Hi A.. My name is A. and I am live in Oceanside (Camp Pendleton to be specific), and I am part of a play group that is WONDERFUL!!!! There are lots of different ages of children, several I know Madeline's age. The mom's also range in age, and frankly I am up there with you in age while there are several in their 20's. It is a wonderful blend of moms and babies. There are park playdates several times a week, baby play dates (which you would love)in people's homes, Mommy nights out where you leave baby with Dad (although yours is young enough to bring along) and game nights where we get together to play games while the kids play. My husband just returned from Iraq and I must tell you there would have been no way for me to have survived without this group. They are an amazing bunch of ladies.
So, go to this web site and sign-up(its totally free): www.sahm.meetup.com/505
You will need to register with meet-up, then ask to join the "Little Explorers" group. You will be accepted and once you do you will find a whole new world (full of babies and Mom's.) There are message boards to ask advice, play games, spout of ideas, and just tell jokes. There are "shout outs" that help you (or me) greet and welcome new friends. I think this is EXACTLY what you need.
I hope to meet and see you soon A.!