CONTRIBUTED BY JANAE BURGER

“You’ve Got Mail!” For those of us who have been around long enough to have laughed as Meg Ryan slyly checked the windows and doors to make sure all was clear before hurrying to check her email, I’m sure you can hear the melody to this announcement. For more than a decade, mingling online has become one of the most common ways to interact with others and stay in touch. You don’t even have to get out of bed to ‘meet’ others in Okinawa. There are dozens of websites, resources and social networking groups specifically for those of us living on Okinawa.

One site I use daily is  OkinawaHaiSoiety. This social networking society was created by our very own Meredith (Who is the creator of OkinawaHai.com) and is a great place to get to know others on Okinawa. There are over 30 groups in the society, with interests such as scuba, children’s clothing swap, knitting, menopause, lunch buddies, finding friends, and more. If there isn’t a group for your hobby, create one! Join in on a bunco game night, a friend-a-thon, or a baby yoga class (just a few of the events recently discussed in the groups). Regular get-togethers and outings are always being planned by various members and groups which allow you to met everyone you’ve been talking to online. Perhaps you are new to the idea of social networking and need some help with the ins-and-outs, Ask Tara!

She’s always been amazingly helpful and friendly when I’ve asked questions. After you’ve met some people online don’t just observe or participate at a distance, get out of bed, get dressed and go out and met everyone. Whether it’s a group outing or simply going to lunch with a new friend, you have to get out of the house to really create a friendship. Ask around. Those whom enjoy their time in Okinawa most are the ones with great friends and acquaintances to share this wonderful experience with. So start connecting now!