Lent Alternative

So on one of the message boards that I frequent is called the "Virtual Veggies". This is a group of people who eat so much like vegetarians that omnivores think they are vegetarian but vegetarians think they are omni. I went to that group for specific support, and found wonderful people that helped me in a lot of ways to get to where I am with my vegetarianism coexisting nicely with Joel's omnivorousness (no I don't think that is a word, I made it up!). So I love these ladies. The fun thing about the group is that even though we were brought together by food/lifestyle choices, so much else gets discussed. They are a VERY open-minded and wise group of women. So I love chatting with them on a daily basis.

Today is the first day of our LentAL, or Lent Alternative. Some of the chicas on the board are Christian, and celebrate (observe?) proper Lent. A lot of us aren't though.

But, a lot of us like the idea of taking a period of time to really commit to furthering ourselves in some way. Here is the explanation that begins our board:

"During the 40-day period of Christian Lent, the Virtual Veggies are observing our own Lent Alternative (LentAl). During this time, we will engage in reflection, acceptance, and positive action. Many of us will phrase our endeavors in positive language to keep our focus on constructive progress rather than sacrifice; others embrace sacrifice as part of the seasonal reflection and/or the growth experience. We will report our triumphs and challenges among our friends for celebration and encouragement. Everyone is welcome to participate."

So, this year for LentAl, I am focusing on positive action regarding my health. I have started an exercise regime recently with some dance workout videos. I get up at 6am or earlier depending on the day to do them. Mostly they are fun though, so as long as I actually drag myself out of bed, then I am good. So, I am committing to doing my dance dvds at least 4 times a week.

The other commitment is, I feel, a bigger one. I am giving up dairy (includes any cow milk product, but allows for goat's milk products). I know I gave up dairy once before, and I only felt better for it. When I did that, it lasted for a week or two, but eventually I went back to the yogurts, sour cream, ice cream and so on.

Life in Riga has gotten a little easier for those that need to avoid the dairy...I can now get tasty soy milk and yogurts easily, and we can get an butter-like olive oil spread that as far as I can tell from my research has no dairy. No sour cream substitute yet, but a girl can dream. That will probably be the hardest thing to deal with here. Cheese I can pretty much avoid on my own...it's not the easiest, but I know how to cook a whole lotta food that is delish that doesn't use cheese.

So this time I am looking at 40 days (that's nearly 6 weeks!) of no dairy. This means that while I am in London and in the US I will not consume dairy. That means no Ben and Jerry's and even more scary, limited choices at Taco Bell. Yikes. Do I realize what I am committing myself to?

Yes, I am committed to health. I am committed to feeling good. I am committed to my pants fitting. :) Yummy taste is such a hard thing to give up, but I tell you what, when I consider the consequences of enjoying the taste of these things, it just REALLY isn't worth it.

So, there you go. That's my LentAl.

Wish me luck.

***And the next morning...***
I just actually looked at my calendar this morning and realized that LentAl will finish just in time for my trip to the States. Hmmm....what does this mean?!? Maybe by that time I will be so used to no dairy, that I will not want to eat any anyway? Maybe I will not eat ice cream (because lord almighty, it is really so not worth the pain), but maybe I will allow myself the wonderful nastiness that is Taco Bell. Well, we'll see. It'll be a choice to make then. In any case, it's nice to know that I might have the opportunity to indulge but still stay within my commitment. I worked out this morning....that 3/4 days done. :)