Mac1,
I think you are correct in needing to learn what works for you. I check both carb count and glycemic index but I do think it is important to count carbs. You said you don't want to count carbs the rest of your life??? Why not? I consider Atkins (general low carb eating) to now be a way of life. For years I looked for the easy way to lose weight and have always gained it back because I stopped following the plan. I have now been on Atkins for 1 year and I plan (and hope) I will continue to eat this way for the rest of my life. I will say...that the longer I am on it the easier it is to stick with and enjoy the challenge of trying and creating new low carbs meals.
Congrats on your early weight loss and your desire to get all the facts. Good luck.