Sunday, March 14, 2010

It's that time again!

Alright it's that time. Transfer Season. Is there a season or do they just decide whenever and wherever to send us someplace? I will prefer to think of it as a season, to keep my worries at bay. Yes as you can tell I live in my own little world at times. But Seriously now...

One of the biggest complaints I hear from other Coastie Wives is the lack of friends and family that they have access to because of relocation. I must admit that there are times I get a bit lonely and blue about it all but thanks to an awesome hubby and some survival skills we have managed to keep that to a minimum.

I wanted to let you in on my personal strategies for meeting new friends and influencing new faces. ;-)

Meetup.com- This is a FABULOUS place to meet new people in the area. Sign up is free and so are many of the groups. Some ask for a little help with the cost of the site but I haven't seen more than a $10 a year membership charge before

The Library- Go to the local Library's website and see what they offer as far as events. If anything interests you like preschool storytime, or the Banned Book Club check them out and you might meet some people there you have things in common with.

Michaels, Lowes, and Home Depot- For kids they all have at least one free class a month (Lowes has 2!), the kids get to make something really cute and best of all it's FREE! It's also nice place to strike up a conversation since you will be around other parents.

Michaels- Has classes on cake decorating, beading, and such. If you are able take one and have some adult time. I took a level one cake decorating class and just loved my 2 hrs a week where the conversation didn't have to be about babies, butts, and binkies.

Museums- Many have free days, check them out and you will instantly be surrounded by people to chat with.

Parks- I had more success with this in NC than I did with FL. The issue of a language barrier kept me a bit timid about approaching people, but I have met some pretty cool people at the parks.

Local Gym- Our first stop when we moved here was to join the YMCA. Mainly because I have some weight to lose, but also because there are some awesome people you can meet at the Y. I grew up a Y baby and many times it can be a one stop shop for friends, activities, and support.

Facebook- Yeah believe it or not there are women out there starting up Coastie Clubs on Facebook and they meet quite regularly.

OK I think that's it as far as getting out and into your new community. Now finding a house? Your on your own!! :-P