Grey, in case I haven't told you yet, I really enjoy your posts. And I must say that you have amazing courage to put yourself out here for all the world to see as you have done. And as you can see, you're still accepted for who you are. Isn't that a great feeling? I sure think it is. As far as pets go... you can learn a lot from pets. I have a zoo in my house. I have 6 ferrets, 3 c ockatiels, and a chinchilla. The birds and the chin are my ex's and they'll leave when she does. But the ferrets have opened doors for me that I hope to be able to walk through someday soon. I have similar issues with getting out and making friends. I recently decided to foster 2 ferrets (number 5 and 6) from a private local shelter. Because these are fosters, they still belong to the shelter and I have to make regular trips there so the shelter mom can see how they're doing. By doing this I have met a wonderful couple around my age and I feel comfortable talking with them. I was a nervous wreck when I first went there the first time but we had something in common... we both loved ferrets SOOOO much. And I had to bring my little furry army with me to make sure the new guys would play well. Now I've been invited to the get togethers the shelter holds for everyone who's adopted or fostered from the shelter. I've yet to attend one because of my work schedule and my lack of confidence. All this because of a silly animal. I highly recommend a pet. And a ferret at that, but I'm kinda biased on that one. I think it's a good idea. I'm not saying that it'll cure your problem, but what's wrong with having a furry friend?

Ry