I was all ready to post a blog about this delicious multigrain pancake mix my husband picked out, which we used to make pancakes this morning, and to brag about how they actually recommend using soy or rice milk to make the pancakes, when I took a closer look at the ingredients. Buttermilk! Grrr. My husband’s usually very good about checking ingredients, but he missed it. And I trusted him and didn’t double check before we made the pancakes.

But I’m not freaking out. The thing is, we all make mistakes. And there are probably things we’ve eaten at restaurants that we thought were vegan or were told were vegan that weren’t. But that’s no reason to throw in the towel or feel like you’ve failed. It’s hard work being purely vegan. There are animal products in so many things. It takes a lot of research to become a pro at avoiding animal products in what we eat, wear, and use each day. Heck, even natural toothbrushes can contain pig hair.

But for me, I know that for the most part, I’m already doing more than many people by avoiding as many animal products as I do each day, educating others about veganism, and supporting charities that fight against animal cruelty. So if an item containing milk ends up in my system once in a rare while, it’s no reason to feel like I’m tainted. I just think of it as a learning experience and move on.

We are vegans living in a non-vegan world. Accidents happen. But think about all the times you don’t use animal products and give yourself a pat on the back. Be proud of your accomplishments. Try not to dwell on the accidents.

And watch this adorable video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NA1i36Dd1qs