my new years resolution is to go vegan, from vegetarian. I have slowly been adjusting and cutting out non vegan foods but as from friday I will go completely vegan. I've been doing heaps of research to make sure I eat well and choose good foods and brands of other products but I just want to know if there's anything I absolutley must know or you think is essential please tell me! (I'll also add here that I am the only one in my family of omnis choosing this lifestyle and will be in my last year of school next year.) I'd love it if you wanted to share any favourite recipes or vegan poducts thanks!
The VNV website ( http://www.vnv.org.au/site/index.php) is full of handy information on veganism and vegan foods. Reading about all the milk-free varieties of chocolate in their "products and shopping" section is what made me finally commit to becoming vegan.
Get some cookbooks and go nuts! My fav is Recipes for Health & Happiness by Amanda Quinn.
Also, it's not just about eliminating dairy products but eating healthy by swapping white bread/pasta/rice for wholegrain (if not already) and adding lots of lentils, veggies, fruit, nuts etc! Good luck!
- dont get bummed out if you eat something that you think is vegan yet turns out to be wrong. veganism isn't perfection. everyone f**ks up every now and then. just make sure you learn from it.
-just make sure to check the labels and know what your eating. some companies will change their formula or ingredients every now and then.
-books you need:
*if you can, get your hands on a cooking book called the "veganomicon". quite possibly the best and only vegan cookbook you will ever need.
*Veg*n Shopping Guide - wallet sized book that lists all the animal ingredients used in food, clothing and cosmetics. has a few tips as well about veganism in general. a must for anyone new to veganism
As xgronx said be sure to check labels, they like to switch things around sometimes... that and you'll also be surprised to find some of your favs may still be vegan! Like Oreos!!
Getting a good cookbook also helps, although not really necessary as google is always a good alternative.
And remember - we have all been there ourselves, so if you need help give us a holla - someone will come running to help you
thanks! 
