Je ne sais pas!

I am on a French kick lately. I bought a few books on the French way of life, including 'French Women Don't Get Fat!' and am going to try to adopt a new way of life. I've decided that I don't stop to enjoy many parts of my life because I'm a.) immune b.) ignorant c.) in a hurry d.) an American that has to have more, more, more! Believe me, this is no new realization, I've known for a while (six years...) that I need to stop and 'smell the roses' instead of 'inhaling the weeds'. I don't even think I saw the roses...! Part of embracing this new way of life is learning how to actually enjoy good, quality food. Not the pre-processed junk, not necessarily organic food, but good, wholesome food - with portion control. I want to be able to appreciate fresh vegetables, dark chocolate and bread without feeling as if I am depriving myself. It seems like all the diets out there try to convince you that you won't be hungry, feel deprived, have to live your life in a hole to escape the temptation. If I could just flip my perception of what tastes good, satisfies me and/or feels like a treat - I think I could finally manage my weight. Can I do this? The verdict is still out. It is going to take a lot of work to change what my mind has repeated over and over again for 30 years. I guess the true test will be going to La Madeleine? Stay posted for French fun!