Catching Up and Lifestyle Eating

Wow has it been that long since I have posted in here? Time has been flying by and soon here it will be the New Year! Let’s hope not too fast since the Holiday season is usually when I come up with most of my healthy alternatives to classic dishes ;)

I wish I could say that while I have been away, I was creating tons and tons of new recipes-but I can’t. :oops: At least know that I have been busy and having fun :)

I recently got back from a long-anticipated vacation to Hawaii. I moved to Hawaii when I was in the 6th grade, so I guess you could call it my home. My husband was born and raised there, so when we get the chance, we go. This time was even more special because my husband and I planned the trip to renew our vows since we celebrated 10 years of marriage this year. It was a great opportunity for me to reflect on the past and present. 10 years has certainly brought a lot of change!! New home, new jobs, new kids :lol: and a new body!

I didn’t always eat healthy. Healthy as far as I was concerned was steamed cauliflower with cheese smothered on top. ;) I didn’t read labels, count calories or portion control. We were on what my husband calls, the see-food diet. We would see food and eat it. That diet never seemed to be hard to follow when on vacation :lol: This vacation was going to be different- all for the better.

Initially when thinking about our trip to Hawaii, I had told myself I was going to be really good and stay ‘on plan’ 90% of the time. However, as my trip got closer, I started to think about all of the places we would be eating etc. Stressed thinking it, I talked to both Noel and Erik about my dilemma. Thank goodness I did! They both gave me the same advice: You are not dieting while on vacation- its lifestyle eating. Be mindful of portions and choices you make, but enjoy the things you want to eat. They asked me-How often do you go home to Hawaii? See? This is exactly why I asked them.

So, how did I do? Did I pig out? Nope. Knowing I could have a little bit of this or that made it so much easier to follow. The splurges I had (Chocolate soufle-Roy’s Restaurant) were eaten with enjoyment instead of guilt. My families also saw that I too like to splurge and enjoy treats, I am just more mindful of my portions now.

The choices I have made to change have certainly paid off. I was finally able to wear the dress I wanted and marry my husband all over again.

I have a couple recipes I will be posting shortly. :yum: