Here we go again

So I am back, and let me tell you I indulged this weekend. No meat, but pretty much everything else. Its time to kick it in gear this week and the next three weeks until Christmas. I know I said that I am not going to be into numbers, and I am not. But I do know how much I weigh and I have a goal in mind to make for the new year. Its doable and with a little work and perseverance, I know I can do it.
Another goal I am going to be setting for the new year is to eliminate dairy completely. I don't drink milk because yuck, but I do eat a lot of things with milk in them. What does that mean? A lot. It means no ice cream, no cake, cookies...... Not! It just means that all those Vegan cookbooks I have collecting dust on my shelf are going to be put to good use. Also my sister has a co-worker that is a vegan. I am going to try to get in touch with her and talk about what she eats, and to see if she can offer me some tips.
I am realistic. I know where I live and who my family is, but I also know that my family and friends will support me, even if that means I bring my own food when we dine. I hate to use the word vegan. It has so many stigmas that go with it. While I do believe in rights for every living creature I am doing this for my health. The books I have been reading have offered me undeniable truths, and I would like to be around for a while.
Will I mess up? Sure probably thousands of time, what is important to me is that I learn about my body and learn how to fuel without all the extra fats. Its no secret that I have a hard time digesting dairy anyway, so it probably won't pose to much of a challenge......until I see cake!
I also think it will be easier when I move to SoCal. They have restaurants and stores that cater to the hippie crowd ha ha hha.
But until then I will use the resources that I have. The internet is great, also I enjoy reading so I can pick up a book when I need. I figure the new year is a perfect time to start this journey because I will have a whole year until holiday season to really figure out how to cook/make some other dishes that I could add to the festivities.