mbm

The ONLY thing that helped me was the disposable heating pads that you get in the pharmacy area. I cannot remember the name... I got the ones for your lower back and just kind of angled it across the shoulder and back. It helped ALOT. Riding in a car or on our kabota really made it worse.... maybe the vibrations of it. Try it, hopefully it will give you some relief.

Why so soon? Do you feel like you need more too? It is really hard to figure everything out---Jazzy Jude, you need to write a book after this crazy band adventure!

I like the way you think!!!

Thanks ladies. I am trying to get the protein in because then you feel fuller longer, but somehow my band just does not care too much for any type of meat that is not ground. I still think it is the whole CHEW CHEW CHEW thing. It is suprisingly hard to remember to do, although every time I get a spasm of pain across my chest, I swear I will never forget again! Beans are my Fav too, and my band loves them.. Thanks for all the good suggestions. Also, if anyone out there has any help with this..... I can eat anything except meat with no problem, more than I really would like to.....how do you know when it is time for your 2nd fill?

What do you do for lean proteins if lean proteins do not seem to agree with your band?

Thanks Jan, not a huge post-er but I like to read. Thank you for the warm welcome, and give the soup a try the next time you get a fill! It is REALLY good. MB

Jude, here is the recipe. I changed it by using only 1 can of stock, and 1 1/2 cups left over mashed potatos. Mine were instant, I am sorry to say, but worked a treat. Also, instead of pureeing the whole batch of soup, I just skimmed out the onions,mashed potatoes, and celery, put them in the blender with a little broth, and whirled that, and added it back. Also, I cooked the onion and celery longer so it would smush better. I used a sharp white cheddar, but that can go with your preference. It is SO much better than any packaged soup mix. I actually am looking forward to leftovers tonight........ Ingredients * 2 teaspoons olive oil * 1 cup diced onion * 1 cup diced celery * 6 cups reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth * 2 cups mashed potatoes * 8 ounces shredded Cheddar * 1/2 teaspoon salt * 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper * 1 teaspoon dry mustard * Hot sauce, optional Directions Add oil to a large pot set over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery and saute for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they start to soften. Add stock and mashed potatoes and bring to a simmer. Using a hand blender or regular blender, puree soup until smooth (when using a regular blender, work in batches to prevent messy cleanups!). Add Cheddar, salt, white pepper, dry mustard and hot sauce. Stir to combine and allow the cheese to melt.