Just a quick observation about eating soup. You're not supposed to have "liquids" with your meal...that also includes soup broth. In the wintertime, when I crave soup, I buy soup with vegetables and try to stay away from soup with lots of pasta. The cans that I buy, I drain the broth out and eat the rest...usually about half a can of prepared soup and save the other half for next time. FYI...I am 2 years and almosts 4 months post-op.

Well I think that tells me everything I need to know, more replies are always welcome naturally.
Now there's one less question on my list. I got the book "Before and After" yesterday, looks good, thanks MissNita. and thank you all.

I am done close to 150 pounds in 8 mos. Is the weight loss worth the sacrafice??? Well let me put it this way. I am wearing size 14 now from 36...food is not your friend, it is just a function of living and when put in its proper perspective than there is no sacrifice. As far as social events...I know so many people who are always dieting...no one ever notices because it is normal. How we ate pre surgery was not normal! This is the one lesson I will carry with me forever! As far as coping, I walk to relieve stress and exercise when I am bored. I also started working and I will be going to school again in a mo. I have found ways to fill my life without using food as a substitute for living.

The first weeks obviously are a struggle but after that there are soooo many weight loss surgery friendly party foods... you can always have something yummy and your guests will never know they are eating wls friendly items. I have a ton of ideas on my blog www.theworldaccordingtoeggface.com that you are welcome to check out. When you attend functions that you can't bring things to (other than family, etc.) I just aim for the protein or eat beforehand. Remember social events are more than the food... position yourself with yout back to the buffet and get into a good conversation or beter yet dance dance dance!

HTH, ~Michelle

You won't even want food for a while so you will probably be more social. However, little by little you will have to deal with how much to eat at parties. Take it slow and enjoy the weight coming off!

I am 11 months post op. I felt like I was missing out in the beginning, but now I can go to social functions and eat a little of almost anything that I want. The surgery is definately worth it. I am 5'8 and weigh 140 pounds. I live in Arizona and prior to this summer I would not be caought dead in a bathing suit, I have been to the lake so much this summer and I wear my little bikini. It feels so good.

I don't miss out or feel deprived at all. I'm almost 4 months out now, and I still go to parties and family gatherings and I eat. I eat wahtever they are serving (except for desserts). I just eat small portions...and I write down what I eat. Sometimes I put a lot on my plate so I won't look weird with a tablespoon of three different things and then I just throw away what I don't eat.

I try to choose the high protein things (burger - no bun...shredded chicken - no but, etc). I drink what ever they are having. I just join in as I always did...just I don't eat as much. I doubt anyone really even notices.

But I can still do everything I could before my surgery as far as socializing goes. And I enjoy myself just as much if not more. I actually don't spend my whole time grazing on all the food now. I actually have become more active at gatherings - helping with cleaning up, etc.

You will not feel left out at all. Put that fear aside right now.

Congrats on your decision to get the surgery. I bet your excited!

NO! I'm going to Vegas with my girlfriend and I eat at the fancier restaurants but get appitizers, really fancy ones, lobster stuffed mushrooms, or glazed tempura shrimp in ginger sauce. There's always something good that's small. Because they are a small portion and smaller amount you feel sated, full and pampered. And because your stomach is so small, you feel completely full.
Heidi

I admit, sometimes I do have a hard time when dining with friends, or even my husband. I sometimes feel that I am stuck "waiting" until they're all done.

Now at a party or potluck, for me its a totally different story. I use a dessert plate and I feel like I am eating like everyone else- even though my portions are TINY in comparison.

No matter what, I eat my protien 1st, vegs or friut second and carbs 3rd!

I admit, sometimes I do have a hard time when dining with friends, or even my husband. I sometimes feel that I am stuck "waiting" until they're all done.

Now at a party or potluck, for me its a totally different story. I use a dessert plate and I feel like I am eating like everyone else- even though my portions are TINY in comparison.

No matter what, I eat my protien 1st, vegs or friut second and carbs 3rd!