I’ve just gotten the boys down to bed for the night. It’s now time to relax, take in a show or two, possibly a movie or read. Generally, it’s time for me to relax.

By this point in the evening, I’ve been working, running around, any exercise I want to do for that day. I’ve probably helped with homework, the dishes, or cleaned up toys. I’ve probably had 2 people talking to me at once in multiple instances. I’ve definitely laughed. I’ve probably broken up a disagreement, reminded someone of the house rules, possibly read a story or 2. I’ve maybe watched the news, caught up on the gossip of the day from my teen’s school. I’ve started thinking about the next day and what needs to get done, packed, or fit into the day somewhere. I’ve maybe chatted with a friend, caught up with emails, talked to my mom, maybe Skyped someone. Meaning I am probably tired. At this point I want a reward for my day. This is generally when I like to grab a snack – usually cookies or ice cream. It’s such a trap. I want to relax and I’ve gotten to the point where I think I need that scoop of ice cream to help me wind down. It’s a terrible habit. I am sitting here right now on the couch, watching a show, and not really paying attention to it, because I am focused on why I should not get up to get that sweet snack. Giving myself reasons why I should not get up to get it.

I am a pretty healthy eater. I drink water all day long – after my morning glass of milk. I don’t snack at work. It’s just this. This evening snack. And it’s always sweet and I want it every night. So I am on a mission. A mission to break this habit – to make these sweets what they used to be for me – a treat. I hope by writing about it here, in this public forum, it helps me to stop this cycle. To remember I don;t freaking need one every night. I’ll check in. I’ll take any help I can get – encouragement, ideas for what I can do instead to shift my thinking – anything! Play along won’t you?