Socializing is a lot like sticking to a diet. It's hard to do without someone to encourage you ... and hold you accountable! Designate a friend or family member from back home. Give them permission to ask you how you're extending yourself. Authorize them to "push" if they sense you're slipping. And stay in touch. A familiar, friendly voice is golden!Thank you!
I actually love art, as well as have done some quilting, and taking classes is a really good idea that I hadn't thought about.
Animal shelters had crossed my mind! I love animals. The only real job I've had has been caring for horses, and occasionally stopping to poke a cow's snoot.
Unfortunately I can't do physical work anymore(at least not for now) and indoors jobs would be the death of me, haha. I've thought about picking up a job if I have time early on, or if we need it. I will be staying home to homeschool the kids once they come along.
The journal idea is a very useful one.
Thanks again.![]()
- I've never moved far away, physically, but had to fight my way out of a nasty depression, and some of these suggestions helped mightily:
Go back to the horses! There are large-animal rescues all over the country who would LOVE to have someone experienced with horses (and cows) onboard. Many need more than just barn help. While my daughter took lessons, I would shed out shaggy ponies. I had so much fun doing it that the barn manager invited me back whenever I felt the urge. It was GREAT therapy! - Our local cat rescue is always looking for people to come socialize kittens. There's probably one near your new home doing the same!
- Share a skill. If you are a good baker, can sew, knit or crochet, make a Holiday decoration, anything, volunteer to teach a 4H, Scout or Youth Group class.
- Take an adult class: art, ceramics, swimming, poetry, anything. Our local community college offers one on repairing minor appliances & many on gardening - indoor and out.
- Join a congregation. No matter your affiliation, there's likely a women's group.
- Check out the library. Ours always has something going on - from understanding finances to book clubs to origami.
- ... And check out the BYC thread wherever you're headed. I'm sure the "locals" there will have LOTS of ideas for you!