Allergist visit & more

Today I skipped into the allergist’s office (well not literally!) because I knew the good news he had for me.  I was anxious to tell him that I have felt good for the last 4 or so months and wanted to do food trials with the hope of being able to add back a few of the fruits I’ve been unable to eat the last year.

The doc was really pleased with the endoscopy results which showed zero eosinophils (allergans in the esophagus).  He pointed out the gastro doc’s question mark next to the notations “History (?) of eosinophil esophagitis…”  The gastro doc questioned the fact that I have a history of this new diagnosis?  For goodness’ sake!  The gastro doc was the one who diagnosed it 12 months ago!  Geesh!

Since my weight has been stable for 6 months and I am feeling just fine…thankyouverymuch…I have his permission to test some foods.  One at a time.  And “don’t try the stuff you reacted strongly to in the discovery phase!” 

This is all good news to me and the struggle of the last year has been worth it.  I can say with confidence that I feel the healthiest I’ve ever felt in years.  My skin has cleared up.  My hair is growing rapidly.  Every time she sees me to do my hair, my sister (who is my hair stylist!) is amazed at how healthy my hair is and how rapidly it has grown.  In less than a year it has gone from very short to collar length.  I even put it in a ponytail today!  I haven’t done that in 18 years!  I’m so excited!  I’m looking forward to when it is long enough to french braid it or other sorts of pretty ways.

It is hard to believe Great Lent has begun.  I love being in church every night of the week.  I especially love The Canon of St. Andrew, the tones, the words, the solemnity of it all. 

Tonight I told the hubster that I am slowly learning the truth of what my dear spiritual big brother has said to me over and over, which he received from Blessed Fr. Sophrony, “God intends that maledictions be benedictions.”  It is true.  What we view as a difficulty, a sadness, or sorrow is, in truth, a benediction.  A blessing from God.  My food allergies, the difficulties in my emotional interior, so many things…all I see now as blessings.

For my Lenten reading I’ve decided to explore Wounded by Love by Fr. Porphyrios.  What are you reading?