So, you've been seeing your Vegan significant other for a little while now. You've both made adjustments to each other, you're friends still look at you a little strange sometimes and Mom and Dad have come to accept the fact that the person their kid is dating isn't all that bad despite the odd diet they have. Life is good and your Vegan wants to try a new recipe that they have discovered. Being the enlightened, accepting person that you are you are all for it. There are just a few "special" things they need to pick up and they can only seem to get them at the local Health Food Store.

Excuse me? Did you say Health Food Store? Your resolve falters and you're ready to throw in the towel and hit the all-U-can-eat buffet at your local "Porky's Ribs 'n' Suds"

Woah there, take it from a guy that's been there. It's not all that bad. I used to think that health food stores were filled with hippies and weird food that would probably kill you. And to a certain extent that's true, health food stores probably have a higher per-capita average of hippies and new agers than your local butcher shop, but that's not saying much now is it? So, let this wonderful person you've been dating all these months take you by the hand and take your first step into and interesting new world.

Now, this isn't too bad is it? Your health food stores come in two basic types, at least they do here in Gainesville. On one hand you have your standard stereotypical health food store with lots of incense and tofu, on the other you have a produce shop that sells a lot of vegetarian and vegan foods. Of the two the second type is a lot less stressful because you'll see lots of stuff in there you recogonize, maybe they even sell (gasp) Meat! If you ever get lost or confused you can always rush back to the meat counter to feel safe. The first type IS very intimidating, but don't let it daunt you! There are actually a lot of really cool things in there. You'll find stuff that you never thought exsisted and sound really interesting and maybe (dare I say it) sound tasty. So give it a try, not only will you find something YOU want, but you'll find a much wider selection of goodies that you can share with your Vegan.

Just one note of caution, don't go broke. Health and natural food stores can be extremely pricey. Since you're in a land of specialty items, be prepared to pay specialy prices. Happy shopping!