The most challenging part of the holiday weekend for most of us are the drinks and the BBQs!

PLAN as much as you can!

Plan to work out even if you are going away. Pack your sneaks and workouts clothes now! Then, make sure you actually do the work out! It will keep you focused on making healthy choices.

Plan to bring a healthy, figure friendly bag of survival foods, so you are not forced to eat unhealthy all weekend.

Ideas:

Fruit, nuts and dry fruit mix, cut up veggies, salad, Greek yogurt, hummus, crudité, salad dressing, seltzer, whole grain wraps, hard boiled eggs, whole grain cereal or oatmeal and even a carton of almond milk.

Plan on joining in on the MMD BBQ— but think of healthier options such a white meat turkey burgers, “grow it” with veggies or beans (use a sandwich thin or a romaine lettuce leaf as your bun) have grilled veggies and corn instead of a hamburger on a white processed hamburger bun with chips and potato salad.

Going to a party? Offer to bring something so that you know there is a healthy option. Crudite and hummus, boiled shrimp, fruit salad, quinoa salad or a green salad – dressing on the side!

If dining out night, look at the menu before going out, so you are able to pre-select a healthy dinner.

HYDRATE thoughout the day.

Plan on how many drinks you will have prior to getting to a social event, beyond two drinks-starts to get dangerous! Then commit to drinking seltzer with lime or water from then on.

Alternate a glass of wine, light beer or vodka and CLUB (not tonic) with a glass or two of water or seltzer with lime. Remember to pace yourself.

Take advantage of the holiday weekend and incorporate, walking, biking, gardening or hiking. Focus on being outdoors and active rather than eating.

Going out for ice cream? Order a kiddie size and go with the soft, it has fewer calories than the hard ice cream because it has more air whipped in it. If they offer a banana whip – chose that it is all banana! The original greek yogurt tends to be a good choice and perhaps mix in a little fruit or sorbet to change the flavor!

Remember that “failing to PLAN is planning to fail!”

Focus on your company and enjoy your family and friends! Stay on track and you will love yourself (even more) after the weekend!

Wake up Tuesday feeling proud and not feeling like you are starting over again!

To a happy and safe weekend!!