Hey Everyone!

My name is Nicky, I was sleeved 3.11.13. I've lost more than 200+ pounds. It's so weird...someone called me thin to my face! I'm like are you sure?! Me?! Another person described me to my co worker as "the skinny guy". I'm so not used to this.

What I have realized, is that I look totally different, I can now FEEL how lonely I've been for so long. I'm not talking about sex or hooking up, just a friend to get coffee, see a movie, or just chit chat. I joined an online dating site. I knew I wasn't ready for dating. I just want friendship. I'm in Chicago and would like to meet people locally or otherwise. Any ideas?

Good luck to all of you,

Nicky AKA poohbear1019

Several years ago my daughter wanted to increase her circle of friends ..she looked around for a new church that would inspire her. She did find one.. She has met wonderful people at her church. She had two small kids..she then joined a mothers group..she still has friends form a group she joined 7 years ago. She also joined Christian mingle ..met a really nice guy..and is now dating him for almost a year. So what i am saying look at clubs, a gym, church groups, activity groups that meets for exercise such as hing, jogging, walking etc. it will not happen overnight. Give it time to form meaningful friendships. It will happen if u put time and effort. Good luck. Ps just my little suggestions

Ps.. Congrats on your tremendous success. You deserve a standing ovation.

Hi Poohbear, I agree with Carlotta, the way to meet people is to put yourself out there and join a group. If church isn't your thing you could think about taking some adult enrichment classes at a local college in an area you have an interest like art, photography,music or just anything. You will learn something new and meet new people in the process. You are not alone in your feelings and you would be surprised to find out just how many adults are wanting to expand their social circle. If you like animals, think about volunteering at an animal shelter. You won't meet anybody sitting at home in front of the television so get out there and do something and interact with people. Good luck and congratulations on your weight loss. Janet

Do you have a lambda center? I'm a Cali girl or I would hang out with you

:0) I love going to the mall shopping or to the movies. My gf haaates it.

Lol

I agree with what everyone else has said. Do what you love. Take classes, join a church, join the Y or a gym, volunteer, join or start a group (book, movie, sports, whatever). There should be a million things available to do in Chicago.

Just chiming in with the chorus. Do something social. Church, book club, hobby clubs are all great ways to meet friends.

Meetups.com is a great place to expand your circle and meet folks with similar interests without it being a "dating site".

Congratulations on all your success Nicky! And good luck on this next stage! There is some great advice here and I am sure you will find your way.