a new friend?! neato!

Why is it so hard to make a new friend?  It's just weird at first.  The whole remembering new names and then the small talk and finally the exchange of phone numbers - IF anyone is brave enough to bring it up.  Then, once that's over - someone has to actually use the number.  If that happens, then, schedules actually have to coordinate.  "Are the kids really sick?"  "Are errands really interfering?"  "They just don't see potential in us?"  I mean, all I want is someone who doesn't mind the dog, the mess, crying kids and who likes the occasional Oprah, or coffee, or walk to the park.  Hell, I'd settle for half of that list and a once-a-month walk to the park.  Not to discount any potential friendship, but at this point, I'd take just about anyone.  After moving twice in the last year and being at home all day everyday (grocery shopping or driving MN-SD has been my definition of 'outing' for the last year and friends!?  what friends!?), I'm getting sick of myself.  Today, on our walk (the boys and I), we met someone!  Wowee.  She even has that friend-ish potential.  I try not to get my hopes up, cause most of these initial meetings are not fruitful...but I can't help feeling a little giddy at the idea of a friend about my age, two toddlers (even if they are girls), who seems active and wasn't hesitant to cross the road to stop and say hi. Not to mention, she lives 2 doors down and is also a stay at home-er.  Now, I have also noticed several other moms at home playing outside during the day.  I'm bound to run into them sometime, however, I have noticed some seem scared - and I too, have done this.  You know, you see someone coming, who looks like you're on their agenda.  As they're about a half block away and you try to hurry inside while making it look as natural as possible to avoid the meeting for some dumb reason (like your bad hairday or lack of makeup).  Yes, I've done it - and am getting better at letting go of the ridiculousness.  So, I'm hoping to catch more 'friends' before they escape the initial meeting.  Maybe it's as simple as a wave, so they have to acknowledge your presence and intent to meet them before they escape!?  Yeah, I'll try the wave next time.  Like a net!  Ha!  I'll get 'em!  Until I've got a neighborhood buddy, I guess I'll get my butt out there and keep trying until I have a friend, damn it. 

Hmm - too aggressive?  scaring people off?  Well, I know sitting in my own yard hasn't worked.

"Hey Will, wanna go for a walk!?"