There’s nothing like one of Leochner’s freshly baked cookies at 8:34 in the morning.

My jeopardy team worked hard to emerge with the win in 1920s bingo last week, and we were to be rewarded for our toil today.

Unfortunately, I was unable to enjoy the buttery, chocolate-chipped taste of victory. After a bowl of Kashi Go-Lean this morning, I found myself craving fat and sugar, but my strict adherence to a healthy diet stopped me from taking a bite.

I held the cookie in my hand, enjoying the sweet smell. Then I promptly passed the deliciously unhealthy cookie to Josie.

Triumph. My willpower is stronger than my love for cookies. I traded a sugar rush for a willpower rush. As Leocher spoke about the economic inequality of the 1920s, I revelled in my healthy victory. I don’t remember the last time I felt this “in control” regarding food.

Later, in AP bio, Josie dangling a single Coco-Puff in front of me.

“Just eat it!” she said.

I wanted that single piece of cereal. But I just took a deep breath and focused on my mountain trail mix.

Lunch was surprisingly easy. I enjoyed my wheat tortilla stuffed with lettuce, hummus, and pan seared chicken. My giant apple prevented me from missing my traditional Trader Joe’s chocolate brownie granola bar. I ate my daily dose of Greek yogurt as my sizeable after school snack.

After slogging through two and a half easy miles, I returned home only to eat. And eat. And eat. Down went a Kashi granola bar, grapes, carrots, hummus, salad, and tomato soup. Sarah had provided me with fish and pork recipes, but tonight I didn’t have the time to whip up some lean protein. Vegetables can only provide so much sustenance. I found myself seriously craving a gyro more than anything tonight.

Day two has not been any easier than day one. I looked temptation in the eye, and while I refused to surrender, the gnawing need for a grilled cheese sandwich or sausage balls still haunts my brain and stomach.

-HKM