How Do I Handle this?

I will be going to Estes Park, CO in a few weeks and am a little nervous.  We will be going to a Christian Dude Ranch where all the meals are served each day.  We've been multiple times and the food is fabulous and so are the people!  They serve the food plate style.  I'll be able to resist the stuff I can't have which will be a good part of the meal.  So I was thinking that I'll take an ice chest with food.  Can anyone share what they've done in this situation and what types of foods to take?  I'm about two weeks post op and in am now in the soft foods stage of my diet for the next 4 weeks.  I plan on taking oatmeal, tuna, chicken slices, cheese and puddings.  I will also need to let them know that I have a strict diet but don't really want to tell them why.  We are fairly close with the people who run the ranch so I don't want to be rude as I know they will ask if they need to pray for something.  How should I handle this?

Daisey, just share that you have current dietary restrictions. No need to explain why if you don't want to. Enjoy the exercise opportunities and do get in a nap here and there when needed.

Keep your water bottle handy, drink and sip as you need to to stay hydrated.

When they want to pray for you, ask for something general that everyone needs prayers over. Wisdom, inspiration, general guidance.

The cooler sounds like a good idea, keep small containers of things that you can eat and tolerate. No dumping episodes needed. Remember to chew well and you should not have any issues. Enjoy the stay. Hugs