Plinge, your comments about internal narrative reminded me that I used to do exactly that in the weight loss stage. I'd walk into the break room with my head already crammed with thoughts about the disgustingness of the "food" in there and the harm it would do me. Because of that I wasn't tempted at all. I'd just reach into the fridge for my meat or veggies and walk out of the room unscathed. Somewhere along the line I stopped the internal narrative, got over-confident I guess. So it's good to be reminded of this little trick and to start using it again.

Yes, the bread came as soon as we sat down. You are right, of course, that it's a ploy to make us hungrier. Bread and alcohol are a restaurateur's best friends.

Caroxx: I know exactly what you mean about the support and insights here. It's absolutely invaluable. I could never have got this far without it.