should feel whole and complete and nothing bad can touch me, right?