This isn't a competition!!

Cassidy,

Don't know if it will work but here's what I do - everytime someone brings it up and I don't want to talk about it, I say 'oh, this silly/stupid/yucky thing has been my focus for so long that I'm bored with it, let's talk about something fun'. I toss out whatever word I feel like at the time and try to laugh it off, then I bring up a different subject. Usually the gals get to gossiping about co-worker, neighbors, etc and the subject of the surgery/recovery takes a back seat. On the rare occasion when a friend won't give it up, I just say 'Ouch! That comparison hurt. Afterall, we are individuals.' Talk about a quick way to shut someone up. After the point was made, I then lightened the mood by adding 'albeit, fantastically good-looking individuals with lots of fun stuff in common' and then went into another topic of conversation.

The 'tired' thing works well, too - but unfortunately, it only stops the conversation for that time.

LOL! I just remembered another friend who used to snap her fingers and say "Hey, focus on me!" That was our cue to stop talking about this surgery or that illness 'cause she didn't care. We'd laugh and then change the topic. I haven't thought about that in years. (Be sure to snap your fingers while thowing your arm up into the air...it's all about drama!)

That's funny!

Cassidy-
I don't know which is worse - someone's competiveness about what we should be doing, or someone's silence because they don't know what to say or have forgotten. Either way, I'm glad you all are here!
Conifer

I agree with the gal who said that this will be the topic of conversation for awhile.I just want to say,without sounding harsh..please..........that is what you come here for,and you have the best of both worlds if you have it in person too.....big deal if they seem to be bragging or whatever..let them and be happy for them.Negativity isn't a good thing,and whatever they are doing is working for them.Just like when we were growing up....who's boobs are bigger,who got there period first......etc.we are still "girls" and went through a reeeeeeeeeally big thing.I don't think anyone is trying on purpose to bother or hurt you......Just my opinion.Take care......

Tell them that you have developed an allergy to Competitive Illness Syndrome and, as they are obviously suffering from it, could they please refrain from bringing it to your house!?