Work Christmas Party!

[ShellyB]

I need some advice please, we are celebrating our Christmas Party in a fancy restaurant with a 3 course meal and of course drinks all night. I have not told anyone about my diet (I am only in week 2) and they are the sort of people that put chocolates and biscuits on my desk to rub in the fact that I struggle to resist. I don't think I can take my own packed dinner to a black tie event..... Any suggestions?

Thank you
Michelle

[val2zap]

I had my own affair a few weeks ago. the only thing I hoped for was that they would be serving either steak or chicken that I could choose from and hopefully a salad. If you have to eat what they give you, just make the best choices you can for yourself. You don't have to eat each course. You'll get a salad, eat a portion of that. and then eat a portion of the main meal. Try to stay away from the bread - get up from the table if you can and then go somewhere else for dessert.

You don't have to explain to anyone what or why you are eating the way you are - especially since they don't seem supportive or friendly. at the very least tell them you are not feeling well and that should be enough.

This can be done.

[KMac]

Hello
I have been to 3 big parties in the last 3 weeks. At the cocktail hour I found along with all the off Cohen goodies a beautiful fruit platter and had some great cantalope. Then when we went in for dinner I pulled the waiter aside & quietly asked if he could help me out I am on a very restricted diet and although everything sounded excellent could I just get a plain grilled chicken or piece of fish w/ steamed veggies ( usually what they have fresh in the kitchen). He said no problem. I gave my husband the pasta course and for the salad course the waiter gave me a plan lettuce & tom salad which was great because my husbands was covered in dressing and goat cheese. I gave the waiter a nice tip just for his extra effort. I work p/t for a cateering hall and it really isn't a problem (even when I waitressed in restuarants) to make a meal a certain way for someone. You just have to get comfortable asking, its not a big deal and you usually get the freshest meal.
Have fun
ps- Reward yourself w/ a nice dc treat when you get home. I like to have the apple,diet coke, cinnamin treat waiting for me when I get home- yummy.

[ShellyB]

Thanks for the advice, really helpful :)

[Key]

Hi Shelly -

Your co-workers won't give it a second thought if you told them the reason you aren't drinking is you are taking medication ... and you are - your food is your medicine (you won't be lying to them). When people are busy eating they really won't be paying much attention to anything but their own food so don't feel self-conscious. Mention to the waiter that you're on a special medical diet and you'll be accommodated. It might feel a little awkward the first time you do this but trust me, it will be the only time it happens.