Years ago, at BD 1, we had just moved to a new town, had no spare money. 2 children to look after as well. My W was going through OM withdrawal and was not much use most of the time.
I exercised. Jogged to be specific. Cost nothing except maybe wore out my sneakers faster. Great, great stress reliever. Got me in better shape...which made me feel better, gave me more confidence...etc.
The kids got involved in church stuff and scouts...and eventually sports (soccer, basketball, baseball, etc.). So a lot of that I counted as GAL for me because I got involved in that stuff...helped organize things, did the pinewood derby, went to den meetings and helped out, etc. That involved socializing with other parents in the process so was something to keep me busy.
Used the library. Read books on things that interested me. Learned new things, etc. Used the thrift store to find stuff for kids cheap, went fishing at the local public fishing lake (not free, but pretty cheap).
I volunteered at church for things to help where needed. If church isn't your thing can also volunteer at library, school, community center, etc.
When all else failed...I thought of my kids. I dug down and found ways to be there for them, to get myself out of the funk because they didn't need to see that. They still needed to be kids, and while I couldn't pretend things were not difficult, I always end up feeling like I have to do what I can to lead them through it, to show them a positive way through it.
Thank you tl2 for all of the GAL suggestions, I really appreciate you taking the time to answer me.
I am doing things with my kids during the day and we're cuddling up watching films in the evening. It is when they go to bed that I am lost and so lonely. I can't see how to combat that part of life. I guess I see GAL as doing something different to what I already do.
