I am phone lurking as well...
Read something last night that really resonated with me... A gentleman was offering advice to a young man who couldn't quite kick his soda and convenience foods completely despite having cut back. The gentleman commented that if you are giving your tastebuds such a blast of flavor that it makes it much more difficult to fully appreciate the flavored of natural, whole foods. And that if one's intention is to embark upon a lifestyle of healthy eating that a person needs to bid goodbye to these flavor blasts because by introducing them even only occasionally you are keeping them a part of your diet and they will take over again. Made a whole lot of sense to me.
My girls weekend is finally decided. We are going to a place that offers a plethora of fitness classes and a guided hike each morning. Healthy meals are included in the room rate. I am terrifically excited all round. Love that it's going to be an active getaway with a focus on activity over alcohol.
I went to family friends for their little girl's birthday. I refused the pizza and cake and contentedly munched on cucumbers. I am really coming to make peace with the guilt my food choices cause others. I don't expect them to eat what I eat so it seems only fair that I be shown that same respect. And it is comforting that people have come to expect me to refuse. It gets a bit easier all round at that point

Ishbel- I hope you are feeling better...
Maile- have you tried the Braggs yet? I like to use it when I make bok Chou with peppers and portabello mushrooms. I fry the peppers in a tsp of sesame oil and ginger/ garlic mix for a few minutes add the mushrooms a bit of rice wine vinegar, the Braggs & water then throw in the bok Choy and let it steam til it's tender. It's a great vegetarian meal or throw in some tofu for protein. I just love how 'meaty' the portabellos are...
Patns- how's it going with your 4? Have they disappeared yet?
Mom2cs- you must be close to 2 weeks of Phase 1 now??
Loco- you can do it! If the bars are becoming a problem it can be better to nip it in the bud and expell them for a bit... Maybe a switch to the salty snacks won't make them as tempting for you?
Legan- congrats on no hangover! And enjoying the reunion without alcohol. It really is about the company not the food & drinks but I do find it one of the most difficult lessons... Good for you for staying on track!
I am quite content with my plan. Just happy to be exercising and eating properly...