Eating Out - Always A Challenge

Last night, Ben and I went out to dinner.  We've cut way back on eating out in the last several weeks, as we attempt to save money, but allow ourselves an occasional date night. 

We went to Lodi Beer Company, a wonderful brewery in downtown Lodi - one of our favorite restaurants.  They have excellent burgers, pizzas, pasta - basically everything that I wanted, but knew I probably shouldn't eat.

I "splurged" on a lemonade instead of water, and finally decided to get a club sandwich and criss-cut fries (my favorite - yum!). 

I made an honest effort to eat more slowly than I usually would - it's usually like a race to see how fast I can scarf down my food, and always end up regretting it! 

I removed a good portion of the bacon - I left just enough to get the flavor.

After finishing my sandwich (which I really enjoyed), I sampled one of my fries.  It was crispy, not too salty, and delicious!  Indulging in another small one, I wasn't getting the usual enjoyment that I experience when eating some of my favorite foods.  I tried one more, just to make sure that it wasn't just a fluke.  No, I was indeed...full!

So, rather than eat the fries because they were there (which I've been known to do), I simply pushed my plate away and enjoyed what was left of my lemonade.

I realize that weight loss is about making good choices, but not imposing harsh restrictions, because eventually (at least for me), you break. 

Last night was a small victory, but a victory, nonetheless.  I didn't even have dessert!  I just appreciated the fact that I'd had a nice date with my hubby, and that a simple club sandwich was enough!