hey Mel:

I can identify with your situation, it's not your hubby's fault that you don't have people to interact with. e all humans need interaction with people, have you looked at the volunteer opportunity at hospital, you should get involve in your church where you meet people and interact. I think your hubby is foe keeps if he stuck by you even after stroke he is great guy, appreciate that.

Asha

Mel,

I tend to agree with Asha; hubby has stuck by your side throughout this ordeal. I'd say he's a keeper as well. You said you can walk to the library - how about volunteering at the library for something to keep you occupied as well as human interaction. Depending on the size of the library and the number of patrons, they may have programs like story hour for the smaller kids. Eventually, volunteering could possibly lead to a paid position which would help you guys out as well.

I used to love small town life; I don't live in one now, and in some regards I am glad, because there are many more resources in a larger populated area. On the other hand, small town life often times has a better sense of community. So each type has its own advantages.

I find that when I am lonely is when I need to reach out. I need to make the move to initiate a relationship or activity. It is easy for me to lament my situation if I let myself, so I do what I need to do to reach out; to make new friends or make a phone call or whatever. I am always glad that I made the effort afterward. It may seem hard in the beginning, but it always pays off in the end.

I agree that volunteer work is a great outlet. I do some here, and my church has many opportunities available where they can use help. Maybe you can find something likewise there.

As for your marriage, your husband has been by your side, so my suggestion is to keep trying to make it work. There are so many instances where stroke of one partner has broken up the family unit. In your case it hasn't, and that is wonderful. I wish I could say my family stuck together after my stroke, but it didn't. That wasn't my choice, and I now realize that it is their loss and not mine.

I wish you the very best.

Bob

Mel, your husband has really done well in sticking with you through the stroke journey. So many lose their partners over an illness that it is such a blessing when your partner does stick by you. Life isn't real exciting sometimes, but that is what I personally like now, peace and quiet!

When I was going through a rough patch in my marriage once a wise friend told me to stop looking for all things in one person! That was good advice. Which is why I go to different people with different needs. Guess that is why I stick with friends and acquaintances that I know I can chat to any time too.

Maybe to fill in what you now see as empyt time you could take up a couple of new hobbies, take an interest in community doings, take on a new volunteer job.There must be plenty of volunteers needed in even your small community. You seem to have so much talent I am sure there must be organisations who would love your help.

If you are lonely use the phone, the internet and the email system here. There are always a lot of newbies here who would love an encouraging email I am sure.

Sorry you are going through a blue patch right now, hope life seems brighter for you soon.

Sue.