For those of you just tuning in, I gave my brother a unique Christmas present two years ago by going vegetarian for a month. Last year, since I hadn't come up with a better idea, I decided to do it again. This year, you know what Chip and his totally adorable, totally awesome girlfriend gave me for Christmas? A new vegetarian cookbook! Which, by the way, I've since tried and it's excellent. And, by the way, this was the first time I'd ever MET Chip's girlfriend and she IS adorable and awesome. But anyhow, back to my story.
Seeing as how they gave me a vegetarian cookbook for Christmas, I knew there was no chance they'd feign surprise if I decided to go veggie again this year. I do, however, still have a few tricks up my sleeve so this year my gift involved giving Chip the choice to decide my fate - two months (non-consecutive) as a vegetarian, or one month as a vegetarian with one day each week completely vegan. The choice was truly his, but I couldn't help myself from gently reminding him how difficult it is to be a vegan in the midwest. I'm not sure if I'm relieved or stressed by the fact that he chose the two month option because really, it's not easy being a vegetarian in the midwest either. I actually gave Chip the opportunity to pick the two months I'd take the challenge, but reneged that deal when he rubbed his hand over his chin and said "I'm thinking November because that would the hardest on you with Thanksgiving and all." Nice sentiment, bro.
In addition to the extra meatless month this year, I have another little (unplanned) surprise for my meatless brother. A few weeks ago, after a long run with my running group, we were treated to breakfast at the home of a fellow runner who happens to be "mostly" vegetarian. During the meal, another runner happened to mention that she had decided to go vegetarian for the entire YEAR (show off) but had now decided to just go through January and then reevaluate (wimp). This got us talking about my meatless month(s) and she pledged to join me as a veg-head during March. Another runner happened to be listening and said, excitedly, "I'll do it too!" Let this be a warning to you, endorphins will do crazy things to your sensibilities. Never commit to ANYTHING (other than a shower) after running more than five miles without first discussing it with someone less vulnerable.
So, in short, 2011 brings at least two New Yorkers (and several farm animals), extra reasons to rejoice. An extra meatless month for me, and two extra members of the "Veggie for a Month Club."
