Get ready, here come the holidays - that time of year that brings even the most staunch willpower to its knees. You may dodge every festive temptation throughout the year, snacking on cherry tomatoes and celery sticks while others gobbled up the chocolate bunnies at Easter, the high-fat hot dogs on July 4th, and the Halloween candy in October. But that show of self-control was just child's play compared to what's in store this time of year.

Let's face it. Starting at Thanksgiving and continuing through to New Year's Day, you will be constantly tempted by the most enticing treats under your most vulnerable circumstances. You may dodge the fudge at the office party only to succumb to your mother's plea to have one more piece of homemade pumpkin cheesecake. Or, you may gracefully say no to the butter cookies offered at a neighbor's house only to be slipped a candy cane by a department store Santa. Then there's the guests coming over, the dinner parties at friend's houses, and the daily treats at the office.

But wait. Before you finish off the leftover pecan pie from Thanksgiving, be forewarned - Weight gain is not a decree, just as enjoying the holidays and staying healthy is not an either-or issue. With the helpful hints, you can create a personalized plan that allows you to enjoy the festivities, avoid the bulge, and not feel deprived.

You can maintain your waistline and your health and still enjoy the holidays if you face them with a plan that includes:

1) Be choosey. Decide ahead of time to attend only the parties and eat only those foods that are most important to the tradition of the holidays.

2) Don't skip meals. Skip breakfast to bank the calories will to lead to overeating at the party. So front load your calories, by eating a light and healthful breakfast and lunch.

3) Sample, don't gorge. The enjoyment of tasting new foods comes in the first few bites. Savor the flavor of one appetizer, but don't eat the whole bowl.

4) Be polite, not nice. Rehearse ahead of time how you will gracefully say "no" to food offers, coaxings, and coercions.

5) Have a specific plan. Decide ahead of time exactly what and how much you will eat and drink. Then stick with your plan.

6) Just say "no" to alcohol. Even one beer or wine spritzer can breakdown your defenses and lead to overeating. Avoid alcohol altogether, dilute your drinks, or alternate one alcoholic beverage with two non-alcoholic beverages.

7) Loosen up. Give yourself permission to attend a party, even if you don't eat or drink.

8) Never arrive hungry. You are less likely to overeat and more likely to feel relaxed and ready to enjoy the festivities if you have a healthful snack or mini-meal before a party.

9) Think veggies. Fill your plate with vegetables, fruit, low-fat crackers and cheese, and an extra-lean slice of meat from the buffet table and enjoy the company guilt-free.