I was lucky enough to be invited to a friend’s house to watch a football game last night. When I asked what I could bring, I was told to bring dessert—so I did what any gluten-free baker with a sweet tooth would do: I made crack brownies (gluten-free brownies with Nutella and hazelnuts) and crack cookie sandwiches (Tate’s gluten-free chocolate chip cookies with Nutella in between).

When I arrived, everyone was seated at the table enjoying homemade lasagna—fresh pasta, sausage and tomato marinara, and béchamel sauce. There was also a cheesy pull-apart bread. It was clear I had underestimated the vibe. I thought it was going to be a casual football night with chips, dips, and the desserts I brought.

Luckily, I had eaten a delicious dinner beforehand—leftover chicken tortilla soup and quesadillas—which meant I wasn’t hungry. Several offers were made for me to enjoy the lasagna, all of which I gently declined: “No thank you, I’ve already eaten.” My husband even declined in solidarity, even though he loves lasagna.

I helped pass the bread around, sipped my wine, and enjoyed the moment. I didn’t mention celiac. I didn’t mention gluten. Not because I was hiding it—but because I didn’t want the focus to shift. I just wanted to feel normal.

I wasn’t upset that there wasn’t anything gluten-free for me to eat. I didn’t feel left out or forgotten. I was fine. Maybe it was the wine—or the fact that I had a full belly—but it didn’t bother me at all. I was prepared, and I was present.

The truth is, sometimes people forget. And that’s okay. Having celiac disease is part of my everyday life, not theirs. My host didn’t plan a gluten-free dinner, and I didn’t expect them to. It just wasn’t on their radar.

My team won. I drank wine. I shared dessert. I enjoyed being with friends. And I had a great night.

It doesn’t always have to be about celiac disease.

More on living with celiac disease:

• Celiac on a Social Night Out: How to Stay Prepared
• How to Politely Decline Food Without Explaining Yourself
• Visit FatCeliac.net for more stories, research, and support