Cyndi, this is just me, but I think that "normal" self-control isn't actually
normal.
I know people who stop eating when they don't want anymore (long before I'd stop eating!), but very few people who truly have self-control in that they want something and only let themself have a small bit of it.
I guess the problem is that we feel guilty for using things like portioned packages to help us eat portions. Why should we feel guilty about that?
My thought is, if it helps me stay healthy, a little extra packaging is okay.
When I was diagnosed with ADHD at 30 or so, I developed this strange sense of peace about dealing with my own inadequacies. I'm okay with the fact that I just can't remember things without writing them down, putting tons of post-its up and asking friends/devices to help me remember. I acknowledge that, no matter how hard I try, I'm never going to be a person that just remembers it all without effort, and that's okay!
I feel the same way about food. Whether it's "normal" or not, I need help in sticking with portion sizes. I don't think that's something to feel bad or guilty about.
I love prunes, too. Has anyone had the chopped up ones that are dipped in dark chocolate?
They are a wonderful once-a-week treat for me!