Thank you to everyone who has provided input and support, or who has even thought about these issues. To be honest, I've been hesitant to be vocal here because I'm not always as much of a "Happy Smiley Person" as some others seem to be (with apologies for paraphrasing an old REM tune).

I read everyone's reply, and I'm taking things to heart. Today it's been white wine and big band tunes instead of martinis and alternative rock. Maybe I just need to synchronize by beverages and music -- the martinis really go better with big band tunes, eh?

I live alone and I'm trying to get a small consulting business off the ground. For a little over a year I've been living off of savings and it's just been the past 2 months I've actually been able to take some baby-steps to try to get some business clients. Sometimes I wish there was some way to be able to make money without having to go out or deal with people.

The suggestions about getting a pet and taking walks are good ones. I have a little old dog who is 12 years old, a bit demented, and he's dealing with Cushings disease (an adrenal endocrine problem). He's my sole source of support most days! The unconditional love of a dog is so wonderful, even when the little guy is sick and occassionally makes a mess in the house.

No offense to those who live where it's been warmer than normal, but I can't take walks because we have almost 5 1/2 feel of snow.on the ground. I have heart problems and fatigue very easy, so it's difficult for me to get out. Plus it has been COLD this week. Today it didn't get much over 10 degrees below zero. Yes, minus 10, farenheit, and that's the daytime high. Overnight lows have been 20 to 25 below where I live -- even colder in some of the surrounding areas. Soooo I'm not going to be going out for walks anytime soon. If I could get the energy up maybe I could go to a mall and walk indoors -- but I can't face that many people right now.

Again, thank you all for the support, input and warm thoughts. I really appreciate it. It's really nice to get some positive nice support!