It was my birthday yesterday, so I totally overindulged .
It's alright, though, I figure as long as I keep it down to once a year, it can't hurt, too bad it's quite impossible to keep it down to once a year. Anyone out there has advise for not overeating on special occasions?

For me it is all in the planning. I usually eat a little something before I go so that I'm not starving when I get there. If it is a casual get together like a family BBQ or birthday party I bring a healthy dish or two so that I know there will be something there I can enjoy which helps me keep from over eating the rest of the food there. Also, I do my best to find out what is being served ahead of time. If the outing will be at a restaurant I find out about their menu. I decide BEFORE I go what I will eat or what I will order. I don't wander around the food tables and I don't look at the menus.

There is always going to be something that will tempt you off track if you let it. But with a little sensible planning you won't have to choose between losing weight and time spent with family and friends.

I agree planning is key... Plan to eat before going so you're not ravenous. Eat in moderation. Do the 3 bite rule. Use visualisation of refusing foods that are offered like saying you're really full you've eaten way too much, you're stuffed etc... Drink water inbetween alcoholic drinks... Enjoy the company and conversation not the food. Keep FAR away from the food by mingling.