Day 6

Day 6 was a busy day.

I took off early from work to make the 4 hour drive to see my family for Easter.
Usually the turnpike would be fast food heaven - the break stops on this route are the perfect environment for poor food choices and lattes so full of sugar and syrups that they really shouldn't be considered coffee.

The good thing was, I knew this... and had prepared for my trek through nutritionally dangerous territory.
Along with my duffel bag of clothes, I had brought Whole30-friendly snacks and bottled water.

When I did stop to fill up with gas, etc., I was able to cruise through Sheetz, take care of business, and not fall into the convenience store food traps.
(I actually didn't even get into the snacks I had packed - lunch and the constant flow of water I consumed during my long drive kept my tummy feeling fine until I pulled into my parents' driveway)

Being back, I did notice something.
I am a creature of habit... and although I may not necessarily feel a craving for something, I would reach for things almost as a conditioned response.

Sodas in the garage refrigerator (where they always are)... snacks in the top cupboard...

My hands knew where to reach without my mind having to do any work.

I was afraid I would suddenly realize I was eating something that I had just picked up, without even thinking.
A very odd thing to become aware of.

But overall, I don't think the weekend away from the "Whole30" box I live in back at my home is going to be too much of a struggle.
My family is very understanding and encouraging... My mom basically has paleo meals planned for everything (she's fantastic - love you Mom)

So as I wind down from the day, I am not only feeling good about my food choices today... I am feeling good about being back with my family - the people who understand me most in life and who (I think) are very excited about my new commitment to taking care of myself.

Let's consider Day 6 a lovely homecoming.