I just (re)discovered Meetup.com , and wanted to mention it so that others here know about it.
If you are looking for GAL activities and the ability to meet new people in your area - meetup.com is an answer. Want to go hiking? log on and look it up, and chances are you'll find some people in your area going for a hike this weekend, a bike ride? want to talk about computers? Wine tasting? ...etc.
It solves a number of GAL challenges: Ideas for things to do, people to do it with, defined dates and times to provide impetus, etc.
All that's left is to arrange for the free time for yourself and get out of the house.
Me 42, W 39, S8, S6, S2 M 11y, A & ILYBNILWY 11/08 Walking away from a bad situation.