Hi, I sooooo understand what your going through as they say been there and have the T-shirt. Years ago I had a doctor that blamed me said I must be anerexic and must be taking laxatives! That sure shot down my spirit but thanks to my Mom saying she believed in me, helped me see how wrong he was and I fired Him! But alas friends, I just keep repeating and re-educating them or just ignoring what they say (depends on how I feel at the time). I try to bring my own food to get-to-gethers. friends rave about Heather's Pumpkin bread and Tuscan Tomato Bread Salad If I can't bring something, I eat safe food before going and have a pretzel stash in the car at all times. A friend told me about a wine cooler recipe (think she made it up) 1 glass of water & splash of any wine (1 teaspoon) and ice if can handle. I love the way it changes the flavor of the water but not enough wine in it to trigger my IBS, and I nibble on bread or pretzels along with the wine cooler. Remember we here know what your going through and we're on your side. paintlady