Eating Out.

Okay, so last night I really didn't feel like cooking so we went out. It was my first try at eating out since deciding to be a vegan. We went to our favorite Mexican restaurant, Norma's in Garland. It was SO delicious. I got beans and rice, a side salad and an order or guacamole. Oh yes, and their,, to die for corn tortillas. It was really good! I got to have all my favorite stuff! I didn't need the cheese and the meat to enjoy it. It was so good.
This morning I made oatmeal for breakfast and had some fresh fruit. I do need to admit that I really wanted eggs and cheese this morning. Oh how I love a taquito from Whataburger! I am hungry as well. I guess I'll have to get used to that, at least while by body changes and my stomach shrinks. I do feel lighter already. That's for sure. Well, I'm off to figure out what to eat for lunch!

Becoming Vegan...

This week I decided to become a vegan. No, I'm not a hippy, or an animal activist or anything like that. I'm obese, I'm depressed and I'm tired of being tired and in pain.

Over the last few months I've heard stories of people who had become vegan and it had changed their life. They are no longer on anti-depressants, and they've cured other illnesses. Basically they feel great and they look great! So, I thought I'd give it a try!

I started on Tuesday. For dinner I made veggie tacos and they were great!!!!! The best tacos I've ever had! Yesterday I had the leftover tacos for lunch and made a great vegan pasta bake for dinner. Again a very yummy dinner! I tried a whole grain granola for breakfast. I have to admit, I didn't love it, but I'm sure I'll find something I like better very soon! I had the leftover pasta for lunch and it was great! I stopped by the new Whole Foods by my work on my way home and bought some great vegan items. Did you know they have vegan beef and vegan cheese? Who knew?!?! I made chili for dinner. We made Frito pie and it was REALLY good!

I'm only on day two and a half but, so far, I love it! I can't wait to share my favorite recipes and my journey to a new me!!!

V-day Flowers

I wish I had something to say...

My life is fairly uneventful right now. It's all about the TAKS writing test coming up, DATA and doing absolutely nothing when I get home! We did clean up the house this morning and went to eat at an all you can eat Asian buffet. It wasn't as good as the first time we ate there, but it was good, especially for the price. The company was great. We got to spend some face time with our new friends the Grimes'. Isn't it great when you meet someone and you know instantly that you can say what you think with no fear of hurting feelings or being judged? I love the Grimes family and wish we could spend more time with them! If only Chris didn't play hockey every Saturday night, maybe we could get together more often. Till then, Cheri and I will send random text messages about school, husbands, shopping, food, and bunco! It's good to have a friend.

Sunny Days

Yesterday was sunny, and a warm 75 degrees. I couldn't resist the urge to put the top down on my convertible. I enjoyed my ride home from work so much that when I got home, I picked up the boys and we headed out for a drive around the neighborhood. It was Otto's first time in my car, and his first time riding with the top down! I was afraid he might see a cat and jump out! He didn't and we had a great ride!

He seemed to love feeling the wind in his face as much I do. We made a stop by my parents house to see my dad, who LOVES Otto! Then we decided to run a few errands. Our short ride around the neighborhood ended an hour later! It was a wonderful time. Three of my favorite things... Chris, Otto and my convertible.

Otter Potter

Coming back to life...

As you can tell I haven't posted for quite some time. There are a couple reasons, but mostly because I've been really depressed. I'm not talking a little sad because something bad happened. I'm talking can't get out of bed, crying all day for no reason, completely uncontrollable sadness. For several months there wasn't a day that went by where I didn't cry. There wasn't a day where I didn't hurt all over. There wasn't a day where I wasn't afraid. Everyday was a challenge to stay alive. It was a challenge just to live. I don't know if you've ever experienced something like that. It's scary to be so out of control. I didn't want to be sad. I didn't want to cry. I prayed that God would deliver me from my pain and there were moments when He did that, but none were permanent. I would pray for the Holy Spirit to fill me with joy again. It was a very scary time. I've struggled with depression off and on for 10-15 years. I can see it clearly now, but didn't know it at the time. I feel like this depression has stolen a decade of my life. Two weeks ago I finally went to the doctor and got Pristiq. It's really strange. The change is noticeable. I'm more confident. I'm less scared. I smile more. I'm WAY more productive. I still get overwhelmed at times and emotional now and then, but I feel alive and happy. It'll be interesting to see how this changes my life. I have taken a giant step to becoming more clearly myself and I'm looking forward to the future.