why would the relationship between lou ann and taylor benefit each of them?

As a new mom and a single mother, Lou Ann benefits from her relationship with Taylor in that she is able to see that a "single mother" is able to raise a child on their own and be successful, even in the face of adversity and fear of being alone.

Taylor on the other hand, can look at Lou Ann as a mentor. Taylor is becoming a woman and through Lou Ann is able to see that life is what we make of it. A woman can choose to allow her life and problems to encompass her, or she move on and make the best of her life; it's a personal choice. Lou Ann's example proves to Taylor that a woman can experience love on all levels, and that a woman can embrace those experiences (romantic and motherly love) and still grow as a woman.