My Veggie Story

When I look back at how it all started, I sometimes cannot believe how long ago I decided to become a better me. In 2016, I switched my diet to vegetarian because I was in it for the animals, but I was scared of taking away the foods I was taught my whole life to eat. I was taught that without meat, dairy, and etc. were needed to survive. As a few months passed, my passion manifested and I started to do all kinds of research on veganism. I stayed up countless nights contemplating being 100% plant-based, but educating myself empowered my decision the most. I learned that we do not need animal products to survive (if not I’d be dead). We do not need milk to strengthen our bones. We do not need red meat for iron. The list can go on and on and on. When I switched over to a vegan diet, I immediately felt brand new. I never felt like I was missing out on something. I went in with an open mind and a willingness to never stop learning about a vegan diet. I will never forget my mom and family forcing me to get blood work done because they refused to believe I could remain healthy. Guess what? I showed them! My lab work came back not only better than before, but perfect. Nothing was deficient and I wasn’t even displaying issues with my thyroid anymore. It sounds crazy and trust me, I was shocked too! My passion for the animals is now combined with a passion for fueling my body with only what will keep me healthy. My journey as a vegan was never simple, but as time went on it became my lifestyle. It is now as simple as brushing my teeth because I knew my WHY. People doubted me every single day and couldn’t understand why I would stop eating animals, but my why always reminded me of why opinions never mattered. I am no different. I am still me…with the exception of living a healthy, colorful, creative, sweet, and savory veggie filled life.