Just curious

I probably post as much as anyone here these days. I just got to wondering if I am an oldie or a newbie? Every time we add a new Marcher our group personality changes. Every time we get to a new stage in our WLS journey, we change. Change is not bad--it is just a reality of life. The support we need and give changes with us. That is as it should be. I was among the first Marchers. I found this board when we were just starting to come in with excitement shouting "I have a DATE"! I was one who tried to greet each newly arriving Marcher, and I still do so. I played as we tried to pass the anxious days waiting for surgery. I tried to share what info I could find, and gained from the posts of others. I sympathized with those whose surgeries got postponed or cancelled. I grieved for lost Marchers. I have given and received support from this group to a degree that amazes me for people who have never met face to face and have known each other on-line for such a short time. Many Marchers have found their way here only after surgery. I'm sorry you missed the preop days, but am so glad that you have come. Many of you have stepped into the void left by others who for one reason or another have distanced themselves. I appreciate you and am so glad you are here. You have individaully and as a group become a dear friends. But one friend never replaces another--each person is so unique. While the changes in tone in this board are inevitable, I too miss other individuals who were once a daily part of my life. I am here for the long haul. I have invested much of myself here, and I choose to remain. I may not agree with any one of you on everything, but agreement is not a condition of my acceptance of you as a friend and a Marcher. I hope you feel the same about me. Joy Not "newbie" or "oldie" Just Marcher

I feel the same. I can't really figure out why anyone is upset about anything that was said. We're here to support each other and that's that. Louise

I'll always love you mine. The Boop

You too! Joy

Joy, As I said a couple of days ago, I'm still here, but I lurk more now than I did before. Some of it has to do with energy and mental clarity. Sometimes typing even a short reply is an exercise in futility. After I type several words over and over again then realize that they look like ==> alk dpougj lkj lgoeih g kljh goi. I question is it worth the trouble. I read most of the posts on the board, but if what I have to say has already been said, I move on. Sometimes I read posts and just shake my head and move on. I wonder why would you put yourself through this method of torture; just to go back to doing the exact same things that got you to the weight required to qualify for this surgery? My replying to those posts would just cause ranker from within like today's rants. My Job on the board ==> *the lists* has been completed. Now if I want to chime in about something, I will. Otherwise, I read, and Va Was/Am/Wannabe 232/194/130

Who are you trying to fool? Your work is to keep me straight and that is a never-ending task!!! My brain, such as it is, is finally starting to return to normal, such as it was. Maybe yours will too soon! Love ya, Joy

My problem with *some posters is that they only come up to stir the pot. I admit Ive done that on occasion only because I post mainly on debate boards on AOL. lol. Its sort of engrained in my online habit. Also, since I backed out of surgery, I feel left out of the loop so to speak. I post when I can.. but other wise Im just happy for everones sucess.. at the same time steaming that I had my opportunity and bailed. This is a great place for support but doG forbid you vent. Joy you are one of my favorite Marchers and always will be. I look forward to your posts. Never once have I noticed any negativity from you. You are an asset to this board and OH in general. Thank you!

Jessica -- I thought you were going to re-schedule...wha' happened? Kimmer Queen of the Niners, Instigator to All Marchers, High Priestess of Giggles

I *am. Its just taking a lot longer than I expected. Im thinking maybe June or July.

Hello fellow Marchers! I like that...Marchers. I had my surgery on 3-4-04 and I am a newbie here! I will try and be positive here. We are going through this TOGETHER!