I have a problem that only seems to be getting worse. There’s too much food available to me. Some people live in areas where they have to drive half an hour or longer to get to a supermarket. I live within fifteen minutes of about ten different food shopping meccas and specialty grocers. Sprouts, Fresh Market, Trader Joe’s, Fiesta, Kroger, HEB, Whole Foods, Randalls, WalMart, Target . . . the list goes on and on.
Some people, when they want a meal out, have two or three restaurants to choose from. I can see at least eight different restaurants within walking distance of my apartment. And there are probably in excess of fifty others within a fifteen minute drive.
But you’re lucky, most of you are thinking. Really? You try exercising restraint when you’re constantly bombarded with beautiful, fresh produce, with crusty breads warm from the oven, with tempting homemade soups and salads, and with every possible snack known to man.
I’ve tried everything to resist this bounty. I’ve made lists. I’ve shopped right after eating so that I’m not hungry when I hit the store. I’ve planned my meals ahead of time. Nothing seems to work. I still come home with food that will go bad before I’ve had a chance to use it. I still throw out things I never should have purchased in the first place.
Is there a solution to my problem? I doubt it. But if you come up with one, I’d love to hear it.