Taking on the Holidays

Over the summer I faced many challenges that really helped me to prepare for the holidays (that are just around the corner)!

As I've mentioned before, let’s take the challenges as they come:

The summer BBQ. I was invited to a BBQ that was themed “Beer and Bacon” (yes, amazing.) At first the swirl of anxiety circulated through my body as I’m thinking…what am I going to eat…I don’t want to be awkward…then I have to explain my “situation”…ugh…maybe I shouldn't go. A few minutes later (after a small tantrum), I got over it and accepted the fact that I won’t be able to eat ANY of the delicious bacon wrapped delights that were prepared by all of the other guests…BUT I can bring my own GF dish…something substantial because it probably will be the only thing I eat.

I ended up making amazing Gumbo and brought a handful of Gluten Free beer for a “beer tasting”. It was a huge hit. Everyone was actually really interested in learning about the beer brewed with different ingredients and processes (although they didn't really like the taste-no kidding) but it also allowed me to share my “situation” and have others experience what I am going through. A year from now, I may not take the same approach but at 4 months in, it felt good to “vent” if you will, and realize I could have a little bit of fun with it (keeps us sane, right?).

The big take away: Be prepared and BYOF (bring your own food) because even if the guests or host  say “It’s Gluten Free” you do not know if there kitchen is GF and cross-contamination is a huge risk, and let’s be honest, they have not been trained to scan labels like us. Although you do not want to come across as unappreciative for their efforts you have to realize that they are not the ones that will get sick and feel awful for days (or in my case, risk damage to my body) you have to protect your body.

I am taking this experience and am bracing myself for the holidays. I plan to make an entire GF meal for myself to bring to my cousins for Thanksgiving. Discussing this up front with my family not only makes it easier for all (so no one has to attempt to make GF anything) but it will allow me to be at ease knowing I have safe food and don’t have to awkwardly scan the kitchen, pots, pans, cutting boards, serving spoons, flour dust, etc. (oh, and not have to turn down food from my wonderful cousin).

If you know any great GF Thanksgiving dishes-please share!!!

PS... The recipe for the Gumbo (Jamie Oliver)... On this blogspot: http://nommytreat.blogspot.com/2011/06/spicy-meat-gumbo.html