Third Wheel Syndrome

Third-Wheel Syndrome: The situation which occurs at parties when Single Gal attaches herself to the Couple.

Couples, please be kind to Single Gal (or Guy) when you see us at parties. It is hard to attend parties alone, and until the alcohol really starts to hit or we've made new friends, we really like to hang out with people we know. Otherwise we end up standing awkwardly in the corner, trying to look like the corner is EXACTLY were we mean to be standing, but really we feel a little pathetic as we down our 2nd or 3rd drink.

Please know; we understand you are not at the party to rescue us and we WILL do our best to mingle, but your understanding is appreciated. And, if you know others at the party, feel free to introduce us! We don't mind being handed off to another Couple; we know we can be a drag. :) And, if you another Single there, even better! We may not be a match made in heaven, but at least we can commiserate, and drink, together.

At home with Dad

I’m 29, single and hanging out at home on a Friday night with my dad.

Should I feel sad by this? Upset? Maybe. But I don’t. I just laugh. I’ve finally accepted that I’m not “cool”; and never will be. Instead, I’m comfortable. I like being at home on Friday night; I like ordering takeout, putting on sweats (aka pants that don’t squish the fat) and watching a movie. That my dad happened to be there really didn’t change how I wanted to spend the evening.

So maybe the question should be, why is this even something to question? Are we really so focused on being “in a relationship” that being single and NOT spending every waking minute out looking for “the one” to rescue us from singlehood becomes a crime? Sure, I’d like to find someone (notice I didn’t say it had to be “the one”!) but I’m no longer desperate to find him. I don’t want to feel guilty spending time by myself. And I really don’t want my dad to feel like he’s holding me back.

I want to like my life. So, how can I enjoy the present if I’m constantly looking for someone to complete my future?