Somehow, even with a pre-mailed package of foods and a checklist for my baggage, I got to Evergreen without my gluten-free bread and bun mix. This has become a staple for my diet, so I had a panic attack trying to find it to make pizza dough one night for dinner. But I have been eating gluten-free three years now, so was able to Plan B a way out of the dilemma. We made baked spaghetti with the homemade pizza sauce and topped it with the pizza cheese. It was delicious and reminded me of the baked casseroles Valentino's made in Nebraska.
Back to the bun mix~~we packed up the 4-runner and headed to Crested Butte for our three-day girl trip. Upon our arrival we transversed the streets enjoying the colorful storefronts. We asked a local fellow if there was a health food store in town. I thought I might still be able to make my homemade tortilla for our quesadillas dinner, or at least find some corn tortillas as a second choice if they didn't carry my mix. The store clerk told me they did not carry the product, but shared with my friend that a young lady who had just been diagnosed with celiac was in the store and perhaps I could give her some suggestions about products.
We were introduced, and I could smell the Holy Ghost set-up. It became clear that the 'mix' didn't make it so I would meet this woman in this shop while looking for it. She seemed overwhelmed with the limitations, looking a little like a deer in the headlights. She shared with me that she hadn't eaten all day because she just didn't know what was safe to eat! I remember that feeling...and the learning curve to educate myself. Our food supply seems to have gluten hidden in everything. Thank goodness, due to new labeling regulations, it is easier to feel secure about food choices. However, sometimes I still get this feeling that I am going to starve to death before I can sink my teeth into something that tastes good and does not have some obscure ingredient that will turn into a plethora of physical consequences.
I was able to encourage the young lady by sharing some book and product favorites. I got her e-mail address to send some information and perhaps function as a mentor who has successfully navigated the rough waters. I eat very well now, and seldom get discouraged. I feel much better, and actually prefer eating at home because I have control over any possible contamination. Of course, it saves money to eat at home, too.
I found A's address tucked away in all my travel papers, so I will send her some more helpful hints today. I have been praying for her health and exciting new adventures in exploring new choices. I remember that it is hard to see God in the picture at times of struggle. But He never leaves us. He seems obscured, but He is there.
The coyote, the bull elk, the young deer...were not immediately seen. But a slight movement drew my eye to them. Also a Holy Ghost set-up, I know why he knitted these photos together for his purpose.
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Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Matt. 7:7-9
(It just occurred to me I was in that store asking for bread mix! Does God have a sense of humor or what!!??)
