<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Holiday Parties - email #3 of 3 V. Other Tips - Suggestions - Advice! ==Decline participation in the Potluck/Dinner and come afterwards (for desert/drinks). ==You can tactfully ask to see the bag or container of the items being served. ==Stop trying to fit in. ==Take leftovers. Prepare quick meals to microwave in a crunch. Have cookies frozen or snacks on-hand. ==Go filled with interesting stories or a new joke, so you can talk while they are eating. ==A party is not a place for detail medical descriptions. ==Remember that lots of people are on diets, have allergies or other medical conditions with dietary requirements so finding people with eating constraints is very common! You're Not Alone!! ==Check out: www.forums.delphiforums.com ==Remember to thank the host for a great party and for helping you! ==Never be embarrassed to deal with this with your friends. ==Take food in a foil lined handbag or tote. ==Convert your regular appetizers to GF ones! ==Food can be the #1 topic, just listen patiently. If asked did or do you want to try something, just say you haven't or no thank you. ==Remember - you will get better at social events! After a while, you won't feel like the words I CAN'T EAT WHEAT is plastered across your forehead. The need to explain everything isn't as important somehow. ==Don't let celiac keep you at home or hide behind it! ==Get out with other people! We can't become recluses or hermits just because we have to eat a little differently than most others do. ==Dale Carnegie's book 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' is a great guide with or without allergies/CD. ==The book 'Against the Grain' has lots of ideas and tips about handling these types of scenarios. ==Parties are for PEOPLE and not about FOOD!! ==Focus on the social event and the food becomes less significant. ==Adjust your expectations. Parties are NOT about food; they are about people, relationships, having fun, etc. ==Never is it: Oh, just this one time! ==The key is planning and communication!! FOOD IDEAS - GF THINGS TO TAKE!! Rice Crackers+ Cookies+ Dressing (for salads)+ Deviled Eggs Shrimp Cocktail Veggies and Dip Stuffed Mushrooms Bacon-wrapped banana slices Sushi with Real Crab Tostitos or Corn Chips+ Lasagna Meatballs Humus (with crackers/chips) Chex or Trail Mix+ Chicken Wings Spiced Nuts Dips - any and all kinds! Pigs in a Blanket Chili Eclair Cake Mexican Lasagna Layered Taco Dip Hot Crab Dip Mini Florentine Cups + these items can be put in your purse or small gift bag. Thanks again to everyone!! You're wonderful!! Also, I may have a few recipes for items noted above, that were sent to me, so if you want them, just send me an email. Have a Happy and Safe Holiday!! ...Janet *Support summarization of posts, reply to the SENDER not the CELIAC List*