During the month of November, Branson and I decided we wanted to take our health to the next level and went on a “no sugar” diet for 4 weeks. I told Branson (and the other two boys as well) that if they did it with me, I’d let him choose a reward of their choice. They could get a new xbox or wii game, go out on a date with just Mom or Dad, get a new $10 toy at the store, stay up 15 minutes later for a week, etc. But Branson was the only one who took me up on my offer.
We did give ourselves “cheat days” (like on Thanksgiving) every one in awhile where we could have a small treat, but for the most part we just completely went without sugar. No soda’s, no candies, no cookies, cakes, donuts, or even sugar cereals. The first week was HARD, but we found after that first week, it got a lot easier as the cravings mostly ceased. And we made it! One whole month! And Branson was super proud of himself when he realized he really could do hard things. It was a great month for both of us.
For Branson’s “reward” he chose a date night out with Mom. Adam had chosen not to participate either, like the other two boys, so just Brans and I went out. Branson chose to go to Kneaders (which made me really happy) where he ordered some corn chowder, bread, and a key lime tart. And then I ended my month of no sugar with a 1/2 turkey sandwich and yummy turtle brownie. Yum!
Then from there we went to the movies to see “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.” And as usual we danced to the credits at the front of the theater (after all the people had left). Sure was a wonderful date spent with my special little boy.
Branson liked doing our no sugar month so much that he decided to make the same goal for the month of December! I on the other hand KNEW I’d be too tempted with treats brought in by neighbors and treats at all the Christmas parties – so I opted out. Harry joined Brans for the month of December though and both boys did really well for the most part. They had to go a few extra weeks when they “forgot” a few times, but they both just finished up their month and will get to pick their rewards.
Branson once again wants to do a date night out (but this time with Dad and to see the movie Frozen), but Harry (bless his sweet heart) wants to go all the way until the end of May so that he can earn the newest Skylanders game (which is mucho expensive!) But he plans to go 6 months without sugar so we think its a great incentive for him and hopefully the game will go down in price during that time. We love that the boys are learning to do hard things though. We sure do love them! đ