The “elves of Miracle-Ville.com” post these short but sweet responses to the “food fairies” who , for whatever reason, make it their business to tempt, goad, or push you into going off- plan at holiday dinner, parties, or get togethers. Choose the one or ones that you are most comfortable with and stay on track during the holiday season!
“Sung to the tune of Twelve Days of Christmas”
On the 1st day of the Holidays, Aunt Esther said to me……
“It’s insert holiday, it only comes once a year…live a little!”
–That’s true, Aunt Esther, but I try to eat right so I’m healthy to celebrate many more insert holiday name !
This works because it puts the focus on your making food choices for your health…not “merely” to look good. When the food fairy hears that you are being health conscious, he/she is likely to move on to someone else.
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On the second day of the Holidays, cousin Lola said to me…..
“Come on insert your name…one bite won’t kill you!”
— “I find that when it comes to something so yummy, one bite leads me to another and another” It’s like Lay’s chips….no one can stop at one!”
This works because it shifts the focus the food fairy nudging you to a little humor…and she gets the point, as you smile back at her….that you aren’t going there this year.
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On the third day of the Holidays, Grandma said to me…..
“Eat , <strong>insert your name, you need to put some meat on your bones!”
–“Oh Grandma, does it really look like I’m going to waste away?”…said with a big big smile
This works because although Grandma gave you a little dig (you know honey, you don’t look as great as you know you look now that you’ve lost weight)…..your response turns the focus back on her failing “eye sight”…smiling….perhaps she’s not seeing you so clearly!!!!
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On the 4th day of the Holidays, my best friend Karen said to me…….
“Have some more lasagna, insert your name here, I made it just for you” ..said as she places another helping on your plate.”
–“Oh, insert former best friend’s name here, I’m soooo stuffed!!! (Then skillfully move the food around on your plate so it looks like you’ve had a bite or two). If she comments again prodding you to overeat just follow up with…I’m filled to the top!”
Although your friend most likely put the extra helping on your plate with love…..you didn’t put it there. Don’t feel guilty about not finishing it. Moving it around makes it look like you had a bit or leaving it “as is” works, too, because you stated you were filled to the top already and couldn’t possibly eat it without exploding.
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On the 5th day of the Holidays, my husband or wife says to me……
“Looks like you’re obsessing with dieting again…give it a rest for the holidays!”
–“Oh honey, I’m not obsessed….I’m just very aware of what I eat…I eat to feel good, you know that!” big big smile here as you look into his/her eyes with feeling
Using the words obsessed, crazy, or over-the-top to preface your eating choices is down-right mean. Sometimes you have to stop a bully in his/her tracks by turning the tables right back…confirm that you are aware of what you eat and you choose to make healthy choices…he/she “knows that!” already.
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On the 6th day of the holidays, neighbor Ken said to me……..
“Try the insert specialty’s name, it’s my specialty.”
–“I will try it in a little bit….I’m sure it’s great.”
If your neighbor later asks…did you love the mousse?….you can always feign forgetfulness but promise you might try it next time.
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On the 7th day of the Holidays, my boss said to me……
“ You have to try the insert super high carb food choice here, it’s my favorite”….co-workers nodding heads in agreement
–“I would really love to try your dish…but I can’t eat (or I don’t like) insert an ingredient (said while shrugging shoulders and looking disappointed that you simply can’t)
No one can take offense to the fact that you can’t eat something….no further explanation is needed.
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On the 8th day of the Holidays, my coworker said to me…..
“Have another drink!”
–“I have to drive….no thanks”.
If you are not driving home….you can use the excuse that you have something to do very early in the morning, or your kids do…..
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On the 9th day of the Holidays, my mother said to me….
“Another diet Insert your name here? None of your MANY diets have worked for you. Enjoy the holidays for once, sweetie!”
—“I’m not “on a diet” this year, Mom. (Smile while saying). I’ve finally found the root of my health and weight issues and I will be caring for myself the right way from now on. I feel great! Cheers”
You know that mom has been “dieting forever” and still struggles with her weight, health, energy, and more. Seems like she has to “jab” you about your history of dieting; maybe it makes her feel better to have someone else in her boat. You know you will share your knowledge if she every asks.
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On the 10th day of the Holidays, my niece said to me….
“You look amazing, Aunt ________! You look younger, thinner, are so energetic, and seem happy and calm this insert holiday name. What are you doing differently?” “I’ve been feel pretty crappy this past year and my weight, lack of energy, mood swings, and cravings are driving me bonkers.”
— I have learned so much about my body and what I need to do to normalize my metabolism. It’s not hard to do. If you are interested in learning more, give me a call after insert holiday name. Let’s raise a glass to a very healthy, Happy New Year!
Your college-age niece doesn’t yet know that she has uncontrolled Met B. You know that Met B is part genetic. You are inwardly thrilled that she opened the door so you can help her out after the holidays by sharing your information. You feel thrilled about the New Year!.
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And a partridge in a pear tree!
Happy Holidays from Diane Kress and Miracle-Ville.com.