Eat Plants

I remember there was a time where I kind of scoffed at vegan-ism and said that I would never go that far.  But, since that time, more research has been done and I have been better informed regarding nutritional aspects of eating plants, along with the negative effects of eating animal protein, like casein, which is not only in meats, but in dairy products too.  My recent scare with cancer (Melanoma, caught early, thank goodness) and my significant family history has me jumping on the band wagon to put up as strong of a defense as I can.  But it's hard!  I don't do too bad in the meat department -- my biggest difficulty would be giving up sushi, otherwise it is usually when I'm unprepared and have to eat out, or am looking for something quick that I end up eating meat (think fast food, turkey sandwich or salad with chicken).  I am not going to give up sushi.  It's kind of a special occasion type thing anyway and fish has beneficial properties as well.  Now dairy on the other hand, is a whole different beast.  Cheese!  Cheese and other dairy products are one of those things you can add to just about anything and bring it to a different level -- sandwiches (swiss? munster?), salads (blue cheese!), soups (sour cream?), fruit (cottage cheese?), pasta (parmesan!)... But alas, it does not do good things to me.  Cheese and I are in a battle and that is where I am at right now.  We will see where this leads.

Living on the edge........ of one of the worst neighborhoods in the country

Moving to the ghetto was probably not the brightest idea for someone who was already struggling with being hyperalert.  I'm trying to think maybe it will be good for me.  I don't want to be looking around every corner, imaging someone lurking in every shadow...  I know this attitude has probably kept me safe at times, but some things you just can't prevent.  And I don't want the stress.  I do like our studio, and I think I may meet some cool neighbors eventually.  If everything works out with our parking spot and plug for our electric car, I think it will be worth it.  Not to mention the additional $600 in my pocket every month.  Thus far though, we are negative one Cannondal road bike worth $1000.  Neighborhood 1: Loft 0.  And the battle continues.


Noises, I play within my head
Touch my own skin and hope that I'm still breathing
And I think back to when my brother and my sister slept
In an unlocked place the only time I felt safe
--ellie goulding, lights