The Smoothie Vegetarians

Hi everyone! Happy of Happiest New Year to you all! I have mentioned prior posts that I am a "Spoonie" If you aren't familiar with this term, please do a quick search for "The Spoon Theory". I wanted to give some tips to other Spoonies who are, or are considering being vegan. A lot of people think veganism is challenging. Especially those with chronic illness, they may think it's damn near impossible. I have many, many chronic illnesses, both physical and mental. I truly believe that if I'm able to make this lifestyle work, anyone can. It can be overwhelming at first, but you may find it easier to switch to vegetarian first, then choosing a date shortly after to go completely vegan. I prefer not recommending vegetarianism, as it's still contributing to animal cruelty, and I'm aware now of just how cruel all  aspects of animal agriculture are.. However, it's a decrease in animal consumption, and eventually switching to veganism...

We figured it out! Over this past weekend, my family and I went out to eat. Okay CJ, lot's of families go out to eat on a pretty regular basis. Who cares?? Well, as I've mentioned in a previous post, I live with my 2 kids and fiancé in a small town in the Texas hill country. There are no vegan restaurants out here, and the few restaurants we do have don't have vegan options. Asking a waiter about vegan options, it's normal to get a perplexed look and a "let me go check... no I'm sorry ma'am we don't have any of  that  here." Asking about vegetarian options do offer more suggestions, typically a cheese-smothered or cheese stuffed vegetable. Asking to take away the cheese would be asking for an almost-empty plate. Because of this, I have to do a little more research than my non-vegan family. I know that Mexican restaurants, Chinese restaurants, and Italian restaurants are favorites among the family, and luckily they are some of the easiest menus ...

Okay guys, let's talk about our families for a moment here. If you have been a vegetarian for any length of time you know that there are people who insist you are wrong for your choice not to eat meat. These are the people who stop you in the food line at functions and tell you how silly you are for not eating meat. They may call you a hippy or my personal favorite, ask you why you are eating the animals food if you care so much about them. So, these people are all up in your face about their opinions on your lifestyle. Then you have your, what I like to call, silent haters. Silent haters are the people who do not say they have an issue with your choices to your face. They may show their discontent by eye rolling when someone asks you a question about your vegetarian lifestyle. They may sigh when you say no thank you to a meat dish at a meal. In my opinion, these people are harmless, and at least put some effort to respect your choice. I say they are putting forth ...