Except for two (yes I counted) small pieces of calamari, I successfully navigated seven days of meatless meals.  On Saturday we (the family) ate at Longhorn Steakhouse.

My plan of attack was to order the strawberry vinaigrette salad (dressing on the side). Pick out the chicken and give the meat to hubby.   I knew our son would order our favorite Longhorn appetizer.  Calamari.  We usually share it; however, I already decided to pass.

My cousin joined us. She’s picky about how her calamari is cooked, so I assured her that Longhorn’s was one of the best. A slight crunch and the perfect combination of sweet and spicy.  Lord!  When it was delivered, I declined.

But after watching the two of them delightfully devour the calamari, for about 10 minutes, resistance was no longer an option.  I needed one last taste for the road.  The last time I ate calamari at this restaurant, I didn’t know it would be my last, so I had to kind of seal the deal.  I’m dead serious.

The lingo of living meatless is confusion. Vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, and there are others.  My ultimate intention is to eliminate meat, seafood, and dairy.

I have to figure out what to replace the organic dairy hazelnut creamer with, in my coffee.  I don’t use sugar, but I like the flavor of hazelnut. I can live without cheese and can step away from eggs for now.

This being my second attempt to go meatless, my attitude and frame of mind are different. My understanding of the obstacles before me is more realistic. I am in a constant mode of searching for dietary resources and helpful tips.

Matthew 7:7-8: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Today I set aside time to catch up on a few of my favorite podcasts.  I was amazed when I realized the topics were about plant-based diets.  I did not search for the subject.  God knew my heart and my intentions so he made sure that I received the instruction and support that would guide me through the week. The two podcasts were:  Eating Like A Grown-up: Insights on a plant-based lifestyle with Renee Cowan and Plant-Based Eating, Faith and making the transition with Renee Cowan

I’m telling you, I needed to hear these messages today.  As I cooked dinner for my family, I listened to the podcasts and had several ah-ha moments.

Although the fact is logical, the most significant ah-ha moment for me was realizing that while animals such as cows are a source of protein, the cow’s source (most often) of protein plants.   The same goes for other livestock.  Hello!!!  If they can grow healthy and robust on plants, why can’t I?

If you are interested in learning how to transition to a meatless diet, listen to the podcasts.  Both parts are informative.

♥  ♥  ♥ . . .

Onto my meals…

I replaced my animal-based protein powder drink by adding three tablespoons of Hemp Seed Hearts  (10 grams of protein) to my steel oats (7 grams of protein) prepared with Califia Coconut Almond Milk (1 gram of protein).   Total protein for breakfast 18 grams!  For someone who thought she had to eat eggs or drink whey protein, I guess I did fantastically!  I’m so excited!

Another takeaway from Renee Cowan was to just replace meat with a vegetable, and that’s what I did today.  Added to my plate of Tempeh and green beans dish is a blend of kale and turnip greens with onions.

I am learning that I must deprogram my brain and continue to search daily for inspiration and resources.

I’ve got black beans in the crockpot, and I am preparing for week two.  I am curious and eager to discover how my new diet and rigorous workout will affect my body.  Over time, I will know.  For now, I am patient.

Thanks for stopping by!

Smooches!