V is for.....

....Velvet?
....Victory?
....Vegan??? wtf??

By now, all 5 readers of my blog should be aware of the fact that I have changed my eating lifestyle rather dramatically over the last couple of months. Yes, the rumors are in fact true. I have converted to the rare form of vegetarianism. Most of you are wondering how this could happen, which leads me to the other rumor. Yes, it was because I read a book.

I picked up the book at my favorite bookstore, while I was picking up the latest book by one of my favorite authors. The title of the book itself was enough for me to pick up the book. Then I read the first couple of pages. I found myself laughing out loud while perusing the first chapter. On a whim I decided to actually buy the book.

The 'in your face' humor continued for about the first couple of chapters, and then things went downhill....rather quickly. I knew where the book was headed, I could see the warning signs here and there. But nothing could brace me for the few chapters on animal cruelty. I had no idea the book was going to talk about animal rights and I would not have purchased it if I did. I am not an animal rights kinda girl, but the animal torturing was just gross. (Excuse me while I run to the bathroom to puke.)

More importantly, the book helped me realize that my life was lacking in the fruits, vegetables and wholesome grains. So, what a better way to encourage myself to eat those things, when it's the only thing vegans eat! Extreme, I know, but it's been great. I have had more things in the veggie and grain world that I have never heard of, much less have tried to cook myself and actually eat.

The other benefit, cooking at home. Over the past couple of months I have cooked more meals at home than the first 5 months of the year combined. It is time consuming, but also very rewarding. And lately, the kids love to watch and sometimes help. It's nice to have a little bonding time with them. (Translation - a time during the day when they are not crying or screaming for something.)

I am not sure how much longer this phase will last, but I don't see myself changing any time soon.

PS - In case you are wondering, no I am not giving up my leather shoes, purses or belts. I only care about avoiding animal products in my body, not on it. ;-)