Today, Erica Roper is one of my favorite friends on Facebook. But little did you know, about thirteen years ago, you could find Erica and me sailing, canoeing and white water rafting (wait, no) through a reservoir in Mascoutah, Ill. Yes, Erica and I were in the same Senior Recreation class in high school. And yes, I believe she did fall in once. Did I rescue her? Well, I would now. And that’s all that matters.

Meet Erica Roper.

What is your name?
Erica Roper

How long have you been a non-vegan?
30 years

Why have you decided not to be vegan?
Bacon. How do you not eat bacon? I know it’s like the “in” thing to love right now. Nevertheless, I love bacon so, so, much. Having said that, I do feel very guilty when I think about the fact that I am eating a dead animal. But, I do it anyway because it tastes so good.

Where do you get your protein?
At the protein store.

What vegan food do you fear you’re missing out on as a non-vegan?
Hummus, I suppose. Kale?

Do you eat fish? You eat fish, right?
Actually, I’ve never tried fish. When I was younger, it seemed too real to eat a fish. I thought, “Fish are pets. You don’t eat pets.” And, I’ve never had any interest in trying it as an adult. I like what I like (bacon), and I don’t deviate too far from there.

Are there any animals in your life, such as pets or funny neighborhood squirrels? Tell us a story about them.
I have 2 dogs. Igby and Oliver. No real interesting stories. They do cute dog things all the time, and they’re always happy to see me.

What do you do for fun besides eating meat and dairy?
That’s about it. Just busy eating all day. Although, I’m not really into dairy, either. Cheese and milk make me uncomfortable (Wow, I’m sounding like the worst non-vegan ever).

Do you have any upcoming projects you want to plug, work related or otherwise?
Nope. I have a lot of ideas, for potential projects, in my head (most of which will never come to fruition).

Make up a question of your own and answer it.
What are you passionate about aside from bacon?
Glad you asked. I’d have to say education. My whole life, I’ve always known what I was meant to do. It has been a struggle to finally get myself to the point of being capable of accepting that responsibility. And even recognizing that my purpose can take shape in a variety of ways. I always thought “I have to teach.” And, while I definitely want to be a teacher. I’ve been focusing beyond that. I truly believe every child is capable of great things. I think the problem is that some children aren’t given the same opportunities. Especially in St. Louis. Some children are doomed because of their socioeconomic status, and we need to fix that. Providing every child with a quality education is what we should strive for in this country. It’s a daunting task, I’m aware. But, I think it’s important that we do whatever we can to improve our schools.

Song: “Amidinine” By Bombino
Recipe: BLT Mac & Cheeze with Eggplant Bacon