Well Christmas is almost here, and I'm sure everyone has been to at least a few holiday parties. If you are part of the 5 Lb. Challenge, how is sticking to a healthy eating plan at this time working? Most people think that dieting during the holidays is pure torture. I usually tend to agree but this holiday has been a little easier. A holiday party or gathering does not mean open season at the buffet, but if you walk into a place telling yourself you can't eat anything sweet or yummy, you'll most definitely fail. Try to fill up on fruits and veggies first. Most parties have a fruit or vegetable tray, but try and avoid the dip provided. It's usually extra rich and creamy and loaded with those calories you're trying to avoid. Allow yourself to splurge, but try to keep it to two things. You aren't going to feel so guilty in the morning if you had a cookie and a piece of fudge, but if you wiped out the whole dessert buffet then you're probably going to feel it. Remember, your jeans don't know it's holiday time so the next time you catch yourself saying something like "but it's the holidays!", think about the way you'll look in those jeans come January 1st. Good luck everyone and have a wonderful holiday and a happy new year!