I’ve been thinking about Thanksgiving and all the hoopla that goes along with it.  I’m not talking about preparing the food and hanging out with people, I’m talking about all the food issues that may come up.  I’ve been reading around on the internet and in magazines and every year there is talk about staying away from this and that, swapping out traditional foods for those with lower calories, etc.  In theory these may be good ideas, but this day should really be about spending time with those around you instead of worrying about what your going to be consuming.  It’s only one day, and one day of eating, or even overeating, food won’t kill you.  I’m not saying to eat everything in sight, but to just enjoy and try everything you want.  Then the next day go back to eating in the same manner you do the other 364 days of the year.  Remember to eat breakfast and lunch before dinner or you’ll be starving when it comes time to the real deal.  This is a mistake I’ve made in the past, and starving yourself throughout the day will just backfire on you.  I’ve also learned to treat Thanksgiving a little like a buffet, try a little bit of everything you think you might like, and if you find something that you really, really like; go back for a second helping.  When it comes to dessert I like to take a little slice of each kind of pie, that way I get to try everything without overdoing it.  But if you like one a lot…eat more of it.  Remember, one day of indulgence will not make or break the body you have built for yourself or are in the process of building.  Leftovers can also be a challenge.  If you’re the one running the show, invite your guests to take home anything they want, and if you’re the guest and your hosts asks if you’d like anything either politely decline or pick something that could be a fun treat the next day.  Take a slice of pie or even create a lunch for yourself the next day to take home.  Most large run shelters will not take precooked foods, but some smaller ones will sometimes take leftovers.  Try calling around to see if there’s anyone who may want the delicious food you’ve gotten to enjoy.  Just please, please remember that eating right is great, but letting yourself just enjoy the time you have with friends and family is even better.  So; talk, eat and have fun because tomorrow is another day.