Dumb newbie question about the "Add Friend" function on the board

Ok, is adding someone as a friend kind of like stalking? No, no stop laughing. I'm a newsgroup kind of gal, and this is my first message board, and I've added (well, send requests to, anyway) four friends to my profile -- people whose progress I've been following with interest, or with whom I've been corresponding, or who have the same surgery date as me. ANYWAY, not having used this function before, I probably ought to know if there is any subtext that I ought to know about when using "add friend"? Is it creepy to get in invitation from someone you don't know well? (insert wave to the four people on this board I invited to be friends this week) "Hi y'all! I'm not a creepy friendless internet stalker! Promise!" Donna B.

No Problem with what you are doing Donna... A couple weeks back we had a thread so that all November sugery dates would add to the friends... I just click on the ones I talk to a lot as well, or that have shown me a lot of support.... Most people that send a request to me, I approve.... I usually read the profile and figure out why if I don't recognize them from one of my boards.... The first thing I do is look at their surgery date... that is a dead give a way.. LOL.... I am honored you asked to be my friend.... Shawn M.

I think it is great!!! I don't think there is a "friend protcol" We all need support from each other and when we find someone that we relate too, that is awesome! I love this board and have learned so much from so many. I think being outgoing and inviting friendships is inspiring Denise