I was banded on the 18th, so I'm right there with you. Seems every doctor is different, but I am on "mushies" right now, which includes cooked veggies. I just got back from lunch with my mother, sister, neice and daughter and it is different, however I was able to split a veggie plate with my daughter (who is 3 so understandibly if you children are older, this may not be a realistic idea). My real point is that this tool is supposed to help me make better eating choices and I am hoping it will also encourage my family to eat healthier as well. One of my reasons for having this done is that I didn't want my negative food choices to rub off on my children...I want to be a healthy eater. (But let me tell you, my husband is really trying me. He has ordered pizza four times since I started this with the pre-op diet and all. He even talked me into going to get it one time so I had to drive 20 minutes home smelling it!:thumbup: )