Best way to make friends?

[YankeeMum8]

I just turned 50. Three years ago we moved clear across country (are in the states) and I left two really good friends and lots of acquaintance friends. Dh has work friends, ds has school friends thankfully but it's been very hard to make friends at this stage.

I do have a PT job but I don't interact with anyone (I'm a merchandiser so I work alone). I've made one friend while here but as she's gone back to work FT and is a single mother I completely understand.

Ds goes to a private school (public schools are awful in our state) and most families are Way better off financially than we are so it's very intimidating for me. They are pleasant but really have not too much in common at all.

Without being desperate, how can I meet some new friends? I'm very lonely. Even one friend to go to movies with, etc. would help so much. I try to get involved in classes, etc. but most times everyone already brings a friend and they are paired off. Thanks for understanding. Anyone in the same boat? Thank you.

I go to dance classes. It's partner dancing and during the evening we move round and dance with all the men there. So even if they have gone with someone, there's a chance to speak to everyone and then there is opportunity between classes to chat and meet the wives and partners of the men you thought were nice.

I'm afraid I did just approach other people who looked to be joining for the first time and say, "Hi, I'm here on my own and I don't know anyone. Do you mind if I latch onto you for the evening?"

But it worked. As does just generally smiling and talking to people. Be a bit cheeky.

What about a choir or something?
Walking club?
There's a haberdashers near me that runs quilting and knitting classes.
I had a friend who moved to a new area, didn't know anyone and set up a book club.
Volunteering?

I agree with the PP's suggestions. On a similar thread someone suggested citysocializer.com - would there be a city/large town nearby? I hope things work out for you, you sound nice and hopefully it's just a transitional phase. :)

meetup.com

I've said this before and it might not be your thing but find the local feminists?

I've never looked back :)

DH and I are your age, moved at the end of last summer, we have an empty nest at least during term time, so I can pretty well see where you're coming from. The first few weeks I was tempted to carry a placard, "Please be my friend! "

Have you looked at Craigslist for details of local clubs and gigs?

Fundraising for charity
Get a puppy or dog
Drama group - help out backstage if you're a handy type
Dance lesson
College alumni association
Church

I was also going to suggest setting up a book club but see FolkGirl beat me to it.