I’m still with you on the idea of a diet. All the things we love can still have a place in our choices, but maybe not so much and maybe not so often. Basically there’s a compromise to be had and you illustrate that point well.

Sagan: Simplicity is so beautiful, isn’t it!! Simplicity can move the world…and dietary changes. For me, anyway, it’s all about bringing it all back to the basics of enjoyment, pleasure. When I look at eating a meal, now, it’s not just the act of eating; it’s the FUN I have being creative with whatever’s on hand, really digging into the discovery that’s inherent with preparation—the scents and colors, focusing on the act of slicing and dicing and stirring, smelling—seeing how pretty everything is on the plate (but never, somehow, as pretty as Monica’s photos!)… After all that, eating is relegated to a back seat.

Davina: Yes, when we can activate some other pleasure zone (besides our eye/mouth connection), we enjoy everything so much more! I find it IS about focus, intent, attention…

Dave! I’m honored, indeed! This is the first time you’ve commented. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Yes, I admit I haven’t yet completely given up some of my “bad” things (like chocolate, pastries, desserts, caffeine, wine, the occasional microbrew, peanuts…), but at least I’ve found a way to still enjoy the treats. Where I really am stymied, though, is at the office potlucks and holiday meals or, as Monica so rightly said, the “silly season” (I like that!)…but even tiny portions work well there, too. And smaller plates. And not having seconds! When doing these things, we’re buying a little time for the tummy to be able to talk to the brain.

Julie, a great piece, I loved it. This is the way I see it too.

Having the right mindset is key.

I love ice cream and eating it the way you suggest can be so pleasurable. The taste is the same whether you load a tablespoon into your mouth or a teaspoon. If enjoying eating is about enjoying the taste of our food, then this is the way to go. Great guest post Julie!

And Julie fantastic job! Your energy resonates throughout this post exceptionally and you bring into it the complete mind, body and soul connection as you have a great way of doing! Truly a balanced life is such a pleasure to live!

You’re such a cool dad, Lance. I love the duck story and the image you paint! Your kids think you’re the greatest, I guarantee it. Reminds me of my family. Maybe that’s where I started learning to have fun with everything, even the hard stuff. My dad played with his food; he draped spaghetti over his nose… Who wouldn’t eat their dreaded lima beans after being promised another show like that!

The part about sticking your hand out the window – reminds me of something I started to do with my kids about a year ago. One day I stuck my hand out the window, and then held it up to the windshield, like a duck. I then proceeded to name my hand Mr. Duck, and make crazy duck sounds (I wasn’t driving, my wife was!). They loved it. And now, they’ll do it – and say “do you know what I’m doing”! It’s great – and all because I stuck my hand out the window – so, Julie – I say your ideas are golden! If this one works, I bet they all do! And some of them are downright funny!