To be myself.... or NOT to be myself!!!

Ever since I began this adventure here in Canada...   things have never been dull.  I'd like to thank the oldest living -high school-student-that-loves-to-cause-drama-by-starting-gossip-and-rumors.....  Please take a bow Monster-in-law!!!!  

I've mentioned repeatedly that it is really hard getting acclimated to my new home.  Factor in the meddling monster-in-law, financial woes and children with behavioral problems and you have the makings of a Lifetime movie.  Or a therapist's dream!  (Please send anti-depressants)  Well, on one of my limited outings, I met a woman in the park who was very friendly.  We exchanged numbers and talked of meeting at the park again so that our kids could play together.  She never called and I could only assume that she found me offensive in some way.  I never attempted calling her neither because I am never sure how to go about it.  Who does the calling and will it be forward of me to call her first?  Oh well...  

Then I was introduced to my brother-in-law's girlfriend who is extremely sweet and friendly.  She offered to meet me for drinks or coffee any time.  I am still worried that I am invading territory that my brother-in-law would find offensive.  Is there a line that I shouldn't cross by interfering in his relationship by becoming friends with his girlfriend?  Is there a book on friendship etiquette that would explain all the rules? 

So, recently my daughter was invited to a birthday party for one of her friends.  The invitation came by way of a phone call.  To confirm the invitation I was put on the phone with the mother who was very polite.  She began giving me directions relatively fast so I had to slow her down and say that we were from FL and new to town.  She got very excited and told me that she had lived in Miami with her mother.  After exchanging pleasantries and discussing how we were getting along here she offered to take me horseback riding and various places when she gets her car.  

I don't want to read into this and get my hopes up.  It would be a good idea to make friends outside of the quaint little circle that is my husband's family so that they don't stand a chance by being infiltrated by the montster-in-law!!!   Given half a chance, I'm sure that she would just LOVE to dig her claws into some fresh meat. 

So, to my potential shiny new friend....  please don't be frightened by my loud voice, my sarcastic wit or my often times uncharming, unfeminine demeanor.  Last but not least, you will never be subjected to meeting the monster because I would NEVER wish that upon an enemy much less a new friend.   Please feel free to be you and don't be afraid of me being me......