I'm actually very nervous about this....

not so much about the food, but about the waste of money....

I am only 1 wk out, but in 5-6 weeks, political events begin for me which means being around a lot of food and lunch/dinner events. I cannot decline many of them but just feel as if so much will be a waste. I do plan to bring left overs home when possible, though it's a bit tacky to do so.

I need a FULL LIST of what I CAN eat. Luckily, I have been a fickle eater much of my life and I don't endulge in sweets and carbs....

I do look forward to the meats.

I do not look forward to the money though

What do you guys eat at:

Italian Restaurants

TGI Fridays

Applebees

Friendly's

Ruby Tuesdays?

Hungry Girl is your friend. Of course, you'd need to use caution since we have a pouch but http://www.hungry-girl.com/biteout/show/2599

Try ordering an appetizer only. Maybe some chicken wings or chicken fingers. Some restaurants have awesome appetizers like crab cakes (make sure it's not too much filler, though). Just stick to an app or order a 1/2 portion. Most of those restaurants you mentioned have their menus online. Check them out before you go. This is about YOU not about what others think. P.S. My surgeon gave me a business card that says "I had bariatric surgery. Please allow me to order 1/2 portions." Quite frankly, I won't use it because it's no one's business but it does give me the idea to order 1/2 portions. Also, a friend of mine would order a meal & ask them to deliver 1/2 to her & wrap the other 1/2 before it was even brought to the table. Worked for her.

I don't have specifics but soup is always a safe bet, and it's not as expensive as meals and you can't take it home. Or you can order an appetizer as a meal if there's anything decent.

Kids meals are my friends. Just ask for a kids menu. In 5-6 weeks you will more than likely still be with soup to be safe. You know you will not have issues with soup.