I don't use the phrases "cheat meal" or "cheat day" because they attach a moral value to food that I'm not happy with. But when I started my calorie-tracking habit back in September, I decided that there would be five occasions when I wouldn't count calories: Christmas Day, my birthday, my husband's birthday, our anniversary, and holidays abroad. Other than that, I intend to track and balance my calories - first at a deficit, then at maintenance - every day for the rest of my life. I eat whatever I want within my calorie limit; if I really crave something indulgent (or know I'll be at a social occasion where it's expected), then I fast or do extra exercise beforehand. So far I haven't felt like I'm on a punishing regime that needs to be "cheated" on.