I am a newbie as well. My surgery is scheduled for Nov 4th, 2008. I am very excited! I do have some anxiety re: anesthesia. I do not like the fact that I have to go to sleep for the band however, I do not want to stay awake! I am so looking forward to having the tool that I need to lose the weight. I start my liquid diet on the 28th. My Dr has me doing two liquid meals and one regular meal of choice till surgery. Good luck to you on the 22nd. :w00t: