I went vegan five years ago today

Today is my five-year “veganniversary.”

It seems like yesterday. It seems like a lifetime ago. It was one of the best decisions of my life.

Nearly 13 years ago I became a vegetarian (story here)

Eight years into my vegetarian journey I experienced a 16-day whole foods “cleanse” with a nutritionist and at the conclusion I realized I was only an egg away from being vegan. So I just did it.

I had no idea that I would start writing about my vegan journey here. Or that I would be invited to write my first book. Or that I would walk away from a 25-year career in nonprofit and higher education management to start my own vegan business. Or that I would write a cookbook. Or become a vegan dining critic for my local paper. Or organize a veg Meetup group with over 700 members. Or that my husband would join me on this veg-journey and we would start offering meal plans to help others on a similar journey. Or….

…that my life would be forever changed. Because though so much of my vegan work is about food, I do that work so that people will stop eating animals. Stop wearing them. Stop using them.

River's Wish Animal Sanctuary

Because I am vegan for the animals.

JL and alice | River's Wish Animal Sanctuary

Thank you for being on this journey with me.

8 thoughts on “I went vegan five years ago today”

  1. Happy Veganniversary! !!! The animals are proud of you, and they thank you.
    Who knew then what that decision would lead to.

  2. Hey JL, Happy 5th Veganniversary!! I will be celebrating my 5th Veganniversary next month on the 22nd, too. It’s very exciting, isn’t it. And, I feel the same as you, that it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made….I am vegan for the animals. It’s so fulfilling and rewarding….very meaningful and special. I just love it! And, I love you! Keep doing what you’re doing….I thank you, and I know the animals do, too! Also, by the way, I am loving my subscription to your Real World Vegan Meal Plans! xo

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