I grew up in a culture where food = love. If someone has gone through the work to make you a meal, it’s because they care about you. I would not think of turning up my nose at it. (My mother is still hurt, 10 years later, that my mother-in-law barely touched the meal Mom had made for her.) I’m willing to sacrifice a little on the ol’ healthstyle to avoid hurting feelings and coming off as a snob. I do have to be careful because I get migraines from certain foods and food additives, but I find most people are much more receptive to hearing, “I’m sorry, I wish I could have some of that peanut butter pie, but it will give me a horrible migraine if I do,” than “I’m sorry, I don’t like peanut butter,” or “OMG No way, don’t you know how bad for you that is?!”

I think you can be discerning about the food you choose without becoming obsessive. If you follow a good healthstyle (which I’m really trying to do now!) the world will not end if you have a little piece of not-so-fantastic birthday cake and join in the festivities and camaraderie. That’s the big thing: if you’re too much of a picky, snobby eater, you’re going to miss out on lots of good times. Like you said, no one likes the guy or girl who won’t have a piece of birthday cake.

But I agree, life’s too short to refuse a dish that’s lovingly prepared and tastes amazing, even if it’s not technically “good for you.”

Now, about that photo… uh…