Starting Solids

My baby is 7 months old now and he's been on solids since 5 1/2 months. He is formula fed as well. I have a few questions:
1. How much formula should I be giving along with the solids?
2. Should he be drinking a certain amount of water a day in addition to the formula?
3. I'd like to start making his food instead of store bought food. I read that you should cook the fruit before pureeing it. Why do I need to cook it first instead of just putting in a blender and serving?

Here is an example of the feeding routine:

Breakfast: 9:00a.m. Oatmeal & fruit (apples, bananas, or apricots)and 7oz bottle of formula

Lunch: 12:30ish 3-4 tablespoons veggies (either sweetpotatoe, carrots, green beans, or squash)and sometimes I mix in some puree meat, and another 7oz bottle of formula

Snack: 3:00p.m. 7 oz bottle of forumula (i sometimes give him a snack if he seems hungry or thirsty)

Dinner: 6:00p.m. 3-4 tablespoons of veggies (sometimes with meat added)and a bottle of formula

Before bed: 9:00p.m. a bottle of formula

Is this too much formula???

Thanks for your input!

My baby is 8 months and I have her on a similar schedule. I don't think your baby is getting too much formula. They need about 24-32 oz. in a 24 hour period. It sounds like your baby is getting that.

I had a few questions for you. Do you make your own baby food or do you buy is prepared? I was especially wondering about the meats. Have you tried any chunky foods or teething biscuits? My baby gags so easily so it has been hard introducing new things. Plus she has no teeth yet.

Anyway, it was nice to hear what you are doing! Good luck!