Being a friend to animals was never easier!

"Esther" original oil on canvas (2009 for Dreamtime Sanctuary)

If you're like me, you love animals - and maybe you are attempting a plant-based diet for 2015 as a way to further manifest that.  If so, I am your BIGGEST fan, and I'd like to share a few tips and resources so that you have success.

Because there are some things I've learned about making herbivore life easier and more fun, so why keep those to myself?

1. Don't preach or criticize or get in other people's business, just celebrate the beautiful, exciting changes you are making.  I'm saner when I stay acting in my circle of influence.  Be inspired by the highly successful ethos of "attraction rather than promotion", which has been quietly working wonders for alcoholics and addicts the world over for many decades now.

2. Grab a couple of books, but don't try to read them all.  Here are the ones I think are great introductions, have a welcoming, cheerful tone and lots of practical ideas:

My Beef with Meat by Rip Esselstyn.  So many easy, delish recipes.  This is my "go to" for just simple daily food.

Happy Herbivore by Lindsay Nixon.  Another cheerful, practical plant-based resource for ya.

3. Online resources:

Vegansaurus - based in California, they are silly and funny and full of good ideas.  They also have a lively Facebook page.

The Post Punk Kitchen - Oh, how I love Isa Chandra - and there are a bazillion delicious recipes on here.  If you buy her "Isa Does It" book, you will be in love too.  The photography's gorgeous, the text is funny and warm and the food, oh, yum.  Her blog is good fun also.

PCRM's 21-Day Vegan Kickstart - The focus here is on health and giving you all the information you need to make smart choices.  For free!

4. On the road

When I'm traveling, I often check out what's veggie nearby with Happy Cow.