> Several weeks ago, I decided I would go out and try something new, at least once every week. This was partly for fun, and partly to make myself socialise more. My strange working hours, added to my new single status (well, OK, not exactly *new* anymore), leaves me without any local friends, so I thought I should make more of an effort.
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> Unfortunately it's only taken three weeks for this idealistic little plan to run out of steam. The things I did in those weeks were all fun and interesting, but a total loss when it came to the social aspect. I do start conversations and introduce myself to people, but although I'm not shy or socially awkward, it's getting painfully obvious that most people go places in couples or groups and don't particularly want some solitary weirdo trying to join in. Oh well, nobody ever said it would be easy. On the theory that it's Good For Me in some mystic way to be doing things around other people, even if I'm not interacting with them at all, I shall persevere.
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> My main problem right now is coming up with new things to do and places to go. I'm determined to keep going with this plan, but I can't think of *anything* for this week. Does anyone have any suggestions?
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> I'm just looking for ideas for one-off outings and activities. I know perfectly well that joining some sort of club would be a better plan, but when you change shifts every two or three days and have different days off every week, that is completely impossible.
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> Brunnen-"as is replying to this post, probably"G

I have the perfect solution. Buy a motor scooter and join a scooter club. I only said that because it is expected of me, but it might work.

I think you need to do something that would attract attention and be fun at the same time. Joining groups might be the answer. I've never looked at this from the female perspective, but you might take a pup to the beach. No, that only works for males. Good grief! I'm back to the motor scooter again!

Anything mechanical is a male magnet. Would a helicopter be too expensive? Frankly, I don't know what is wrong with those guys in NZ. A gal with her own sailboat in these parts would need a baseball bat to keep the guys away.

And I read Mousie's post and there she is with the same problem. I don't know what's wrong with those California guys either. I'm too confused to be of any help. Sorry.
Howard