Nervous and Excited

First off welcome to this board. It is a great forum because it gives you a mix of advice from people who are at various stages of the journey. You'll notice just in reply to your thread there have been post-op patients, people going down, and people who are as much as 5 years out. The key to keep in mind is that no one has all the answers, so we all learn from each other here too. Now, about protein, as others have said, that is a constantly changing target. Figure out what you can tolerate and go with that. And then don't be afraid to mix it up if you get bored. For a while I could only stand the fruity drinks and could abide the shakes. Now all I want is the chocolate shakes. You'll change. It's ok. Now, about your family. Maybe this sounds insensitive, and I don't mean it to be, but don't worry about them. They won't starve. Your husband can either cook or go get take-out. Not ideal maybe but you are recovering from very serious surgery. You are doing something to make yourself better for them, so they can carry their weight. I suspect (my theory--not science) that many women in particular who end up obese are amazing at taking care of everyone else at the expense of taking care of themselves. This is the time for you. If that sounded harsh, I didn't mean it to be. This is a wonderful time for you and it will be so beneficial for your family. Your nervousness is totally normal and part of the journey. You have a group here who will support you and your family will survive. I promise!

I see you have already gotten some wonderful responses! For protein, try to find as many sources as you can to get samples.  Protein is challenging because of flavor, texture, type, etc.  It will really be trial an error.  To try and see what you prefer and what works for you without spending a fortune on 5lb containers that you'll never scoop again, believe me get the samples.  I went ahead and started with a basic Vanilla flavored powder as my staple and then worked from there.  I have had a rough time finding things that work for me but so far my "do-able" one that I drink every day is Nectar Naturals - Orange.  I prefer fruity over milky. What to wear...I agree with Jackie - save your money for when you start dropping sizes and want to buy some lower sizes.  A new dress will be dropping off of you in a matter of a month.  I went home in my usual jeans.  But that's what I love.  Probably, more comfy on the tender tummy would be a jumpsuit or elastic waist pant that will expand if you should be bloated a bit. Not to worry about the hubby and kids meals.  They'll survive for a week or so on the tv dinners.  :)  Great idea, just get the family size and add some veggies. GOOD LUCK!

Thank you all for your wonderful responses.  It helps a lot to hear about your trial and error with the protein supps.  As for my family,  I didn't think anyone sounded insensitive, when I said get meals into the freezer for my family, I meant Stouffers!!!  I'm not TOTALLY crazy!   I thought about writing letters to my kids, but I kinda feel like doing that is planning for something to go wrong, so I hesitate.  I want to plan on everything going very very well!    On the other hand.......... tough decision.   I decided to go with wearing my favorite shirt and some elastic waist pants home. Its what I wear around the house now.  I won't waste a cent on new clothes when I'll be needing them soon enough. YEAY!   Julie, I remember when you had your surgery. I was lurking then.  I am SO impressed by your achievement. I remember your post about how you were able to walk from the metro (I'm pretty sure it was you!) and how proud you were that you were able to do it.  Keep up the good work!   You all inspire me.  You have no idea how much!   Thank you so much.  See you on the losing side!

Also someone remarked about me taking only four days off.  I should clarify. I teach at a modified schedule school. I am taking four days off,   but the next three weeks are spring break and optional intercession. I've got just about a full month to recover!