memorial day...vegetarian

I have an invitation to a Memorial Day picnic and like most picnics, they only have enough vegetables or side order items to service the meat eaters a 'side'. And when I say a side, I mean a slim side. As for the non-meat eaters, we tend to suffer greatly, especially if we do not arrive early. I am prepared as usual and you too can be prepared.

First, you must prepare a staple of holiday vegetarian choices at home.

Second, you must eat before you head out. Most 'normal' people eat or graze throughout the day. It is the weird folks who fast all day, reserving calories for pigging out. No thanks!

Third, you must take/share an item that is a side or desert. This insures that you have at least one side or desert. Do not get stuck with beverages or paper products. You cannot eat that.

Fourth, stay hydrated. Often we think we're hungry when really we are not. If you eat on a schedule, as I do, stay on that schedule.

Fifth, you may even find that by the time you arrive at the picnic, you are not 'scheduled' to eat. Either way, claim your portions anyway. Food is not going to hold up and wait for you. Make a plate, even a small one and graze. It may even feel like a small binge because you recently ate, before you left home. Eat anyway. Then drink water. If you are there for several hours, there's likely time for you to graze once again.

Sixth, if none of this works out for you, remember you have water and food at home. Picnics are not just for stuffing your faces. It is fellowship with familiars. Enjoy your day and have fun!