Happy World Vegan Day

Happy World Vegan Day!

Today, November 1st, is World Vegan Day.

I am often asked to clarify what exactly a vegan is, so I thought I would use vegan.org's excellent description of the lifestyle that my family and I live:

What is a VEGAN? A vegan (pronounced VEE-gun) is someone who, for various reasons, chooses to avoid using or consuming animal products. While vegetarians choose not to use flesh foods, vegans also avoid dairy and eggs, as well as fur, leather, wool, down, and cosmetics or chemical products tested on animals.

Why VEGAN? Veganism, the natural extension of vegetarianism, is an integral component of a cruelty-free lifestyle. Living vegan provides numerous benefits to animals' lives, to the environment, and to our own health–through a healthy diet and lifestyle.

When I became a vegan, it was a natural progression for me after living as a vegetarian for many years. It began more for health reasons, in trying to eat more simply and naturally; however, it wasn't long before I educated myself more about factory farming and animal agriculture concerns, which have an impact on our environment, our society, and of course, the animals that suffer.  The compassion factor became important to me and just affirmed my decision. I was lucky that Steve joined me on this decision and went from being an omnivore to a vegan in one day.

I am not here to preach about being a vegan. I firmly believe that this is a personal decision that shouldn't be forced on anyone.  I know for me, that it changed my life. I know that sounds dramatic, but it opened up my mind, my heart, and strengthened my body and desire to do more, learn more, and become more. If you have ever thought about veganism or about helping animals and the environment, you can visit veganoutreach.org or vegan.org for oodles of information, or contact me directly. It took me a bit to learn how to cook, bake, shop and live as a vegan and I am always happy to share any information I have.