Where we belong

First I came here not knowing how to get here. Had to ask for directions from a fellow "grad". Second I came here not really knowing if I was a grad or not. Although I am just over 18 months post op, I still have a long way to go, so I doubted that I had the right qualifications for this board. After perusing several pages of past threads and viewing the roster, I find that I already know many of you. How is it you kept this grad board secret from me for all this time???? I just finished reading the post from about a week ago, topic "When is a grad a grad". After reading that thread, I have no doubt that I "belong" here. The very fact that I instantly felt that I belonged is proof enough that I am a grad. Were I not a grad, I would still be looking for acceptance and validation, not to mention a printed invitation to join your group. I identify with many of the definitions of a "grad" as they are listed in that thread. I also disagree with some of them, but now know that its okay to disagree and that doesn't make me any less of a "grad". I leave it up to you to determine which are which. In time it will be obvious for I'm certainly not shy about speaking my mind. Since I do consider myself a grad, I don't feel the need to introduce myself by telling you my life story or my WLS journey. You're all grads too, you know where to find that info if you're intersted. Thanks for being here. I look forward to sharing with you and learning from you. Windy Pat P.S. When we get to know each other better, I'll just sign WP.

Welcome WP! I too stumbled into this board and am sooo much happier here than on the main board!!!

Thanks! Do I call you Inspector, or Ms Girl? I never could tolerate the main board for more than 3 minutes. I guess I "graduated" a lot sooner than most. WP

YAY --- another grad who hasn't "arrived" yet? I assume by your "long way to go" you're not at goal yet? I had my first surgery 26 months ago and within 6 months I had a staple line disruption and it took another year before I got my revision. So, here I am on the grad board with 100 pounds to lose still. Welcome aboard! It's nice to have you here. DeeDee

DeeDee.... nope I haven't arrived. At the current rate of loss I should be at goal sometime in 2009. But that's okay because my life today is soooooooo much better than it was 18 months ago. In fact, I actually have a life now... I look forward to getting up in the morning instead of going to bed and hoping I don't. Still have about 90 pounds to go till I get to the surgeon's goal. It's going to be a looooooong while! WP

Hi WP They just made this board a few weeks ago--no secrets here. Welcome and I look forward to sharing and learning from you too.

Lynda... thanks for letting me know I'm not too far behind the pack here. I hate feeling like I missed something. Whew.... one less thing to fret about. Not that I was... but eliminating the possibility is precious! I only hope I have something to offer that anyone can learn from. WP

Welcome WP! I think you'll really like this board. It's like coming home. It's nice to have a place of our own where we can discuss issues important to us all and share our experiences. See ya around. g

Thanks Georganne! I may have to consider this my "second home" as I've already signed a "mortgage" for another board.... perhaps my "home away from home"! WP

Nice to meet you Pat and WELCOME ABOARD!! We're glad to have ya... Have a super night...Cap'n K-Man