When am I a Graduate?

Lynda, Thank you. I replied the way I did b/c of the first response that she got which basically said in a polite way, "You can't come here." Again, while I understand segregation to a degree, I'm not certain that it's "healthy." I will stay with my convictions believing that all are welcome. If this board is all about exclusitivity where will begin or end? Who is to determine who is acceptable and who is not? ACK! Best, Vanessa

Mom . . . I think Delores said it best. When you are as far as most of us are, the issues are different. When I was at your stage, I was able to eat anything (well, almost) as long as it was a bite or two and I steadily lost weight. Now I CAN eat everything and I have to struggle to keep my weight at goal. Big difference! At 1 year out I never worried about what went into my mouth. Today, at almost 3 years out, I worry about everything that goes into my mouth, and I have to watch it all. You will be here soon enough. Enjoy the time when you are "coasting" through the weight loss. Once you get to our level, it's a whole different ballgame. Missy

Mom, first of all---you are welcome here always!! This board was and has been a place to share and care with people that are having similar experiences, It was felt that at 1 year out, we start to see this as a life long journey, and not the speedy rollercoaster of the first year. For me my weight, my food, my life is different at almost 5 years than it was at 6 months-9months, or even 1 year. And babe, I'm still learning---like duh!! don't eat Chinese for lunch and go back to work!! (Luckily no one iwas sitting close this afternoon---they left early! Whew!! LOL) Also, I and alot of us use this board as a way to stay conected without always reading the posts of the recent PO. NOT because I don't care---but because unless I re-read my profile I usually can't remember-(or maybe that's because I turned 50??...) I know what works and has worked for me, but the reasons I chose these things are not always on the tip of my fingers. So, strictly speaking--a graduate as defined by this board is 1 year plus. But hey---maybe you can help my memory, so don't go too far. Sometime I need to hear, "well in the beginning.... " Luv Ya!! Have a Great Weekend< Bek

I am hoping that you have not replied to your original post because you have a very full life filled with love, support and the kinds of social networks that are far more high touch than high tech! From my perspective, the more you know early on...the better your chance for a successful lifestyle. There is a lot that you can learn from lurking...and although your journey is only beginning, you may be able to teach this old dog some new tricks! Stay, go, read, observe, post, get jiggy with it...this high tech friend welcomes you to this long, strange ride we call "the grads board." Karen