Hi, Akc.
Welcome and congratulations on two years!
That is seriously great.
I know that it seems like everything revolves around booze, but, honestly, it doesn’t.
In fact, many people don’t drink or drink very little.
My husband and I moved around a lot for his job when we were younger.
I found the best way to get to meet people on my own, not with him, was to volunteer somewhere doing something I liked.
I have been a docent at a city zoo.
That was fun!
I have volunteered at a wildlife rescue center.
Yucky at times, but also fun.
Currently I volunteer at an environmental stewardship organization.
I have met some wonderful, like minded people there.
I don’t know where you live.
Assume from some of your references in your post that it’s England somewhere?
Are there walking or ramble clubs you could join with your dog?
Exercise and chatting combined.
Or birding walks?
I also go to yoga practice twice a week, and I have met some very nice women there.
Yoga tends to attract more women than men, though both of my instructors are male.
Also, about volunteering? It feels good to give something back.
Doesn’t sound like your husband and friends are going to be much help here, so I think that you have to be the change you want to see, yes?
Good luck. Keep posting and let us know how it goes.
You are most definitely among friends here.