Hey Cris,

1) I think you need to cheat once in a while to avoid a complete crash or to keep from going insane. I prefer cheat meals to cheat days. I'll eat healthy for the most part, but add a little treat in there every once in a while.
Try to avoid doing it too late at night as the extra calories will go unburned and be stored as fat. But by all means have a treat here and there if you're eating clean 90% of the time.

2) I think a snack at around 8 or 9pm is a good thing if it's the right snack. High in lean protein and good fats is the best way to go. You don't want to be having a large amount of carbs because they'll go unused and end up as fat. A lean source of protein + a good fat will boost your metabolism before bed and I've heard it helps you sleep.

My personal choice is a bowl of cottage cheese and a handful of almonds a couple hours before bed.

2) What is your take on the train of thought that encourages eating a snack prior to going to bed to give your body some fuel so that you are not starving in the morning? How long before bed do you try to avoid eating a meal? What about a snack?