Ok Ladies,
The holidays are fast approaching. How many of us have worked over the past few months to lose a few pounds, watch what we eat and even tackled exercise. I know of several women who have run a 5-K or 2 and some that have even ran a Half-Marathon. We all strive to make better choices and THEN,,,,,,,, the holiday's hit and we are busy, busy, busy and before the New Year gets here we have packed on 10 pounds and then it's time for that New Years Resolution to lose weight. Today I thought we would just focus on how we can try and avoid the pitfalls of packing on those pounds. I have tried some of these. They do work. I am in the same boat with everyone. I'm struggling with 15 pounds I can't get rid of. Ok, let's get started. I am going to give the idea and then if you want more information, the website for the entire article is at the bottom of the page.

Start the Party Light
Most appetizers tend to be loaded with calories. And it is so easy to over eat them before the meal.
Make it easier on your guests by offering light and satisfying appetizers. For tempting yet healthy appetizers, offer shrimp cocktails, whole-grain crackers with reduced-fat cheese, vegetables with a low-fat yogurt dip, or fresh fruit skewers.
Harness the Diet Power of Produce
Add more simple vegetable and fruit dishes to your menu instead of heavy dishes with sauces. Your guests will fill up on healthy fiber without lots of extra calories.
For example, green bean almandine with a squeeze of lemon is healthier than traditional green bean casserole. Simple peas or corn are healthier than creamed peas or corn. But if you must have casserole, use low-fat soup, increase the veggies, and top it with a crunchy whole-grain cereal instead of fried onions.
Shave Calories With Simple Swaps
Create healthier versions of your holiday favorites by shaving calories wherever you can.
“Simple swaps of lower-fat ingredients are easy ways to save calories -- and no one will even notice the difference” says Cheryl Forberg, RD, nutritionist for the television series, The Biggest Loser.
Use chicken stock, fat-free yogurt, light cream cheese, and low-fat milk in place of high-fat ingredients. Substitute non-fat yogurt or applesauce for oil in baked goods.
Spritz Your Drinks
Eggnog and other holiday beverages can add a huge number of calories. Offer your guests plenty of low-cal beverages such as diet soda, sparkling water, or a low-calorie punch.
Plan and Scan to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain
“In anticipation that you will be eating and drinking more than usual, try to trim your calories and make sure you fit in fitness everyday so you can enjoy a ‘controlled’ feast without the guilt” says Joan Salge Blake, MS, RD, clinical assistant professor, Boston University and American Dietetic Association spokeswoman.
“Scan the buffet and fill your plate with foods that are simply prepared, without sauces or fried, sit down and take your time to taste and savor every bite,” she says. Resist the urge to go back for more by waiting at least 20 minutes for your brain to register that you are comfortably full. If you are still hungry, eat more vegetables and drink water.
Remember, the holidays are marked with many traditions, but the real meaning is about spending time with family and friends.
If you keep these tips in mind, you'll get through the holidays without gaining a pound. And if you do splurge, don't beat yourself up, the experts say. Just get right back to normal eating and exercising, and try to do a better job at the next party.
(http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/nutrition-labels-9/holiday-foods-diet)
So, as we attend the parties and the family fun this year, keep these things in mind and enjoy a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!!!!!!

Pam