My surgery was April 15th. The Dr. gave me the ok for 'soft foods' this past Monday. When you are up for it and the Dr. give you an okay, try a little spicy tomato juice or tomato soup with a dollop of Fat Free sour cream. Even a baby teaspoon of hummus. for me this helped the first week to give my palate a break from the protein drinks. The 2nd week is much better ☺. This is our new life. Like everyone says this is our new 'journey'. we have to look at the long term.