I’m not sure I agree with your assessment hellno. I’m not trying to ‘fill a void’ – but yes, I am lonely, at times. It’s not that I am questioning my value as a single person, rather that being on my own is all well and good, but I would like to share my life with someone special. Why is that so wrong? Coming out with comments like ‘trying to fill a void’ is…tiresome.

I’ve taken a lot from Matt and Lex’s comments especially. John:I don’t ‘pity’ myself, but I do feel that I would like to be a mother. I’m probably no different to anyone my age with a ticking biological timeclock.

IVF and adoption do not feel the right options for me – yet. Maybe, but not yet. I’d prefer to bring up a child with someone that I am in a loving committed rel with.
Why is that so wrong?

Hellno – I’ve done all the exciting stuff (and more) that youve outlined, lit a fire, worked my ass off. My life is really interesting – challenging and fulfilling.
Do I want love/acceptance from another – yeah, of course. But I am not going to make a poor decision and ‘settle’ or – worse – accidentally on purpose get pregnant just so I can have a kid. That would be filling a void!

Thanks for all the replies everyone; much appreciated.