Is this common? Anyone else that has had this problem have any tips for helping to keep from choking on my own tongue?

--wfosborn

The most important aspects of bending notes are:
1. Good, consistent single notes to begin with.
2. Not sucking with your mouth when drawing in (the further you can get the harmonica into your mouth and maintain single notes, the better).
3. Changing the angle of air flow when attempting to bend
4. Knowing what the bent note will sound like before you even try to bend.

http://www.harmonicalessons.com/members/bending2.php

I'm sure I didn't answer your question the way you wanted, but this is the correct answer. Forget about your tongue and follow the above tips (plus the many other tips found in the Bending section link above).

Hang in there, it will come. It's tough for everyone.

Play on,
Dave Gage