Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving for a person who has Crohn's Disease can be difficult.  People gather and socialize around a big feast. Also, there is plenty of food to go around...just not for you. No nuts, nothing that has a lot of fiber in it, nothing that is too high in fat, nothing crunchy, nothing too acidic,  and nothing that can cause gas. I think i named the entire meal almost. Yet if you are having a bad flare up, why would you want to eat food anyway?  It will only be painful either in the middle of the meal or later on when the food is processing..dont forget about that bathroom adventure you will experience later! 

Holiday meals are a sensitive area for people with Crohn's disease.  Even if you are in a lot of pain, you still make your plate and pretend to eat in. That way you wont get asked by the lot of people  questions such as "Why aren't you eating? " or "I made the pecan roll this year. You should try it!" Or my favorite... "do you feel okay? You haven't eaten anything all night. Get some food! It will make you feel better!"  I don't want to hurt feelings and i don't want to explain a 5minute explanation on why I can't eat. I find it easier to just get food, eat what i can, and smile.

Thursday was filled with smiles. I ate what i could and everyone was happy. Everyone except my tummy.
Traveling to different houses was exhausting but well worth it. This was our first Thanksgiving as The Mckenzie Family!  As painful as today was, I am so happy I was able to get out and experience this with my family.

I am thankful for Life, Family, Friends, and Love.  Thank you to those who write me personal messages... they have lift my spirits and give me hope. Thank you to those who are understanding or try to about what i am going through.