A divorced mother must face the harsh realities of dating and aging in a youth- and beauty-obsessed culture. Having spent her 20s tackling the responsibilities of marriage and motherhood, she finds that her 40s are a journey of self-discovery amid friends, family and an ex-husband who all offer advice. Members of her dysfunctional but supportive extended family, `the cul-de-sac crew', include sarcastic confidante Ellie, across-the-street neighbour Grayson, feisty protege Laurie and witty son Travis.