GAL doesn't always mean having to be out with friends/others.
I have a similar situation so I go out shopping if everyone is busy. Whether it be the mall, Target, Walmart or even just the food store. I also would goto book stores, of which before I enterd my sitch, I NEVER went into one. I'd find a relationship book and just sit even for an hour. I could just go buy the book but I forced myself to stay there to help hold back tears. Something to help take my mind off of it even though its hard too.
Again, what helped me is knowing I was in public, so I had to hold the tears back then, at least until I got to my car!
Just a suggestion but its better at first to try this. As months passed, I am more comfortable just being home on my 'free' night.
Ironically, my H has made a point of being around now ALWAYS on my free night! He is having a hard time with my 'mystery' time.
H:41 W:44 D1:19 D2:17 S:13 D3:7 T:20 M:18 Bomb:1/5/11 Sep:2/18/11 No D filed yet; just threats