can someone explain the buddy system to me?

Bees, ya got me there!
I think what happens is people post here looking for a buddy. Someone who's in a similar situation to their own who they can either email or PM (personal message). I think it works for some people, but it's not always possible to find an "instant match", you know? So I'd really recommend posting in a few different areas of the forum. I've made a ton of wonderful friends here over the past few years.

hi there,
Buddies are just other women that you meet and talk to,
and daily or often you message back and forth and try to encourage each other and support each other in weight loss and life issues.

hope this helps some!

I'm with Ellis. I think what often happens is that folks start to post around on the boards and meet lots of 'buddies' or 'internet pals'. I hardly ever pm or email but there are several posters here who I admire, appreciate ... wouldn't miss what they have to say.