Great thread. I just wanted to join in that it's not really so bad at all. I probably feel better now, at 57, than I have in a very long time. I did gain weight during peri but that was due to poor food choices and too much wine
. I lost 45 lbs last year and I am more active than I've been in awhile. I still have some hot flashes, but nothing I can't manage, and they do seem to be less than they were the last couple of years. Even my anxiety seems to have lessened now that I'm post menopausal, though not completely. There is some crepey skin due to age and weight loss last year, but it's really not so noticeable to anyone but me. All in all, I really can't complain at this point. Peri was worse than post, but even that wasn't unbearable. Don't be afraid, you young'uns. You'll be fine, and I actually like it better now than before.