What I've learned about struggling (so far)...

Diane, this stuff with my eating, my disease or whatever, it really feels like *the* issue of my life.  I've heard a lot of people say "I'm a grateful compulsive overeater" and I don't always feel grateful, but I do feel like working on this stuff is the only way I'm going to have a full life.  I think my eating issues are more about my dysfunctional way of dealing with life than anything else.

You know those Claritin commercials, where they peel back the film over the picture and everything is brighter?  That's kind of how I feel about eating.  When I'm in the food, it's just this grey film over everything.  And I *know* if I go back on autopilot around food, that's where I end up.  I have also been doing this long enough (dealing with my eating issues, not surgery) to know that clean eating for 7 or 8 years - five years in maintenance - doesn't guarantee anything, except a much better 7 or 8 years than they would have been otherwise.  

You are always so kind, and I appreciate your input and posts so much.  I need to see people further out ahead of me, still doing the work and getting by without the excess food.  You are a fine example of that.

Happy, you are always there talking about things I need to hear about in the moment. Have I told you how much I appreciate your openness, honesty and support?  You are an amazing writer.  If you are looking for an extra job maybe make a collections of your anecdotes and have them published. 

I think maybe we are twins separated at birth.  I can so relate to your struggles.

I would love to meet you one day as you are a terrific rold model. 

I am touched by your comments.  Thank you.  I am here because I have to be somewhere, talking about my food issues and remember every day I am a compulsive overeater with unreliable instincts about food.

I *really* appreciate your compliments to my writing!  As an engineer, it is one of my super powers! 

 Love you, doll!  thanks for all the support.  hope to be there for you too!