When did "Socializing" become such a Chore?

Well. I failed. Socialization attempt number one was not a success. "Would you like to come to craft night?" a couple of sweet ladies asked. I tried not to outwardly cringe.

Crafts. And me. Crafts and me do not mix. My three-year-old daughter is more gifted than I. I swear all of my fingers are made of thumbs. BUT, I have recently moved to a new area and know I should attempt to make friends. So I went... lasted about forty-five minutes, all the while wondering if each passing five minute interval was too soon to leave.

Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against crafts. I just have a limited time while the kiddos are in bed and I have so much to do! And a tight schedule before kiddo number three in my belly forces me to go to sleep.

True, I could have brought my computer--but who can socialize and blog or write at the same time? Not me. I asked my husband if it was too weird to bring my book and he didn't bother to reply. *sigh*

I need to hook up with other writers/readers. I mean, that is if I actually need to socialize, which right now, am I insane if I admit that I don't feel all that social? I'd rather burrow up in a hole and either immerse myself in another world or create my own? What is wrong with me???

And thus is the underlying problem with moving to Texas. I've wanted to move here for years--love the low cost of living and the friendliness of the people. But that FRIENDLINESS. How did I become so reclusive? They say "socialize" and I start to panic about the etiquette of staying, of going, etc.

Don't get me wrong. I actually like people. And it's not that I'm all that amazed with myself (you know, the fact that I want to spend all my time with numero uno). In fact, if I didn't spend all day talking with my kiddos, and instead pursuing this writing stuff during waking hours I WOULD probably want to get out. But not right now. You wanna talk to me? Talk to me when my kiddos are around, but when they're asleep or otherwise entertained, let me pursue this world of stories: I want to feel like I have more than the tips of my otherwise unpainted toenails peeping through.