I really feel a huge key to successful weight loss is planning. I do ok w/ planning my meals at home and packing my lunches for while I am at work. I plan my dinner menu weekly around the sale ads, pack my lunch the night before. But going out or special occasions I stink at.

Examples - the other day I took my kids to a fast food joint. I told myself, J, just get a salad. I knew the salad was ok for me to have. I go there and order a salad, right? Wrong. Got myself a big fat cheeseburger, fries AND an ice cream for dessert. This has happened a few times....where I plan to do something and then just go completely the other direction.

Now I splurge sometimes. Because I also feel a huge key to successful weight loss is allowing yourself to eat occasional treats. DH and I went to dinner the other night. This restaurant has the BEST bread and sweet iced tea (with real sugar) ever. I told myself before I went I am gonna get grilled chicken, veggies and will order sweet tea and have 2 rolls. I did. Emotionally I felt fine. I didn't "cheat".

The pre-planned splurges don't bother me. It's those times that I have a plan and just completely ignore it when it comes time to order or eat. I have got to get a handle on this before I get banded. I just don't know why I do this.

J

It`s gonna happen! Don`t beat yourself up too much. If it happens everyday then I would worry. Life is full of unexpected situations.

When I was working with the dietician pre band she suggested that if you go out for a burger then get a smaller burger (like a children's burger), toss the top of the bun and fold it in half. Takes a while to get in the habit but its the small changes that stick over time! I do better with "treats" on occassion then completely denying myself. Just take it in stride and make adjustments. Go for a longer walk, postpone a plan treat, etc. You'll find what works for you.

Have you started a food journal yet? I found I was a little more aware/accountable when I had to track everything that was destined for my stomach.

Post band you may find that you don't get the "splurges/binges" that one used to "enjoy". Even when you get a treat, it is no where near the amount that used to be consumed. I am now uncomfortably stuffed like a turkey after 2-3 chicken nuggets but am comfortable after a side salad (with almonds, croutons, etc).