Kim,
I say good for you for getting out for the ride to ease your stress! And good for you pursuing your nursing dream, and letting your son pursue his dream, too. The riding will help you get through all these tough things, not only because of the exercise endorphins, but also because it is just such a free, child-like thing to do. As a teacher, I NEED my riding! I bought a road bike last spring because I just couldn't get to the trails enough during the school year. Although I've had rides where I hurt myself falling, bonked and felt sick, got lost in the desert (pre-GPS days!), etc., etc., I still say there is no such thing as a bad ride. It's always an adventure, and it's always good! Ride on!
Jan