Being nearly 13/16 done with high school, I’ve taken my fair share of demanding courses. However, the class that hands-down requires the most imagination, critical thinking and raw creative talent:

Lunch.

I’m a vegetarian. I eat: eggs, cheese and milk. I don’t eat: fish, chicken, turkey, steak, pork, bacon, sausage, ham, etc. This  isn’t about me being an Annoying Vegetarian™ or criticizing Beachwood’s food services– it’s merely a glimpse into what it’s like to buy a school lunch with my food restrictions. A memoir, if you will.

I pack my lunch almost every day, but sometimes, if the morning was especially rushed, I am forced to stand in the dreaded lunch line.

While the cafeteria does feature select vegetarian options, few are palatable enough to purchase.

When I’m feeling especially artistic, I fashion my own dish. Being not only a vegetarian but someone who is easily bored by eating the same lunch every day, I’ve learned to experiment and think outside the box.

I’ve gone through plenty of trial and error (you might be surprised how badly applesauce goes with saltine crackers). On the other hand, I’ve experienced moments of wonderful success. My proudest creations: cereal with milk and banana sliced thinly on top, mashed potatoes microwaved with broccoli and shredded cheese and croutons dipped in hummus for a crunchy Mediterranean treat. Maybe I’m biased, but I truly believe my dishes could be featured on the Food Network.

Sometimes, however, I lack the creative inspiration and drive. There have been times when my lunch has consisted of no more than tater tots, an apple and perhaps Gatorade. It’s been awhile since I took health class, but I’m fairly certain that meal does not include the five essential food groups.

Even though I understand that most people crave meat on a daily basis, I wouldn’t object if the lunch ladies threw me a bone now and then (on second thought, don’t — I can’t eat meat). It would be great if I could get in the lunch line without thinking, “Hmmm … how can I season my french fries so that they taste more like a main course?” Alas, I fear I will never see such a day.

While being a vegetarian has made the process of buying a school lunch considerably more difficult, I wouldn’t trade this unique learning experience for the world. Next time you catch me in the cafeteria sporting a gorgeous mustard-yellow plate, ask me what I’m eating. You may be surprised.