[cookinmaven]

Hi again, Little Nikita;

I can relate with the "overwhelmed" feeling about change. It seems to be never easy, and it also seems we humans naturally avoid it when we feel comfortable where we are and then it is thrust upon us when we haven't made the active decision to make a change.

However, about the lamb; there is definitely a difference between mutton and actual lamb. Much of what is sold as "lamb" is really older than lamb and could be classified as "mutton". Mutton is old sheep. Lamb is young sheep. Older sheep smells different---stronger and not especially pleasant. And as your husband pointed out, it also has a stronger flavor.

Do you have a Costco near you? They sell actual lamb, from New Zealand. This is where we buy all of our lamb, unless we can find an Organic grower locally who has some when we get the taste. I would recommend Costco lamb and avoiding regular grocery store lamb unless your butcher at your local grocers is really honest. If they only have a cold case and no butcher, then I really wouldn't.

Try your family with "real" lamb (not mutton) and perhaps their response will be different. Lamb shoulder is a comparitively inexpensive cut, similar in price to shank and far less expensive than ribs or chops. Perhaps if you try that next your family's response will be more accepting. Also we are huge fans of garlic with lamb; even if the recipe does not call for any, I always put it in.

Best wishes with your journey into nutrition and change!