"riding the pink cloud" is a term originally coined by Alcoholics Anonymous to describe what some new members experience when they first entered the program. Over the last few years, this phenomenon has also been noticed in postop wlsers, which is why I thought it might be of value here.

The "pink cloud" is a wonderful thing. In my group, it's as highly coveted as having the ability to "dump". It's positively euphoric. Everything is working. All the "rules" are easy to follow. The Carb monster is nowhere to be seen and the weight is dropping just like its suppose to. Life is good. We are told to enjoy each and every moment of it.

Pink clouds can leave at any time, usually they last about a year, very few go passed the 2 yr mark. While you're riding the pink cloud is a good time to prepare for the time ahead:

Tips for Life after the Pink cloud:

-- Don't hide out.
-- Keep problems in perspective.
-- Talk about it.
-- Accept responsibility.
-- Commit yourself to resolution.
-- Break problems into small steps.
-- After you take action, let go of the results.

Feelings:

Welcome the thaw.
Take it slow.
Own your feelings.
Use your feelings as signals.
Just let it be.
Keep breathing.
Remember, you don't have to act on it.
Reach out.

I personally along with about half my group never, experienced the "pink cloud". I think all of us grew in understanding of the others recovery better, when we understood the differences. It easy for the ones of us, not on the ride, to think there was something wrong with us Oddly, it was easier for the ones, on the ride, to believe there was something wrong with us, also. When we all understood it to be just another postop phenomenon, we all understood and accepted each other.

Anyway, to all of you riding the pink cloud, may you have a long successful run! Don't go to sleep. Keep preparing yourselves, so when it leaves you, you'll have you the skills you need to minimize relapse.

My cloud is PURPLE.

Didn't you and I discuss this the other day? It is quite informative. I always learn something from you and your posts. Glad you are back in full force.

Good stuff Lee...
I love all the back-up strategies you list as well!
My pink cloud is never far away... And I'll tell you what helps me
to stay in touch with it, writing down my thoughts in such a way that
I am practicing the art of positive framing. The more specific I
am about my feelings and goals (not so much carb counts and fat grams)
the more empowered I become to do rather than just dream. The
"I can do this" attitude is what invites Pink Clouding back into my
experience. When I relax and love the trip, I could care less about the destination.
The resulting happiness and resolve get me sailing! I get to pink clouding
when I think about the incredible amount of specific information I can
access here; the amazing support I receive and the joy I get from giving it.
My pink cloud days help me regenerate for those other times when I'm doing
well to put one foot in front of the other.. every moment is a new one.

Mickee,

What you're describing is Recovery! That's something you can depend on. Knowing what works for you and actualizing it into your life. Making that daily commitment to recovery and not relapse. The process of staying awake and staying rigorously honest with yourself.

No, this particular "Pink cloud" leaves and doesn't come back. It's just a trip to Oz. But if you're prepared, something much more powerful takes it's place. Your new recovered self.

As I understand, if we continue introspecting and being curious about ouselves. Those "other times" show up less and less.

Thank you, your post gives me hope for myself.