My first "holiday" post-op. I have realized even more so - how food was a part of all celebrations. My husband and I didn't plan to go out for Valentine's Day because our youngest is sick. So how to make this day special without centering on food. Wow. Pretty hard for me. Every idea that popped into my head started with some special snack. I could make heart shaped cake...no.....or cup cakes with pink fluffy frosting....no. A fancy dinner with sauces and bread...no. Quite frustrating. What could we do to make it feel like a fun day-- but without the focus being food?? And I am not at stage where I can enjoy alcohol yet. Really looking forward to that! :-)

Well I decided to make spaghetti for my husband and our two little boys. And a salad. Nothing special- just an ordinary dinner for the family. I had low fat ; low carb; high protein pureed food.But to the table - I added pink, red, and white candles. And a valentine at each place setting. When dinner was over we decided to go crazy with the boys making Valentines for all the grandparents and aunts and uncles. Sugar-free red jello for dessert- boys loved it.

I got through it. No cheating on the bariatric diet. I focused on the atmosphere of love and the memories of the night. I felt fulfilled and happy. To be honest- I am surprised I feel that good. Of course I miss the annual pig-out at the favorite dining place and the big ole box of chocolates. But this year - what I take from Valentines Day is a beautiful card and gift from my husband. Warm memories making valentines with our boys. And knowing the scale will for sure be one pound lighter in the morning. Nothing "sweeter" than that. Happy Valentine's Day everybody.