My Vegan Story - Part 2

So you know how I decided to become vegan.  The next stage is what happened after that.  Making the decision to eat a plant-based diet was a huge first step, but only the first step.  Then I had to figure out what to eat!  I had been consuming a lot of dairy so that was the biggest adjustment for me.  Eliminating meat was easy as I wasn't all that in love with it in the first place. 

Basically overnight I had eliminated all the food I was eating and needed to get to the store & FAST!  Thank goodness Alicia talks thoroughly about dairy alternatives in her book (The Kind Diet).  I quickly learned about soy milk/almond milk and that there was a lot of cereal out there that was vegan.  Ok, breakfast accomplished.  Now onto lunch.  My whole wheat bread and peanut butter and jelly was vegan.  Ok, lunch accomplished.  Time for dinner!  This seemed to be the tougher one as I was scared of tofu because really I just had no idea what I was doing with it, or any other vegan protein, so I was lost in that department for way too long...like a year. 

When I first became vegan, I was not the greatest vegan.  And by that I mean I basically substituted all my non-vegan foods with processed vegan ones which yes, many of them tended to be organic (total bonus) and contained less chemicals, but they were not whole foods.  I spent the greater part of a year being a processed foods-loving-vegan simply because it was easier and I hadn’t yet developed the urge to cook.  It’s strange to think about that because I love being in the kitchen now, but back then it really wasn’t my thing.

Now baking vegan cupcakes – that quickly became and always will be my thing.

Vegan cupcakes from my last Birthday!

I don’t think I was getting 100% of the proper nutrition back then either.  Not enough fruits and vegetables and certainly not enough proteins and whole grains.  I had basically fallen in love with the world of vegan processed foods as my staple.  I have no regrets as it's all been part of the learning experience, but nutritionally I believe I’m in a much better place now.

Ok, so maybe you’re vegan and maybe you’re not, but you might have experience in this area of how friends and family reacted when decided to become vegan.  I think the main response was puzzlement.  “Why would you be vegan?”  They wouldn’t ask in a mean way, but more because they just didn’t understand.  I wasn’t really great at giving an answer either.  “I feel like a better me by making the choice to be vegan.”  It sounded really vague.  Even today it’s hard to give an answer.  My family and friends (some have become vegan and/or gluten free themselves) are very understanding now.  I know they just want me to be happy and healthy. 

The first year of being began was all about the processed foods - cereals, coconut milk yogurt and ice cream, granola bars, muffins, soy milk, etc.  I'm not saying there weren't any whole foods in there, just that they were severely lacking.

Enter my husband (then boyfriend), a year after going vegan, who taught me how to really to cook as a vegan (much more than pasta with tomato sauce!)

But that's the next part of my story.

How's your day?

Determination Plus A Strong Latte

Good morning!  How's your Saturday?

 

I woke up at 6 o'clock even though I didn't go to bed until a few hours before.  I swear if I were to go to bed at 5 o'clock, my body would still only allow me to sleep until six.  That internal alarm clock gets me every time.  But the truth is even when I was seven years old, I always got up early.  I liked to watch movies before going to school or play with my dolls.  There was a brief period in high school/college where I actually learned the art of sleeping in...

 

 

Anyways, at least I can say a lot has happened in the last four hours.  First there was a latte (a very strong one might I add) and then a big bowl of oatmeal with ground flaxseed, cinnamon, a taste of maple syrup, and a splash of almond milk.  And then...I went to work.

 

There is a floor!

If you remember the picture from the other day, this floor has not experienced sunlight all week long.  I have just breathed a huge sigh of relief.  Getting the clothes put away was the first really big step.  As you can see there is still pictures/artwork to be hung, but that's nothing in comparison to floors being covered with clothes.  Tell me you too understand how good it feels to clean a room up!  All week long I've been stepping on things in an attempt to get a work outfit.  It's amazing how clutter can hinder mental clarity. 

 

 

There is still more organization to happen, but it's truly livable now - WOO HOO!!!  I even came out with a box of clothes to donate.  They were pieces that I looked at and thought "ok I haven't worn you in a few years and I probably never will..."  Let those clothes go to someone who needs them much more than me.  

 

Ok, I could move on to paying bills right now...no, no, no...that's more a Monday morning task.  I'll just stick with getting another latte ;)

 

Are you doing any organizing this weekend? Or cooking anything delicious?



Wednesday Thoughts

Happy Wednesday :)  My workday yesterday was crazy busy, but I love days like that.  Suddenly it goes from 9am to 5pm and it's time to go home, and so much has happened in between.  It's a good feeling.  Also makes me want to crawl into bed at 8:30pm needing sleep!

 

 

Running - This morning I got out of bed nice and early and got in just over a 3 mile run.  It's been almost two weeks without running (being kind to my knees) and wow did it feel amazing to be out there.  I had on way too many layers for 45 degrees, but I really didn't care.  It was my first run in our new neighborhood and I'M SO EXCITED.  There are so many neighborhoods that intertwine and trails in between - it's a runner's dream.  I'm hoping for another shorter run this week and a long one over the weekend.

 

Quick Meals - I made a big batch of lentil stew over the weekend and my husband and I have had that for dinner the last 3 nights.  We add in fresh grains and greens to it each night as a sprinkle of flax oil and it's SO GOOD.  It also makes dinner time super simple.  I'm thinking about a tofu dish for tonight.  I also had a simple meal at lunch yesterday at work - rice, black beans, salsa, guacamole!  It's fantastically delicious and keeps me full.

 

Relaxation - Jax is clearly getting his rest in this week.  I see him stretched out on the bed like that each morning as I'm leaving.  Could he look any more comfortable?  This morning he came and sat by me for a bit while I wrote this post (even though there are still clothes decorating the floor, he didn't seem to mind).

 

Homemade lattes - I've made 3 this week.  Aren't you proud?  It's rewarding really.  I had those coconut chips with the latte.  Talk about a sweet morning snack.

 

Ok, that's my week so far and now I need to get ready for work!

 

How's your week going?

Thursday Thoughts

Good morning (or afternoon or evening depending when you’re reading this!)  A few weeks ago I did a Wednesday Thoughts post and I wanted to make that a habit.

 

Here are a few things that illustrate my week so far.

1. New Home - I can't wait to be living in the new house!  8 days until moving day!  The house looks a little crazy inside right now with all the carpet having been torn up and the walls still needing to be painted.  Lots of work happening this weekend though AND I think Sunday is even going to bring spring-like weather!

2. Run with Jax - Tuesday morning I made the impromptu decision to go on a quick run before work.  Jax still needed to get outside so I brought him along.  Hard to say no to his cute face anyways.  It was great to be out in the fresh air even if the sun wasn't shining.  Jax had a blast as well...he would have stayed out there all morning if I let him.  I'm about to go on another run this morning - woo! I can't decide if it should be a treadmill or outdoor run.
 

3. Relaxation - Who knew painting could be so tiring. I've been resting each night after work for another weekend of hardwork at the house!

4. Cooking - I cooked up a storm on Monday night.  I got home from work and immediately took Jax for his walk.  My husband was at a work function and hadn't been home yet so Jax was out-of-his-mind happy to see me.  When we get home at the end of the day and Jax knows it's his time to play outside.  I literally leave my boots at the door so when I come in I fling my work shoes to the side, put on my boots, grab his leash, and off we go!  After we got back, I started by first making the chili since it just involves a bit of chopping and then throwing everything in the crockpot.  Then I moved onto the lentil stew.  Also a very easy recipe, but involves a bunch of prep.  By 8pm I was ready for bed.  Somehow I was up another two hours though doing things around the apartment and watching Shameless with my husband (have you seen that show?!)

5. Homemade Lattes - I made one yesterday and another today, and probably another tomorrow!  There is something so satisfying about making a latte in the comfort of my own home.  And then of course I put it in a fancy cup that makes it even more special.

That's my week so far. 

How's your week?  Share a detail or two with me! :)

Wednesday Thoughts

Happy Wednesday!  I hope the beginning of the week has brought you delightful food, laughter, some activity and relaxation.  Wednesday is the perfect day to take notice as to how my week is progressing and what has been notable.  A few things that illustrate my week so far are:

Drives with my husband – Last weekend we drove to visit with family.  It’s about a 2 hour drive, but it goes by quick.  I love road trips especially if the roads are clear and the weather is cooperative.  It’s fun to get a latte for the road as well as snacks, sing overly loud to my favorite songs, and spend quality time with my husband and pup. 

Corn puffs with sliced banana in almond milk – I’ve been eating this like every night this week.  It’s my go to night time snack.  These organic corn puffs in almond milk taste like sweet popcorn and adding a banana is just an extra bonus.

Grilled cheese (made with daiya!) – On Sunday evening, on our drive back home, my husband and I were getting pretty hungry and made the spontaneous decision to stop at the Vegan Café by my work.  What a great choice!  My husband had never been there so it was a little adventure.  He ordered a tofurky club with the works and I got a grilled cheese with tomato.  Hands down the best grilled cheese I’ve ever had.  Since Sunday I’ve literally thought about it at least once a day.  So much so that I went to my grocery store and bought daiya cheese and Ezekiel bread so I could make some homemade grilled cheese.  We also shared a bowl of black bean soup and for dessert a mint chocolate milkshake and brownie – all vegan!  That was my sugar splurge.

Walks with my dog in this winter weather – Winter has returned this week.  I did my first true winter run last Saturday.  It was right around 30 degrees and I was bundled up!  I never was freezing, but I also never got to the point where I wanted to shed any layers.  The sidewalks were a bit icy in spots, but it was ridiculously nice to just be out in the world rather than on the treadmill.  My dog loves the snow.  I think he likes running around in the snow better than anything else.  He sprints, takes a bite of snow, sprints some more – has an absolute blast.  We have gotten in a few good walks before work this week and even though my hands were freezing, I was happy to be outside with my pup.

That’s my week so far...  What’s been your favorite food this week?  Any favorite days?

My Week

There are a few things that have characterized my week. I think this is a little ritual with my blog I may start to have. It’s nice to reflect on my week and take the time to appreciate the little things because man do the weeks fly! I can hardly believe it’s March 1 because yesterday I swear it was just January. So here are a few things that filled my week:

Picture from last fall.  That's Friday excitement though!!!

Kukicha Tea – I drink it everyday. At least a cup or two each morning to start my day and because I ordered tea bags from here, I now can bring tea to work and have a cup or two during the day. This tea is great because it’s mild in flavor while packed with minerals, vitamins and low in caffeine.  I really feel good after drinking it too.  I've been fighting a cold all week that hasn't come to fruition and I truly think by drinking my tea I have been doing myself a favor.

Three Runs – I ran three times this week which was fantastic for my mind and body!  I really felt like I was starting to find my rhythm. The first run of the week (3 miles) was easy and I was going fast for me, the second was with my dog (3.5 miles), and the third was yesterday morning (3.5 miles). Yesterday’s run was tough because it was a cold morning, but I felt invigorated all day long. I need to get in a 5-6 miler this weekend to keep my training for the half marathon on track!

Goodbye Excess Sugar – YES. This has felt great. Truly amazing. I feel lighter and happier. There are no sugary ups and downs. I ate at least an orange or two each day and it quenched my desire for sweetness. Also, a few mornings I put vanilla almond milk in my rice and it added a sweet wonderful taste.  I also had a bowl of Nature's Path organic corn puffs with almond milk as dessert several nights - it's a popcorn like taste dressed in extra sweetness.

Sleep – Last Saturdays lack of sleep really did a number on me. I tried each night to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep and I succeeded. When I’m sleep deprived I really feel like a different animal. I cannot function or think rationally and I become all out of tune with life. Sleep is very important to me so I hope to rest well this weekend!

Family Time – Each night I had the joy of spending time with my husband and pup and relaxing together – catching up on our days at work, exchanging ideas/thoughts, and watching some of our favorite shows (New Girl, Shameless, Scandal, Modern Family, Big Bang Theory!) We also visited with family and friends last weekend celebrating my husband's birthday and we'll be celebrating my Mom’s birthday this weekend. I also get to see my best friend on Sunday who is in from out of town.

 

 

So that’s my week!  How was yours? What defined your week?

Have a marvelous weekend.

The Last Latte

Today I'm having my last latte.  Ok, so it’s not really the last latte, but I will now officially be brewing homemade lattes with my Mr. Coffee Latte maker.  So it will be the last latte from Starbucks for a while because giftcards will have officially run out!

 

 

My refrigerator is stocked with almond and soy milk.  I have both espresso beans and decaf coffee beans decorating my counter, and my Keurig coffee machine is sitting pretty for when I just need a cup of coffee.  I’m saying goodbye to the days of stopping at Starbucks before work or on lunch.  That almost $5 I would spend a day will be going to a greater good!  Like a savings account for the future, a house, organic foods, family, vacations, christmas gifts…much more important things!

 

I love Starbucks and I’ve been a loyal customer for ten years, but it’s time not to say goodbye, but to say “see you less often” like maybe on only really special occasions!

Ok, don’t think I’m crazy.  I just calculated that kicking my Starbucks habit could potentially save my husband and I a minimum of $15/month and a maximum (on weeks where my habit was a bit much) of $50/month.  I’d like to take that $600 a year and spend it more wisely…that’s all I’m saying!  I know this will not be too tough because I'm lucky enough to have awesome coffee/latte makers at home, both of which I highy recommend if you're looking. 

On that note - I'm just back from a morning run (it's getting lighter out there WOO!) so time to get ready for the day. Enjoy your Thursday!

 

Are you a Starbucks lover? 

Coffee Anyone?

 Do you need a cup of coffee?

I greatly enjoy a cup of coffee! Or a soy or almond milk decaf latte!  I love the ritual and the smell of coffee/espresso brewing in my kitchen.  I used to drink more caffeinated drinks (between 1-3 cups a day), but then if I’d go without the caffeine, I hated the headache that would result.  I've now switched almost completely to decaf with caffeine maybe once or twice a month.  I've had my keurig machine for two years now and it's perfect for me.  I love that I can make myself just one cup (I have the single cup brewing system).  No coffee goes to waste.  Best of all there are so many flavors out there - the choice is all mine!  When my husband and I entertain, the keurig is great because everyone can pick their flavor of choice, whether they want caffeinated or decaf, and within a minute coffee is served.  If you're on the hunt for a new coffee maker, I highly recommend a keurig!
 
I also love my Mr. Coffee Latte maker.  I like the creamy taste of a latte with that hint of coffee flavor.  I work in an office and it’s just nice to sip my latte throughout the morning.  I have been using Starbucks espresso beans, but I recently bought this organic decaf blend that I’m really excited about!  I’ve got enough money left on my Starbucks gift card for one more latte out and then it’s time to officially make all lattes at home - woo!

Are you a coffee drinker? Do you have a coffee maker at home?



Let's Talk About Love

Happy Valentine's Day!

 

What I love and have always really treasured about this day is that it is all about telling and showing the people in our lives some love and gratitude.  Yes, this day may be totally, crazy, obscenely commercialized with all the flowers, chocolates, hearts, pink & red everything, but...

there's a reason for it.  And that reason is that it’s a day to share the love.  I do not think it’s a day just for couples.  It’s a day for each of us to appreciate our family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, pets, and everyone else important in our lives, and to make sure that they know we love them or at the very least that they are important to us.

I think the best we can do is take this day as an opportunity to tell someone that we love them.  Maybe it's your mother, boyfriend, best friend, grandma, dog, son...we all need love today! 

 

And make sure that you tell yourself that you love YOU too! 

Sometimes we forget how amazing we are as individuals and all the little things we do each and every day.  I  also like to think of this day as an opportunity to be extra kind to myself. Not wake up then rush around like a maniac, but getting up a few minutes earlier and having a nice breakfast with a cup of coffee while sitting at the kitchen table with my husband. I’ll take more time on my walk with my dog and appreciate being outdoors before going to work. I’m bringing in vegan cupcakes for my coworkers.

I love my Dad's smile in this picture

I'm truly grateful for all the love I feel on this special day.  Six months ago I married my best friend and the love of my life.  This is our first Valentine's Day together as husband and wife.  Tonight we'll be going out to a restaurant nearby that offers vegan and gluten free meals and then have some vegan cupcakes at home.  
 

To all my family & friends...Happy Valentine's Day!  I'm thinking of you.

 

And to anyone who takes the time to read my posts each day, thank you so much because I am so appreciative!

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's Day.  You deserve it.  Share some love with the people around you!

What are your plans for today?

Latte of the Day

My Dog Thinks I'm a Superhero!
 
1.  I have the power to give him food (AMAZING)
2. I have the power to take him into the woods to run (OMG AMAZING)
3. I have the power to pet his head and snuggle (AMAZING LOVE)

 Jax does not just think I'm a superhero.  In fact, he finds my husband to be the ULTIMATE SUPERHERO!  He loves his daddy so much. 

Even if you do not have a dog, I think you can relate to the above saying "Be The Person Your Dog Thinks You Are".  Basically, most people can probably say their dog puts them on a pedestal.  A dog's love is unconditional and they expect the love they get in return to be constant and obvious - they need to be praised.

My dog believes me to be a really good person.  And I strive everyday to be the best me that I can possibly be.  I'm not perfect.  All I can do is give my best each day.  Afterall, that's really all Jax expects.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!  There is LOTS of snow here!!  And now it's time for pancakes!

Do you have a dog?  What do you love most about your dog?   

 

Latte of the Day

 

 

Mondays are tough!  We quickly have to jump back into work mode which happens whether we're ready or not.  I say it's Monday mornings that require lots of love. 

 

I tend to be tired Monday mornings because I stay up later on the weekends and sleep later (even if just an hour more) than I usually do - messing with my sleep schedule.

 

My husband and I have about an hour in the morning to get ready for the day.  Showers, finding outfits, breakfasts, making lunches, lots of rushing around the home.

 

And then there's our dog.

 

Mondays are probably his least favorite day.  He senses the change in our behavior with all the rushing around and gets nervous.  "We were so relaxed over the weekend, what's going on?!?!"

 

He brings the love though.  Walking him in the morning brings me back to that weekend relaxed state of mind.  And he's so happy! 

 

I laugh everytime he sprints back and forth all around the woods.  He loves trail running and he's not afraid to show it!

 

Hope you had a great Monday and did something where you had to "bring the love". 

 

How was your Monday?

Latte of the Day

It's hard not to fall into the mold of just one thing.  Just because I'm one thing (let's say a runner for example) doesn't mean I'm not also a career woman, wife, mother (of a puppy), happy, excited, bold, passionate, driven...and I change everyday.  I'm a million different things just like everyone around me - my family, friends, even my dog! 

My goal is just to be me. 

Have a fantastic Sunday!

I love you Saturday.

Sweet Potato Fries

 

Last night after work I went to a pub with a few ladies from my office.  I ordered these fantastic sweet potato fries (look at the way that salt decorated them!)  It was a Friday night treat for sure.
 

Also, yesterday I experienced the two most horrible drives in my life to and from work in the snow.  The world was beautiful and scary at the same time.  I drove slowly and I was so happy to eventually climb into the comfort of my bed last night and be safely at home (thank you, thank you, thank you!!!)  It had really been a mental test.  So much so that I actually slept in until 8am this morning which is a miracle for me!

 

 

 

It's a white and sparkling wonderland out there this morning.  I plan to enjoy it from the comfort of my home with a latte in hand.  I think walking to the gym will be the farthest I'll venture today.  Hope you have a fantastic Saturday!

Latte of the Day

I like this statement because it holds so much truth.  I can say I'm something, but if my actions speak otherwise, the truth speaks for itself.  I like that this statement puts the power in our hands as individuals though.  We can be whoever we want to be.  How lucky are we?

Latte of the Day

A beautiful thing.

 

I really like this quote because I think it applies to all areas of life whether it's at home, work, racing, maybe even just at the grocery store.  Have you ever looked in someone elses cart and gotten an idea of some food you then wanted to buy?  People take ideas from others and especially learn from others.

 

I know that when I'm running a race and I'm sort of trailing behind someone, but not quite as fast as them, I'm inspired to keep a certain distance between us and not let them get too far away.  Their efforts make me stronger and help me push myself harder.

 

I'm constantly inspired by my family, coworkers, friends, strangers...everyday.  The flip side is that I know that I must be inspiring them.  Even if it's only once in a while or once in a lifetime, I too am inspiring.  It's a beautiful thing.