CG and PF, you are so right about "in the flesh" friends. However, most of my local friends live 20 minutes to a half hour away and have their own lives. Because in the winter I don't get out much on my own, I have to rely on them coming to me and we go out for Tim Horton's or Starbucks. I have my neighbour and her daughter who lives on the other side and they are great. The daughter helps me out around the house and I sometimes watch HER daughter who is 9, after school. Well I basically watch her playing with the animals, which is great for me.
But even my best friend we end up emailing more than talking or seeing each other. The time I took away from DC last year to concentrate on my "in the flesh" friends and family didn't prove very fruitful in that way and when I heard about Ma's (Kadesma) passing I was devestated and needed to be with the people who "knew" her. We had a good relationship even though we never met. We spoke on the phone, sent cards and letters, and acted like a real life mother and daughter. Yes, there is nothing better than real life, but I wouldn't sell virtual friendships short either!
But even my best friend we end up emailing more than talking or seeing each other. The time I took away from DC last year to concentrate on my "in the flesh" friends and family didn't prove very fruitful in that way and when I heard about Ma's (Kadesma) passing I was devestated and needed to be with the people who "knew" her. We had a good relationship even though we never met. We spoke on the phone, sent cards and letters, and acted like a real life mother and daughter. Yes, there is nothing better than real life, but I wouldn't sell virtual friendships short either!