Hi L.,
There is an archival spray available that can help you preserve the ink. This can be found at scrapbooking stores and online.
http://www.webyfl.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&P...
As for your being lonely as a new stay at home mom, I've been there. The key is to force yourself to get out and make friends. I found a great resource in the "Mommy & Me" type classes offered through the local rec. center. These are also called Parenting classes i.e. Parenting the Toddler. Typically everyone has children the same age, usually there's discussions, crafts, play activities. I know Plano has some & there might be some other local classes, usually in the Adult Education catalogs that come every season.
When I was a new Mom, none of my other friends had had children yet. I had no idea what was out there until a neighbor mentioned the adult ed programs. I had always received the catalogs, but figured I didn't have time for art or exercise classes. I never knew there was anything like this available. I signed up and I would take my son once a week. Pretty soon I got to know a group of other mom's with kids the same age & we would continue our relationships outside of class with lunch out after class, trips to the mall (to ride the carousel), playdates, etc. Eventually I established a network of friends and a wonderful support group.
Good luck.
K.
mom to 3, ages 6, 5 & 3