So, Do You Have a Boyfriend?

A couple weeks ago i found myself at a friends birthday party faced with this very question.  It was one of those parties where no one really knew each other except for the person whose birthday we were celebrating.  So we all went through the typical meet and greet chatting; What do you do?  Where do you live?  How do you know so and so?  In addition the party's attendants were all couples.  I found myself in a situation many single gals fear and try to stay away from.  After countless phone calls and text to several friends trying to get someone, anyone to accompany me to this party.  I still found myself there alone and suddenly faced with the question, Do you have a boyfriend?
It was odd really.  I didn't know how to react.  I mean really its a simple yes or no question.  But when presented with it, I felt the need to explain to this girl why in fact, I was single.  It started off fine, I said no, Im here by myself.  I then however went on telling her how, I like being single, and i've always been an independent person, and God knows what else...trying to defend my singlehood.  What the hell is wrong with me?
I got out of there shortly after.  But it got me thinking.  The older I get, the more 'sticky single situations' I seem to face.  Other single gals out there know exactly what im talking about. One of them is the very story I've just told.  Being the odd one out at a party full of couples.  Or how about weddings, holiday parties, and the worst one of all, Valentine's day.  I myself will be dealing with a wedding, minus the plus one next month.  I was a little annoyed at first.  I am after all driving to northern California to attend this wedding.  The least you can do is let me bring a date.  But I think in cases like this we have to remember, its really not about us, and our sad single life.  The bride and groom are just trying to save a few bucks.  Knowing they are keeping the wedding small, I cant be too upset.  However, it will be yet another situation where, because its a coworker, i will know about a handful of people in the room, and probably be forced to have this conversation again, fun.  At least I'll be prepared this time and keep it short and sweet.
These situations suck.  But whenever Im faced with them, if I must be faced with them.  I try and remind myself of all the perks of being single!  Saving money, actually having time for the gym, free reign over the TV, girl time, a clean bathroom, and being able to pretty much do whatever I want :)