You and me, both, Dave--and everyone else who commented, too! I hate sitting home alone, but I hate going out and meeting people. Alas, the contradiction can be pretty harsh. All I can say is thank heavens for livejournals, and blogs, and email--they allow one to hide, lurk, and connect, all at the same time. It helps a little, I think. And I totally agree that it's harder to make friends as we get older--people's lives become much more fixed and they have less time for new people/interests. Plus, when one's own interests are rather weird and marginal to begin with--well--it's a recipe for Alone. And the writing life is by stereotype and actuality a lonely one--so--....I think I'd better stop here, I'm bumming myself out just thinking about all this...Anyway, Dave--J & I are your friends and here if you need us!