Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Flu Season :(

I completely jinxed myself and said that I haven't taken a sick day from work in 2 years...well I still haven't taken a sick day but the flu has definitely gotten to me. I hate to say it, but I still prefer this over the flu shot...although that is not the point of my post today :)

On the right hand side of my blog I have a link to menus - well this includes a "drug menu" for occasions just like this. Although, drugs aren't the only thing you need when you are sick; you also need warm and cold comfort food to take the aches and pains away. I have now come up with a complete 24-hour concoction of medicines, etc. to make me feel better, ALL gluten-free:

DayQuil and NyQuil around the clock - thank goodness
VapoRub
Halls Cough Drops
Hot Lemon Tea
Amy's Rice Mac 'n' Cheese
McDonalds Triple Thick Milkshakes and Wendy's Frostys (I know!!! awesome!!)
Boston Market Mashed Potatoes (I think there are others but haven't found any fast ones yet) - and Whole Foods mashed potatoes ready-to-go
Raspberries (well all fruit)
** Please note  I WAS WRONG Emergen-C is gluten-free, yay!
So, it is possible to be sick and not completely miserable in more ways than one. I'm very much hoping that I feel better ASAP. I think it's time for another dose of DayQuil....

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Three months and public outings are still enemy #1!

So, this post is kind of a downer, but for anyone who reads along and is going through a similar situation maybe it'll help you realize that you aren't alone feeling this way!

From the beginning the hardest thing for me has been going out for the day in public places. It forces me to get outside of my comfort zone and live with the uncertainty of when and what I will eat next. I've done my best in situations where I've prepared ahead of time, for example, bringing my own food to ACL and for out of town gymnastics judging trips, but others such as festivals and tailgating for games are another story. Unfortunately, this preparedness also only solves one of the problems...the food, the other is my feelings and frustrations and those continue to be very present.

I love all of my friends and want to say yes to all social events, but it is very hard to do so when I know it will be a mental challenge for me to be around them in a setting where food is the center of attention. For example, last night we went to Wurstfest. Alea and Brett rented a van that was leaving Austin at 3pm and returning around 10pm - to someone who constantly must think ahead this makes you feel quite trapped!!

Anyway, I came prepared with some snacks, but there was no way to heat anything up, so dinner was kind of a bust. Wurstfest, for those of you who aren't familiar, is a festival celebrating German food and drink (beer). Everyone was eating brats, snacks, fried foods, etc. none of which were safe for me. I hate being a downer in front of my friends so I put on a brave face, but when everyone is enjoying their yummy food it's very hard!! I struggle with the balance between wanting to have fun with my friends and do what's best for myself. I will admit it HAS gotten easier but is still not comfortable.

So, I share this because it's been over 3 months and this is the very hardest thing about my lifestyle change to gluten-free so far. Other Celiac friends please let me know if you have any other hints as to how to make this easier!!! To all MY friends, please know that I'm doing my best and don't be offended if I say no to attending the next food festival :)

Monday, November 1, 2010

Gluten-Free Living Seminar - Saturday November 13th

The Natural Grocers (a grocery store with 2 locations in Austin/newest one just opened in the Shops at Arbor Walk in the Arboretum) offers classes and includes interesting articles in the Sunday paper.  You can go online and check it out(www.naturalspeakers.com) but there is a Healthy Gluten -Free Living seminar on November 13th at 11a.m at the Guadalupe location - 3901 Guadalupe Street.  It is presented by Trevida Trevino, BSNF, Nutritional health coach.  She is going to talk about the basics for the healthiest approach to gluten free living including meal planning, shopping tips and dietary supplements for nutritional support.  There will be a complimentary gluten free health fair that will accompany the seminar as well as free samples and door prizes! 


For anyone who is interested I'll be there!