The truth about Seattle

I love Seattle. But it is really hard to meet people here.

Stand-offish, passive-aggressive, reserved, shy and introverted are the words I hear most when describing Seattleites. There's definitely some truth to that ... I've had a harder time meeting people here than any other place I've lived (Northern Arizona, Phoenix, France).

But despite the sometimes up-hill battle to make friends, after nine months I feel like I've met some great people. I was out socializing every night last week, except Thursday when I chose to stay in with Liz Lemon and Earl Hickey.

Sunday night I had a date with another outsider who described Seattle as "cliquey." I've decided I need to find a guy who is as pro-Seattle as myself. And pro-coffee. That night I had drinks with Danelle, Jinny and Rick. Danelle has become my workout buddy, skin care consultant and a great confidant. We love to girl it up every once in a while and it's great to have such a cheerful, level-headed person in my life.

Monday was the annual holiday party for work that involved way too much alcohol. Lesson learned: Don't drink on an empty stomach. My new gal pal Cassandra helped me get through the night. She's a riot and - like me, I think - a woman in transition.

Tuesday night it was dead at work so Libby kicked Matt and I off the clock pretty early. We ended up visiting Ted on Capitol Hill, wasting time in the greeting card aisle at QFC and finishing the night at the Ballroom where Matt graciously let me drag him into the photo booth.

Hanging out with Matt reminded me of being with my two best guy friends from the old days. (I'm referring, of course to the venerable Michael Famiglietti and the controversial Macy Hanson.) I love Ted for his enthusiasm (for food, Vegas, travel) and because he's a great person to have on your side. He helped me get to the airport when Seattle was covered in snow and ice right before Christmas.

Wednesday Cassandra and I planned a night of drinking wine at my place and ended up meeting Steve and Rick at the cool, divey bar near my apartment. We played pool, boys against girls (we lost, three times.) Steve (whom I affectionately refer to as Stevie) has a big-brotherly appeal and is a good guy. Rick is my go-to guy for all things Seattle. We also like the same kinds of music, his knowledge of which seems encyclopedic to me. He's gotten me into a ton of new bands since I moved here.

On Saturday my wonderful Uncle Gavin took me to "breakfast" at 3 p.m. since I'd just woken up and that's all I wanted to eat. I've met a whole host of interesting, cool and creative people through him ... namely the divine Fravel and Sniffy (real names, Lisa and Stephany) and Tina M., who has brains, attitude and style.

My older brother says I have a talent for finding good people when I go someplace new. I don't know. Sometimes I think they find me.