Hey food allergy mama! Have you ever turned down a BBQ or potluck invite just because it felt like too much? The planning, the label-checking, the explaining, the watching—it can all feel so overwhelming. Honestly, there were summers when I skipped more events than I went to. Not because I didn’t want to go, but because it just felt easier to stay home than to manage all the moving pieces. In today’s episode, I’m sharing a story from a few years ago—back when we were adjusting to food allergies—and just the thought of going to a block party made me want to hide. I’ll walk you through how I got out of that “low” place and found a way to make social events feel more doable, even enjoyable. If you’ve ever felt that mix of exhaustion and loneliness when everyone else seems to be out having summer fun—this one’s for you. Or maybe you just want some tips so that you don’t have to avoid summer fun in the first place. Stick with me to the end, because I’m also sharing a few practical things that helped us feel more included and less overwhelmed at potlucks and BBQs. I'm cheering for you! Corinna Food Allergy Mentor & Travel Advisor NEXT STEPS Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it. Choose the food allergy help you need today: Food Allergy Travel Advisor Services Grab the Social Event Survival Pack Get The Free Resources: Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/new Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/empowerment Our Family’s Travel Secrets Mailing List: www.friendlypantry.com/travelsecrets Read The Blog Listen to Related Episodes: 11| Navigating Birthday Parties With Food Allergies Like a Pro: Your 3-Step Guide 34|5 Tips for Playdates With Food Allergies 43| Managing Food Freedom Envy So You Can Go From Allergy Anxiety to Peace