It’s our fifth day visiting family on the East Coast, and I find myself settled at the ornate dining table, surrounded by 15 others, my plate ready for a generous serving of turkey, stuffing, fruit compote, and perfectly steamed green beans. Wine flows freely, Scotch rests on the sideboard, and a decadent chocolate mousse awaits us for dessert. Whenever we gather, meals are never missed, and there’s always ample food for seconds — or even thirds.
As I glance around the lively table, I see cousins from all corners of the country sitting shoulder to shoulder with aunts, uncles, siblings, and grandparents, each one digging into the feast. The last weeks of the year are meant for joy, family, and reflection as we bid farewell to the past. We’re fortunate to be together, easing our disappointments and looking forward to a brighter new year, even as I notice the extra pounds settling around my waistline.
Crispy latkes with sour cream, buttery Brussels sprouts, marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes, and juicy roasted meats are all too present in my mind. Glittering sugar cookies, rich apple pies, deep red mulled wine, sparkling champagne, and peppermint martinis are also making their mark. As I pull on my jeans, I wince; my once-comfortable sweaters now hug a bit too tightly. Even my bra feels a tad overly supportive, if you catch my drift.
Without a doubt, I’m embracing the familiar embrace of holiday weight gain. Typically, gaining a few extra pounds weighs on my mind. I’d add an extra hour at the gym, cut back on carbs, or embark on a three-day green smoothie cleanse. I know how to realign myself after a weekend of indulging in Brie cheese, signature cocktails, and brownies straight from the pan.
However, the slow accumulation of weight during the holiday season presents a different challenge. This creeping expansion seems to cling to me, eagerly anticipating the next feast. In years past, I tried to hold back in November and December, sticking to my regular routine while others savored their meals. While they relaxed by the fire, I would be at the gym burning off that second plate of roast beef, frustrated for having indulged in the first place.
This year, however, I’m taking a different approach. After a tumultuous 2016, filled with both significant and trivial challenges, I simply don’t have the energy to fret over a few added pounds. While there were some highlights, the shadows often overshadowed the light. The chaos of the presidential election, the humanitarian crisis in Syria, the pervasive issues of racism, misogyny, and environmental neglect all weighed heavily on us.
This year marks the first time I’ve truly surrendered to the comfort of food, family, and friends without worrying about my waistline. Each pound gained reflects a moment of joy. Those peppermint martinis? Enjoyed with my dear friend Jennifer in her warm kitchen, surrounded by our six giggling daughters and their family. The sweet potatoes? A cherished recipe from my mother, who still keeps the secret ingredient to herself.
This time spent with loved ones — drinks in hand, the aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the air, kids running around — helps to restore balance in life. I won’t pretend that accepting the extra weight is easy; it definitely isn’t. Maintaining my weight and strength has always been a priority, sometimes at the cost of enjoyment. However, embracing the warmth of the season with all its indulgences feels comforting after such a difficult year.
By mid-January, I will return to my leafy greens and lean proteins. My sweet treats will be limited to just a few times a week. For now, I’m relishing the abundance of love that fills our home, the scent of cookies baking as I lounge in my well-worn sweatpants, which thankfully have a bit more room in the backside. And those cookies in the oven? They are absolutely worth it.
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In summary, while the holiday season may lead to some weight gain, embracing the joy of family, friends, and comfort food can be more fulfilling than the numbers on the scale.