Thanks, man! Yeah above all I'm curious as to the effects this will have on energy and mood. As I've mentioned elsewhere, I go through bouts of depression and have a success rate with exercise that is 100% directly proportional to the fuel I put in my system.
Luckily I'm a big home cook, so I've got most of what I need, although I do really need a new blender. Just saving money until I can splurge on something I'll have a for a long time. But yep, mandoline, rice cooker etc — the latter's really one of the best things I've ever bought cooking-wise.
I hear ya on the processed foods, too... I've been reading up on things to watch out for. I really wish I didn't know Oreos are vegan, haha. But yep, most store-bought veg burgers and meat substitutes in general are awful for you. Just about the most crack-like thing I've encountered so far are Larabars. Jesus christ... they only have like three ingredients, but you don't wanna eat too many of them because they're pretty sweet and have a good bit of calories. Dangerous.
Austin does have some really great places, Casa de Luz being my fave. I've never been to Conscious Cravings though, definitely will have to check that out—glad to hear about it! Bouldin Creek Cafe is good, and Mother's is alright. Plenty of other options I need to explore as well.
I do feel fucking fantastic today—I will say that. I'm not going to chalk that up to day two of a vegan diet, which would be preposterous. I think it's probably mostly because the sun is out, and I'm extremely solar powered
Nonetheless feels good to be heading in the right direction. Excited / curious about the results.