I can relate! My wife is the type who instantly makes friends with anyone, and can talk easily. I on the other hand, have never understood "small talk". If I don't have something to say, I won't, and I expect others to do so too.
Ironicly, she has told me that she has been impressed with how I've held my own at get togethers with the inlaws (immediate family of 32 people!). Meanwhile I feel like a square peg being forced thru a round hole! LOL