After several days of emotional rollercoaster [anger, sadness, etcetera] I decided that diabetes is just a circumstance, kind of like an unexpected hill to climb. Reading menus is just a different kind of game.
I am testing before each meal and my numbers seem to be trending lower [between low 200's and low 100's]. The vegan thing turns out to be pretty easy most days and most places.
Looser clothes would seem to indicate weight loss. Exercise is still a challenge; if money gets better I will resume walking and playing golf courses a few times a week.
New project: vegan survival in the wild.
Thanks for the support, folks!