Keep calm and carry on

I started my Christmas shopping last week as I am determined to have it all done by the end of this month. It makes December so much more pleasurable. I love everything about the holidays; the carols, family and friends, the decorations, church, the food...

The food. In the past, by this time of year I would have given up on whatever diet I was on, either because the weight loss had stalled or I had gained a few pounds. I would rationalize that "it's the holidays" I can eat, drink and be merry until the new year and start again.
This is the first year in a long time that I am not going to use the holidays as an excuse to eat with abandon regardless of the consequences. It's freaking me out a bit as there are already so many meals out that I cannot decline, not to mention all the cookies, chocolate and other goodies at the grocery store. I am developing an action plan to deal with all of this, the first being that none of those treats are coming into the house until just prior to entertaining. Any leftovers will be sent away with guests. Second, I am going to stick to the cardinal rule of protein first for all of those luncheons and dinners out. My challenge will be declining dessert, I'm hoping that I'll be full enough so that I can only have a bite or two or none at all. Third, I am going to make sure that I get my workouts in, no excuses allowed.

I plan to truly enjoy the holidays this year without feeling miserable about my weight for the the first time in a decade.

What is your action plan for the holidays?