It gets easier...

Something I've noticed as of late: being vegan was never terribly difficult to begin with, but it gets even easier as time goes on. I have been trying to avoid too many processed vegan foods for two reasons:

• The first reason being that processed foods are not nearly as good for you as fresh, whole foods. 

• Another reason is that studies have shown that heavily processed soy (faux meats, cheese alternatives, soy milk, etc.) doesn't have the same benefits that less processed soy (edamame, tofu, and tempeh). 

When I was just a vegetarian, I leaned heavily on processed soy. As I took a leap into veganism I was simultaneously making an effort to eat better foods. Don't misunderstand me, I am not swearing against processed soy. I still treat myself to soy turkey or a soy yogurt every once in awhile, but I have decided that these things shouldn't be a part of what I eat on a daily basis. This and the lack of cheese are what I thought would be the hardest parts of my new lifestyle. On the contrary, I've found that my body has begun to really gravitate towards the things it needs. I used to start my days with mochi drizzled with brown rice syrup and a piece of fruit. The past few days I've found myself craving some steamed spinach on the side (I know that may sound gross, but really it wasn't even a conscious decision...one morning it just happened).

I still haven't tamed my sweet fang, though. I have found that a piece of fruit or some dried apricots usually do the trick, though if it is a particularly strong craving sometimes I'll go for a spoonful (or two) or Rice Dream or some vegan chocolate. We also mustn't forget that incident with Paul Newman's dairy free cookies the other week...

Did anyone else notice they moved 'Jersey Shore: Season 2' onto Netflix instant-watch? I did. Holding out until vacation to watch it is borderline unbearable. Also, over half of my America on Film class was absent today. I have a feeling some people have decided to pregame vacation.

Countdown: 68 hours until I am back home...