2 things I'm glad I have post-op!
The first item is a snow cone maker. I picked up the Hamilton Beach Snowman Ice Shaver from Targets for $26 although there are other brands that vary in price. I don't use any syrups with it, even though sugar-free syrups are available. I just love the shaved ice and it helps me get my fluids in. One tip, use small to medium ice cubes for best results.
The second item is an immersion/hand blender. It can make great protein drinks/smoothies and it helps me break down meats and eggs to get them to that soft/mushy texture so I can tolerate them better. There is no way I could get meat to that texture by hand! I already had one but while I was out shopping I came across an improved model. The item I purchased is by Oster. This model came with a chopper and cup that have rubber bottoms so they don't slide around when you mix...and the rubber bottoms also work as lids! Also the blending rod is detachable for easy cleaning...unlike my old model. It has variable speed settings too!
I just wanted to share how much these items have helped me. Maybe you might find them helpful too!
~Roxy
**not trying to spam, but cross posted on main board and July 2011 board...don't want anyone to miss this that might need it**
Great recommendation on the snow cone maker. I have not had my surgery yet, but I read a post about a week or 2 ago from someone else that also recommended a snow cone maker. I went out that day and got one at Bed Bath and Beyond for about $40, it's a Deni ice crusher (actually $32 after the 20% off coupon). It works great with the ice from the ice maker in my fridge. It claims you can crush up to 14oz in 1 minute.
I tried the Jelly Belly sugar free Cherry syrup, it's not worth the $3. It has a weird taste to it, and it's really, really sweet. I've been flavoring mine with concentrated crystal light. I mix a full packet of crystal light with water in a 16 or 20oz pop bottle. It works good so I can save the extra. So far I've tried the apple tini & lemonade. They are both really good and way cheaper than buying the syrups at the store. It's been so hot out, I'm been making the snow cones every single day since I got the ice crusher.
I'll have to try the hand blender, I've been tempted to buy one several times, just wasn't sure how good they work.