You can sign up for the message boards for free (without access to the online system) - it's very different than here, that's for sure. But it can be a good support mechanism.

As far as points, in the new system (introduced in December), I think the low end of points is 18. And most people I would believe would be under 30. I'm not sure how helpful that is in trying to plan for bracelets. Your points also decrease as you lose weight, so I would think you'd want to build that flexibility in.

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When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and swing.