Friday, October 7, 2011

Birthdays and Challenges

My sister-in-law's birthday is on Saturday so last night the girls went to dinner to celebrate.  We went to Carraba's Italian Grill and had a great time.

Dawn and Me
When you are trying to lose weight most eating out situations present challenges.  I prepared by looking at the menu ahead of time and planning what I was ordering for dinner.  I ordered a large house salad topped with grilled chicken and had them bring the dressing on the side.  This was a great option and was only 8 weight watchers points.  I try and look at the menu before eating out whenever possible, it helps eliminate the stress of having to make good food choices while surrounded by friends and so many options!

And then there was the bread basket...and I passed.  I was very proud of myself since their crusty dinner rolls and rustic sour dough bread is so delicious...especially dipped in their olive oil and herb blend.  In life there are choices and I chose Cabernet instead of bread.  I am happy with the decision.

Some of the gals ordered a huge order of calamari and fried shrimp for the table...I won't lie...when it arrived I stressed a little bit about it.  I was worried that I would over indulge.  When the plate was passed to me I took two pieces of calamari and one piece of shrimp.  Win!  That was an additional 3 points for the night and they were delicious!

I am very proud of myself for learning to handle these situations.  When it comes down to it the birthday celebration and spending time with friends and family is what it is about.  You can do all the celebrating you want while still making smart food choices...and as it turns out you have even more fun because that feeling of accomplishment just makes it better.


Dawn's friend Leslie did a great job with decorating the table.  She brought flowers and had a votive candle for each of us.  Isn't that cute?  And so sweet.


A good time was had by all.  We made Dawn blow out her candle twice so we all could get our pictures.  Two wishes...awesome.

Happy Friday to you!  I am only working until noon today and I know I will be counting the minutes!  Daniel and I are headed to the Greek Festival this afternoon.  There will be Greek salad and more wine, oh my!


Happy Birthday Dawn!!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

2 comments:

  1. I hear you on the going out to eat dilemma. It's always so hard to stay good when there are SO MANY delicious things on the menu. but, you gotta live and it's a big moment, so don't worry so much about it! Just eat better the rest of the weekend and indulge a little!

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  2. great post, it is easy to get caught in the trap of celebrating and overdo it, then feel bad......good to keep in mind especially with the holidays approaching!

    have to keep this in mind as my own birthday approaches...

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