This journey started over six years ago for our family. During pregnancy, seeing cows in a semi-truck heading to be "processed" would bring me to tears.  Fast forward to the first (and only) time I cooked meat for my oldest. I remember prepping some turkey meatballs with hidden veggies and thinking "oh my gosh, I'm feeding her a dead animal." From there I began my research on how to safely and effectively eat vegan. I found community and vegan friends to guide the beginning of our journey, and it was definitely a journey. 

As a recovering texture-fiend and someone who hadn't willingly eaten a bean in my first 20+ years I have expanded my palate significantly. This way of eating has been life and health-giving to my family.  

So are you vegan? I often tell people our family is roughly 80% whole-foods plant-based, 15% not as whole-foods plant-based and 5% room for buying an occasional special pastry or cheese pizza because that's the only option our kids will eat at the restaurant. The label I feel most comfortable with is "Primarily Plant-Based." 

After years of a very strict vegan diet, allowing myself the flexibility when needed creates less anxiety. As a 90's kid who felt the deep impact of diet culture, the flexibility allows grace for when I have to step out of the box, or don't want to feel trapped in a box. 

My hope is that no matter your food journey, you feel welcomed and included in these recipes. Food can be love, and I hope you feel the hug from me to you as you create and crunch alongside me.