The 30 Day-Long Vegan

Day indefinite: Moving back, but forward ...

2008-07-23T18:14:00.005-06:00

(Put your mouse on me, I'm clickable! Cheers!)

The time has come! What's new is old and the more things change, the more they stay the same. I've been told that you can never go home, but I wonder ... what about homepages? Well, let's just give it a shot.

Thanks to all of you who followed T30DLV. I hope you'll take my hand and head down a familiar road to my old weblog, the B-LOG. Expect the same asinine musings, semi-serious ramblings, and convoluted metaphors you've come to expect. In fact, expect more of them. Not because they're useful, but because I just can't resist. It won't be as regular, but the noise I bring will surely leave you reeling for days (i.e., minutes). If you can get though it ...

Won't you come with me?

CLICK B-LOG.

Day something or other: A follow-up ...

2008-07-11T12:38:00.004-06:00

Patrons of cognition ...

Howdy! Thanks for joining me here at T30DLV. Though the diet is over, the project continues. Ultimately, nothing was truly ever about the diet, but what concerns it represented and what brainwaves it riled.

I know many of you are coming from Katherine Jones' excellent article in today's Idaho Statesman (found here). Thanks. I appreciate that. I appreciate your willingness to listen, read, and, hopefully, engage. I'm going to be updating the last week of my diet as soon as I get time (which will be within the next two weeks). For now, though, visit the archives. There is plenty of thought-fodder to be found in the prior 20+ days of nonsensical blogging.

But, check back in the coming weeks and I'll have more. I promise. And I expect others to hold me to that promise. I'm in the process of visiting Alaska (leaving Sunday) and moving to Denver (early August), but I'll update this as soon and as regularly as possible.

Again, thanks for stopping by. I hope you discover something. Whether it's about yourself, the world, or your place in it, remember that you inevitably make an impact. That fact is out of your control. But, you can choose what impact you make.

What have you done today to change the world?

BJB

Homework: Humanitarians cool on G8 summit response to food crisis.

Day 23: Home at last ...

2008-06-23T21:13:00.002-06:00

Crikey. United Airlines, you are a wily beast, but I won the war.

Homework: The price of hunger.

Day 22: In-between ...

2008-06-22T23:14:00.003-06:00

(Exasperated in Chicago. And, yes, that is the same shirt I wore yesterday. Thanks for noticing!)

Ugh. Guess United Airlines doesn't want me to get home tonight. What a travesty. So, I'm stuck in a sketchy airport hotel in Chicago. Trying to keep sane, ignore the howl of cars on the freeway, and sleep in a bed where many corpses have probably once laid.

I'll write more as soon as I get back to Idaho. If I make it out alive ...... (dun dun dun)!

How's that for a cliffhanger? Be good to one another. And keep your fingers crossed for me. I feel like I'm in the Twilight Zone.

BJB

Homework: The politics of dependence.

Day 21: Back in the present ...

2008-06-21T22:03:00.004-06:00

(Blogging and loving it, clearly. For YOU.)

Considering I just blathered nonsense for the last 20 minutes in the prior entry, I don't have high hopes for this one. I'm sitting on a couch in the hotel lobby, the only place I can get a free signal, trying to be unrecognizable and look unapproachable. Convention is over and I'm thankful that it is. Last year's was cake compared to this one, but still had a great experience. Except when facing admonishment from distributors who got the word that I was resigning next week. Eke. They love me, they really love me! Not true. But at least they know I exist and appreciate what I do. Makes the work and exhaustion worthwhile.

I can't wait for breakfast in the morning. I'm going to eat so much pineapple Hawaii will rejoice and declare June 22nd a holiday in my honor. What am I even talking about?

Let me go to bed, all right? Tomorrow is a new day and I will be a new man. 7 a.m. wake-up call. I get to sleep in.

BJB

Homework: Local labels could aid consumers in beating the world food crisis.

Day 20: Making up for lost time ...

2008-06-20T21:19:00.002-06:00

"Feed the babies - who don't have enough to eat,
Shoe the childre-e-en - with no shoe-oes on their feet,
You oughta house the people-le-le - that's livin' out in the street,
Well I know-ow-ow, there's a solutio-ion.

Time keeps on slippin', slippin', slippin' - into the future-ure."

I'm firing up the time machine for this post. Step in, buckle up, and let me take you to all the way back to 24 hours ago (cue wavy dream wipe). Oh, I think your coat's stuck in the door, let's fix that. I anticipated my week n Norfolk would be a challenging one for the diet, I just didn't realize it would be because I couldn't keep up with the blog. This going to be brief because I am exhausted, of both energy and ideas.

So, blogging was difficult but eating really wasn't. I mean, aside from the good-spirited joking from my coworkers, it was all handed to me on a plate. Literally. Vegetarian/vegan options were included in every meal because our distributors have the tendency to be quite finicky about what they put in their bodies. And, really, why shouldn't they? They're the experts, they're the nutritionists. What credibility does a mechanic have when he or she rolls up in a lemon? Same mentality in the health food industry, where books are judged by their cover. At least when it comes to legitimacy. Though, that's whole 'nother story.

Point being, it was a breeze. I ate grilled eggplant, tomato-basil soup, fennel, fregula, and a handful of other dishes I'd have absolutely no interest in outside of this diet. It was an educational nutritional experience. Now, that's not to say that some of it didn't suck (much of it, in reality), but it opened me up to new stuff. Of course, my peculiar diet opened me up to much interrogation for the answers to how? what? and, mostly, WHY?! Unfortunately, by the time it got around to talking about T30DLV, I was pretty lackadaisical and ambivalent to engage in what could be rousing discussions. Not to mention, they're my coworkers and I don't need to encounter collective eye-rolls and be ostracized just yet. I'll wait until next week ... my last week. ;-)

Anyway, day 20 was fairly uneventful. Just glad I'm in the 20's now. Not being able to take advantage of the prevelance of good seafood KILLS me. In that sense, this is the worst week to go vegan. I see shrimp, I see crabs, and I see salmon. Alas, I'll get other chances. This, however, might be a one those "once-in-a-lifetime" things people are always telling me about. Month-in-a-lifetime, I guess.

Today I did meet distributors from South Africa and the general manager of our Australian office and chat with them about various sociopolitical/cultural experiences. I love to hear their opinions and impressions of the U.S. and its citizens. Every one of these foreingers is healthy, in harsh contrast to many of their counterparts in the States. A visible difference and difference of approach to what they put in their bodies, for sure. They all have gorgeous accents that tickle my ear with invitations of room and board when I finally make the trips to those countries. I listen with jaw-dropping jealousy as one distributor tells me about her Capetown office that sits on what sounds like the most gorgeous place geographical area I could ever conjure. A view of mountains, grasslands, and water as far as the eye can see. It's time to go. No time like present. Not to mention, I've got lodging already booked and the US dollar equals, like, eight rand, so at least I won't be fighting with the currency. Now, about that plane ticket ...

BJB

Homework: 'End of Food' - It's the system, stupid.

Day 18: The difference a day makes ...

2008-06-18T19:53:00.007-06:00

I guess I'm over the hump. That or functioning on pure, uncut adrenaline. Either way, I'm in a content state of being. Hours were even longer today (and I didn't adjust the time zone on my iPod, so it woke me up two hours early, at 3 a.m. MST. I wondered why the sun hadn't risen!), but a hearty breakfast and a reasonable amount of sleep did me wonders.

Or, in all likelihood, it could be witnessing 250+ people, most 20-30 years my senior, outpace me in both enthusiasm and attitude. Many have endured debilitating diseases, fought life-threatening maladies, and risen from terminal illness with heightened purpose and passion. It is during these encounters that I sincerely believe in my company's motto: "improving the quality of life". Though, these improved lives have not the company nor its products to thank, but the people. Organizations sometimes make it possible, but, unquestionably, it is people who change lives.

For such an admirable feat, it's amazing how simple it is to change lives. Employing compassion and courage, we can all change lives every day. Of course, I'm not telling you anything revolutionary or groundbreaking, but it's easy to forget. If you get a chance, head on over to my buddy and fellow AIMer Martin Benning's site at 7scc.org (7 Summits Cancer Climb). He's a three-time cancer conqueror and is on his way to scaling the tallest peak on each continent. So far he's been atop three and Russia's Mount Elbrus is next. Martin's a remarkable individual and a nice guy to boot. He let me wear his pack that he climbs in the other day and I could hardly walk, much less shoot up a mountain. The story alone could change lives, but, coupled with his commitment, Martin inspires us to make them count.

For better or for worse, whose life are you changing? And, who are you letting change your own? Consider that and get back to me.

BJB

Homework: Kiva - Loans that change lives. Here is today's opportunity, if you haven't yet. Help with a microcredit loan, get repayed, and reap profits beyond those that are monetary.

Day 17: And like sands through the hourglass ...

2008-06-17T20:39:00.004-06:00

I can't just walk away.

Hi. My name's Blake and I've been a vegan for about 16+ days. I feel tired and fairly awful right now. Might be the first day the diet is actually catching up with me. That or working long hours on little sleep. About to go bed at the equivalent of 8:00 p.m. my time and wake up at 4:00 a.m. It's not going well so far, but I'll live. I have a pounding headache and my stomach feels as though it might implode. Oh well. C'est la vie.

On a positive note, tonight I had the best meal since turning vegan: tofu with Asian noodles, mushrooms, snap peas, and tomatoes (yes, dreaded tomatoes). Or maybe it was the wine. Could have been the wine. Either way, I'm numb and happyish right now. Better than last night. I'd love to write more, but I can't concentrate at all. This is the kind of day I must remind myself that a throbbing headache and an upset stomach pale in comparison to the daily tribulations of others.

Thanks for stopping by. Sorry I couldn't stay longer.

Instead, I'll leave you with this:

BJB

Homework: Midwest farmland flooding boosts food prices.

Day 16: All you need to know is ...

2008-06-16T20:38:00.003-06:00

... that I'm alive. Exhausted, but existing.

Oh, and eating vegan while stuck in airports all day is mission: impossible. Glad I packed snacks.

BJB

Homework: Watchdog demands action from rich nations on global food crisis.

Day 15: Au revoir, Les Bois ...

2008-06-15T23:56:00.001-06:00

I should be in bed, no doubt about it. In t-minus five hours I will hear the jarring sound of a too-early alarm and accidentally hit snooze once too many times. Forgive me if I cut this one a bit short. In fact, I have a few questions for y'all this time:

Who are you? And why are you reading? What have you learned? What do you agree with and what do you disagree with? As a global citizen, has your consciousness broadened? If so, why? If not, why?

Get back to me with those answers. I'll be in the air all day tomorrow, so you've got a little bit. Make time for me tomorrow, if you don't mind. We can only help one another in this dialogue.

Thanks. We're all in this together.

BJB

Homework: A crisis in food policy rather than food capacity.

Day 14: Et cetera ...

2008-06-14T23:23:00.002-06:00

I tend to have unique encounters. Then again, does everyone think that? Are we all graced by the same army of eccentrics who bounce in and out of our lives like so many ricocheting bouncy balls? That's what I thought to myself, today. I love humans and I love humanity. The fact that 6.6+ billion lives concurrently exist on this planet fascinates me. 6.6+ billion brains with billions of ideas apiece. And I'd love to know every one of those ideas, because it helps me understand not only the human, but the human condition. We're all weirdos seeking something: acceptance, actualization, God, and so many other things. Purposes. We're driven by purposes. I like to know what people's purposes are and why they pursue them. Maybe that's why I have interesting encounters, because I delve. Or, as I've been told several times, I light up in human exchange. I do. I'm interested. Tell me more.

Today, however, afforded me more exchanges than I'm used to. It starts in the morning when I order a brunch of side dishes to comply with my diet, runs through the afternoon as I sit outside the Flying M to read, and ends at dinner with an inspired encounter at Subway. All funny and all, in some ways, enlightening. I discussed Chaucer and Kafka, Third Eye Blind and bell peppers, Russian imperialism and mojo rising. I didn't really want to talk about veganism today, but it came up. So did theology, comic books, and why (gasp!) I don't really eat much cheese, even during my normal diet. I'm amused when topics like a distaste for cheese confuse people more than Kafka. UNFATHOMABLE!

So, I talked about veganism, to my chagrin. It's honestly getting a bit tiresome. It's a nice lead-in to the whole premise behind the diet, but I don't want to be overbearing. The device is working like it should, but today I wasn't in the mood. I'm finding people want to talk more about the diet than the idea behind it. Keeping on-topic is a struggle, but maybe that's my fault. All I have to say is "I'm going vegan for the month of June." and I've equipped the listener with a can opener for a case of worms. So, I go through the motions and talk about my diet in hopes that I can parlay it into the discourse of a different issue. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Sometimes it's my fault, sometimes it isn't. Some people are receptive and some people glaze over with a look of "People will always starve to death. I see today as no different." Much like the entry I wrote a couple of days ago, it's the mentality I confront most often. The mentality of complacent resignation.

It's not really discouraging. I expected as much. With the diet/project, I aimed to create a narrative compelling enough to engage others and make them think. I'm about at the halfway point on T30DLV and it's all still taking shape. I've received feedback of all kinds and I appreciate it. I guess if just one person is more aware of his or her place in the global framework, then I can feel good about it. Not satisfied, but good about it. People tell me their stories and I try to communicate mine, which revolves around this at the moment. At the very least, I'm being patronized. So be it.

So, for those of you wondering about the diet, I shall concede.

As I've mentioned before, it's about planning. And, as I mentioned above, eating out is about getting creative with side dishes. Lots of potatoes, lots of salads, and lots of fruit. I haven't lost any weight, because I'm always hungry and carrying snacks aplenty. My skin hasn't turned odd colors from the estrogen in soy yet, so that's a plus. ;-) I'm feeling good, but not great. I don't really feel any healthier, despite what I keep reading about plant-based diets. I haven't felt any drastic biological adjustments, but I'm supplementing quite a bit. And, like I said, eating like a madman.

I have a handful of friends to thank for helping me keep on track. So, thanks a bunch. The support is invaluable. Even the reminders are important. This past week, without thinking, I accidentally purchased some chocolate chip cookies from Subway. Jared, not missing a beat, looked at me and reprimanded me. "Dude, you can't eat those." I ended up giving away the delicious treats, because he couldn't eat them either. That same day, as we sat on the lawn and finished our veggie sandwiches, the aromas from the adjacent burger joint teased us. I'm not going to lie: it smelled absolutely amazing. It wasn't an insane, uncontrollable craving, but damn did it smell good. I'll know it's getting bad when I wake up in a hot sweat after a beefy McDonald's fantasy. Gack.

So, it continues. I have unique encounters and so do those who encounter me. I'm sure they think the same. With rants about pens, toothpastes, Gaiman, and Greek mythology, I'm sure I make for quite the character, too. I just hope that something wise or enlightening incidentally slips through.

BJB

Homework: Food crisis may be a boon for small farmers in Africa.

Day 13: Another NGO marketing marvel ...

2008-06-13T23:05:00.004-06:00

Oxfam, simply, rules.

Homework: US says ending trade barriers key to food crisis. We're getting something right.

Day 12: Shorter and unsweetened ...

2008-06-12T22:02:00.002-06:00

Soundtrack:
"Oh we wish that we were geese, night and morn, night and morn,
Oh we wish that we were geese, night and morn, night and morn,
Oh we wish that we were geese, and could live our lives in peace,
Till the hour of our release, eating corn, eating corn, eating corn."
Eamonn McGirr

Question: Will this food crisis be remembered like the notorious Irish Potato Famine, in which the make-up of Ireland was forever altered? Or, will it have an even greater impact, but be remembered as just another time of suffering during which rich countries' citizens turned a deaf ear to tragedy?

We have all we need. Why bother? Famine, pestilence, death ... it happens every year. And, undoubtedly, it will continue to be a perennial hot button for certain people, so let them handle it. I hear all the time that compassion hasn't gotten us anywhere. Well, the number of people in need grows each year, at about the rate that the number of people unwilling to help grows as well. More people that need help necessitates more people who want to help. I see a positive trend currently, but it's not enough. Not enough people are converting. Why? Innumerable reasons, but none with whom I can empathize. Other than fatalists, but even they have more courage than the lazy, the complacent, and the self-centered.

Comes down to being a conscious and active global citizen, I guess. What are you doing to help the world? What are you doing to make sure this time does not escape the history books? It shouldn't fade away as the status quo. It shouldn't BE the status quo. This time is exceptional, whether one realizes it or not. And exceptional times call for exceptional people. I ask you, be exceptional.

Homework: Kenya: Food Crisis Prompts Diet Changes.

Day 11: Father's Day ...

2008-06-11T19:05:00.000-06:00

(My grandfather and me. Judging by my sweet outfit, circa 1985.)

In my experience, Father's Day is one holiday that has the tendency to be forgotten. It falls at the beginning of summer, it's a Sunday, and my dad and grandfather are the last people to clamor for attention. This year, though, Father's Day has a more profound significance. I think 2008 was the year I finally started appreciating my dad and his idiosyncratic self.

You must understand, my dad, my grandfather, and I are different on just about every level. They're fairly conservative, I'm fairly liberal. They're reserved reserved, I'm outspoken. They're kind of hermits, I'm pretty gregarious. Our personalities are decidedly different and that was a barrier between us for much of my adolescence. During that time, as much as I respected him intellectually, I saw my father as a bit of a bore. To relate, you must also understand that my dad has an addictive personality (not unlike myself) and loves nothing more than to talk about his latest obsession. When he does rope you into a rare conversation, you might as well grab a seat and some popcorn, because it's going to be a while. So, as I got older, these conversations were met with yawns and eye-rolling. The Maya again, dad? Give me a break. When I was a teenager, my dad wore me down and I could no longer endure these interactions. I was a selfish little brat.

However, during these past few years, the gaps between us have closed. Don't get me wrong, we're as philosophically polar as we ever have been, but I have a newfound appreciation for his spirit and his compassion. In fact, I'm coming to realize that, if it weren't for our dogmatic and lifestyle differences, we're much more alike than I ever expected. Like my father, I have an insatiable curiosity for discovering new things and I think I can thank him for that. And, like my father, I have a tiresome tendency to want to share my discoveries. I think I can recognize the glaze in people's eyes after a while a bit better than he can, but I'm still convinced that people want or need to hear what I have to say. Conversely, we are both able to acknowledge that, truly, we don't know much at all and expect the same engagement from others. It's a combination of enthusiasm, curiosity, and humility that I might not have without his example.

So, this year, Father's Day won't be forgotten. He has given me so much in 25+ years that it would be futile to think I could ever repay him with gifts. And I know he wouldn't want me to. He has never been anything but supportive of me, despite our colossal differences, and has asked for little in return. In 2008, my dad (and my grandfather, posthumously) won't receive anything more than a card. But, I know when he reads it, he'll be happy to know that a donation through Oxfam Unwrapped will help foster the curiosity he longs to instill in others in the form of a school chair and desk. The gift is symbolic of the impact of my donation, but between my dad and I, it means a lot more.

If you can't think of anything to give your dad for Father's Day, join me in support Oxfam and its mission to find solutions to poverty and injustice through sustainable projects. It's a lot better than another tie.

Visit Oxfam Unwrapped this Sunday and change the life of someone in need.

BJB

Homework: India slams US for blaming it for global food crisis.

Day 9: One of those days ...

2008-06-09T20:22:00.004-06:00

Soundtrack:
"I smell blood and there's no blood around,
Blanked out eyes and the blanked out sound,
See them coming back, motionless, in an airport lounge,
Let the sunshine in,
Let the sunshine in,
The sunshine in."
- Mike Doughty

"I went underneath the water and I bit my little boy in his hand, just to hold him, and by the time I came up back, he was gone," said Philberto Roches, "I turned around and tried to find him and never did."

At this moment, it rains. It doesn't pour, it doesn't sprinkle, it just rains. A steady stream of drumming keeps tempo in some kind of percussive symphony. It seems like a long, soft drum solo waiting for the refrain to begin. Each surface makes for a different tone as raindrops hit the concrete, the asphalt, the plastic, and the steel. Even the grass adds a soft, subtle note. There are pockets of silence where trees stand to intercept what falls from the heavens. It's a pretty, immersing wall of noise that masques all other sounds around it. Downbeats in the rain reveal a cacophony of motors, planes, and car horns. It is during these breaks I realize how deafening a little rain can be and appreciate the soothing pitter-patter. It's hypnotic and it feels so pure. And the smell; you know the smell. The world feels clean again, if just for those few minutes.

A long time ago, I read an article on Buddhist monks and how they use a simple strategy to better see the world around them. They will take a final glance at their surroundings, close their eyes tightly, and reopen them after a few seconds. Give it a shot. You'll see that it truly does give you "new eyes" and you'll have fresh insights about what happens around you and clues as to why. The rain is like that, but on a bigger scale.

The fortunate thing about the rain in Idaho is that it knows when to stop. Many would disagree with me, but that's probably because they've never been in a flood. It gives you a different appreciation for the rain and a more intimate relationship with Mother Nature. Of course, I speak mostly for those who have been engulfed and seen their homes and loved ones ripped away from them, like the man quoted above.

I was in a small tropical storm once, though. It was in Puerto Aventuras and I was about fifteen. Even when the water can't touch you, it's an incredibly suffocating feeling. You're trapped. In many ways, you can't do anything but watch rivers build up around you. It was an amazing sense of helplessness because, as hard as the rain fell, the wind was twice as fierce. The roads are submerged or blocked by uprooted trees. The emergency sandbags wash away and become hazards in their own right. Not even locals know to do anything more than watch and pray. It fell then like it falls now, but it forgot to stop. Eventually the clouds parted and I walked down a pathway, water up to my knees, and the naiveté of a young traveler. I could not fathom the magnitude. I could not fathom the potential for destruction and devastation. I could only splash around and think, "Wow, that was cool."

Obviously, all ended well and I can gladly say no one was hurt that I know of. But, thousands of people around the world perish each year from flood-related catastrophe or disease. In the Western Hemisphere in just the past few weeks alone, flooding has taken its toll on parts of Mexico, Belize, and the U.S., among others. It's a boon in Idaho that I can just sit and enjoy this symphony. That's the experience most of us have with the rain - it's at times peaceful, at times inconvenient. But rarely is it devastating. For now, I'm going to enjoy this encore performance, because it is worth appreciating. And, when it's over, I know I won't have to feel the fingers of a loved one slip away. For now, I love the rain and the tune it plays on the instruments around me.

Homework: Tell Congress: Keep Food Affordable for Poor People. It's easy, just sign an electronic petition.

Day 8: Shop online and save (lives) ...

2008-06-08T21:58:00.008-06:00

Egad. I just re-read what I wrote last night. A thousand apologies. I owe everyone a beer (or a frisbee to the face) for that balderdash.

In the wake of nonsense, I'm providing some light reading and leaving you all one link you should ALWAYS use when shopping with qualifying online merchants:

GOOD BUYING

The redirects help raise money for charities like Harvest Help. So, when you e-tail, shop through that site. What excuse do you have not to? So, spend money to your heart's content and help facilitate positive change.

Slightly more coherent,
Blake J. Bowyer

Homework: Inside Gate, India’s Good Life; Outside, the Slums.

Day 7: Blog or wine? Wine or blog? Bline ...

2008-06-07T23:43:00.001-06:00

Soundtrack
"Sweet dreams all met with derision,
This train, it was armed for collision,
It's a shame, it's a shame, it's a shame.
Clap your hands in the sparkle and glitter,
Shake your heads at the twisted and bitter,
Oh they don't know how lucky they are."
- David Ford

Portmanteaus are fun! One week down. Not too bad so far. Be warned, this entry will be incoherent. I'm kind of drunk and twice as tired.

I read two articles today in U.S. News and World Report that fascinated me. The first was about artificial light and that residents of over-lit cities have higher rates of cancer. Also, the glow from artificial light that is pointed upward (referred to as "counterproductive", because it doesn't illuminate anything) can travel hundreds of feet and impact the dining habits of certain animals, changing entire ecosystems.

The second article was about multivitamins and how they're basically worthless. I hope that point has been hammered home by now and we'll finally stop poppin' pills. Then again, I'm a big proponent of the placebo effect, so make your own judgments on what you throw down the gullet. Civilizations seemed to have survived before supplements, so we could probably do without them. If the ultimate goal wasn't self-actualization, I guess. Ah, hell, I'm too tired to be twilight philosophizing.

Honestly, thinking up content for this project has been harder than the actual diet ... so far. I mean, that is until my liver collapses and I find myself drinking through a straw or something. I found out that many of the breads at Subway are vegan, so that's pretty sweet. My lunches just got a lot easier. I'm really proud of two of my friends, Jared and Lindsey, who are giving this a shot. They're not going strict vegan, but I've never seen them so conscious of what they're eating. Considering when us three get together we devour sickening amounts of junk food, they've been pretty supportive and cooperative. They let me know that it has them thinking about the dietary choices they make and Lindsey told me, with genuine excitement, that she's tried certain foodstuffs she wouldn't have otherwise. Hell, at least horizons are expanding a bit.

Good thing most wine is vegan (certain wineries process their libations through gelatin tubes or something so some technically aren't, but that kind of goes beyond the scope I'm reaching for), because that's one part of my diet I can't give up. Bleh. The thought is appalling. For all the shirts it has ruined, wine cannot be given up! IT CANNOT!

"So raise a glass to liberty ... and let it go."

Man, I can't think straight at all. What else did I do today that is of any interest ... ?

I hit a little kid in the face with a frisbee at Camel's Back Park. It's a story worth hearing, but not worth reading about. Ask me next time you see me and I'll spin that yarn. Let's just say I meant to throw it at him, I thought he would put his hands up and catch it ... or at least protect himself. He did neither. I felt pretty bad about it. It makes me crack up now, but it's certainly no laughing matter. He wasn't hurt or anything, just stunned. It's weird to think about the people you impact ... he might have been the greatest frisbee player to roam the earth, but now he'll sob at the mention.

... wow, what was that all about? Impact ... ripple. So many times people don't realize how they affect one another. Bleh.

Boy, I never have this kind of time on my hands, lucky readers! I think I want to start a new novel tomorrow. Any suggestions? I just finished a James Joyce and need another. I'm thinking Dickens 'cause that would be good to crack.

Someone asked me for reading suggestions the other day (his or her name escapes me at the moment) and that's opening a can of worms for someone like me. Out spills plenty of suggestions and various general reading "tips" that I feel obligated to impart. The foremost being that, if you're like halfway through a book and you know it's not going to throw you a twist or come together metaphorically or something, effin' ditch it! Don't feel bad. You've walked out of movies, right? Yeah, and those are likely less than two hours in length. You'll spend the next few days struggling through a book, pushing pages, and searching for satisfaction you're probably not going to find. No shame in that ... nor guilt. Give that book to someone else and move on. Not too many books are like that, really (well, good ones), but some have inherent suck.

All that I just wrote might not make any sense. Sorry.

Last Comic Standing sucks this season. I watch one TV show and it infuriates me now. Sigh.

I'm going to be merciful and stop now. BE GOOD TO ONE ANOTHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BJB

Homework: How You Can Help the Hungry

Day 6: Miffed ...

2008-06-06T22:58:00.005-06:00

Is your dream to own a home?

Is your dream to steal a scene?

His dream is to toil the loam,

Her dream is to live ‘til thirteen.

Do something for me. Snap your fingers to this beat. 1 ... 2 ... 3 ... 4 ... snap. 1 ... 2 ... 3 ... 4 ... snap. 1 ... 2 ... 3 ... 4 ... snap. Okay, stop counting and just do it to that rhythm. Hear the fingers abruptly sliding off one another. ... ... ... ... snap. ... ... ... ... snap.

Do you have it yet? Just the snap. Keep going. It becomes pretty abrasive, right? It's a bit irritating. How do you feel that every time you snap a person, flesh and blood not unlike you and I, dies of a hunger-related cause. ... ... ... ... snap. There goes someone. ... ... ... ... snap. ... ... ... ... snap. Two more. That is like the sound of a gunshot. ... ... ... ... snap.

It's a chilling thought. Suddenly snapping got a lot more discordant.

... ... ... ... snap.

Homework: A $10 Mosquito Net Is Making Charity Cool. A fortuitous follow-up to yesterday's post. I don't agree with all of it, particularly the “You won’t find them giving money to research,” she added. “It’s too far off."' part, but the article highlights why the campaign has been effective.

Day 5: Rarely am I so proud ...

2008-06-05T21:00:00.009-06:00

... of my discipline. This is the kind of humanitarian marketing that reaches people. Measurable and communicable, contributor efforts are logically connected to results. Very impressed. I have so much more I want to talk about tonight, but I don't want the message to get buried in my prattling. Just watch this "advertisement" and buy a net to save a life.

There's an entire Nothing But Nets channel on YouTube you can access HERE. I posted the clip above because it's the most traditional 30-second "commercial" you might actually see on TV. Check out the channel for more videos documenting distribution, results, and testimonials for the campaign. Also, watch the slick and surprisingly effective spot featuring David Beckham for Malaria No More.

Yours in change,
BJB

Homework: Africa: Action, Resources and Results Needed Now for Food Crisis, Zoellick Says

P.S. The diet is going well. Nothing really of note. It just takes A LOT of planning. The sole saving grace is that Taco Del Mar (their middle name is 'delicious' people!) offers a vegan burrito. I can definitely sense my body adjusting, but I don't feel much different. Truthfully, my energy levels are a bit low, but I'm not sure if I can chalk it up to atypically long work hours or the diet or what. Anyway, I'll write more about the journey as it gets more interesting and worth writing about. Stay tuned.

P.P.S. In a little bit of self-promotion, you can find my mug on the ONE blog regarding the delivery of PEPFAR II petitions and meetings. Just scroll down a little. The picture of me is ludicrous ... I have such a hard time taking myself that seriously.

Day 4: Short and sweet ...

2008-06-04T12:46:00.015-06:00

Soundtrack
"Well I'm gonna march on Washington
Lead the fight and charge the brigades
There's a hero inside of all of us
I'll make them see everyone has AIDS."
- Trey Parker, Team America

Hehe.

Well, coupled with a pretty busy work week leading up to my company's convention, I'm also dedicating my lunch hour to brushing up on The Tom Lantos and Henry Hyde Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, TB, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008 (phew) ... better known as the act to reauthorize the seriously flawed, but progressive PEPFAR (President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) Bill. Why would I subject myself to that, you might ask? Well, I'm visiting the offices of Gem State Senators Larry Craig (save your jokes) and Mike Crapo today to drop off letters from Idaho members of the ONE campaign. The letters urge the two gents to schedule a vote to help pass a revised bill that fixes many of the flaws of the initial PEPFAR and increases the funding to $59 billion from the $15 billion pledged from 2004-2008. While the current revised version of PEPFAR II doesn't eliminate all of the issu ... hey, wake up! Anyway, there are numerous theories on the new bill and PEPFAR in general, but I'll stop there.

If you want to learn more, the most objective sites I've found on the subject are pepfar2.org and pepfarwatch.org. I encourage you to check those out. PEPFAR has been described as both Bush's greatest legacy and an inefficient, insufficient band-aid. At the very least, the PEPFAR issue gets U.S. citizens and Congress thinking and talking about ways to effectively battle pandemic disease on the African continent. The biggest roadblock is that many members of Congress (primarily those with elephantiasis, if you know what I mean) are evaluating PEPFAR's strategies from a moral perspective and not a scientific, factual, and realistic one. But, like I said, it still encourages that dialogue and helps refine an initiative that could save millions of lives and curb the spread of certain lethal maladies. We'll see.

Anyway, that's a verbose way of saying "I'm busy!" and won't be writing a lengthy blog on the food crisis today. However, I'm going to include some links below that cover related issues from a few different angles. Take a look and be good to one another.

BJB

Homework:

Day 3: Revelations ...

2008-06-03T07:47:00.002-06:00

Soundtrack
"And I tell you that some folks don’t evolve
They’re content with what they’ve got
They just sit back and they watch TV
But baby that’s not me."
- Josh Rouse

There's one thing about me - I'm a ball of enthusiasm. Some times, I'm a wide-eyed dynamo with airy notions. Other times, I'm a perturbed idealist who dismisses the possibility of peoples that think unlike I do. And even other times, I'm impractical and overtaken by whim. This time, however, I'm all three; but it's the latter third that needs to be addressed.

Ever since I conceived T30DLV in a flurry of excitement and duty, I've been trying to explain it to others. Put the pieces together, grease the gears, and make the clock tick. Well, I forgot that last step. Heretofore, the clock had both hands on 12. It has become clear to me that, in my haste, I haven't been explaining this project sufficiently. Yesterday I addressed several of the questions I get asked over and over again. And, I believe, gave reasonable and lucid answers. However, one piece that was integral to get this clock ticking was absent. Hell, what I've come up with might still be a shoddy stand-in piece as this project evolves, but it's there. I may not have Swiss precision, but at least the gears are turning and hopefully that results in a better understanding of T30DLV and its objectives.

In the past few days, I've fielded a lot of little questions like those listed below, but one was missing. Maybe because it wasn't asked or maybe because each person formulated his or her own answer to the biggest uncertainty of all: Why are you doing this and what does the vegan diet have to do with it? I'm sure various answers were arrived at independently by different minds, but that's not how this project should be interpreted. The purpose should be unequivocal. And that's my fault. In talking to people and listening to feedback (especially the pragmatic insight of Ms. Rachel Hartgen), I discovered the overarching purpose that answers the questions mentioned above. That's not to say this purpose won't evolve further or make a U-turn, but, for now, I can help shine a brighter light on what this foolishness is all about.

Basically, the first objective with T30DLV is to increase awareness of the current global food crisis and perennial food shortage. Doing this will hopefully to facilitate discussion and individual action through human and capital donations to relief organizations such as bread.org and Oxfam International. The second is to encourage those who participate in the pledge or wish to help domestically to practice a more efficient diet, avoid waste and food spoilage, and buy locally when possible.

Sidenote: Research suggests that the solution isn't in flooding the global food supply with our current food surpluses or those that are created in the future. As I discussed below, U.S. food aid policies are in desperate need of revision as they are inefficient and often ineffective. Excess food should be used to feed the hungry in the U.S. (where, startlingly, according to the Bread for the World Institute, "11.7 million children live in households where people have to skip meals or eat less to make ends meet") with incentives to develop sustainable lifestyles (e.g., job programs). Putting excess food aid into small international communities can actually have a negative effect; the action can drive market prices down to a point where the livelihoods of local farmers are at risk. If we, as a nation and as individuals, want to contribute resources toward helping curb hunger issues, it should be in the form of donations to NGOs that support sustainable living practices.

In a nutshell, those are the primary objectives. Of course, there are ancillary issues like the impact of excessive meat consumption on the environment, water health, and resource expenditures that will be addressed, but they all come in time.

Now, as far as the vegan diet, it is a narrative. It is not so much an endorsement of veganism as it is a symbolic gesture. If I can so dramatically change my habits in the face of the issues mentioned above, why can't you change yours just a little? My intention is to keep people informed and engaged in this issue with the belief that they will come back to read my suffer-logue. Just kidding. But, really, I'm trying to establish the issue of hunger-related illness and reaffirm why it affects us directly and indirectly and vice versa.

Hopefully the change in my diet is a compelling enough story to get you back here every day in June so I can disseminate information until your interest becomes an independent habit. This is going to sound lame, but caring is contagious and once it roots itself in your consciousness, I believe it's there permanently. If anything, scroll down to the bottom of each post for the "Homework" article on global food issues. If you choose to return just to click the links on the sidebar and choose to dismiss all of my nonsense, then wonderful. Hell, circumvent T30DLV all together and bookmark the click-to-give sites or make them your homepage; fewer invalid impressions that register on my counter. Everyone wins!

So, I hope that clarified the overarching purpose for a few of you. If you still have questions, comments, or criticisms, please come to me and we'll discuss them. I'd like to make this project as understandable as possible. There is still plenty of work to be done and plenty of room to grow. Thanks to all of you who have challenged me already. You help and inspire.

Final thought: I had delicious vegan waffles this morning for breakfast. How appropriate.

BJB

Homework: GLOBAL FOOD CRISIS: Nations, farmers need our help by sec-general of the UN, Ban Ki-moon

Day 2: Vegan Q&A session ...

2008-06-02T00:22:00.005-06:00

Soundtrack
"And so I will cook all your books You’re too good looking and mistooken You could watch it instead From the comfort of your burning beds … Or you can sleep through the static"
- Jack Johnson

Since the inception of this project, I've been asked questions. Lots of questions. Some in curiosity and some in dissension. Most have been sincere and well-intentioned, but a few have been defensive and counter-productive. If you have questions of the latter ilk, don't bother. If you have sensible arguments, then you'd be remiss not to engage yourself. I welcome and encourage it. However, for those of you who are simply curious or confused, below is a short list of some of the most commonly asked and anticipated queries and their hopefully succinct and lucid answers. A good number of these are listed in other places on my T30DLV resources, but I wanted to compile them here for everyone to access.

If you have any additional questions/comments/death threats, I implore you to comment on this entry and I'll respond as completely and civilly as possible. I make no promises on the civility part, though. ;-)

Q: Is this a pledge for animal rights and humane treatment?

A: Nope. That's an entirely different issue that I won't broach with T30DLV.

Q: You do realize that not all of the feed given to animals is suitable for human consumption, right?

A: I do, but it still has to be grown, processed, and delivered. Aside from feed that is a direct byproduct of crops harvested for other uses, it is still a resource toll. Even then, only a small majority of total feed has no nutritional value.

Q: Have you lost your mind?

A: Probably. Better to have thought and lost than to have never thought at all, though.

Q: The US is the number one provider of international food aid around the world. What do you think about that shiz?

A: I think our current aid program is a shameful and inefficient endeavor in which no party wins. Except maybe the US PR party. Law requires that all aid provided must be grown on American soil, shipped on American vessels, and delivered by government-approved workers. (Tell me that's not a conflict of interests.) The outcome is a convoluted system that encourages American farmers to overproduce and their crops eventually cost two-to-five times more than they should have. It would be exponentially more efficient to donate money on food's behalf and encourage farmers in those countries to create sustainable, lucrative crop yields.

Q: What role do biofuels play?

A: Another topic I probably won't touch. However, it's basically putting food in our cars instead of starving mouths. Think about that.

Q: Are you advocating veganism and is it truly the most efficient diet?

A: Not necessarily, on both accounts. I am advocating efficient and conscious diet practices. Buy locally when you can, don't waste, watch for spoilage, try to cut down on meat products overall, and eat with global cognizance (including issues like food shortages and climate change).

Now, as the most efficient diet, that is debatable. Ceteris paribus, vegetarian and vegan diets use fewer cumulative resources than the carnivorous kind. However, plant products cannot be produced on every acre of earth or soil. Moreover, certain edible plants require nutrient-rich soil that others don't. So, sustainable local diets may be the most efficient when they include much smaller amounts of meat, dairy, and eggs. But, then again, those amounts may vary by the agricultural viability of a particular region.

In summation: plant-based diets use far fewer resources overall, but are less-than-optimal for certain areas where growing land is in short supply. Does that mean you go about your daily business and continue to consume animal products at the same rate? Definitely not. Just eat less meat and substitute other sources for the calories and nutrients.

Q: Why, then, are you going vegan if you can't unequivocally pronounce veganism as the most efficient diet?

A: First, as mentioned above, it is still much more efficient; especially in a region where plant sources are fairly easy to procure. Second, to spur discourse and thinking; especially in a region where they are difficult to procure. Third, would you be reading this if my project was entitled The 30 Day-Long Guy Who Ate in Perfect Moderation? Unlikely.

Q: Do you support PETA?

A: Nope. In fact, I am appalled by that particular movement's methods and hypocrisy. Google "animals in PETA care" to see what I mean.

Q: Is a vegan diet healthy for everyone?

A: It is if you practice it intelligently and conduct due research. Remember that a healthy human body needs a wide spectrum of nutrients from a variety of food sources. Please make sure you're getting sufficient protein and a good number of different amino acids. Know your body and stop if you need to.

Q: What are the few things people don't realize are EXCLUDED from a vegan diet?

A: Honey, fish/shellfish (yeah, I know, I get that one all the time), and many breads.

Q: What are a few things people don't realize are INCLUDED in a vegan diet?

A: Cereals, legume soups, and tons of candy.

Q: Isn't this really an issue of overpopulation?

A: Overpopulation is misunderstood. Unsustainable living is a related problem that may be the true root of the food crisis. The relationship could be viewed as a chicken-or-the-egg conundrum, but the latter is the issue I think should be more widely scrutinized. Popular belief is that plenty of food exists on this planet, it just doesn't get to hungry mouths or is grown wastefully and inefficiently. The well-fed should support sustainable living and farming practices in underdeveloped and developing nations as well as their own. While the implementation is a huge obstacle that involves coordination, cooperation, and education, I feel aid should be given in the form of investments in human and financial capital to suture the wound, not cover it up.

Of course, the world can't continue to grow, fish, and farm indefinitely, so it's a sticky dichotomy. Don't breed what you can't feed, suckas!

Q: Why isn't honey vegan?

A: I've been getting this question a lot, but I truthfully don't have an answer because I don't eat honey.( Too sweet for this guy.) Apparently, though, it is a topic of great debate in vegan circles worldwide. Just Google "vegan honey" and you'll get a small (saccharine) taste of how controversial the subject is. In the meantime, I'm pretty sure you can do without honey for a few days ... just to be on the safe side.

Consult http://www.vegan.org/FAQs/index.html#7 for a nice summary of the issue.

Anything else I can (try to) answer? Any fires I can put out?

Searching for the hot sauce,
Blake J. Bowyer

Homework: Rethinking the Meat-Guzzler. A nice pull-quote: "To put the energy-using demand of meat production into easy-to-understand terms, Gidon Eshel, a geophysicist at the Bard Center, and Pamela A. Martin, an assistant professor of geophysics at the University of Chicago, calculated that if Americans were to reduce meat consumption by just 20 percent it would be as if we all switched from a standard sedan — a Camry, say — to the ultra-efficient Prius."

Day 1: Vegan beginnings ...

2008-06-01T20:33:00.016-06:00

Soundtrack
"There ain't no reasons things are this way
It's how they've always been and they intend to stay
I can't explain why we live this way
We do it everyday."
- Brett Dennen

Boy howdy! Here. We. Go.

Today was the best of times, today was the worst of times. Today, ladies and gents, I (and a few brave others) went vegan. For the next 30 days, meat, dairy, and eggs will become strangers to our plates and our stomachs. For the next 30 days, we exercise willpower for the education of many and the good of more. For the next 30 days, we yield to a mission much bigger than us, on a scale grander than we can fathom. For the next 30 days, we try to make a difference. (Sheesh, this is beginning to sound a bit grandiose.)

Anyway, this day was a challenging and rewarding one. Today I was fortunate to witness inspirational moments of courage and fortitude and attempt to exercise some of my own. Today was Ironman Boise ... and it was accompanied by a barbecue. Egad, the first tribulation!

No, it wasn't difficult. What's one day? Anyone can do anything for one day. 1,000+ men and women from around the world swam 1.2 miles, biked 56, and ran 13.1 in a day. I saw moms, dads, athletes, and the like push themselves to the brink of mental and physical exhaustion. I saw a gentleman with a cumbersome leg brace in ostensible agony push through the pain. I saw a 71 year-old grandfather grin from ear-to-ear on his last mile. I saw numerous people who superficially had no right to be running a triathlon give us the thumbs-up in appreciation of our efforts. OUR EFFORTS. "You guys are awesome," we heard again and again. Gender-specificity aside (;-)), that is sentiment that gives you goosebumps. I saw a guy without legs finish Ironman.

I wish I could write more evocatively and make you all there. You'll have to trust me that it was remarkable. After lending a hand at Ironman Coeur d'Alene in 2004, I expected to be inspired, but I didn't expect to be touched. Everyone with whom I volunteered, even those seasoned in race-day activities, couldn't help but be astonished by the naked will we witnessed today. I can hardly jog five miles without going completely insane. These people did 13+. Oh, after swimming and cycling, of course.

So, some aspects of the day were inspiring; they made the challenges that I face in the next month seem relatively minute. I can't have milk? So what ...
... well, veganism changes so many things, that's what. It isn't until you are completely engulfed in the diet that you realize all of its ramifications. And limitations.

For instance, changing diets so dramatically involves planning. It involves working your schedule and habits around what is acceptable. It's not my playground anymore, it's nature's. Not only do I have to be excruciatingly critical with each choice I make, but I also have to annoy everyone around me with those choices. The superstars on the BYP Ironman planning committee were considerate enough to throw a few boxes of Boca Burgers into the shopping cart when procuring grub for the event. Thankfully they thought ahead, because I'm not accustomed to. If they hadn't, I might have starved. Or lived on oranges and bananas and looked like I just suffered three Ironmans. It could have gotten ugly.

It starts the moment I hit snooze too many times and jump out of bed in a panic. My day starts off with a few handfuls of soy nuts and a giant glass of soy milk. Rather than savor my breakfast, I treat it like a terrible task that is more burdensome than anything. I hastily grab some Fruit Leather, a Larabar, and I'm out the door. En route, I grab a cappuccino for the arduous day that awaits me. With soy milk. Boy, that tastes a bit peculiar; looks like I'll be drinking espresso smoothies for the next 30 days.

Once I arrive at the aid station, I am welcomed by a beautiful spread of bagels and muffins and cream cheese. That I can't eat. I opt for a bushel of bananas and trudge over to my position. Around lunch, Travis fires up the grill and everyone partakes in a scrumptious smörgåsbord of burgers and chips and cookies. That I can't eat. I enjoy my aforementioned bunless Boca Burger - of which I have two - and two or three more bananas. I'm now living proof that potassium has no level of toxicity in the human body. (Sidenote: Jon Anderson, who has supportively joined me in this crusade, almost ate his BB [from here on out "Boca Burger"] on a bun and blew it in the first twelve hours. Nice catch, Jonny.) Throughout the day, I snack on my Larabar, the Fruit Leathers, and an orchard of apples. The problem so far is that I haven't achieved satiety. No matter my caloric intake, the food I consume doesn't make me feel full. The race ends and, after I scarf down enough oranges to raise Sunkist's stock by three points, Jon and I go grab some dinner and a beer.

Long story short, we have to leave one restaurant and beg another in order to comply with our newfound diet. We end up at Asiago's and a patient waitress and creative cook pull some risotto out of their hat to make for a fine dinner. In conclusion, Jon feels like he's made a deal with the devil and I feel like a burden to everyone around me. Auspicious start.

Like I said, though, the next month will be about planning. And losing friends. However, when I reflect on the day, I consider the challenge I've imposed on myself and it feels nominal. I'm reminded of the people I saw, countenances and all, who were world-class athletes for at least one day. And inspirations to more people than they realize. Especially a foolhardy kid from Idaho who marveled at their relentlessness and handed them the most revolting Powerbars they'd ever had. No, YOU'RE awesome.

Final thought: If you made it this far, you're my hero, too.

Rambling,
Blake J. Bowyer

Homework: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/3559542.stm

T30DLV problogue, t-minus 1 day ...

2008-05-31T23:33:00.005-06:00

Basket case ...

(A poor vegan. In so many ways.)

In just a few minutes, my identity changes. In less than a half-hour, I become a vegan. Every moment of my life up to May 31, 2008 at 11:59 p.m. I have existed as a carnivore. I sit on my couch, a tall glass of dairy milk in my hand, and reflect on 25+ years of meat-eating, milk-chugging mayhem. These next 30 days will change my life, undoubtedly. I, and a few others, are setting out on a journey in the name of many things; things that seem insignificant to some and crazy to more. These things have various meanings to various people. They fall somewhere between thoughts, notions, ideals, missions, philosophies, and curiosities. Basically, though, it can all be whittled down to a challenge. A physical, social, spiritual challenge.

I'm desperately trying to sidestep lofty statements and preachy rhetoric, but I'm honestly a bit taken aback a the moment. So far, I've been surprised and touched by the questions I've been asked and the support I've received. This project has allowed me to reach a few people I didn't think would ever been willing to discuss topics of global importance. I've experienced a startling lack of myopia from those who have approached me. Even the most Above all, I'm a steadfast believer in human virtue and good in the hearts of man. I've encountered magnanimity from the most unlikely people and witnessed sympathy in the most unlikely places. Each and every one of us has the ability to change the world in a positive way, I harp. Luckily, people have been receptive. Thank you.

I'm going to cut this one a bit short because I'm struck by a weird blend of writer's block and introspection that simply won't translate into lucid blogging fodder. I'm not certain whether it's the reality that's hit me so profoundly or the endless brain freeze from the package of ice cream sandwiches I ate a little while ago. Either way, the vegan shopping trip will be discussed post haste. Enjoy the pictures I posted in the meantime. Expect daily blogs from here on out as I spend the next 30 mornings lacing up a different pair of shoes (no, not Crocs, but what are the best kicks for playing hacky sack?).

Final thought: Is this a challenge? Definitely; but not in the way one might expect. It's a challenge to fly in the face of complacency and indulgence. It's a challenge of perspective and convention. I encourage you to challenge yours. Oh hell, I better chug this milk and get to bed ... tomorrow I wake up vegan.

Vegantastic,
Blake J. Bowyer

T30DLV problogue, t-minus 4 days ...

2008-05-28T12:09:00.008-06:00

Veni, vidi, edi ...

(Bessy and me. Once a predator ... now a competitor.)

Oh boy. Let it be known that I did not go quietly into the night. My last weekend as a carnivore wasn't gluttony on the grandest scale, but I did consume fair share of meat products. Let's take a look at the list (in chronological order):

- Foot-long turkey submarine sandwich
- Inebriated veggie dog (but not vegan)
- Breakfestonian crab cakes
- Rogue kobe beef sliders
- (The worst ever) Ham and pineapple pizza
- Bay shrimp omelet
- Mako shark steak

Yeah, that should do it. Luckily my wallet got quite the workout because the rest of me didn't and that was the only way it was going to fit into my back pocket after the trip. I kept my vow to eat like a surly sea captain. What more can you ask of one man?

Anyway, I had a revelation this weekend. I'm an individual who revels in new experiences; each day I like to do something I've never done. That goal can range anywhere from skydiving and tapdancing to brushing my teeth in the shower (it's sweet, you should try it). Point being, new things fascinate me and I won't dare let an opportunity pass that has the potential to open my eyes, if only slightly. It was then, between hour 15 and 16 of the drive, I realized this next month will both provide and thieve me of so many new things.

If one ponders that prospect (which I did ... endlessly), most new experiences with food involve eating some foreign kind of meat. Whether it be monkey brains, sea monsters, or insects, meat is where the uncharted territory lies! There is only so much one can do with vegetables and meat substitutes. I highly doubt I'm going to encounter some esoteric herb native to Idaho, but I won't rule it out. Maybe there is some kind of glorious potato that I've never had! Oh, right, it's called the "Idaho Potato", a variety that every US citizen has enjoyed ... except those residing in Idaho. I say INJUSTICE!

Anyway, so, no more exotic meats for a while. No cow eyeballs, no fruit bats, and certainly no dolphin (don't get cocky, Flipper! You're still on my hit list.). However, I also realized that this entire month will be an aggregate of smaller experiences. Experiences that open my eyes (even if slightly) to issues both internal and external, personal and global. It's about challenging yourself to grow and shedding the skin of complacency that insulates our perspectives. We don't live in a vacuum. We exist in an increasingly interrelated and interdependent world in which our decisions often impact others' lives as much as our own. I don't have a problem trading one new experience for another, because it still gives me new eyes. Not to mention, I'm in no hurry to try guinea pig. Awwwwwwwww.

Final thought: My mom contends that my first word was "beef". I uttered it as we drove by a Wendy's in Boise during the restaurant's legendary "Where's the beef?" campaign. I'm still trying to decide how I feel about me breaking my silence with THAT little gem. Does that better qualify me to be a marketer or a carnivore? I'll have to convince myself of the former.

Yours in change,
Blake J. Bowyer

SNEAK PEAK!!!!! Tomorrow I embark on my first all-vegan grocery shopping trip. Check back in the next few days to read the account, view the pictures, and taste the tears.