Thanksgiving USA 2011 is in the rear-view mirror. How was the experience? For me, it was a great one. It was spent at home and I was the Master of Thanksgiving Ceremony in the kitchen. I researched every recipe so each ingredient would be gluten-free. I bought and prepared each ingredient to make the dishes. I served all dishes gluten-free.
How was your experience? What successes did you have? What, if any, “glutened” experiences did you have? Why am I asking these questions? Because this was the “dress-rehearsal” for the rest of the Holiday Season. Be honest with yourself now on how well, or not, things went for you this Thanksgiving. How you feel today, 11/25/2011, could play in how well you feel on 12/26/2011 or 01/01/2012. These two dates do not include any other get-together dates you may have with co-workers, friends, and family within the month of December – the Holiday Season.
Are you starting to understand the implications of why such a retrospect of Thanksgiving USA 2011 is necessary for you? The hardest part of such a retrospect is being honest with yourself. The more emphasis you place on wanting to feel better will make it easier for you to be honest with this retrospect of Thanksgiving USA 2011 for yourself.
If you need more control of the dining experience during the next Holidays and get-togethers – then take it. Invite people into your home so you can be assured all is gluten-free. If you need more control by providing more gluten-free dishes to the menu at a friend’s or family’s household – do it. If you would like more control in regard to gluten-free at company outings at a restaurant after work – express yourself. If a company outing is at a ‘less than ideal gluten-free’ setting, please make sure you are prepared and plan accordingly. Eat a light snack or meal beforehand so you will be less likely to cheat.
I hope Thanksgiving USA 2011 was as successful for you as it was for me. If not, please be honest with yourself and learn how to make changes for the rest of the Holiday Season coming upon us. Your body, and your Family & Friends, will thank you.
Again, my mantra for gluten-free is “Research and Educate.” Research and Educate both for yourself and all who you interact with. Your survival and health depends upon it.
Peace be with you.
Nov 25, 2011 @ 17:54:58
Great advice! I have a tip too.
When accepting an invitation to a company or private affair, educate them about what it means to live gluten free and tell them that if they are not sure they can accomodate you, to let you know. You can then arrange to take your own food with you. Also, keep in mind all of the foods that are naturally gluten free such as fruits and veggies and non-processed meats (none with stuffing or breading though)
Keep up the good work on your blog Dougie!
Nov 25, 2011 @ 18:25:23
I agree Aunt Jayne. You are falling into my mantra of “Research and Educate.” While you can’t expect others to ‘bend at your every whim,’ you should expect to know what the venue of food will be so you can be prepared for yourself and prepare accordingly for the company or private affair. You raise good points in regard to educating others about the necessity of being gluten free. Thank you. Also, thank you for the good compliments on my Blog. They are truly appreciated.
Dec 10, 2011 @ 14:42:13
Heyy! Really enjoy your blog!! You and I are on the same page here… If you have Celiac, or a gluten/wheat intolerance.. There should be no shame, let everyone know your allergy. I always plan on bringing one or more hors d’oeuvres to the party just to make sure there is something I can enjoy too! Thanks for all your information gfdougie! Education is key when it comes to Celiac!! :]
Dec 11, 2011 @ 16:26:06
Thanks for your nice comments, Faith. All what you state is very true. Hope you keep reading! 🙂