Nessa,
Being Jewish isn't just about how much you practice the religion. From what I've seen, you're knowledgeable and interested in the culture, history, and people...even the religious practice you don't participate in.
Had a good time last night at the birthday dinner. I ate a bit more than I'd planned, but did pretty well overall. I made 2 trips to the buffet, but both times I didn't overflow the plate, had a bunch of vegetables and salads

, some sashimi and smoked fish

, and a few pieces of sushi

. Also, a glass of white wine.
I think this challenge has refocused me already. It was very easy to not eat before bed time last night. This morning, I took more care in choosing clothes and getting primped, which usually goes with weight loss.
Scale was actually up 2 pounds from yesterday, but I'm not taking it as a sign of anything.
Crazy things happening with DSS....he and his mother are struggling, and he called DH asking to come back home instead of staying with his mother this week. We think he should try to work things out with his mom, but do you tell a kid he can't come home? The ex thinks DH is totally unsupportive of her relationship with DSS and sees everything as a conflict between her and DH. DH thinks DSS is testing his mother, and her earlier threats to not see him unless he did certain things she wanted. DH is trying to figure out what's best for DSS. Right now DH is waiting to hear back from DSS's therapist to discuss the situation.