Kristen, you are incredibly poised and brave. We are proud of you! You did exactly the right thing. I was finally able to adopt this strategy since getting Heather's book and finding this message board. I don't feel all alone and "weird" anymore, so just tell it like it is. I feel like I am continually educating everyone I know, and am no longer embarrassed by the situation. Go for it, beaglelover! Just tell the luncheon group the way it is, explain, explain, explain, and then serve safe food--maybe as a teaching experience to show them what you can eat so they'll know what they can prepare for you next time you come.