Looking for tips how to survive the Memorial Day weekend

This is the first “big” weekend since my band operation back in January (2008). So far I have been excellent (better then most projected), and still have no cravings and/or hunger pangs. But starting this week, I have been nervous concerning how to combat the weekend that usually consists of consuming a lot food.   Since I will be doing most of the grilling, you’d think it would be easy. But I already am thinking that I want to try some grilled: steak, a hot dog, rib, chicken, etc. I can easily forgo: chips, pretzels, beer/booze, slaw/salads (potato/macaroni), etc. I have no desire for them. But it's the “main dishes” that  I am starting to crave. Any suggestions and/or advice (especially things I DEFINITELY should not eat)?

What about grilling some fish, shrimp, turkey burger and chicken.   These are all easy and good for you.  Have a great weekend! 

Hi,   You already know what you have to do.  If you do make a mistake, and eat the wrong thing, did you commit a crime. NO!!!!  Just try not to eat a lot, remember Moderation is the Key!!! 

The biggest thing is to try and keep on your schedule!   Get your water in and keep your food as close to your normal lunch / dinner times as possible.   If you are really craving something you haven't tried yet - just take it slow!  You won't want to be uncomfortable or sick that will ruin your weekend! The grilled shrimp idea sounds good!   Try a minimal amount of barbeque sauce for added flavor - it will be great!!!!! Enjoy your weekend!! Vicki

Just follow the same rules you always do. A holiday is not a license to eat whatever you want....because you know once you start that, it will lead to "oh i'll just eat bad on holidays", then "i'll just eat bad on the weekends".....and before you know it you're back in your old habits and gaining. I have a wedding tonight so i feel your pain.....STAY STRONG!!!

i have had a grilled hot dog many a time since my surgery at a barbeque.  i just ate it with mustard, no roll and it worked for me.. dont make it crispy though, might bother you that way. as to other stuff, i agre with the other posters.  if you want to try a salad etc, just go easy cause u dont want to get sick.  perhaps a side of baked beans or bean salad would also help.  they are both good protein sources.  choose a prepared baked beans with the lowest amount of sugars possible.  bush beans worked for me.  i did not add any of the bad stuff like extra sugar or ketchup, etc to it.  just straight from the can. another tip thats worked for me, is to have a platter of cheese.  snacking on that gives your protein and helped me avoid the foods that sometimes call you at a party. good luck, and most of all, enjoy time with your family and friends. hugs, jacki p.s. my surgeon dr. noyan said to me two years ago that we have to learn that a holiday is just another day and to enjoy the other pleasant things on a day like that and not just think of it as a food event.  that is good advice for all of us, not just weight loss patients.

THANKS EVERYONE for the sound advice. As most of you said, it's just another day - nothing special - so I will stay in that mindset.

I love turkey sausage. Have you tried that on the grill? And a tray of crudites (raw veggies) with fage dip or low fat dressing is great when you think you're going to munch alot. Also, don't starve yourself in anticipation of eating more at your cookout. Just try to be as regular as possible throughout the day, and you won't overreat.

Hi Just wondering if any of the tips you got helped you out - How did you survive the holiday weekend? I did pretty well but one day I spent at my Uncle's and he had the surgery so they totally understood my concerns.  The rest of the weekend I just took it slow and thought about everything I ate BEFORE I ate it! Hope you made it through your first "big" weekend! Vicki