Amen to that from me too :) 

I found sugar free firecracker (red/white/blue) popsicles at my normal grocery. Sorry you guys aren't having such luck. 

Same date for me too and I'm just super excited!!  After six months of classes I'm ready to get this show on the road.  Good luck to all.  Hope you post your progress. 

So far I have in my bag, and I say so far, cause it seems like I find something else I may need in the hospital.. LOL

I packed my own PADS, hospital pads are antique... I packed some tampons, in case I am able to use them. I hear that one may get their cycle due to the stress endured during surgery. I also packed some, femine wipes. It's bad enough getting your unexpected friend and probably unable to shower. Chapsticks, carmex and even vaseline cause not sure what I want to put on my lips.I've packed underwear, a robe (was debating between my snuggie or robe and decided to go with the robe) a nightgown, and some pajama pants and shirt. I don't know what will fit more comfortably, so I packed them both. My own slippers. I also have gas-x strips, i have a sudoku book along with a crossword puzzle book, but not sure that my brain will be alert to concentrate, but just in case I am prepared. Now the most important things are the chargers for both the IPOD Touch, gives me internet access to OH and FACEBOOK via wifi and small enough to keep under a pillow, (the nurse at pre-admission testing recommended we dontbring laptops) and for my cell fone, cause texting is a lifestyle.. LOL

If you think that is a lot, you should see my pantry. I acted like the supermarket was going to be sold out of baby food, protein powders, isopure at Gnc, and chicken broth and soup. I have so much sugar free jello that I started sending my 6 year to school with jello as her snack, cause i went overboard. I'm not even on a liquid diet until the day before surgery. LOL I guess shopping is therapeudic and calms my nerves.  And I wouldn't say that I am nervous, just anxious. I can't wait to get this procedure done., It's like the ultimate gift and an opportunity to regain my life back.

OK----thanks so much Karrie----13 days now !!!!!!!!!!!!

Good Afternoon Everyone!!

  Well I had my surgery this am..all went well!! I showed up at the hospital at 6:00 am and everything just fell into place..no long waits..wonderful, lovely staff..everyone from the nurses to all the doctor's we're just so sweet.
 I was brought into the OR by 7:30 and the next thing I knew I was waking up in recovery at about 10:30. I had taken a little longer because when Dr. Symmonds went in, he noticed I had a hiatal hernia and had to repair it before he could fit the band. After surgery I went to recovery they gave me some pain med..and something to stop me from feeling nautious and boy was I thirsty!!! Couldn't drink anything though until I had my swollow and x-ray...it didn't take long to do all that maybe 20 min. then I was wheeled to a different recovery room where I was given my water (thank goodness!) Then I got to see my hubby ...yay!! :) I was released by 1 in the afternoon...The only problem I'm having now..is the normal shoulder pain from the gas.. and a little discomfort around my incisions..
 I hope everyone elses surgery has been a breeze!!
 Please let me know how everyone turned out!!
 March 10th has indeed been a good day!! :)
                                              -Michelle