vsg gift baket/care package for a pal.... I need some ideas!

I just wanted to say you're such a sweetie for doing that.  Be my friend?  All the best on your surgery!!!!

That is so sweet. My bff brought me a basket with magazines and a weeks worth of the Isopure drinks to get me through the week of clear liquids. And no I do not drink those anymore, it was just to get through that stage. Unjury has a good starter pack that comes with samples, a little container, and food thermometer. I wish I would have bought it sooner. I love protein, especially the chicken soup.

If you have a dollar store near you they have sugar free syrups there- not Torani, but they are good.  Typicallly they carry caramel (my favorite), vanilla (versitile), and hazelnut.  Nice little trio for not much money.  There is a website called Netritition.com.  I am not sure if they offer gift certificates, but the site is a fantastic resource and with a flat shipping rate of $5.95.  All kinds of items shipped for the same cost, and the prices are reasonable.  From there I buy the Torani, Waldon Farms products (zero calorie dressings and such), half calorie crackers (great for fiber, crunch, and only 70 calories a pack), and many of the products you see listed above.  Carmax for the chapped lips post surgery.  For the first 6 weeks or so I journaled my food both on mfp and in a dedicated food journal- there was just something about writing it down and tracking my weight that way that really helped in the early days.  Maybe buy an inexpensive item of clothing in a smaller size than what she needs- a "goal" garment so to speak.  Something that she can try and now to see how crappy it fits, and then try on every do often so she can "see" how it is fitting better and better.  Sometimes you don't lose pounds, but rather inches and I found this really helped me to see the progress.  Lots of clearance prices between now and February too.  Oh, and you will both probably find that you are going to freeze.  A nice warm cuddly blanket can be bought at Sams for under $15, or probably less in the clearance aisles right now.  A pedometer- cheap item that could help both of you set some exercise targets, 10,000 steps a day or more promotes weight loss and walking can be started very shortly after surgery.  (Stay away from the elliptical for a while post op- trust me!).  

 

Myralax

Dulcolax

Fiber Gummies

Flintstone Chewable vvitamins

Shaker Bottle

 

Blistex or Carmex because your mouth/lips will be soooooo dry!

I loved my electric cup warmer for keeping my food/soups/hot drinks warm. Early on it takes so long to eat the tiniest amounts your food gets cold before you get a chance to eat it. This way it stays warm down to the last bite/drink no matter how long it takes. Electric candle warmer works just as good which is what i used. I think this really is a must have item for newbies and fairly inexpensive.

I loved my heating pad, on my gas filled tummy, it felt so good and helped to relax and gently move the gas.

Baby pear juice to help with bowel movements.
Gas X strips.

You are an awesome friend. I wish all the best in your surgery and a speedy recovery, much success. Lorna

WOWWWW Thanks for all the great Ideas! I think ill put myself a package together! Im so excited! I better get to working on it. Ill post a pic whenever i get it done. Thanks so much everyone for you helpful ideas for my basket AND for myself.

 

i use a regular battery operated milk frother for mixing my proteins into my coffee etc...
very very handy