Super Bowl doesn't require super-calorie feast.

Planning and preparing for the Super Bowl feast this year was a whole new experience.

Gone are the chips, replaced by veggies and low-calorie dip. The greasy hot wings have flown the coop, but skewered grilled shrimp will fill its void. Hoagies will not make a traditional appearance, but there will be a small tray of lean meats and low-fat cheese. I was able to find healthy, tasty alternatives to all of the calorie-laden fare we normally set out for this all-important sports holiday, except for the beer. I guess there is a wide selection of low-carb and light beer to be had, but it just isn’t the same.

Not that I’m a huge fan of beer, I only drink it once or twice a year, and the Super Bowl is usually one of those days. It’s tradition. After wandering the beer aisle for about 20 minutes, I finally just gave up. I decided to stick to water again and start a new tradition.

This experience really reinforced the notion that this journey is a lifestyle change, and one I’ll have to recommit to every day. I’ve learned that I just have to take this one day at a time, both in food and activity choices. Sometimes those choices will have to be made by the hour, like when those nasty cravings make their presence known. The good news is it seems to get a little easier each day, although I know there will be days where I’ll probably give into the temptation.

A few of you have shared your battles with temptation. Some have overcome those temptations, some have not. If you succumbed, don’t beat yourself up over it. Tomorrow is a new day, dust yourself off and get back on track. Do your best, and remember that you are a winner. Your health and overall quality of life is what is important, and you’re worth it!

Almost forgot. Go Pats! Not that I'm a huge Patriots fan, but it would be pretty darn cool to see them have the perfect season.