What do you do while other people eat at restaurants? I went out to dinner with my parents and everyone kept accusing me of being sad while they were eating. I wasn't sad. I was uncomfortable and feeling awkward because I ate my two tablespoons of refried beans and was done. I don't really want to play on my phone but, that might be my only option?

From what I hear, once you are further out you can explore more or maybe just order an appetizer. Were you still hungry, but only could eat the small portion of refried beans? If I'm full, I'm satisfied. Maybe you could space your meal out. Have your drink, wait 30 min and then eat. As a side note, if I want to try something that I see someone with that I could have, I might get a to go order of it? You can divide it up into different meals. I think of a dinner out as a social event. I would space my meal out to the best of may ability and as you get further out you can hold up to 8oz. If the meal is just to get quick food for my kids, I usually task my husband with it. I am only 1 week post op, but am getting ready for graduation parties and am trying to get a game plan going.

I was full and happy with my refried beans. I just didn't know what to do with myself.

It will get better!!! I would just say spread it out a bit with your drink and then dinner and in no time you will be able to eat more and only having 2 bites in a long dinner will be a non-issue.

Try to take the time to really enjoy conversations with loved ones. When my family gets together and goes out for dinner it’s usually just something for us to do while we visit. Once I have the surgery I can focus more on WHY I’m there. [emoji5][emoji5]