This is a test... A CONTEST!

But still, indeed, a test. That's right, pop quiz hot shot. Time to show us all what ya got. Here's how it goes.

Step one: send an email to me, Melissa Bastian, at bastian613@gmail.com with the correct answers to the following five questions.

Step two: POST A COMMENT on THIS blog entry letting me know that you've sent answers. You must do both of these things to qualify.

Now here's the really terrific part. Ready? EVERYONE who both responds correctly to all five questions *and* posts a comment here on this blog gets a prize!! What will that prize be? It's a surprise prize! Something from Bright - maybe a pin, maybe a zine, maybe a sticker, probably a little piece of Vegan Etsy swag - who knows. The point is, everyone's a winner. And who doesn't love winning? Heck, for that matter, who doesn't love snail mail?

Now, for the challenge. Some of these will be one word answers, and some may require a sentence or two. If you want to elaborate further, go for it! If I get any really exceptional answers I'll post them next week. You have until Sunday the 26th at 11:59 p.m. to email me with the correct responses.

Let the best everybodies win!

Question 1: What is the origin of the word "vegan"?

Question 2: What is the animal protein, usually derived from milk, that makes so many soy cheeses and other "non dairy" products not actually vegan?

Question 3: What non-vegan source is food-grade shellac frequently derived from?

Question 4: Name three possible substitutes for eggs when "veganizing" a baking recipe.

Question 5: As a vegan eating in a vegetarian Indian restaurant, name two common ingredients that you might be on the lookout for.

Go!