Winter Holidays: Season's Eatings

Cookies. Hot mulled wine. Tamales. Chex Mix. Fudge. You name it, I plan on eating it.

No, I'm not one of those wafer-thin girls who can eat anything they want without gaining a pound. I'm also not completely lacking in self-control. I'm just sick of feeling guilty about eating. Especially during the holidays.

Last year I went to my friend's holiday party and overdid it on the artichoke dip. It was cheesy and gooey and hot from the oven and I ended up eating way more than I should have. I went home and ran on the treadmill for 45 minutes and then ate salad for lunch for the next week.

I felt so guilty about my overindulgence that I passed on the tiramisu that they served at my office party that weekend. My coworkers said it was sinfully rich. I still regret skipping it.

So this year, when holiday planning, I'm not going to let guilt influence what I eat. I'm going to fill up my plate and stuff my face until I'm satisfied. Why should I miss out on mouth-watering desserts or fancy French cheese plates? True, I may end up a few pounds heavier. My sweaters may cling to my belly and my skinny jeans may no longer fit, but at least I won't be obsessing over the things that I didn't eat. Anyway, by then it will be New Year's, the perfect time to resolve to diet. In the meantime, I'm going to enjoy the holidays—guiltlessly.