Facing Up to Holiday Food Foibles...

Got a holiday food gift that's doing your waistline more harm than good? Is one more party going to push you over the edge of all portion control will-power? Here are some ideas that I've come up with over the years:

Donate unopened items to the food bank, your local grocer's food drive, or a nursing home.

I received one of my old favorites today -- a Hickory Farms snacker's gift set. I've decided to save the cheese and crackers to serve at my family's Christmas eve get-together. The candy is going to trim a gift along with colorful ribbons.

I have also started a stocking for stock-piling sweets that come my way. I don't know who yet, but somebody is going to get a lot of candy in a couple weeks!

Yesterday, I found myself confronted with everything from pumpkin pie to goat cheese at a get-together. Instead of loading up on all my favorites, I selected something made with an ingredient I normally don't like -- a cracker spread made with black olives -- and I knew I wouldn't over-eat something I don't find all that tasty.

And, lastly I must admit, with the best (or worst?) intentions of having a good old fashioned pig-out of all the tasty goodies my friends went to the trouble to whip up, I've piled a plate high at several soirees. Once I'd realized the error of my ways, I asked the host or hostess for a "doggie bag". Most of my pals know my ongoing weight battle is one I am determined to win, so they didn't mind a bit!

Photo: Clipart.com