Day 6: Breakin' the law, Breakin' the law!
I had craft brew last night,
and I’m Glad.
This 22 Day Challenge asks that you refrain from alcohol in addition to all the other joys of food that I am used to. Last night I chose to break the law, and I make no apologies.
Why?
Friends over Fuel. We haven’t seen my sister and bro-in-law in a very long time, and they were coming to visit us. My bro-in-law, Kevin, is the Yoda of craft beer. He convinced me that beer is more than Budweiser and other high-marketed, low-flavored concoctions. He introduced me to the exquisite bitterness, wonderful citrus and piney scents of IPAs. Basically, he educated me on what “craft” beer means.
So I wasn’t about to say no to raising a glass with him.
But, what about the Challenge?
I learned my lesson from my lunch with Jeff. It’s really important that I do my best, but I will not make the vegan thing an idol before friendship and fellowship.
The book we’re following argues that alcohol can be a kind of “gateway drug” into overindulging in unhealthy foods. Heidi & I studied the menu ahead of time and decided exactly what we would order. I followed my Rules.
So, how did it go?
We had a wonderful night! We talked til 1 in the morning. We ate hummus and veg. And I really, really enjoyed sharing the smells and tastes of small samples of several brews with my brother-in law, sister, and wife.
It was having fun with food, not fun because of food.
It was a good lesson in what place food and drink should play in life. And I’m a little less discouraged about eating in restaurants.
Day 6 Update
Still doing very well about not being hungry. It’s kinda amazing, to tell you the truth. We’re only eating 3 meals each day, and no snacks.
Not having snacks is forcing me to focus my food thoughts on just the meals, not eyeing what I can mindlessly munch on.
All these new meals, and very few leaves. Hallelujah! I expected an avalanche of non-stop lettuce and kale. We really haven’t had too much, and I am very thankful about that. Very.
If this first week is any indication, maybe vegan doesn’t mean all kale, all the time.
I’m working hard to stay in the Challenge, with a wide open mind, and not think about what’s next after it’s done.
Something you can do right now:
Next beverage (coffee, beer or otherwise), really savor it. Smell it; taste the flavors.
And if you didn’t really enjoy it…why are you drinking it?