I'm starting a new column here on Happy Herbivore: once a week I want to showcase YOU, my wonderful Herbies and your amazing stories! This week's guest is Tita!

Two weeks ago, Tita sent me this simple 1-line email "A new vegan due to coronary artery stent!" I wrote back that I hoped she was feeling better and she replied that not only was she feeling great, she was back to running 5 days a week again! I knew right …

Can "eating healthy" and "budget" coexist in the same sentence? Yes! 

While there is no denying that some healthy foods can be pricey, it's possible to eat well (and save!) on a budget with a little leg work, smart shopping and planning.

A little more than a year ago I did a poverty awareness challenge where I had to eat for a week on $15 - in New York City.

Sure I wasn't going to win …

Lately I've been saying "I will no longer apologize for who I am or who I am not."

It all started with coming to a realization that I needed to stop trying to shove a square peg in a round hole, and instead, go find a square hole. But now it's extending to my entire life. I am who I am. Let me explain.

If you've ever tried to friend request me on Facebook, chances are you got a message …

In a little more than two weeks my second cookbook, Everyday Happy Herbivore, will be hitting shelves.

To get you excited for her arrival, I'm sharing a few recipes here on the blog. First up was my Sweet Potato Dal and now -- Skillet Refried Beans!

Sure canned refried beans are easy, but you just can't top the taste of homemade. The little effort required here is so worth it -- these beans are fantastic! 

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Since posting about my journey to a plant based diet, I’ve receiving a few questions about what a plant based diet is so I thought it deserved its own post!

In short, a plant-based diet is a diet that centers around plants: vegetables, fruits, beans and legumes, whole grains and seeds and nuts. 

Why plants? Plants are good sources of protein, carbohydrates, naturally occurring fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, water... and they're good for you! Plant foods also don't have …