The VEGAN Challenge...{GIVEAWAY}

So, if you missed the episode of Oprah yesterday on 

"Harpo's Vegan Challenge"

check out a preview here 

and the run down of what took place here

Since I am turning 30 this year! 

Yup that's right the BIG 3-0!!

I have been thinking a lot about how to get myself healthier 

and live my best life!

I am beginning to see the fine lines around my eyes a little more, 

having a few extra aches in the morning when I get out of bed, 

a lack of energy and just an over all need to feel healthy!

A lot of people make New Year's resolutions 

to get in shape and diet,

but have never been one to feel like I needed to diet or exercise.

Now after having two kids and approaching a pivotal age,

I can definitely sense a change in my body 

and I am not really liking it!

SO...

time to make some changes,

I have decided to take the 

ONE WEEK

VEGAN CHALLENGE

and see how my body responds!

What is a VEGAN? 

A type of vegetarian diet that excludes meat, eggs 

and dairy products 

and all other animal-derived ingredients.

Did you know?...

 *Americans eat nearly 10 billion animals in a year.

*The average American's yearly meat intake is 

70 pounds higher 

than it was a century ago.

*Research has shown that non-meaters tend to 

live 6-10 years longer 

than meat eaters.

For more info, check out the FAQ's

I would love it if others would join me and keep me motivated!

I know this isn't going to be easy 

and I may get a little cranky at first {sorry hubby}

and

I can't guarentee that after this I will be 

100% Vegan or meat free.

But...

I just think it is important take charge of my eating habits now,

in order to be a good example for my girls!

I want to show them how to be more conscious 

about what goes into our bodies,

and where our food comes from!

For those of us {meaning myself} that have no idea 

what we are getting into

here is a sample vegan grocery list of items 

to get us started!!

As a little incentive to my readers

that want to take this challenge with me,

if I get at least 5 people to do this with me

I will be giving away a copy of Kelly Freston's book
to one lucky challenger!

Veganist

where she gives you meal planning ideas

and alternatives to meat like this...

Instead of spaghetti with meatballs,

Try spaghetti with veggie meatballs (found in the grocer's freezer)

Instead of pizza with sausage,

Try pizza made with Daiya cheese, veggie sausage 

or mushrooms and a whole grain crust

Instead of chili with meat,

Try chili with three kinds of beans and veggie meat crumbs

So if you are up for the challenge 

and want to enter my giveaway

Go here to enter

Veganist {for a week},

Erica

xo