Hello love and welcome to my space! It’s Friday so it’s time for another celebration. Shamelessly Fabulous Friday was born out of my desire to share and celebrate folks that inspire me, uplift me and add a little sunshine to my day in the hopes that they do the same for you!
Today I am sharing and celebrating Chelsei of Eating With CJ! I came across Chelsei’s page a few months ago and I love her take on making creative and delicious vegan food. I love that Chelsei has taken her creativity past the plates on to clothing. Chelsei has a super cute vegan t-shirt line with unique designs that play on pop culture.
“I use it as a reminder to seek God and to be thankful when I’m at my lowest.”
I sat down for a Soulversation with Chelsei and here’s what she had to say:
How did you start vegan journey?
It snuck up on me. When I graduated high school, I stopped eating beef and pork and then by the time I was in collage, I gained a lot of weight and realized that I needed to make some changes. At first I thought, I would go vegetarian. Then it took me 6 months to go from vegetarian to vegan. It was gradual, it wasn’t an overnight thing. I made the change for my health and for ethical reasons.
Did you notice any spiritual changes when you made the shift to eating a plant based diet?
Spiritually I felt less guilt, but a lot of it was in my energy. I felt more positive.
Are there any foods that you avoid?
No, I’m not that picky. I’m always willing to try something new. Unless I have an allergy, I’m not avoiding anything and even then, it’s iffy.
What are your favorite quick meals to throw together?
Any type of vegetable stir fry over rice or quinoa. I love to make tofu scrambles, that one of my go-to breakfasts.
What made you decide that you wanted to start making t-shirts?
Part of it was trying to find my community because where I’m at, it’s hard to find other vegans. When I put on my shirts, it starts a conversation. It’s a good way for people to reach out. I am working on a few more designs for the holiday season.
What is something that is keeping you grounded right now?
My family. I just moved out the house a few months ago but I still go visit at least once a week because I’m used to having the support.
Who inspires you?
My mom. I got the pleasure of seeing her chase her dreams as I grew up. She went back to school and got into special education. She inspired me to want to do that same journey of my own and go into a career where I would be able to help people as well.
What career is that for you?
My degree is in nutrition and I’m currently saving up money to go into my dietetic internship to become a registered dietition. I want to use nutrition to help people from more of a scientific background to improve peoples health through their diet.
What is a simple thing that brings you joy?
Food, music, my friends. I’m a simple person.
What is a song you can here that instantly makes you want to move your body?
Any upbeat song by Beyonce!
What are your favorite self care practices?
It’s changed so much since quarantine. I used to go out to the movies every Friday. Lately I’ve been doing a lot of yoga at home. I’ve done a lot of Netflixing. I bought a kit to do my nails at home. I’m just trying to get a little bit of normalcy and pamper myself.
What are your best practices for getting through challenging times?
Other than praying, I like to come up with a plan for the things that I can change. And have the faith to know that for the things I cant change, that time will pass eventually . I remind myself that there are things I can’t change and things I can change and just knowing how to react to that.
What is something that you are grateful for right now?
I am grateful for this apartment. I’ve never lived alone and it’s so nice to have my own space to do what I want. I feel like I have the space to be more creative.
What is giving you hope for the future?
The younger generation gives me hope. It’s crazy to see how active and vocal they are!
Where can we find you?
Instagram: eatingwithcj
Tiktok: eatingwithcj
Blog: eatingwithcj
I had too much fun sharing and celebrating Chelsei today! Definitely check her out! Thanks so much for stopping by and until next time, Stay Fabulous, xo.
