I attended my first OA meeting.

It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.  There were a lot of kind people there.  There are meetings  that are within driving distance 6 days a week.  Unfortunately, 5 of them are at night and I work second shift.  I will be able to make the Saturday morning meeting almost every week and probably one of the evening meetings as well. My one issue that I have to get over is the cult feeling.  It is not in my nature to "conform".  I, however, feel that I may have to because, if not, I may be on the fast track back to morbid obesity.

What does OA stand for.  Overeaters Anonymous? Just checking. MLF

You got it.

Scott, Great to hear you are working to overcome your problem with food. Many people have found the answers and coping skills through just such a group. I’m sorry I didn’t know you had been struggling. Hang in there. I know a number of folks who have had weight gain after WLS And then turned it around completely to lose on down to goal. I don’t know what the particular "Fix" might be for you, But I hope it becomes an easy ride and not an ongoing struggle soon. You’ve left so many of us in the dust When it comes to exercise and determination with your Marathons. (certainly kicked my azz) I know you can whip this FFF (friggin’ food fixation) as well. Make what meetings you can, Wring out them all of the info you can, And lean on us here when you need help. Even if it has a "Cult-vibe," Take from the group what is helpful And offer them help in return, Just don't fork out any cash, Sell any flowers in airports, or write them into your will... (also, if they pass out little cups of Grape Kool-Aid, Pass. I look forward to a stream of "Good News" stories coming from you in ’08! Best Wishes- Dx

You probably didn't know that I was struggling because I have not been posting as much.  It is just not as fun when you don't feel that you are doing well with the whole thing.   As of right now, I am on day 4 sugar free.  I know I have been down this road before with the ice cream but I did that for four months.  Why not forever one day at a time? Thanks for the support, man

I've been really thinking about going to an OA meeting.  I'm just scared it's a bunch of fat women who go to ***** about their lives and eat donuts and not do anything about it.  I know it sounds harsh but that's just the vibe feeling I get !

Here is the irony.  It's a bunch of skinny women and men.  Most seem to have come to grip with their struggle and are doing well.  I think that you should go.  What one lady recommended was that I go to 6 meetings before I decide that I hate it (or love it).  That sounds fair enough to me.

Hey Dude, you nailed that cult feeling fast...I think that one would have blind sided me...now that you know that feeling is out there...you can see it coming.... on the cult thing...if you drink the Kool-aid...I bet it's really Crystal Lite... Give us an update on that boy of yours...it's been a while...bet he's growing like a weed.... Russ

The boy is doing well.  Thanks for asking.  He is going to run the Disney Kids race again this year.  Maybe in a few years, He can do the 5K with me.  He is a little chubby and we are working on that. I am going to give the OA thing a try because in 32 years, I have proven I can't do it alone.  Take care

Scott, I am also in CT, where is the one you go to? I will be having my surgery in March and need to get my head together.