Year 2, Day 210: Conquering Chan Shin Yuan

Today was sad not only for its cold, rainy weather but also for the Senate's approval of the detainee bill. Certainly this woe led me to drown my sorrows in hot chili sauce when I was invited to join a vendor for lunch today. However, even in my somewhat gloomy state of being tired AND melancholy, I wizened up enough to order wonton soup instead of hot sour (which is often loaded with corn syrup, corn starch and sugar) and skipped the wontons entirely. I realize that I cannot order just the broth because it engenders furrowed brows and confusion, so I just leave them over. This prompted the waitress to ask if I wanted to take it home. Several moments passed until I repeated AND physically demonstrated that I was done with it. I also skipped the flour-wrap of the spicy wontons and just ate the insides.

Breakfast
Kashi Go Lean
Heritage Flakes
Blueberries
Banana
Unsweetened Soy Milk
Green Tea

Snack
1/2 oz Boston Lite Popcorn
2 Sticks Beef Jerky
2 oz. 50% Jalapeno Cheddar

Lunch: Chan Shin Yuan
Wonton Soup Broth
Shrimp with Vegetables
Chun King Pork (Spicy with Cabbage)
Beef with Celery

Dinner
Flounder with Leeks
1/2 Apple

From "The South Beach Newsletter"— Top 5 Guilt-free Treats. I kinda think this particular newsletter was written for the ladies. Read it and tell me what you think. I have added my comments in parens.

No one knows better than you how great it feels to make a commitment to your health by starting (or staying with) The South Beach Diet®. While you're probably experiencing many benefits from healthy eating and weight loss — for example, increased energy, improved moods, better sleep quality — you should also reward yourself with a non-food treat for each milestone you hit (entering Phase 2 or dropping a dress size, for example) — you deserve it!

Here are five fantastic food-free ways to give yourself a pat on the back:

Give yourself a bouquet. Don't wait around for a loved one to send flowers — celebrate your accomplishment with a seasonal arrangement. (Done that-Ed.)
Take a bubble bath. Enjoy some quality time alone to honor your achievements. A scented soak may be just what you need to stay dedicated to the healthy changes you've made. (With the kids, I've done that-Ed.)
Enjoy a salon or spa treatment. A pedicure, facial, or massage can lift your spirits — and give you a more refreshed appearance. (Not sure how that's either 'guilt-free' or a 'treat.'—Ed.)
Plan a "night out" that doesn't revolve around dinner. Enjoy a movie (minus buttery, artery-clogging popcorn), or check your newspaper for a fun cultural event, such as a concert, play, or art exhibition. (But the only reason to do those things is for the popcorn-Ed.)
Splurge on a great outfit in your new, smaller size. If you really feel like celebrating — and if your budget allows — buy a whole new wardrobe once you've reached your final goal! (I've done that, and after having to buy LOTS of new clothes, the fun sort of wears off—Ed.)