We have a tradition, that everyone brings a "treat" on their birthday. Usually desserts are the norm. I can't see myself bringing a treat and then watching everyone else eat it. It would just be too awkward. As a calorie counter, I could probably fit it in, but I don't want to even go there. I have lost my craving for sweets and really don't want to risk a relapse.

I was thinking of a big basket of fruit, but I'm not sure how well it will go over. Then again - with Halloween treats abounding this week, maybe it will be appreciated????

So - do you have any suggestions for what I could take?

Fruit is a great idea, especially if you make it into fruit salad, which is a bit more festive. You could bring along some whipped cream and/or yogurt so that people could have a decadent topping. And besides, strawberries and pineapple in winter are a real treat!

I had a week long seminar just prior to the beginning of the semester where food was provided. Usual fare in the morning is pastries and muffins, but the organizer brought along fruit as well. Everyone loved it and was grateful to have an alternative/addition to the doughnuts and croissants.

Fruit salad sounds like a great idea! If you don't think that will be as appreciated as something sweeter, maybe you could make a fruit trifle, then when you get your portion you could just scoop out some fruit and leave the custard and cake behind.

Chocolate covered strawberries!

Fruit and yogurt are a great option!!! Remember, It's YOUR birthday... you can do it any way you want to!! Happy Birthday btw!!!

LAURIE The only suggestion I have is to bring whatever you feel are healthy treats for you, and those that would want them...then throw in some cupcakes for those that don't care about the healthy....that way everyone is happy.

Because you have a "holiday" week....just go with the Halloween theme for the treats...good and bad!

I saw Sarah Lee on the food channel today...although she kind of gags me...she had some cute ideas for Halloween foods.

I don't know if it would fit in with your plan but I am not a sweet-eater either, and I'd rather see a cheese and baguette plate!

If no one in the office is allergic to nuts, how about whole wheat tortillas/wraps, spread with natural (no sugar added) peanut butter, then wrapped around bananas. If you have a microwave at work, you could pop them in the microwave for a minute or so and the peanut butter would get melty. These are very decadent--definitely a treat.

The fruit and yogurt parfaits are also a great idea--that is my standard dessert these days.

I took a big covered bowl of fruit salad with me one day last week and they hoovered it!

wow...since when is it that the person who is having a bday brings his/her bday treats...what's wrong with that LMAO. But yep i think all the above ideas sound good.

How about Penny's muffins ? Have you read 3FC review on these muffins or cookies , a yummy but low calorie treat.

I am thinking of making an apple tart for Thanksgiving. It has a date/walnut crust and an apple filling. I figure at least it is all fruits/nuts so isn't too bad

Here is the recipe I'm going to base it off of but eliminate the honey, applesauce and raisins they suggest. Also, it could easily be a berry tart or some other fruit filling.
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=125498

What GREAT suggestions! I really appreciate everyone that took the time to respond. In fact, there are so many good suggestions, I may just have to take a couple different things
And yeah, I know - I thought it was weird too - the birthday girl brings her own cake - LOL!

yes countingdown..its sort of like standing in the street yelling hey everyone its my birthday..i'm special...make a fuss over me. LOL. Its just weird for me. i'm not really a bit bday person...in otherwords i don't like a big fuss for my bday (not because of age or anything...just never really liked a big fuss) so it seems weird to me. But there were def some great suggestions.