See that picture below? That is one of the many foods I turned down last night because I'm in the middle of a juice fast. (on Day 5!) Yesterday was my toughest day by far, and mostly because of the event I photographed last night. I always get fed at weddings, but I don't always get my own place card at a table with other guests, and I rarely get to have cake or dessert. Not only was I offered so much wonderful stuff, the bride approached me several times to make sure I had gotten something to eat and didn't need anything. She was so amazing and nice! I'm very blessed with the brides I've worked for, but this was definitely above and beyond, and not only was I sorely tempted with all the great food, I felt the social pressure to be polite and eat what was offered. We had even discussed the menu before, and she had asked me if I like Mediterranean food, which of course I love! There were kabobs and hummus and everything smelled great and was presented beautifully! (Shoutout to Elegant Touch Catering!). I really wasn't sure if I would stay strong, but I did. I told the bride that I was under unexpected food restrictions and wouldn't be having anything. Sweetie that she was, she said she wished she had known so she could have made accomodations for me, but I assured her that I had food in my car (food being a thermos of apple-straberry juice blended with one banana...my "cheat" to make it through the night).
I can't tell you how proud I was for sticking to my plan. I have gone so long feeling a little helpless about my weight and my health, and through this fasting process, I feel I've really tapped into some inner strength that I thought might not be there anymore. I feel like I will be able to go back to a "regular" diet with much better confidence and strength. I will be able to make better choices more consistently. I will be able to resist small temptations. You know why? Because there will be a world of things I can eat, and if I can turn them all down now, I can surely turn some of them down then.
