I am 5 weeks out, had the VSG at the end of July and live in Apple Valley. Surgery has kinda kicked my butt more than I thought it would but I also only took one week off from work. It would be helpful if you have a little help in the beginning with your little ones. Not being able to lift much might be an issue for you. Cooking has not been an issue yet since I have no small children at home. When I have made meals for company, like my children and grandchildren, I just cook something nice and there is always something in there I can eat too. There is a local support group in Victorville that I attend and another one in Hesperia that I have not tried yet. Let me know if you need the details.