I went to see my beloved Phillies take on the Mets this afternoon, and while my boys got a 5-3 win on the field I had my own little victory in the seats.

Eating healthy at the ballpark is a challenge for me with all the hotdogs, Cracker Jacks and ice cream floating around. So I took some advice from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration on holiday eating to help me through the day.

The list advises eating before heading to a special event, which I did. I had my sandwich and some lite popcorn at home. In the fifth inning, after Brett Myers' pitching had stressed me a bit, I had a diet soda and some peanuts.

Eating at home not only saved me calories, it also saved me money. Hot dogs are $3.50 at the park. That's highway robbery, as far as I am concerned. You can get a whole pack of Nathan's franks from $3.99 at the grocery store.

I admit, I probably should have refrained from eating altogether, but it is soooo hard in that atmosphere. I'm just glad I didn't lose my mind and have a hot dog after Jose Reyes' 3-run homer tied the score.

Like my Phillies, I gotta take my victories where I can get 'em.


-- Amanda Barrett