Thanks for all the responses! I had a feeling that a lot of you could relate. It's day 6 now, and I still feel good. I'm finding that I have a lot more drive to cook - so that my actual meal really tastes good and satisfying - rather than dumping a bunch of leftovers together and waiting for the goodies after the meal.

Eating butternut squash soup with homemade (and just a little burnt) croutons right now. Yum.

Not to say I'm not looking forward to the birthday cake. But I don't feel so much like I NEED it.

Best to you all!