Birthday Eating

Since yesterday was my birthday, my coworkers generously offered to take me to lunch. I tried to dissuade them but it didn't work. So, I asked to go to a particular place because they serve a salad I like. But, when we got in the car to go, a new place was suggested. It was a totally new restaurant and I was up for an adventure so I agreed. I got a grilled ham & cheese sandwich on sourdough bread with a side salad. I thought, cheese & ham=protein=good (except for the processed meat part!) Sourdough bread is a better choice from the glycemic index perspective. Of course all the *good* was cancelled out by the fact that the whole sandwich was grilled. I don't want to know how many fat grams were in that! The salad was nice and light, with just a hint of balsamic vinaigrette. I left the meal feeling satisfied but not stuffed. Really, had my eating day ended with something light, it would have been just fine.

Instead, I went out for BBQ with 65MD. There is one thing this chick can eat at just about any time and that is meat. Give me a hunk of meat that has been smoked and get out of my way. I told 65MD on the way there, that I really didn't want anything except the BBQ. I didn't want fries, baked beans, corn, mac & cheese, or anything else. So, we agreed to split one of the double entrees. There was easily enough food for four or five people rather than two. I ate all the meat I wanted and a few fries while they were hot. (I've discovered that I only really like fries when they are very hot and fresh.) He ate all he wanted and we packed two to go boxes full! Again, when I walked away, I was full but not stuffed and a long way from uncomfortable.  Of course, I registered a gain this morning but that was to be expected. I'm right back with the program today. No guilt, no postcheating binge, just back in the saddle.

Several times over the past few weeks, while I've had this challenging time, I've placated myself by thinking that my choices and behaviors were better than years ago. That's true. I've made tremendous progress one small step at a time. That is great. That is wonderful. That is fabulous. That is NOT the end. That is NOT the goal. Being better than I was years ago, isn't a feat anymore. I need to be better than I was last year, or better yet last month, or even last week. That is my challenge to myself now. I need to be better. I know measuring progress from last month or week, is going to be in very small increments. It is also a subjective call. It isn't easily measured and compared like my waist. Improvement can be made, however.

Today is a new year, so to speak, for me, so it is a great day to start fresh and make a commitment to be better, just a little bit better, every day. I can do it, and I know my readers will support me and hold me accountable. Here we go!