Contrary to popular belief, it can be easy to open your home to someone with food allergies, Celiac disease or other issues like gluten intolerance.  At least that's what my friend says. 

My husband and I were invited for a pre-holiday family dinner at our friends home last night, and I was so impressed with the delicious food and care that went into preparing our meals.

We arrived to a gluten-free and toddler friendly dinner that started with dates stuffed with goat cheese and wrapped in bacon (well, the 3 year old didn't want to try this one) and then followed with baked chicken breast, mashed sweet potatoes and broccoli.  And that wasn't all of it!  Our hostess even made an amazing chocolate mousse topped with whipped cream and fresh raspberries for dessert.  It was a perfect dinner.

When I expressed my gratitude for an amazing and safe meal, she said that she didn't realize how many things were ACTUALLY gluten free.  It was probably a meal that they would have regardless of their food challenged guests and it solidifies my belief that gluten free can be easy, is not restrictive, and is an incredibly healthy and FUN way to eat.  (And it doesn't hurt to have amazing friends supporting you either!)

We had a great Thanksgiving this year.  A bountiful table surrounded by my husband, three year old son, 22 year old stepdaughter and my 70+ mother.  Although I was indeed grateful to have my family together, and grateful for everyone's health and happiness (especially since my husband is on the mend from a painful bout of Vertigo), I was most grateful for the stuffing.

Now I may not have said it out loud for fear of sounding like my priorities are way out of whack, but I am confessing my true feelings right here and now.  

There are a few foods that are really difficult to replace once you go gluten-free; pizza, bagels and beer are the top three for me.  And when Thanksgiving rolls around, the stuffing and sides are easy to miss.  

I also realize that many of these traditional gluten-containing goodies are not on the list of the most healthful foods anyway.  But on a holiday where tradition dictates a beautiful bird and golden tray of stuffing, these are essential ingredients of comfort and family for some -- and I am one of them.

So today I am thankful for gluten-free stuffing that was as delicious as I remember the "real stuff" to be.  Made with gluten-free breadcrumbs and mom's traditional recipe, it was as close to the stuffing of my childhood (minus the bellyache) that I can remember.  And grateful for a family that ate a 100% gluten-free Thanksgiving without complaint and with tons of compliments!  I love you all :)