Shabbat Dinner & Fall Festivities

I went with my friends Laurena and Johnny to Shabbat dinner tonight and had a great time. Looking back, a year ago I'd be the shy girl in the corner too self-conscious to talk to anyone but tonight I had no problem introducing myself to people and making my presence known. I could tell that people were drawn to that, even making eye contact with a few cuties (don't have a heart attack dad, they're obviously Jewish, it was Shabbat dinner LOL). 

As I said earlier, I was a bit nervous about the options they would have for me there but to my surprise, they had good food! I got salad with a ton of veggies and a piece of grilled chicken and quinoa (which was absolutely amazing...better than I make it, for sure). I didn't really like the chicken and I'm not sure why but I haven't been liking chicken lately. I'm basically a vegetarian, except for turkey in my wraps. My dad recommended this awesome documentary called "Forks Over Knives" which I highly encourage everyone to watch. It's about eliminating (or limiting) animal-based food products in our diet. In America, we overestimate the amount of protein we need, especially from meat. In other countries, meat is served as a palm-sized side dish whereas in the US, we eat it as our main course. Lately, I've been relying on other sources of protein such as vegetables, quinoa, brown rice, tofu and BEANS.


Anyway, after Shabbat I headed to my friends apartment because she was having a Fall Festivities party. It was very fun! I got to see so many people I haven't seen in a while and it was nice to meet new people as well. I was again a little shocked at how outgoing I was, especially since I arrived by myself. I felt really comfortable. However, the food part wasn't easy. The party was centered around food and drinks that I could not enjoy. Jen and Sam made "fall treats" such as cake bites, Apple pie (ughh, I'm drooling), and pumpkin cupcakes. Also, they had caramel appletinis, shots (made of apple cider, apple flavored vodka and homemade whipped creamed), as well as many other fall cocktails. I didn't indulge in any of the food but I did have a glass (or two) of red wine, which is permitted. 


 I was kicking myself when I saw everyone indulge, even making a joke, "Guys, I picked the wrong effin 10 days to be doin this shit!" But at the end of the day, laying in my bed as I type this, I am happy I restrained. It's 10 days, I won't die. I can do this!