I know exactly what you mean NurseKatie. Though I'm only 3 days post surgery, I've had a few of these moments myself. My surgeon requires 2 weeks of full liquids post-surgery, then two more weeks of mushy foods before solid food is reintroduced. I miss chewing at this point. I'd probably eat some bark, leaves, and grass from the yard if I thought it wouldn't hurt me.
My surgery was on a Monday. I was on clear liquids for two weeks prior. The Saturday prior to my surgery, I was invited to a "can't miss" family-type function which was a crab boil. I love me some crab legs. I watch "Deadliest Catch" and when they dump the crab pots onto the sorting table, I used to think "Yep, I could probably eat that much". Anyhow, I had a Protein shake before and a couple of sugar-free popsicles during, and voila...I made it, crab-free. Not-so-instant empowerment...I'm sure you've had similar moments.
Hang in there...it's all worth it. I've learned a lot about myself in these last 3 weeks and will learn even more in the next 3. I know you've had positive experiences also. I'm not going to let food have the kind of control over me in the future which it has enjoyed in the past. Neither will you.
Someday I'll be able to take a shot at some crab legs, but it won't be a whole pot full. It may just be a couple of small pieces, but that's o.k. Heck, maybe I won't even like it anymore? (Doubt it)