Welcome back (to the CR and Yiddishkeit).
Firstly, I give you credit for getting back on track and returning to your roots. I’m sure your journey had numerous bumps, twists and turns and forks in the road. The fact that you’re looking to build a Jewish home proves that you feel ready for commitment and responsibility. *Slap on your back*.
Now, I’ll tell you what I think. I may be wrong in my opinion, as I’m not a proffessional, but you did ask for it.:)Also, keep in mind that I in no way mean to offend you or make you feel bad, rather give you advice.
Before you even start dating give a hard look on yourself. Ask yourself the following:
A- Am I truly over and done with my “past”?
B- Will I ever feel restricted by the life I now choose, and thus return to my old ways?
C- Am I willing to do EVERYTHING in my power to make my marriage work?
D- Will I set a good example to my kids?
If you truly feel ready to move on, then do so. Call up a shadchan, tell your friends your looking for a good wife – in short; do hishtadlus.
Also, if you’ll date a girl who had a past similar to yours, make certain it will remain a “past”, and that it wasn’t too shady for you.
Again, I apologize if I’ve been too blunt.
B’hatzlacha. I’ll bezras Hashem daven for you.