TampaGina

I've been in a few situations so far like what you're describing, big family BBQ's or meals. The first dinner that came along, I didn't go because I thought the temptation would be too real. After missing out on the family, I decided that I was going to have to learn self-control eventually so why not now.
If we go to a restaurant, I pick something along the lines of what I would normally eat and section it off as soon as I get it. I ask for a to-go box when the meal comes and put the part that I shouldn't eat in the box. Out of sight, out of mind. My family knows I had surgery and eat a lot less, but for the most part they're too busy with their meals to notice mine.
I'm still learning how to not over-eat in social situations because honestly I'm usually so preoccupied with conversation that I ignore my bodies signals that I'm full. The only time I get funny looks is when I turn down ordering a beverage, but that's usually from the waitress, who STILL brings me Water

As always, TMF offers wise advice.
I understand what you're saying. You don't want to give up that social aspect of eating and you don't want to have to answer questions. But here's the thing, in situations like you're describing food actually has little to do with it. It's about the company you're with and the companionship that happens over the meal, not the meal itself.
You will have to make some adjustments to your lifestyle, but that doesn't mean you have to give up your social life or even all the foods you love. I eat out a couple times a month but I am simply mindful to order smart food and stick to band sized portions. Very often I'll actually look up a menu online ahead of time so I know what I'm going to do before even getting to the restaurant.
When eating at people's homes it's not as easy but still doable. A good example would be the week I spent at my dad's house in July. There were numerous fatty, yummy meals served, including lasagna. I didn't want to pass on the meal entirely and seem rude so my answer was to have a very small serving of lasagna and a big serving of salad. I still got to enjoy the meal, I didn't offend anyone by not eating, but I managed to eat smart and fill up on the veggies instead of the lasagna.
It's definitely a learning experience. Hang in there, you can do this

WOOHOO...way to go on your success!! NO Sugar Ice Cream for all...lol !!

My eyes about popped out of their sockets this morning when I stepped on the scale! I am officially down 140 pounds and am .6 (that's 1/2 pound!!!) away from my first goal of 135 pounds (will decide from there whether to lose another 5 pounds or not). I CANNOT BELIEVE IT! I am so excited. Last night I went to my friend's consignment shop for the first time (only carries the smaller sizes - really upscale gently used designer clothes) and I tried on and fell in love with an ARMANI jacket. From someone that used to HATE to shop - i'm now officially a clothes horse - and loving it!!! I must say that I have never IN MY LIFE spent that much money on one item of clothing (this includes my wedding dress - ha!) that jacket makes me look and feel like a million bucks - and is a little reward to myself for doing so great with my lapband. BEST OF LUCK TO US ALL ON OUR JOURNEYS!!!!

I am just over one week out. My problem is getting my protien in. The sweet taste is getting to me. I do ok with savory, but sweet is just too much. I am getting 3 in a day and should be at 4-5. I am doing ok on other fluids. I think my problem is before surgery I could chug the shakes but now I have to sip slowly. I should move to mushies on Wed. Can't wait

I am one week today too and had my one week follow up with lots of good news. First, I've lost 21.5 pounds since my pre-op appointment. Second, I get to start mushies today!
I was so happy I went to a local salad bar and filled up a container with cottage cheese, soft fruits, hard-boiled eggs, etc. The best part was that after 4-5 bites I started to feel full. I called my husband and said "this thing really works!".
Hope everyone experiences days like these - best wishes to all!!

Ashley,
I know it will be tough to shake these feelings, especially since you are taking meds, but you need to focus on your goals. You've set goals for your health, education, family, and life, keep those in the forefront and don't let any obstacle steer you away from those important things in your life! You've come a very long way and I know your family is proud of you too! You can do it and I don't have the slightest doubt in my mind!
I am a student as well, SO I am very curious, what are you taking or majoring in? I completed a computer engineering degree in 2010 and presently working towards my BS in technology management. I am extremely tired and would love a break! I counted my classes yesterday and have only 5 more to go, to complete this program! Yea!!!!!
OK, I better really get back to work this time, before the boss figures me out! LOL Big hugs Ashley!
Dennis

lets see 80 lbs gone, did my first 1/2 marathon on bike,smaller size, healthier few glitches
Nope would do it again!!!

I'm absolutely sure it tastes the same but it's too gross for even me to try it so you go first
tmf

TampaGina hang in there, it's hard but so worth it. I had to do a month of Protein shakes before my op and two weeks into it I was about ready to gouge my eyes out because I was so sick of the shakes but I got through it and with a 10 kilo loss which is just over 20 pounds. After my op I just couldn't do the Protein Shakes and will never have another again. To be honest for the first two weeks after my op I didn't feel hungry at all and had to make myself drink Water, Soups, v8 fruit and vegetable juice. Best if luck to you also and it will get better.

I am on Day 4 post op and all I want is everything I can't have! I keep questioning whether or not I did the right thing. I am so sick of these liquids and Protein shakes!
I just want real food! I know this is part of the reason that I havent succeeded on diets before...I just can't seem to get myself out of this food depression.

Yes you should be fine! I take depression/anxiety meds and I think many people do. I am only 4 days post op and am still taking my meds, but would love to stop at some point.
They want to know if you are mentally prepared for the surgery...but I'm not sure that we ever completely are! We have become addicted to food and this process is going to take awhile! Good luck!

Lol I love your post Lisa! "the most we could wait was 10 days!". Love it!

every second morning i make up a split pea and lentil Soup. its winter time here and it goes down well. i put mild salsa in it as well. a couple of pieces of bacon, some garlic, onion. chicken stock.

I was afraid too when I went through mine. But I was cleared. I need to go back and get evaluated again. I think Im needing to get medicated again,

Take a deep breath! I doubt that little bit of cottage cheese is going to derail you! It could have been a snickers bar! It happened and you are sorry about it, and just move on. If this were easy none of us would be fat in the first place! Good luck and keep up the good work!

Like you, I grieved. After surgery, when I was on liquids and healing, I cried and was angry as hell. But I also realized that mourning of comfort food was necessary to move forward on this journey. It's that unhealthy relationship with food that led me to be morbidly obese needing the Lap Band to begin with. I knew it was time to deal with my emotions and start a new chapter in my life.
I found being honest helped. I didn't try to deny I was sad or angry and allowed myself to move through those emotions. The good news was, by the time I finally got back on real food 6 weeks later, I was definitely past my fatty food addiction so it made the transition into eating healthy a lot easier.
Just remind yourself that you are strong and you can totally do this.
Best wishes

Mine is Aug 14th! Much luck and God Bless to everyone!