1. Tell the host your not hungry.
2. Pretend you're sick and just threw up.
3. At the last minute have someone call you about an emergency.
4. Admit you're unable to eat what is served and just sit quietly.
5. Complain that you are allergic to the food being served.
6. Proclaim you're a Vegetarian.
7. Pretend your fasting and have a medical procedure scheduled.
8. Decline the food because of Religious Beliefs.
9. Avoid getting invited in the first place.
10. Tell everyone the truth that you are the world's pickiest eater and you won't be able to enjoy what's being served.
11. Show up late around the time everyone is finished eating.
12. Just don't show up at all.
13. Offer sex to a man who wants to take you to dinner.

I try to make sure I never go to a friend's house before 7:30PM because that usually insures dinner is over. I would love to hear how others deal with this very sticky problem. While I wish I could be cured of my picky eating, a sure-fire excuse that people would understand would be just great. Does anyone want to add to my list or suggest other means of dealing with the social issues?

My guard is always up to make sure I avoid being trapped at some social function. It's funny the sounds of a formal dining room the clanking of glasses and dishes just gives me the creeps.

When a family member proclaims they are getting Married or having a big Anniversary party, instead of being happy a picky eater will start worrying about how they are going to get through this new potential embarrassment.

Some will say that I have a food phobia, but my phobia is about others finding out the truth. People just can't believe I can't eat most foods and it's just such an embarrassment to me. However I have found that true good friends will understand once you explain the truth.

My life's most traumatic experiences can be traced to settings when I have found my self trapped in one of these Social Settings. I can remember all of them like they just happened yesterday. On some occasions, I have become so depressed the thought of ending it all has gone through my mind.

But my life has been great in many other ways. I own a business with 35 employees, and I truly believe that my independent ways have been a driving force that have helped me succeed.

Owning my own business lets me have greater control of my life, and I can avoid many of the Social Settings mentioned above. As I get some time, I'm going to try to add my complete life's story to this web page. Could make for a great Movie someday. The way I have coped with this disorder over the years would be hard for most people to believe.

Bob K - A Picky Eater