Happy 4th (from Jill)

Many people see a long holiday weekend as an impossible hurdle to sticking to a healthy living plan but you CAN celebrate the holiday and not throw all of your good habits out the window. If attending a barbeque or cookout, try to find out ahead of time what the menu will be. If possible, offer to bring something to the event (like chicken breast or veggie burgers so that you won't be stuck eating unhealthier fare like burgers and hotdogs). If you feel awkward bringing something or can't find out ahead of time, maybe consider eating a healthy meal before you go and spending your time mingling and socializing instead of eating. Or, if you feel like you will be "obligated" to eat sometime, at least have a snack before you go so that you won't be starving and can feel satisfied with just a few bites of a higher-fat food choice. Remember to also try to stay well-hydrated and don't stand near the buffet table or bowl of chips and other junk food. If all else fails, remember that you have all day friday, saturday and sunday to get in some good exercise to balance out any unhealthy food choices that may play into the celebration this weekend. Whatever you do, be safe, have fun and be sure to return to your healthy lifestyle as soon as possible. One weekend shouldn't, and doesn't have to, change your overall health.