Why Vegan and not just a vegetarian challenge? The answer is that while I believe making small changes can add up to big lasting change…sometimes what you need is a complete shake up to force you to break habits, learn 
new things and really broaden your horizons.
I have dipped my toe in the Vegan waters a couple times already this year for a week at a time and what I will tell you is there is PLENTY TO EAT and I have not relied on processed foods or spent hours in the kitchen. This is a totally doable 30 Day Challenge to help change habits, impact your health, and do something good for the environment.
In the next couple of weeks I will be posting a lot of things to help you prepare for the challenge. I know it is a big shift and want you to have as many tools, support and resources as possible to help alleviate concerns and fears.
DETAILS
- Challenge runs from March 1 – March 30
- It is not about perfection, but if you say you are committed it mentally will be easier. However, if you go out to eat make the best choice possible and don’t drive yourself crazy.
- Try to let others around you know so they aren’t surprised when you show up to a party and won’t eat the meat on the kebabb.. It’s not about them, you are just trying something for your health with a big group of support.
- Go shopping and think about meals before March 1!!!
A vegan diet includes all grains, beans, legumes, vegetables and fruits.
RESOURCES
The 21-Day Essential Guide to Healing Your Mind, Body and Spirit by Kathy Freston – I cannot recommend this book highly enough. I started reading it at the beginning of January when I was choosing to make some major shifts in my food choices after the holidays. Kathy tackles the process with great detail, emotional support and ongoing tips to help you lean in to a new lifestyle without criticism or fear.
VegNews:Vegan Starter Kit Guide
Spencers Market: Daily deal site that has vegan things! They just did Larabar and Primal Spirit Strips two foods that I love for healthy travel eats.
Vegan Eats: I have a created a Pinterest board where I will be posting all kinds of easy and tasty vegan recipes, foods, etc that I come across. So when you are struggling for ideas it is one more place to turn.
BLOGGERS
Following are some of the guest posters who will be providing information to help us all on this journey
Tara Burner – Vegan for many years who recently chose to start eating some non-vegan foods. Will be looking to her for perspective!
Michelle of Peachy Palate – As a recent vegan, she is exploring this lifestyle to help with stomach problems and is already amazed by how much it has opened her up to new foods!
Heather of For the Love of Kale -
Heidi of Banana Buzz Bomb – Has been a Vegan for over a year and highly recommends it!
Vegan Cookbook recommendations from Oatmeal in my Bowl. Don’t worry lots of free recipe ideas are coming your way in the next week!! Ways to still make your favorite dishes, breakfast and snack ideas that don’t involve Greek yogurt and more.
I’ll also be featuring a lot of different types of vegetarians throughout the challenge, so you have some thoughts on what you might choose to do afterwards!
SPONSORS/PRIZES
Once Again Nut Butter: This vegan spread is going to offer up 5 prizes! That’s right just for taking the challenge some of you will be rewarded with my favorite nut butter.
I have a couple other surprises that I’m working on..so safe to say I’ll be working to find ways to keep you motivated. The prizes aren’t about being perfect with food, they are about trying and staying involved.
Have you signed up? Spread the word with the challenge button (at the top, just right click save as)! Just like with the HBBC the more that are involved the higher the motivation and group support.
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Gratitude Journal
Feb 23
I am grateful for plentiful resources
I am grateful for helpful bloggers
I am grateful for comedy shows
I am grateful for digital zoom
I am grateful for chenille throws
