What is the best way to meet a guy?  I've been single over 5 years because my previous relationships have been abusive and I had to work on myself first and now I'm ready.  I really have no friends because of my past so meeting a guy through friends won't happen.  I'm not much of a drinker or into the bar scene.  I might be boring because my life is really simple.  Anyway, I don't really want to pay $30-$40 a month for a dating website, but is that my only option?  I'm kind of shy and have a hard time striking conversations.  Obviously waiting for the guy to come to me at the right time isn't working and I have to get out there, but how?  Any suggestions?  I'm afraid if I go to the bar I'll have a few drinks and then sleep with someone because alcohol seems to do that and guys seem to know that game too well.  I want a connection, not a sex relationship so I'm not looking for hookups.  I feel like that's all guys want these days and then when you try to meet someone online the guys constantly ask for pictures.  Like they just can't get enough pictures and this is really annoying.  If you have advice, great thanks!  Otherwise, maybe I'm venting.