Having been a vegan for about 20 years, and now having gone raw about 8 months ago (as an Oh-my-goddess-my-husband-is-having-an-affair-and-threatening-to-leave-me-what-do-I-do sort of thing) and think choosing to go raw has been the best decision I've ever made. So, yeah, congrats to you Steve, and everyone else eating more raw food!
Also, something I've found useful in social situations is not to say anything about my raw/vegan diet, and just ask for specific things that are raw. And then if someone asks me why I'm asking for whatever it is I'm asking for, I say something like, "Oh, I'm just trying to eat more fresh whole foods, since they seem to make me feel better."
That way, I not only make it less intimidating, but I also have an "out" if I happen to feel inclined to eat something outside of my desired diet. (I still have periodic cravings, and I'm comfortable enough with myself that I'm ok with pretty much whatever I eat.) Not introducing a potentially charged label into my casual social situations seems to be a good way to go, while also offering some inspiration to others for actually eating more healthfully.
So yeah, happy fresh whole foods to you all! :-)
-Turil
The Wise Turtle Speaks