Veg*n on a Budget

I often hear people saying that it's more expensive to be vegan than to eat animal products. That is so untrue! Not even counting the health benefits of a whole foods and plant-based diet which can save on your medical bills (especially as we age), you can live very well and buy very healthy foods on even the strictest budget. If you are trying to bulk up on frozen fake meats, however, that will hurt your budget faster than you can say, "Can I get a discount?!"

What really burns me up is that meat is subsidized. This means part of MY taxes go towards making these murderous products cheaper! If meat were not subsidized it would cost FAR more (at least three or four times more) than it currently does, but that's a whole other issue...

• Frozen Vegetables
Frozen veggies are usually really cheap. I see them on sale for a dollar a bag, which contains typically four to eight servings. There are many varieties. Some of the healthier choices are the leafy greens such as broccoli, kale, spinach, collards, etc. There are also lots of blends such as peas and carrots, stir-fry blends (which usually have snap peas, carrots, water chestnuts, onions, broccoli, etc.), and too many other varieties to list. They keep for a long time in the freezer and you can portion them out very easily; use as much or as little as you want.
• Fresh Fruit and Veggies
Fresh fruit CAN be pricey if you go for those out of season or exotic fruits, but bananas are incredibly healthy and usually dirt cheap. Eat two for breakfast with a piece of toast and you'll be full for a few hours! I often find different types of berries on sale (but just beware they only have a short shelf life so they need to be consumed within a week or less usually), and bags of apples and oranges are often on sale as well. Look for sales on bags of avocados and other fruits and veggies.

Fresh vegetables are not usually priced too high, either. You can get a whole head of dark green lettuce such as romaine or red leaf lettuce, a head of cabbage, bag of carrots, and a few other items. This can make you many salads throughout the week. Pile some berries on top and add some store brand Italian dressing (read the ingredients to be sure there is no cheese listed or other animal products). A whole week of salads (lunch, anyone?) for about $10. You might even get more servings than that!

• Rice, Pastas, and Grains
Find store brand brown rice and pastas and stock up when you can. I often see them on sale for $1 a box, which usually has about eight servings for the pasta and about twelve servings for the rice at about $2 a box.

With rice you can make stir-fry (use the frozen veggies and some soy sauce), rice and beans, and even wrap it up with some hummus and/or guacamole and fresh vegetables for a delicious and healthy veggie wrap. The possibilities are endless!

With pasta you can create spaghetti marinara, of course, pasta salads, pasta with veggies, etc. Use your imagination and you'll see there are many things you can create.

With quinoa, barley, rice, and other grains you can add to almost any dish and they are GREAT in soups!

• Beans and Legumes
Dry beans are usually pretty cheap, and even canned beans are not priced too high. These should be staples in your pantry as they are high in fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. You can make bean tacos, burritos, veggie wraps, put them on salads, and make an infinite number of recipes with beans.

If you can find a grocery store that sells bulk nuts, peanuts, almonds, cashews, walnuts, and other nuts are great for snack or, again, adding to your salads. Other legumes such as lentils and peas are great options as well.

• Egg Substitutes and Miscellaneous
Applesauce, bananas, Ener-G Egg Replacer and other commercial egg replacer products, flaxseed, and many other substitutes can be used. Do a search online for more information with Goodsearch.com. They are easy to find on Amazon and can be bought in bulk at a discount (usually with free shipping) and stored for a long time.

You can find so many free recipes online and tips how to live frugally as a vegan (or vegetarian). Best wishes, and eat healthy on the cheap! Simple recipes to follow in the next few days, please check back often and follow me if you're so inclined. Thanks. : )

So Delicious Coconut Milk Yogurts

I've enjoyed So Delicious coconut milk yogurt for quite some time now. All flavors are delicious, but my favorite is vanilla. It's so creamy and tasty, just the right balance of sweet and tart, and smooth just like dairy yogurt.

I am only able to find the vanilla flavor at the grocery store that's by my work rather than the one that's by my house. When my boyfriend went grocery shopping the other day he saw these new Greek style yogurts from So Delicious and picked up some almond milk vanilla flavored ones and some coconut milk blueberry flavored ones.

As you can see in the photos below, the containers are very similar. The shape is a bit different, however, and the Greek-style seems a bit thicker plastic construction. The Greek yogurt has Greek bordering / symbols on the label and is not the same circular shape when looking at the container from above as the regular coconut milk yogurts. There are some other minor differences, but it would be easy to pick up one for the other as a mistake if in a rush and not paying close enough attention.

The Greek style almond milk yogurt is definitely thicker than the regular style coconut milk yogurts. The texture is still very creamy and, to me, it seems like a mix between yogurt and pudding as far as consistency and appearance (see photo below). The vanilla yogurt has a bit of a chalky after taste to me. While the taste is not overwhelming, there are certainly more preferable varieties I would choose rather than the vanilla Greek style almond milk yogurt.

On the other hand, the blueberry flavored coconut milk Greek style yogurt is very delicious with no after taste. It still has a smooth, slightly thicker consistency (still much like a combination of pudding and yogurt). I think the coconut milk works a little better for yogurt than almond milk since coconut milk is naturally slightly bitter, just like dairy yogurt.

Overall, I will stick to occasionally buying the So Delicious Coconut Milk Vanilla flavored yogurt, as that's my favorite. Unfortunately, I can only buy it sporadically (especially when I have coupons!!) as it's a bit too expensive for my budget. : (

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If you are looking to earn extra money from home (part-time OR full-time), now is the time to check out SFI!

Yves Veggie Breakfast Patties: Baby-approved, Vegan-approved, and Mom-approved... But not Boyfriend-approved!

The first time I tried Yves Veggie Cuisine Veggie Breakfast Patties was at LOVELY Great Sage (click the Great Sage link to check out their menu!) in Clarksville, Maryland. They were quite tasty!

Unfortunately, I cannot find this product in any local grocery store; however, my boyfriend works in Maryland and I have family and friends in Baltimore, so I often pass through Frederick and Baltimore and can visit Wegman's, Whole Foods, and Trader Joes... I picked up a pack of 8 which contains 4 servings (package total is 8 ounces [227 grams] with two breakfast patties per serving).

When looking at the nutritional value of the product, yes, as most things, it has high sodium, but each patty has only 40 calories! A full serving (two patties) is only 80 calories and has 10 grams of protein, lots of B vitamins, and other vitamins and nutrients as well, including two grams of fiber and zero cholesterol (like all vegan foods, of course). Because of its total fat of only 1.5 grams per serving with zero saturated or trans fat and zero cholesterol, it's good for the heart. (Cruelty free is good for the heart as well!) Soy protein and wheat gluten (the same food product from which seitan is made) are the main ingredients as well as seasonings. I like to add a lot of garlic and some pepper to mine as well as a touch of sage and pan fry it in a small amount of olive oil and vegan butter. The product is not bland, but I typically like a lot of flavor in my foods.

I found the texture a bit softer than I desired, but just frying the patties a few minutes extra makes them crispy and more satisfying, in my opinion. Keep in mind, though, that my opinion of texture and taste has absolutely no relevance when compared to "real meat" since I have not eaten a dead animal corpse in over twenty years...

This product is considered a "GreenChoice" as the outer packaging is printed on material that is "100% Recycled, 100% Clean Energy, 100% Carbon Neutral" according to the package. It's all-around good for the Earth!

As far as who liked and who didn't like them (the title of the blog), my boyfriend (30 year old vegetarian) is very picky, but to each their own. Not every person on this planet will enjoy this product. It's a reality. But look at who DID enjoy it: me (mid-30's vegan), my mom (almost 60 years old and a meat-eater), and my great nephew (almost a year old and raised with meat-eaters). So that's quite a range of tastes, ages, and experiences, and 75% of those who consumed this product that day like it. Also, I bet I could make this product again, tell my boyfriend it's another brand and just modify how it's cooked a bit (such as making it crispier and seasoning it a bit differently) and he'd probably like it the second time he tries it!

Anyway, I definitely like Yves Veggie Breakfast Patties and think this product is a good value. I'll buy it again and highly recommend it!

** Sorry for the crappy amateur pictures! I'm not good at taking and editing photos. **

EO Lotion: A Great Cruelty Free Full Body Lotion

While trying to use primarily vegan items (not tested on animals EVER or containing any animal ingredients), I found a brand on Amazon called EO (which I think means Everyday Organics, or Every One?, or is it Essential Oils???, but please let me know which one is accurate). Now, I know there are some things going on with Amazon that most people consider bad, but for those of us who live in the boondocks it's the most convenient and economical way to shop for items we cannot typically find without driving 100 miles to civilization (often with FREE SHIPPING!!). That being said, I first ordered EO's Everyday Body Lotion in Grapefruit & Mint. It is heavenly!!! It's my favorite lotion to this day. (Well, since I am unsure if Merry Hempsters still makes their unscented lotion which was great with a mild hempy scent...)

The EO lotion is so light and smooth that my skin feels hydrated immediately. It's sensitive (and natural) enough to use even on my face and other sensitive areas where I'd break out with most types of lotions, even those designed for sensitive skin. The scent is light and fruit yet enough to notice. It quickly absorbs into my skin without leaving a greasy or oily residue behind and my hands, and wherever else I apply the lotion, feel soft and moisturized. Ingredients include mostly organic jojoba, grapefruit and peppermint essential oils, chamomile, aloe vera, white tea, sesame oil, mango and rice protein and more. I like that the products are mostly natural and organic, yet the price is reasonable. I see no parabens or dyes listed in the ingredients.

I know the product is cruelty free, which is probably the best part! LeapingBunny.org (http://leapingbunny.org/skin.php) shows the product as: "EO Products, Web: www.eoproducts.com
We've been in business for nearly 12 years, exploring the possibilities of Mother Nature with the belief that beautiful body care products could be made with pure and organic ingredients. We wanted to prove that gentle is also immensely effective."

I have also tried the unscented, which is also fabulous, and the Rose Chamomile, which was good as far as being mild, hydrating, and producing great results from a lotion, but I didn't much care for the scent. However, if you prefer a strongly herbal scent it may appeal to you.

The lotions come in a convenient size of 8 ounces (240 mL), and sometimes larger sizes such as 32 ounces (with a convenient and hygienic pump for about $8 a bottle), and they last a good bit of time as a little goes a long way with this superior product.

EO manufactures lotions, obviously, but also other skincare products such as shower gels, hand soaps, and a full range of men's products and more -- all in many different scents. Check them out, you won't be disappointed!

Amy's Light & Lean Spaghetti Italiano

Okay, so I have the BEST boyfriend in the world. I am so grateful. He is so supportive and always thinking of me. He is vegetarian but eats lots of vegan meals with me. That being said, he picked up a few frozen meals for me to take to work on the days I might not have felt like packing a lunch or when I was running late. He's always so excited and proud to show me his offerings and makes sure he mentions how carefully he read the ingredients for me. : )

One of the frozen meals he bought was Amy's Light & Lean Spaghetti Italiano. I didn't have high hopes for this. I've had a few good fake meatballs but most are bland. And frozen spaghetti?? As I heated the meal on my lunch break I read the back of the box and saw the mock meatballs are made of "lentils, quinoa and tofu," which sounded like an interesting mix, but how would it taste?

Well, I was SO wrong to question the flavor. The meatballs were the best part -- phenomenal!! They were solid enough to hold shape yet delicate enough to split each one into a few bite size pieces with my fork. The frozen spaghetti actually was very good as well. The sauce has a good flavor. It actually tasted freshly prepared, if you can believe that! The box claims to have no preservatives or GMOs so those are definitely good things as well. I was very impressed and delighted!

I'm sure the price is a bit high (I don't know what it was since I didn't buy it, but Amy's products tend to carry a hefty price tag in my area anyway) but for an occasional treat I think it's worth splurging. It's very high in fiber, includes a great serving of protein and low in fat but does have high sodium (like most frozen meals). It is filling and very satisfying yet under 250 calories. It does contain broccoli, zucchini, and tomatoes, so there are some veggies packed inside this dish. Since it's vegan there is zero cholesterol or cruelty.

Amy's Light & Lean Spaghetti Italiano can be prepared in a conventional oven, a toaster oven, or the microwave, and is very easy to prepare. This product contains soy and wheat, so there are some allergens, but I'm not sensitive to these ingredients so I will be enjoying this product again sometime.

Animal Advocate Spotlight: Andrew Kirschner

Through Facebook I have met many amazing people. I don't live near too many other "real life vegans," so it can be difficult to connect on a local level, but Facebook friends can offer advice, inspiration, and companionship that can sometimes run just as deep as friends we have in person.

I am a member of a number of vegan groups on Facebook and came across a phenomenal human being: Andrew Kirschner. I can honestly say he is one of the most inspirational people I've ever known. Even though I don't know him other than online, he touches me with stories regarding his experiences volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, charming tales of his adventures with his adorable dog, Pretzel, selfless advocating for animal rights, and also words of encouragement whenever anyone needs it. He strives to make others be the best they can be, and truly wants this world to be a better place in general.

Below is a short interview Andrew agreed to, even though he is incredibly busy (and my blog is certainly not what I would label as popular)! Thanks so much, Andrew, for being so kind and giving. You truly are selfless! From: the animals, the children, and countless others whom you've helped in one way or another!

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His current project, in addition to so much else he contributes on a daily basis, is organizing a march against all forms of animal cruelty. From marchagainstcrueltytoanimals.org:

The 2013 Florida March Against Cruelty to Animals aims to bring throngs of Floridians together who care about animals, from Key West to Tallahassee and Tampa to Orlando, to march in the streets to raise awareness about the plight of animals in our society. All Floridians are invited to join us in solidarity on Saturday, November 16th at 12:00 noon at Huizenga Plaza in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The purpose of the march is to ask people to learn about, think about, and stop supporting cruelty to animals in all forms.

Please share the above image and link to help further this great cause!

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Can you tell me a little about some of your main goals in general, some of the most important things to you in life?
AK: When I'm not working, I spend most of my free time volunteering to improve the lives of animals and disadvantaged children. I walk dogs and provide volunteer orientations at a local animal shelter, pass out leaflets about the benefits of plant-based eating, and volunteer at my local Boys and Girls Club where I mentor children. I also spent a lot of time proposing legislation and lobbying for legislative changes to benefit children and animals.

I know no day is ever "typical," but can you run me through what a week might be like in your life as far as leafletting, networking, raising awareness, anything that might give a "layperson" a glimpse into the work you and your organization(s) do?
AK: Sure. Right now, I'm spending 40 hours a week organizing the 2013 Florida March Against Cruelty to Animals so I don't have a lot of time for other projects but I'm still managing to keep in touch with legislators regarding issues such as the Farm Bill, pass out Veg Starter Kits, write articles for my blog, and volunteer to help children in various ways.

Do you like to cook? Have you always been this way, or have you developed this skill over time with experimentation?
AK: Yes, I enjoy cooking very much. My dear mother taught me to cook when I was 10 years old. She also taught me how to clean, dust, vacuum, iron clothes, and perform all other household duties. I will always be grateful to her for equipping me with these skills. I cook almost every meal I eat and enjoy my food enormously.

What are some of your favorite dinner meals?
AK: My bean burrito bowl and kale salad are my favorites. You can check out the recipes on my blog, Kirschner's Korner, to see some of my other favorites.

Even though you make a tremendous impact and help multitudes of animals who would otherwise live in cruelty, how do you maintain a positive attitude amongst all the suffering and not let depression get the best of you?
AK: I understand the reality of the situation. I don't know any other way. Short of a catastrophic environmental disaster or historic legislation, the cruelty isn't ending anytime soon but it will decrease every day we advocate effectively. It's easy to imagine what it is like for fewer animals to suffer and that's what is happening as a result of people taking a stand for compassion.

What changes or trends have you noticed lately? For example, I have seen many more veg*n manufacturers and restaurants sprouting up and plant-based diets gaining popularity. Do you think this trend will continue, and what do you think fuels these changes?
AK: I see a big shift in the news coverage of plant-based eating and cruelty against animals. We're seeing more and more stories in mainstream media. I also see a trend in the development of new plant-based foods coming to market. These are positive signs.

Please discuss something that has touched your heart through your campaigning or any experience where you've tried to make a change for the better in someone's life?
AK: I receive letters from people from all over the world. The letters I receive from children probably inspire me the most because they made the connection at such a young age. They ask me how they can help and I give them ideas.

Any words of advice or encouragement for those considering a vegan diet?
AK: Eat your fruits, veggies, nuts, and beans. Eat a lot of red quinoa, kale, and other colorful food. Get your nutrients. Don't look to replace animals with bread, pasta, and rice. You will gain weight and lack the fuel your body needs. Get a full series blood test every year to make sure you're not suffering from D3, B12, or other deficiencies. Once you find your eating groove, you will soon realize it was one of the best decisions you've ever made.

What are some of your favorite websites? Some favorite vegan recipe websites?
AK: I'm so busy with my own activism that unfortunately I don't make time to visit websites, Facebook pages, etc.

Please list the goals and hopes for your website as well as the URL of any favorite websites.
AK: Right now, I'm focusing most of my energy on organizing the state march. To learn more, your readers can log onto marchagainstcrueltytoanimals.org.

Also visit and bookmark Andrew's inspirational blog which features yummy recipes (of course!), events, legislation, and more: Kirschner's Korner: Trying to Make the World a More Humane Place.

Again, Andrew, I cannot thank you enough and there are no words to describe such a kind and giving person as yourself. I appreciate you opening up and letting us glimpse into your experiences, opinions, and emotions. THANK YOU!