I avoided cooking.....or the kitchen in general for the weeks leading up to my surgery and the two months afterwards.
I have a teenage son that wasn't having that. He let me know in very well defined terms that is was well past time that I get my arse back in the kitchen and fire up the grill outside, too.
I listened to him.....next morning my two month post-op arse was walking around the supermarket...pushing a cart and constantly pulling up on my falling gym pants.
I loaded down the cart with various cuts and went home and started cooking every day for the next several days.....until he said he was good for a while....and could we order out for pizza, lol.
What I found was that I could continue to enjoy cooking stuff.....and preparing it....just like I always did.....hell, I could even taste test it for a bite or two and never really sit down for another meal. Thusly, I am finding more and more that I actually enjoy food so much more now.....12 months out.....than ever before. I get to make stuff that others enjoy and enjoy the flavors myself.....but not be guilty over it. I generally leave off the carbohydrates from my meals....except for raw greens and some cooked vegetables......but I fully enjoy the steaks, ribs, chicken, fish, shrimp and etc.
I am so grateful that my son snapped me out the kitchen-avoidance phase.
It is very gratifying seeing others happily share and partake in something you enjoy. Figuring out that food isn't evil....it's actually something that can a big part of family life....heritage, culture, memories.....it's something that you now have better control of...to put into perspective.
All things can be enjoyed....moderation and self restraint are now muscles you can flex at will. Go have fun !!!!!