So, I am back from vacation. I gained 7.5 lbs, but that is not the focus of this post. I also gained the confidence that I can eat and be merry for a prescribed amount of time and then return to what I would consider eating to live and not living to eat. Eating in the south is a challenge, so I made the decision to enjoy the flavors and different foods. I walked what seemed like a million miles, so I knew that some of the increase in calories would be a wash. I did not eat with reckless abandon, but I did try everything I wanted to try. The southern cooks take perfectly good food like squash and smother it in bacon, butter, and flour. It was almost impossible to eat in a healthful manner in Louisiana at least while one is on vacation. Everything is fried. Everything that is listed as grilled, is also grilled in oil of some kind. So, I went with the flow. I ate until I was full and left the rest. I ate pralines and bread pudding. I ate what tasted good and frankly, everything was delicious. Everything.
The point of my post today isn't a criticism of the south, but really that upon my return, I went back to my plan of healthful eating. It feels good to say that. I was so concerned prior to vacation that 2.5 weeks off plan would do me in and I would not be able to regain the control. But, I did, and I am. As far as the 7.5 goes, 3 of it is already gone as of today. It is progress as far as I am concerned. I like it.