I have never be able to make [close] friends, especially same-sex friends. It bothered me when I was younger, but not much anymore (I'm 35 now). I get enough social interaction at work, my spouse is very close friend of mine, and kids and hobbies keep me busy.

Only on occasions like wedding, name giving parties etc. having no friends bothers me little but I've three siblings.

It's interesting that the recommendation to make friends in hobbies haven't worked for me neither. I guess there's something in my personality which makes it hard, regardless of the situation. It's relatively easy for me to get along with people, but really difficult to convert the relationship from acquaintance to true friendship.