If you read last Thursday’s blog you know that I’m traveling for the launch of The Good Mood Diet. My days are really hectic, running from one presentation to the next, and doing interviews in between. Today I did a presentation from noon to 1:30 (notice that I wasn’t eating lunch at that time), and then had a meeting from 4:00 to 5:15, another presentation from 7-9, and then a radio show from 10-11.
How did I stay in a good mood? Well, there was no way to eat lunch at lunchtime, or dinner at dinnertime. I started out my day by taking Bob’s advice; I slept in to catch up with my jet lag instead of waking early to work out. I had my usual breakfast that you see in the menu plan in the book. Just before going to my talk I popped some almonds and raisins, and had plenty of water. Then I walked.
At 3:00 I had a quick sushi lunch with miso soup and lots more water from a little take-out cafe. Then at 5:30 I barely had time to get back to my hotel to change and drive to my next presentation, so I stopped by a little fresh foods place near the hotel and had a great skim milk, fruit and whey protein smoothie. While it wasn’t ideal, it was an excellent alternative to fast food, or no dinner at all. I felt refreshed and energized. I went off to talk for 2 hours in one place and 1 hour in another, along with more water, and did just fine.
Back at my hotel at 11 PM, I was hungry and thirsty. It’s late, but I know that I won’t sleep when I’m this hungry. So back to my almonds, raisins, and a reward of a little dark chocolate just because I feel like it. I’ll be awake and working (and blogging) for a while, so everything will settle down in my stomach for a good night’s sleep.
So you see, while not exact, I have been able to fit in almost everything that I need to eat even though I’m on the road and very busy. The key is planning. I always plan ahead for these times and bring food with me. It was lucky that the smoothie place was down the street, but if not I would have found something with milk in it to get the protein and carbohydrates that I need to stay upbeat and on an even keel. Or I may have resorted to the meal replacement bars that I brought for an emergency. But I wouldn’t have been at the mercy of whatever food was available.
Before you travel, plan on what food is easy to pack and carry. It will save your mood every time.
Yours in a Good Mood,
Susan