MB, MeetUp has been wonderful for me. I started hesitantly doing some things a year ago, and now I'm a permanent fixture in a couple of groups, plus a "side" thing that has developed. What I loved about MeetUp is that these people didn't know me as half of "Mr. Perfect and Sunny". They don't know Mr. Perfect, don't care. They are interested in me as a stand alone, and I've made some nice friends. I have also made peace with the fact that I may or may not still be friends with these people in 10 years, and if not, that's perfectly OK. They are in my life at the time I need them. Bottom line is, good for you, go to that MeetUp, try out a few until you find the right fit. You do need and deserve grown-up time, MB.
