Lady's Sharebook 

My goodness -- something I've always done is trendy! I can't for the life of me understand why a man of my age isn't interested in women of my age (60), unless it's because we 'women of a certain age' are smarter than the young girls and much less 'moldable'. These guys may still want a woman who won't question them and will adore everything they say and do. BS. Have you looked at the online personals? These guys submit a photo of themselves, sitting in a boat, wearing a 'feed' cap, holding up a fish. For God's sake -- are they looking for a fishin' buddy or an interestingwoman to have the time of their life with??
I, too, find most men in my age group are set in their ways and are afraid of anything new, such as food, music, and activities, especially those in bed.
Can't say I like the referral to 'Cougar', as it sounds a bit predatory to me.

Through my experiences I have found that men our age are generally too set in their ways, too rigid in their habits, and not willing to think out of the box. They refuse to 'let us in', and are the masters of head games. Of course there are exceptions. I find myself a bit bemused that younger men are attracted to me. I am overweight, and though I have a 'pretty face' I am really not all that. However, that does not deter them. At first I fought it...I found it creepy myself. I felt like I was doing something illegal! Mind you, they have been in their early twenties through early forties, while I am 54, so I was not committing a crime Finally, I simply accepted the fact that this is my 'market niche' (without the exchange of money, just to be clear) so to speak and decided to enjoy it. Perhaps some day I will even find The One, be he my age or younger. In the meantime, I adore the young ones. They are like a breath of fresh air.

Ditto gwynnoak "What I have found, is that men my age have chronic and acute health problems and are looking for a nurse. It has been my experience that they are set in their ways, refuse to participate in new activities." My second marriage was to a man only a year younger, but appeared younger. I was a little embarr****ed by that, but we were good friends and surprised when more developed. He was very set in his ways and determined to advise me that I should be doing things the "right" way. When that marriage ended I was done. I figured any man the traditional "older" would have more ailments than my former husband and a longer list of the "right" way to do things. For four years I was "DONE" with men. I finally decided to at least be polite to them and started becoming friends to a young man. When he started leaning toward relationship I didn't take it seriously, though I really enjoyed his company. At some point I came to realize that he is a very special person and he constantly surprises me by his appreciation of who I am and always expressing that appreciation saying what things he enjoys about me. He likes the same thing about me...that I have the confidence and maturity to allow him any mistakes (don't want him harping on mine) and don't feel I have to make any demands about how I wish he was different toward me. Whiny and demanding women are not very attractive. He says I don't fit the definition because he is less than 15 years younger and he pursued. Also, it was pointed out to me by others that I was the only one concerned about it. People around me were already doing it, including both my children.

I am married to a man who is 18 - 19 years younger than I, and while originally I had all the fears possible about how such a relationship can work. But by ignoring the media, and following my own heart, it seems the only people who have problems are the ones that I could care less about. Our family and friends are nothing but overjoyed by the changes are relationship has brought both of us. I choose not to dwell on issues as the arise due to our age. We have made a committment and as long as the communication channels remain open, I am confident that we can come over any obstacles that we may face. He is my soulmate, as I am his. And life is hard.....one must truly grab and cherish any happiness they can find. This man is my best friend, and my priority. Life is as good as it gets!

I've been in a committed relationship with a man 16 years my junior for over 6 years, and it's working out just fine. He's more mature and less needy than many men my own age (62). Sometimes I feel the age difference though; he was only 2 years old when JFK was shot!

I was a cougar in the 70's. Yes, I am way ahead of my time. Also got my tatoo in the 70's for my 40th birthday.

I like the idea of Cougars. Being in my late fifties I use to think going with a younger man was not proper. Now I am willing and ready. I can love a young man just as well an older one. The ****le of Cougar is all in the way you look at it. I believe a cougar goes after what it wants. Not just kill and attack. It is just a name.

I think the article is great! I now understand why I enjoy wearing the animal prints. I am becoming a Cougar! I used to believe that younger men were a waste of my time, but am slowly warming to the benefits of such relationships. I have no thoughts on attacking or killing a man, but to devour him with love is something I could wrap my arms...and legs around! Thanks for opening my eyes to the truth.

YES, YES, YES! There is a limitless supply of 20 somethings who will adore an older woman, even one like me who is fat and not attractive. That confidence we have is the best aphrodesiac. I personally get bored after a few weeks and move on but the darlings do generally want longer term relationships, so if thats what you need, its there. I'm just finished with 2 mos with "Christian", over 40 years younger. He did help me so much-he held my coat when I worked out at the gym and put my ear rings in for me. Two subjects unmentioned: money and sex. I prefer no money going in either direction, it is OK to pick up some tabs when we obviously have more than they do but they are not hanging out with me for the money. And the big one, sex. For heavens sake the beauty of the young is awesome! (and even the virgins are strangely competent.) I have probably 8 or 12 new lovers a year and many returns; its never a good day if I am not propositioned before lunch! At 64 I kinda wonder if I will have this kind of good luck at 74...judy