Oscar buzz

The Academy Awards frequently blow over my head, but this year I almost wish I had watched the show. I was rooting for four movies that won. Hugo (Cinematography, Art Direction, Sound Editing, Sound Mixing, Visual Effects) is one of the most sensually thrilling movies I've seen in a long time. The Iron Lady (Actress in a Leading Role, Makeup) took us for a ride; as Danny said, you usually forget you're watching Meryl Streep and not Margaret Thatcher. Midnight in Paris (Original Screenplay) was so much good old-fashioned fun I've already seen it three times and bought the DVD. The Help (Actress in a Supporting Role) was the most deeply affecting; it's just a shame it could not have won Best Actress, too, however I think Streep's performance was the most memorable. Two we haven't seen yet but hope to do before long: The Artist and Albert Nobbs (which didn't win, but Glenn Close is one of my favourites). For a change I like more than one or two things coming out of Hollywood.

To wheat or not to wheat

I'm scheduled for gastroscopy to check my hiatal hernia and reflux issues on April 3. The specialist said he can also check for damage from celiac disease, however that means I'll have to go off the wheat-free diet for four weeks. I have never been diagnosed. The advantage of doing it now is I can skip the blood test (which costs $120 because it isn't covered by OHIP, adding insult to the injury of being sick) normally required for a scope referral. I probably won't get another chance for this fast track.

Unfortunately, eating wheat might make me extremely ill. The symptoms I experienced prior to going gluten-free in March 2008 were mild compared with what I've experienced since from occasional, often inexplicable mishaps. It's easy to miss wheat as an ingredient, and I've become extremely vigilant.

Not doing the wheat challenge is a reasonable alternative. If gluten-free makes me feel better, why worry? Mainly because a conclusive diagnosis would qualify a tax deduction for dietary needs. And with other health and diet factors concerned, celiac disease would justify a high degree of caution. I'd know where to concentrate. I don't miss wheat all that much, but if I have to be so fastidious for the the rest of my life, I would like to know.