So, let's talk about how I don't know how to make friends.
Most girls my age-ish end their sentences on a high note as if they are asking a question. And love to go tanning. And talk about how much they are going to drink over the weekend. And call students cray-cray. And scream when they see mice.
None of them are bad people. In fact, most I've met are downright intelligent and good at their jobs. Its just.... I have absolutely nothing in common with them outside of teaching.
So, I sit their quietly and TRY to think of something nice/funny/interesting to say. This usually results in me saying something I think is hilarious, to which dead silence rocks the room OR, my comment gets ignored completely.
The flip side is: I say something I think is hilarious, and its comes off as really sarcastic, and they seem a little offended. Shit.
Now the guys-- the guys I'm good with. I can make friends with them. Or anyone who is older than I am. Or any woman who likes other women. But women my own age? Forget it. They're like another species.
Where are all the women who still love playing in the rain, do ridiculous things WITHOUT being inebriated, love being outside, don't give two poops about designer labels, and read instead of watching trashy tv? Where are they?
They must exist.
Last week, a new student described me as being "insanely confident." With kids.... this is true. With adults... its a toss up. One of my co-workers (a trustworthy male who cracks me up every 5 seconds) said that I did come off a bit standoffish. I don't mean to. It just... happens.
But, maybe this is why I'm good with weirdo middle-schoolers. I still know what it feels like to be awkward.