The Ranger wrote:

> Fer example... I love crab. If crab juice (not even the main source)
> touches my tongue, it's a pretty dramatic reaction. I immediately
> bloat, wheeze, and get all blotchy. (And yes, I now get the pleasure
> of carrying that little Pen about on my person. It sucks to be me.)
>
> I find that this new feature I'm experiencing is something that a
> host(ess) wants to know prior to their event. I know I ask invitees
> so as not to witness that sort of commentary about my cooking.
>
> The Ranger

If I'm invited, I take care of my allergy to tree nuts by saying,
generally, "I don't know if you've decided on your menu or not, but you
might want to know that I'm severely allergic to tree nuts. I don't
want you to change your menu, but if you do have a dish that includes
them, I'd appreciate knowing. Actually, I can eat cashews and almonds,
and of course, peanuts."

Like you, if I am inviting, then I ask if there are any allergies or
other issues I need to know about before planning my menu. (Like, if
you see a piece of celery, you'll gag.)

N.