Adventures in "eating out": Bring your own . . . everything
Okay, so I'm gluten-free and dairy-free. Big deal.
But when my good buddy carefully avoids inviting me to her matzah lasagna party--and then serves me a main course of which the third ingredient is matzah meal . . .
Seriously, exactly what part of "wheat makes me sick" don't you get?
Not only did our host seem completely oblivious to the fact that I'd carefully eaten only the meat (in the hope of avoiding as much of the matzah meal as possible) and had left close to half of the main course on my plate, she insisted on sending us home with leftovers. (I found it almost amusing to see how clueless she was.) And, trying, to be helpful to Kitchen Klutz me, she offered to cook something for the dinner to which we'd invited her. For lack of an alternative, I finally had to tell her, point blank, that it would be better if she didn't bring any food, as I had to be sure that I could eat what I served.
Some people simply seem unable to understand health-based food limitations, no matter how carefully and how many times one explains them.
Note to self: Sometimes, there will be little or nothing that you can safely eat. (A refreshments table of cheese, crackers, and pastries, anyone?) Get used to it, and be prepared--never leave home, if you can help it, without a bag of nuts or a Larabar and, if possible, a box of gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free dessert. Thank heaven for parve chocolate. :)
But when my good buddy carefully avoids inviting me to her matzah lasagna party--and then serves me a main course of which the third ingredient is matzah meal . . .
Seriously, exactly what part of "wheat makes me sick" don't you get?
Not only did our host seem completely oblivious to the fact that I'd carefully eaten only the meat (in the hope of avoiding as much of the matzah meal as possible) and had left close to half of the main course on my plate, she insisted on sending us home with leftovers. (I found it almost amusing to see how clueless she was.) And, trying, to be helpful to Kitchen Klutz me, she offered to cook something for the dinner to which we'd invited her. For lack of an alternative, I finally had to tell her, point blank, that it would be better if she didn't bring any food, as I had to be sure that I could eat what I served.
Some people simply seem unable to understand health-based food limitations, no matter how carefully and how many times one explains them.
Note to self: Sometimes, there will be little or nothing that you can safely eat. (A refreshments table of cheese, crackers, and pastries, anyone?) Get used to it, and be prepared--never leave home, if you can help it, without a bag of nuts or a Larabar and, if possible, a box of gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free dessert. Thank heaven for parve chocolate. :)
posted by Shira Salamone at 1:05 AM
4 Comments:
wow, are you an ungrateful wretch. You're mocking someone who probably thought she was doing the right thing. Trust me, I know from food issues with a child who has severe food allergies. Allergies that could cause anaphalaxis, not mere discomfort. It is YOUR responsibility to ensure that there is food you can eat. You need to spell everything out, not assume that the person can figure it out. Quit complaining and do a better job explaining yourself and you'll be a much happier person.
I *did* explain everything. Several times. That's why I was so surprised. And I honestly don't know how to explain what being gluten-sensitive means any better than I've already explained it. Time and time again. I've *never* assumed that my host(s) could figure it out for themselves--even *I'm* not *that* stupid! If you have any suggestions, please let me know.
I should also mention that our host had told us quite specifically that she would be serving a dish made with meat and dried fruit, which would have been perfect for me. I had no idea that there'd been a complete change of menu until I walked in the door. There's nothing I can do about last-minute menu changes made without my knowledge.
One of my siblings has had episodes of anaphalaxis. Serious stuff. :( I wish you all the best in keeping your son safe and in good health.
Thanks for helping me see that I had to work on my attitude.
Post a Comment
<< Home