Hey LB ,
As an extension to what i was saying about the internet , this site is as good as any around and better than some for camaraderie . sure it isn't the full on face to face but it's good and can help take the edge off ..
Maybe posting before the drink next time could be an option ? join in a monthly thread , try some of the "chat" thingy ..
Before cancer got my auntie she used to volunteer at torbay hospital , lots of people in need of a friend there , maybe the book "friends and enemies" by dorothy rowe might be a good place to start to define what your expectations are ..
Take care , glad you're back on the sober side of the street yeh ?
m