Table Manners

I'm moving back in with my parents in December, which means that I'll be surrounded by 'binge food.'

My mom has this peculiar habit of buying sweets (cookies, brownie mix, ridiculously fattening ice cream bars, etc.), and then not eating them. I remember going into my parents' house a few months back, due to being possessed by a holy plight to conquer every bit of junk food in the world. When I reached the kitchen, I was both elated and frightened when I found four boxes of brownie mix in the pantry. There were walnut brownies, fudge brownies, peanut butter brownies, dark chocolate brownies--all just lying in wait. I gathered them and dashed home, then exuberantly baked about half of the loot in the oven. The other halves were eaten raw, in-between intervals of ice cream. It was a festival of sorts. Soon, I will be physically amongst all of that junk. I really can't imagine holding onto my sanity.

Along with being amidst of the rubbish in the kitchen, I must partake in a mandatory nightly feeding.
My parents are 'dinner people.' My mom prepares food each night, and everyone sits around the table to enjoy it. Refusing to take part isn't just suspicious- it's selfish. We spend about an hour conversing  and stabbing at my fated foe (...food). Throughout the meal, the time leaves every plate open for  scrutiny. Each leftover is accounted for, despite any lacking motive to do so. It's all seen. For someone with an eating disorder, it is utter hell.

I developed some tips for myself, which I hope will provide some structure and make things a touch less overwhelming. I'll have to give them a few test-runs before I move in so that I can fix any flaws in the endeavor. I hope that they're helpful to all of you as well!

Avoid Overeating at the Table 

1. Opt for a small plate.
2. Drink water before the meal.
3. Eat slowly.
4. Do not push your food around your plate for hours. Set your utensils down periodically instead. It often settles the anxiety to take a break.
5. When serving yourself, choose small amounts of food. If you must, splurge on the veg.
6. Chew your food adequately.
7. Skip the condiments. 
8. Talk until you can hear yourself being annoying, and take charge of the conversations. Dazzle those table friends with your charisma! You forgot to eat? Well, it's cold now... better save it.

Weight: 114  113  112  111  110  109  108  107  106  105  104  103  102  101  100  99  98  97  96  95

Height: 5'4"