When looking back over the past year, I traveled more than I realized. I went to New York City a whopping FIVE times in the past year. Not a surprise considering that is where I got married and that is my hometown. I also went to Wisconsin twice to see my sister and her family. I also went to Anaheim, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Indianapolis, and San Francisco more times than I can remember. I connected with gluten-free friends across the country and eat some really delicious meals. While my life in California has been a bit tumultuous this year, I do have positive things about to reflect on as 2017 comes to an end.
Top 5 Gluten-Free Globetrotter Events of 2017
- Wedding in New York City! I had a wonderful wedding in April that was completely gluten-free. We stayed in an AirBnB in our old Brooklyn neighborhood and got to see the city through the eyes of our tourist friends. It was so wonderful to have friends and family from across the world celebrating with us. Looking for places to eat gluten-free in New York City. Check out this post!
Wedding Venue: My Moon Restaurant, Brooklyn, New York - The Celiac Project Podcast. Not only was I a guest multiple times this year, but I finally got to meet Mike and Cam, the awesome duo behind the Celiac Project Podcast while in Indianapolis. These are some of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. They put together a wonderful podcast about all things celiac and gluten-free related and they just hit their 100th episode. Take a listen.
Me with Mike and Cam from the Celiac Project Podcast - Visiting the Pope Farm Conservancy sunflower farm. This place was truly magical. It looked and felt like you were in a living painting. The moody sky added to the beauty of the day. Also, being with my three favorite kids (my nieces and nephew) on earth helped too! If you happen to be near Madison, Wisconsin around mid-August, add this place to your list. It is a must see!
Gluten-Free Globetrotter at the Pope Conservancy in Wisconsin - 2017 Washington DC Gluten-Free Education Day. Not only did I get to speak at this national conference, but I also got to meet an awesome girl who said I inspired her to travel. We first connected via Instagram and it was an honor to meet C in Washington. She was the sweetest girl and I was beyond flattered that she wanted to meet me! I love meeting future Gluten-Free Globetrotters.
One of my youngest fans! - Camp Celiac. This was my second year volunteering at Camp Celiac in Livermore, CA. I love being part of the the excitement that comes along with summer camp. I wish I had this as a kid! This program is put on in part by the Celiac Disease Foundation of Northern California. If you are interested in your celiac kids attending Camp Celiac, registration opens on February 1st and fills up VERY quickly. Don’t delay!
I am excited to put 2017 behind me and jump into 2018. I have a few trips in the works including a work trip to Florida in the beginning of the new year. I also have a big birthday coming up which deserves a HUGE trip.
Happy new year everyone!
Erin,
So great to read this and see your highlights from 2017. Cheering you on for a much better 2018 and many amazing things ahead! So happy to connect with you in the world of gluten free!
Thanks Carrie! Happy new year.
I just started blogging again, so I missed a lot of your 2017! I’m loving catching up though. I’ve volunteered at a Camp Celiac in Connecticut and had an absolute blast. Congrats on the wedding too! Can’t wait to follow you into 2018. 🙂
Hi Erin! I just found your blog. I was finally diagnosed with celiac 2 years ago. I have travelled a bit since then but never without anxiety. On February 1 I will be globetrotting to the Westin resort in Panama. I’m nervous! Do you have any tips or posts you can point me to? Thank you!!
Hi Deborah. Thanks for finding my blog. I haven’t personally been to Panama yet, but from a quick Google search it seems like you might have a few options. I would suggest contacting the hotel before you get there to ask if the restaurants can accommodate gluten-free. Since Westin is an international brand, they have probably been asked this before. I would also recommend downloading some Spanish translation cards that explain what you can/cannot eat. CeliacTravel.com has free cards for download. I hope this helps! Message me if you have more questions.