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Me, too, Tyra -- what state? I'm Michigan.

GR has good hospitals. I'm in Mt Pleasant area, surgery in Alma. Did you go through months of testing etc to get clearance?

I agree with you, but think it is a dual purpose. It does get us used to weighing, measuring, and dealing with the reality that is to come. I guess it's also a window where one can have second thoughts and back out. I don't know of anyone doing that, though. It was a 7 month process of "vetting" to get to this point!

Welcome, Mike! Gee, only one week of pre-op? Nice. What part of Michigan are you in?

Wow, you are doing great! I am 70 and did not expect to qualify, but my surgery is July 17. Have had new knees for 10 yrs but spine and hips are getting bad so hope wt loss will alleviate pain. Good you and DH are doing this together - a grand adventure!

I rely on Biotene for that. Comes in oral rinse, toothpaste, and oral gel, which is what I find the most helpful. Meds and all sorts of things can result in dry mouth.

My program recommends Unjury protein powders and liquids. They have a chicken flavor, too. You can get a sampler pack for about $22 to try it all. Figure it will be about $2 per 8.5oz bottle. Yes, a bit pricey, but I also feel confident there are no "China" components in their vitamins or other products. I use the unflavored powder the most, adding it to most everything. Unjury.com For ready made, the program also recommends Premier Protein, which is found at Sam's, Walmart, and others and comes in several flavors. I also found Premier Clear Protein drinks on Amazon.

July 17 in Michigan for me. Am working out my pre-op food plan now which starts July 7. It's a lot of work, but that's OK. Each stage will be different, so I think I'll be working one stage and planning the next stage. Lot's to learn, and the anticipation keeps building. Bundle of nerves and excitment. Getting off caffeine was...well, I feel like a sloth lately, so so tired.

I wondered how strong the pain medication. Well, quit typing and walk, girl!

Hives - oh no! Did they give you something to relax? You won't get hives again, will you??!!

I'm amazed you have revocered enough to type! So, it's gas pain rather than incision pain? What are you getting for pain? Glad it went so well for you!

Those are good!

are these brands made with "China free" ingredients? I'm cautious about vitamins for the same reason.

If your store carries Annie's organic products, check the label on their tomato soup in a box.

I will try this recipe -- thank you for sharing it!

I'd love to have your recipe!

My hosp does not provide binders but my surgeon is not against them. I'm getting one from braceability.com but there are other suppliers as well. I wore one after my hysterectomy some years ago, and it was SO helpful for a few weeks -- the support provides comfort for the abdomen and also for my back.

Yes, yes you have an excellent point. Structure and routine will keep us on the straight path. I don't always like a lot of structure, but I think I can have structure in that aspect of my life and free-wheel it in other areas of my life -- between the structure, so to speak. Which plops my free-wheeling into a routine as well! Being a creature of habit seems to have worked well for you -- you are below your goal weight!

I expect to feel the same. I'm so happy for everyone as your Special Day comes up. As soon as I get to hospital I will be telling everyone that I am really nervous. That won't be an unusual comment to the medical staff, but they may give me something in my IV to relax, and that would be nice. It is an odd combo of emotions -- to be nervous AND excited.

Ohhh, you must be counting the hours. I assume your bag is packed, and your counter is organized with all you will need. It's 10:25am here -- this time tomorrow you'll probably be in recovery! Off you go!!!

Ha, it's a mantra we should be required to memorize! Remember learning the Pledge of Allegiance? Read it. Learn it. Live it.

Just turned over the calendar to begin July tomorrow -- my palms had a sweaty moment as I viewed the month, realizing July 17 is coming up fast! Am I ready? Almost, but the clock will keep ticking whether I'm ready or not. Anxious to begin the 10-day pre-op, but may indulge in a piece of zucchini bread before that starts July 7. I miss baking. However, I keep saying to myself, It's Only Temporary! O yes, I'm in Michigan.

Thanks, Danny, that's kinda what I suspected but wanted to check with those who've been there! My D-Day is 18 days away and just trying to get organized.

Here's my alltime favorite...so far! The goal is the road, not the destination. - Dr. Jamie Beckerman

How about changing that to "1. Add 1 scoop of protein powder to one food item each day?"