From A Challenge to A Lifestyle

I am normally a transparent person, but I must admit that I have been keeping a secret from you. For September, I ate only fresh fruits, savory vegetables, and crunchy nuts, which I did not cook. Yes, for 30 days, I followed a raw vegan lifestyle and prepared all my meals at home.  

Now, I know what you are thinking: “She’s crazy.”

And I am not going to lie, when The Massie Sisters first presented the challenge, I thought the same thing. “There is no way I could do that,” I told myself. “I love cookies and French fries. And I hate spending time in the kitchen.”

But as I do with every change, challenge, or obstacle that comes my way, I kept an open mind. 

Back in August, I stepped on a scale at my best friend’s house, and the numbers staring back at me shocked me. I could not grasp how I allowed myself to be that unhealthy. I know they say the number does not matter, but my clothes did not fit, and I hated seeing myself in the mirror and in pictures. The image I created for myself was not real. I did not have that curvy, cute body I used to have.

My body was full of processed foods that weighed me down and made me feel sluggish. I needed to get it together, not only for me but for my children.

So, that Monday, I committed to change. Not only did I continue exercising 15 minutes at home every day, but I also walked to and from work. I saw results, but I knew I could do more to truly feel healthy again.

Then I saw The Massie Sisters’ post about a 30-Day Raw Vegan Challenge on Instagram. The guidelines were simple: eat only fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts; prepare everything at home; and do not cook anything past 118°F.

When I agreed to the challenge, I felt the anticipation brewing inside my bones and into my soul. The unknown terrifies me more than I like to admit. But I was more worried I would not be able to do it. My love for French Fries and Dark Chocolate caramel treats was going to be strong. But I decided to focus on the opportunity instead of the fear.

Here’s the thing: I love salad. No, seriously, I do. I tell everyone my favorite food is a salad because you can make it as universal as you want. Think about it. You got veggie salad, fruit salad, taco salad, macaroni salad, pasta salad, and so much more. You can be creative with salad, and I absolutely love making all the different combinations.

At first, I figured I would drink juices in the morning and eat salad for lunch and dinner. “This is going to get boring very quickly.” I thought.

But oh my, let me say I surprised myself with how much fun I had creating meals. The possibilities were endless. My love for fruit grew, I rediscovered vegetables I hadn’t eaten in years, and I enjoyed being in the kitchen.

I made nachos, stuffed peppers, cauliflower rice bowls, tacos, and more. I made my own cashew milk for smoothies and ice cream, learned to make jelly and crackers, and even crafted my own dressings and sauces. My creativity exploded.

But it wasn’t easy.

My kids didn’t join me on the challenge, which was okay—but it meant I was still cooking for them. I’ll never forget stirring a pot of mac and cheese and not being able to taste it. Some nights, they’d eat dinner while I was still preparing mine.

And oh, how I missed coffee and French fries.

There were some long days when my mind whispered, “It’s okay to sneak a snack “while packing the kids' school lunches. But my body said, “No, we want better.” I would snack on some fruit or drink water, and I would be okay.

As the days and weeks passed, I learned that I could eat the foods I craved again, but I would have to prepare them differently. 

I could make my own French fries and cookies. I realized I enjoyed being in the kitchen. I did not mind how long it took to prepare a meal, sometimes for the day or the next few days ahead. This experience became a joy for me. And for a while, I debated whether I would go back to eating cooked foods again.

Now, I am slowly reintroducing cooked meals back into my diet, for dinner only.

I am still amazed at the results. You always hear about how much better it is for you to eat fruits and vegetables, but when they become the entire source of your intake, you fully understand their power.

I sleep better than I ever have before. I used to be lucky to get four hours of solid rest, but now I often sleep six or more. My energy skyrocketed, and I hated sitting still for too long. After a long day at work, I still had the energy to take care of the home and make my meals for the next day (not every day, but many days).

And yes, I lost inches, like a lot of inches. My clothes fit differently, and I’ve even pulled out outfits I hadn’t worn in years.

I could not have done this without The Massie Sisters and their guidance and support. They sent a guidebook, a calendar, and a guided journal before we began. They hosted weekly Zoom check-ins, sent weekly emails, and kept us connected through a group chat. Their support was undeniable, and it was what got me through this experience. Their honesty about their own struggles helped me stay grounded and inspired. They made me feel part of a community.

On our final call, I told them that I’m officially committed to my health—no more excuses. It’s time to stop “talking the talk” and start truly “walking the walk.” Literally.

This isn’t just a challenge anymore.

It’s my lifestyle.

 If you want to learn more about this challenge and others hosted by The Massie Sisters, check them out on Instagram and Facebook at @TheMassieSisters.

I promise you, learning about your health and making a change is something you will never regret.