Help! I'm so hopeless and devastated...

[Not Quitting]

I agree with MrBond and TTD. Chances are that he only went the first time so that he could say that he tried everything.

TTD has some great ideas for GALing as well. Depending on the area you live in and your general interest, there may be other groups you can get involved in. I live near a major hiking trail which stretches nearly 900 km and is broken down into regions, each of which has a club. These clubs hold organized hikes and also maintain their section of the trail. They also hold public hikes which are open to non-members. It's a great atmosphere and you get in exercise and fresh air as well as an added benefit. One of the photography chains in the area have clubs and our libraries/community centres also have clubs/activites available.