40 days... how long is that again?

Today has started the lent season for us Greek Orthodox's. We do not get a choice to gain or give something up. We have a pretty strict lent process although it is not nearly as strict as those that fast all day for other holidays so I should stop complaining..lol We need to give up meat and dairy for 40 days. While I will admit I might miss the occasionally turkey burger or chicken cutlet the meat is not my big issue. As most of you know dairy is the main staple in my diet. So how do I go 40 days with out it? I switched to Almond milk which is bareable enough ( although I miss my milk already) and Im sure by day 10 I will be dreaming of cheese but it is nothing compared to the sacrifices that people make everyday. So also on my quest of veganism for 40 days I have also decided to finally kick start this diet..because it would be way too easy to say I could just eat a bag of chips for dinner right =p!!! So I'm hoping that by the end of these 40 days I will have a lighter belly and a happier heart knowing that I can stick with it this year!! Life is way to short to NOT be healthy....so wish me luck =)