I have been preparing with the help of the Nut. I am a big Diet Pepsi drinker so I have been working on that addiction. I have also been not eating and drinking at the same time. That is a hard habit to break after all these years. Also using a smaller plate and utensils. Now that I am approved, I will really work of the carbonated drinks before my last pre-op visit with my surgeon on November 23rd. I will begin the all liquid "Baraitric Advantage" diet thru my dr two weeks before surgery. They told me today that I will be in the hospital for two nights. I wish that it wasn't so close to Xmas, but if I didn't take that date I would have to wait until late January. My husband said do it now This Xmas will be about a new healthier ME!!! I will have to be really organized with having all my gifts for the kids ready so I will start working on that soon. I am getting very excited now that I have the approval. I am so happy that it only took two days to get because I was getting anxious. What are you doing to get ready?