Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year's - they are all wonderful occasions for gathering with family and friends. And with them, come an abundance of rich, calorie-laden foods and beverages. The challenge is holding your weight and waist in check, without cutting into the joy of the holiday!

Sound impossible? Not at all. Having a happy, healthy holiday is entirely possible if you follow these sensible tips:

Set Realistic Goals. Don't ruin the holiday for yourself by setting unrealistic goals. Allow yourself some holiday treats, but moderate yourself. If you can simply hold your current weight, it would be a great accomplishment.

Move it! Look for every opportunity to be physically active. Take a brisk walk after meals. Make dancing, hiking or skating a part of your celebrations. Give yourself a workout by shopping the malls instead of the Web or TV shopping network. Exercise is a great way to relieve the stress of the holidays as well!

Take the Edge Off. Before you leave for dinner or a party, eat something light to help curb your appetite. The worst thing you could do is to starve yourself all day. It will only set the stage for a feeding frenzy!

Location, Location, Location. Avoid socializing beside the buffet table where you might be tempted to graze. Position yourself near the entry, beside the piano or 'round the holiday tree where you can focus on the people, conversation and entertainment.

Be Choosy. Before you sit down to dinner or hit the buffet table, survey the food. Make note of the healthy choices as well as the rich holiday treats. Then try to make a balanced selection. Opt for some of the lower calorie food. Skip the ordinary foods you can have any time — the nuts, chips, dips, etc. Only splurge on the things you love.

Halve It. If you find yourself at a sit-down dinner where there are not a lot of healthy choices, or you simply cannot bear to pass up the richer foods, have them — but cut your portion size in half.

Savor the Moment. Don't slam-dunk your food. Eat slowly, savoring each morsel. Pause to talk and listen to friends and family. Give your stomach time to tell your brain it's full!

Moderate the Alcohol. Go ahead and enjoy a glass of holiday cheer, but limit your intake. Beer, wine and liquor are packed with calories, and they may lower your resolve to eat sensibly. Try alternating an alcoholic drink with a vegetable juice cocktail or sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime.

Be Vigilant. Weigh yourself weekly — Monday would be good. Then if you've gained a pound or two over the weekend, you can cut out the treats, reduce your meal portions for several days and add some extra exercise to your regimen. It's a great way to hold yourself in check!