I'm definitely more of a loner than not. I really have a hard time going to places with alot of people--like the Farmers Market. I love the Farmers Market, but once I get there, I get unfocused and anxious because of all the people. I instinctively seek out people I know, which is the reason, perhaps, that I don't go to the FM in Richmond (I've lived here since August 2007, but I haven't been yet!) I also hate malls and stores. Luckily, I work from home and can do my grocery shopping in the middle of the day when it's pretty empty.

Funny, though, I enjoy giving presentations in front of large groups. I've been told that I'm a good public speaker. I think in those situations, I'm prepared and confident in what I'm talking about, whereas in a spontaneous situation, I have a tiny sense of panic (nothing big, but enough to make me want to flee).

I also feel more comfortable with older people. My SO is 20 years older than me, and this relationship is more open and fulfilling than any I've been in (including a 13-year marriage that became problematic over the years--my ex is a musician and very sociable and had a large circle of friends and was always having folks over and going to parties and gigs--stuff you have to do as a musician; I just couldn't participate comfortably).

Throughout my life, my shyness/whatever has been interpreted as snobbery. I used to really care about that, but now I've relaxed a bit more. If someone thinks I'm snooty because I tend to hang back, well, that's their view.