Physical wellness... it becomes me

I have gradualy been opening myself up to health awareness. Originaly it was just becoming aware of what is healthy and unhealthy and why. Continuing to mostly eat junk, but being aware of it. Until about 2 months ago, thats when my health started becoming more important to me. I quit smoking, which is huge. I have also dedicated myself to only whole grains (no enriched stuff), and not eating pork(wich was easier than I thought it would be except when craving sandwiches). I got an absolutely awesome salad recipe from my future brother in-law which I could live on and practically have for the last 2 months,

that and whole grain ready-rices. I feel better and in 2 months of not smoking I have not gained any weight at all. (the last time I quit smoking I gained 20 lbs in the first 2 months and an additional 20 over the following 6 months) When I quit, this was a huge concern for me, but I realy couldn't afford to keep smoking. So halfway through my visit in florida, I said goodbye to cigarettes and I have not had one since. I have been eating a lot, but most of it healthy and I think eating healthy at even intervals has been the reason for not gaining weight. However pop is my weakness now.
Alright, so I have given that wonderful history, all for the sake of the purpose for todays blog. Today kicks off a deeper committment to my own wellness. I am square with my gym after having my membership on hold for a busy summer and ready to get back to work. I am carbonated beverage free from this moment on(cant commit to kickin caffeine just yet). And I am going to try something I have never even wanted to try before... are you ready?... I am going to try to eat no meat except fish on occasion (just realy dont know if I am ready to eliminate fish yet as its the only meat that still appeals to me.) So I am going to take a before picture of myself, but I will spare you by not posting it. However, when I do start seeing a healthier body, I will post the before with the after. :) I am excited to feel myself become healthier as my halfway journey up to now has made a noticeable impact on my mind, I am very eager to experience the whole of it. Losing the extra weight will be a big plus. Try my yummy salad...

The greens are romane and spinach, but I like the spring salad mix and spinach best. feel free to experiment with what greens you like best (no iceburg or butter lettuce). One medium bowl full, enough for 2 meal sized salads
Sweet, mild flavor onion 1/2 onion chopped
vine ripened tomato at least one cut into bite size pieces
spanish olives drained a handful
reese marinated artichoke hearts drained 1/2 a jar about 4-6 pieces

place above ingredients in bowl together (Quantity's are per your preference really)
then lightly salt and toss

then comes the good part

drizzle about 1/8 C of cold pressed olive oil over salad... massage for 30 seconds or so until everything is coated well

then sprinkle rice vinegar (about half as much as oil) and toss

salad is ready to eat, but often best the next day