One of my biggest challenges right now is finding a friend in Duluth. When I moved to Minneapolis, I was 1 year out of college, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. I had no trouble showing up to random social events by myself and introducing myself to people. In fact, it's how I met most of my friends I have in the Twin Cities. I had no shame....I put together a kickball team, 1/2 of which was made up of Craig's List friends. I didn't care - as long as they were normal(and not going to plot my murder), it was great.
Once I had my crew, I was content. After a few years of developing a solid girlfriend base, I focused much of my attention on dating. Which, of course, led me to the shores of Lake Superior.
Making friends here as been difficult. I am rarely in town on the weekends. I work in a job that is mostly men. I'm used to having a crew of HR people around me, so venting about work was much easier. At this point - I'm stuck. I know I can be outgoing and social - but have I lost my edge now that I'm 'coupled' up? I'm reading "MWF Seeks BFF" and I'm starting to feel that fire I felt years ago when I moved to the Twin Cities. The book is inspiring and full of friendship factoids. The author touches on the importance of having a strong social network. I've got great, awesome friends - just not on the North Shore. One needs to have friends outside of the relationship - I don't want to lose myself now that I'm with someone. The book has prompted me to sign up for a cooking class....here's hoping to meeting one girl that could be my new bestie!
