Ever found yourself shivering through a winter day, wishing for warmth and company? We've all been there, and this episode wraps you up in tales of personal endurance, like Amy's gloveless venture into the cold, and stirs in a discussion about our evening libations— from the sleep-disturbing effects of a glass of wine to the cozy embrace of a caffeine-free soda. As the conversation flows, we touch upon the bittersweet notes of building community in the face of life’s upheavals, such as moves and divorces, and how these experiences redefine our sense of belonging.

Taking the first step towards friendship can feel like a leap into the unknown, but it's often the bridge to long-lasting connections. We recount the story of how a simple invitation turned into a friendship cornerstone, echoing the experiences of others who've transformed loneliness into thriving social landscapes. We celebrate these victories over isolation, taking cues from a Londoner whose small gathering bloomed into a bustling community and a woman who spun exclusion into an inclusive online haven. Their stories inspire us to pursue the warmth of new relationships, just as we seek refuge from the chill.

As we bundle up the episode, we shed light on the silver linings of the pandemic— a newfound openness in discussing mental health and tackling the sting of loneliness which, as research suggests, can be as harmful as heavy smoking. We share strategies for networking that include finding the solo attendees who might be looking for company and the benefits of cultivating work friendships to enliven professional life and ward off burnout.  Join our vibrant Facebook community for ongoing discussions on the art of friendship at any stage in life, and let's continue to weave the fabric of community together, one shared story at a time.

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Amy, Kitty & Stacey

P.S. Isn't our intro music great?! Yah, we think so too. Thank you, Ivy States for "I Got That Wow".

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