I used to love the eggnog and special goodies that abound at this time of year. I'd happily graze through a smorgasbord or buffet table, munching anything that looked interesting.

I thought about making my own eggnog, so I read the ingredients on the label (OMG). Thus it was I started, about a year and a half ago, compulsively reading the ingredients on everything, convinced that the "arthritis" that I had was an inflammation response and what more likely source than what I was eating. I was horrified by all the xanthan gum and monosodium phosphate and corn syrup solids and hydrolyzed soy and silicon dioxide and...I was putting into my body.

I was embarrassed at turning into one of those weird old ladies who obsess over their "health" foods, but I started paying attention to what I ate (still do), concentrating on fresh and home made stuff and eschewing (oh, how I love that word!) the pre-made and canned/frozen foods with all their additives, salt and sugar.

All I can say is that it worked. After a few weeks of careful intake, I went from being on crutches to walking freely again, without pain. I don't eat much gluten or sugar; I stay away from preservatives and foods that incite the inflammation response (e.g., pork, ham, eggs, etc.).

The proof of the pudding, as they say, is that I feel better than I have in years. My coworkers tease me about it, but they have seen the difference in my health and no longer make rude remarks (out loud). My only weakness is my Starbuck's Red Eye (black). Gotta have my coffee.