Allergy Story

I am writing this the day after a very scary experience. An experience in which I was reminded of a couple of “truths” I should have already known. 

My husband and I were at the beach for a little work trip/get away. His work trip, my get away! We went out for a very nice dinner at a place we had been to a few times before. We ordered a couple of dishes we had also had before. Well, right after I ate my delicious She Crab Soup and started on my entrée I noticed my throat was very itchy, so I proceeded to eat more in order to “scratch” it. As we carried on with our meal I found it hard to swallow. I thought I was just getting full, a feeling I’m very familiar with. After a few minutes I alerted my husband that I might be in need of Benedryl or an Emergency room! My hubby opted for Benadryl. I took as many as I could open and not pour out on the floor. 

By the time we arrived at our motel several more symptoms presented themselves: swollen lips, watery eyes, itchy ears, and constant sneezes. I was trying to text friends, doctors, anyone who could tell me what to do. My calm, cool husband was looking up symptoms of shellfish allergies on his phone and comparing his list with my symptoms. (I had them all!!) By the next morning, I was back to normal with none of the previous symptoms. 

Now, here are the two truths I was reminded of: #1. Instead of immediately getting on the phone and trying to find help, I should have gone straight to my Father in prayer. I did do that later and although I still had my symptoms I was much calmer - sort of like my husband (the spiritual head of our household). Thank you, Lord for that example. #2. You do not have to be freaking out, screaming, or running around in circles to show your concern. What I might have taken (for a minute) as an uncaring attitude about my serious condition due to my husband’s lack of dramatics (don’t we all love a little drama over us?) really kept me focused and probably out of the hospital. Again, thank you Lord for a spouse with a cool head and a loving heart. 

“He is before all things and in Him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:17 Thank you Lord for holding us together even when we try our best to come unglued!

The recipe for this week is great, and I hope no one is allergic…

Crock Pot Barbeque
1 pork loin or Boston Butt Roast
1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
1 Tablespoon salt
2 Tablespoons sugar 

Mix salt and sugar into cup of vinegar, place meat into crock pot, and pour vinegar mixture over meat. Cook on low for about 8-10 hours. We have also cooked it overnight for lunch the next day. Serve on buns with slaw, chips, or fries. You can add your favorite sauce to your sandwich. (We love the taste of the meat with no sauce). This has little prep time but big flavor! Enjoy!! 

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