Two Months Vegan

It has been about two months since I started a mostly vegan diet. My husband and daughter are not doing it with me, and I am not a strict purist with my own diet. I still choose to not eat meat, and I choose to cook and bake vegan foods at home. If I am a guest or someone brings food to my house, I try to graciously eat what is provided, except for meat. I try to follow my heart and spend my money on products that do not exploit animals, but I also try to respect other people's lifestyle choices and keep an open mind. I do not want to be a burden to my friends and family, but I also do not want to turn a blind eye to the multitude of animals who suffer and die for human consumption. I feel that it is my duty to respect, cherish, and protect the lives of animals whenever I can.

I have not yet discovered a strong need for animal products in my diet. I try to avoid soy (I treat it like junk food), and I use nut-based dairy substitutes for most things. My weight hasn't changed much. I am still within the healthy weight range for my height. I have noticed more blemishes on my face, but that is the only physical difference that has manifested since I made the switch to vegan. My energy level and mood are about the same.

I have really been enjoying all of the new recipes I have been trying. Cooking for a vegan lifestyle has been exciting and challenging for me. I eat less processed foods and cook from scratch more. I also incorporate more fresh fruits and veggies into my diet. Most things I cook have been hits with my family and friends, too. I even fool some of them...they can't believe I can make vegan food that tastes so much like "real" food!

Sometimes it is lonely being a vegan. Food goes hand in hand with social gatherings, and most people consider meat to be an essential part of any meal. It can be scary to be different, and it can hurt to be judged by people I care about. At the end of the day, though, it is worth it to me, because I feel pride in being true to what I believe is right. I am following my heart, and even though it isn't easy, and I'm not always sure that I am right, I know that I am doing my best. I will keep my eyes, mind, and heart open, and see where this thing goes.