mjc570's Journal, 02 May 2014

Could use some encouragement - have several (mandatory) dinners coming up at wonderful restaurants, and while I know what I should be doing so as to continue to lose weight, I don't always do as I should. I do research so as to be able to select reasonably nutritious items and generally try to take half home, but I really enjoy eating (and drinking!) with good friends.  

Take your picture and decide how much you want to eat and drink. 

First, order a dark-greens salad with a vinaigrette (or take your own). I would also suggest you ask the waiter to have the staff box half the food before it even comes out. That way, you get a beautiful arrangement and presentation on your plate PLUS you get to leisurely eat your meal without feeling deprived. You might also consider a whole foods snack mid-afternoon before you go in (something that hits fat|protein|carb like a Full Bar or homemade granola + plain yogurt and 1/2 a whole fruit). Easier to budget your meal if you're not starving or feeling deprived. It's great that you're thinking about it now and not once you're staring at the menu. Good luck!! :D  

Thank you, Lovelark and LuC2, for your excellent advice.