I have nothing to base my success/failure on - is 30 lbs post op day 27 normal? feels like i am following all of the rules and guidelines but haven't lost much weight - or maybe I am doing well and just don't know it?

30 pounds in less than a month? That is great success. Much better than average

Doesn't sound bad. Remember that while you were in the hospital they filled you with fluids and that when you arrived home you weighed more then when you went into he hospital and you had to lose that weight first.

Thirty pounds in one month is amazing. Remember that this is not a race to the finish but learning to eat and "be" healthy. I am 1 Year post operative and I've lost 90 pounds which is relatively low but well within the goals set with me and my team. I am trying to live normal so I eat following the rules but I do have the occasional treat and I let myself be okay with that. So continue to focus on learning how to reach your new normal and relax. As long as your weight doesn't start to go up and remain on that upward trend you are winning big time.