More than ever the holidays have caused me to be tempted because my mind is going like a gerbil in a wheel...round and round. Seriously, I have felt more tempted this year than last year when I seemed to have less of an emotional struggle to stay on course. Maybe it is because I am no longer on insulin and not tied down as much to the daily grind of counting carbs as strictly as I had to last year. Then I read an article for diabetics that it was advisable for ALL diabetics to keep a close watch on their carbs during the holidays for the following reasons : 1) it will assure good blood sugar control during the holiday season, 2) it will help keep your weight off. It doesn't matter if you are on insulin, pills, or keeping your diabetes controlled through diet an exercise, carb counting is essential for good control. So, this little lady got back with her carb counting and thus the calorie counting fell into place as well. I have to write down my food and plan in order to do this...which was another recommendation from this diabetic educator. Duh, haven't we heard of this before. The educator also mentioned that exercise is a must for good blood sugar control during the holidays, in any form. I know I have been a little lazy lately so this really spoke to to make an effort to get out to the gym this week. She also mentioned to be realistic about dieting during the holiday season. For some of us, maintenance might be a better idea than trying to diet during the season. Well, I did it last year, but this year I am finding it impossible. Last, but not least, she mentioned cooking recipes that decrease the fat and carb content. That's a challenge but one worth doing. I have been doing this for several years now and my family has accepted it. We even have accepted less desserts and lighter ones. Last years ham can turn into a pork stuffed with a fruit stuffing and a sugar free cheese cake still taste rich and divine.