Only a Month Late….

The term “the city that never sleeps” should actually be “the people that never sleep.” I feel like I never get a chance to just sit down, write, and relax! But… not complaining at all. Life is wonderful, busy, and full of running! The Brooklyn Rock & Roll Half Marathon was now about a month ago. I trained (kinda), got up at the crack of dawn, and called an Uber to get to the start at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn. My Uber driver could not quite wrap his head around the idea of me running in an organized race, and running 13.1 miles for fun. After a quick de-tour into Manhattan, I arrived in plenty of time, dropped my bag, and headed to my corral. 

The sunrise over the Brooklyn Museum was stunning, and we were off! Prior, I had set a goal to run a sub 2 hour, but leading up I decided I just wanted to have fun. I am not good at forcing myself to run fast, do speed workouts, or be uncomfortable. Running for me has always been my time to clear my head. After my first mile at 8:45 pace, I decided to ditch the fun and go all out. The race passed in a total blur; bands at every mile, beautiful fall trees, and the burning of my own legs. At about mile 8 I started hurting as I have not really trained my long runs at a 9 minute pace. I ate my dates I carried with me, grabbed some water at the stations, and charged on. Mile 10 we entered Prospect Park, my first time there, and it was so lovely. The first time I had really seen the coming fall foliage this season! Of course, the park also boasted some decent hills, and I watched my pace slow down (thanks Florida flatness.) I kind of gave up my sub 2 hour at that point, and crossed in 2 hours and 2 minutes, realizing I totally could have done it. I got my medal, teared up as I always do appreciating my body and the spirit of running, and headed home for a bagel. Running races never fails to make me consider the human spirit; how we all line up excited to run miles and miles for no reason and how we cheer and urge each other on. I feel that if everyone ran, the world would be a more peaceful and wholesome place.

Another huge addition to my life recently, my running group “The Dashing Whippets.” I had done group runs in the past, but never really enjoyed them and always felt very self conscious as I do not deem myself as “speedy.” After a period of feeling alone, I decided to buck up and pay the dues and get myself out there. As soon as I showed up to our meeting spot Monday night, I was immediately welcomed and made to feel at home. The team is so supportive, friendly, and we all share an extreme passion for running. Finally, people I can talk running about 24/7 and they will understand my insanity of running a Marathon and the joy of discussing running shoes! After a few runs, and even cheering on fellow Whippets at the New York City Marathon, I feel like I have my family here in the big scary city. For anyone as meek as I am in joining a running group, do it. It could really change your life.

Cheering on the NYC Marathon from Mile 21 in the Bronx!

Some of the fall beauty I am really loving! Keep running friends.

When Your Race Doesn't Go As Planned

You get upset, and you move on. As a “new runner,” although I have run a bunch of 5ks, 5 half marathons, a full marathon, and regularly run; I would describe myself as a new runner. I have never ran for time, more so to complete the distance and for the mental clarity it brings me. after running regularly for about three years now, I decided to up my game and set new goals for myself and to improve my speed and stamina. One of those goals was to run my 10k race in under 54 minutes, just under an average pace of 9 minutes per mile. No, this isn’t generally fast but for me it was. I trained (maybe not enough speed work), and I was fairly confident I could accomplish it. this goal fed into my next goal, running a sub two hour half marathon on October 8^th.

Waking up for the race at 5am I could already feel my body yelling at me after spending too much time on my feet the previous two days, and taking a very intense yoga class the morning before. I got up, dressed, had coffee and my pre-race rice cake with peanut butter and banana, and headed out the door. I was immediately smacked in the face by the heat and humidity that had been absent for the last few days, not a runners friend. After a train ride, running a mile from my train stop to the start (with a bathroom stop at the McDonald’s Times Square) I had made it to the start. The race was set up to start and end at Pier 84 on the Hudson River. After checking my unnecessary jacket, I headed to the corral to take part in the warm up and we were off at 7am! My body was yelling at me. My leg’s felt like lead and my stomach was a sloshy mess. The first three miles I made in sub 9 minute pace like I was hoping, but then I realized it just wasn’t my day so I pulled back and tried to just enjoy it. My body just did not want to run, so I did my best and crossed the finish in about 57:30, and I moved on.

I headed to the celebration area, got my adorable free t-shirt, some snacks, a bag, and a blender bottle. Exhaustion hit me, and I headed home. Now, this was not at all the race I hoped for. No, I probably was not fully trained to reach my goal time (something I really need to work on- speed training), and I cant help that my body was just not having it. As runners, we have to realize that not everyday is a great day, and we cant perform 100% every day. These races are given to us to appreciate the times that running feels like skipping through a cloud, and be thankful for the amazing feat that we have the gift and ability to run. Maybe I am not a runner; maybe I am meant to be a yogi. However, running makes me very happy. So I will continue to do it for the mental clarity and “runner’s high” rather than specific goals. And when I do not make my goals, I will not be disappointed but blessed that I could even try.

Keep running friends. 

Plant Based NYC Eats

Although I no longer like to label myself as a “vegan” or “vegetarian”, I do consider my diet to be plant based and free of animal products. New York City is a mecca for plant based living; restaurants commonly offer and label their vegan or vegetarian options, there are many vegan and plant based restaurants, and grocery stores even offer more options for veggies! I used to trek far and wide for my favorite dairy free milks, ice creams, cheeses, etc. and was extremely pleased to find that my local store has even more options than before! The nut cheeses I find are mind blowing, and every flavor of cashew milk ice cream! My cow loving heart is very pleased with the assortment of options.

Eating out is easier than ever before and more tantalizing for non-vegans to try! Here is a short list of some of my favorite places so far. Of course, I will continue to update this list in further posts.

Blossom

I had been previously with a meat eater, who was pleasantly surprised and loved it himself! I can’t remember what I had, but the food and experience was amazing.

My vegan mother came and I had to take her; we hit up Blossom on Carmine and enjoyed the Steak and Salmon (all meat free of course!) We still talk about how great it was and how often we crave it.

Seitan cutlet & gravy

Salmon dinner

Blossom Du Jour
Sister to Blossom, this "fast food vegan" offers your favorite comforts in a healthier and kinder manner! I had the BLT wrap.... fantastic. They even offer things like chicken tenders and Bacon Egg & Cheese sandwiches! A new favorite in the Hell's Kitchen area of Manhattan. Perfect lunch spot on the go or before a Broadway show!

V Spot

Another of my favorites! I enjoy Latin inspired quinine which is sometimes difficult to find dairy and meat free. This place is off the charts, I’ve had the spinach burrito twice and I recommend upgrading your side salad to a Caesar. The bacon will make your day.

My sister had the Supreme Quesadilla which featured a spicy dip and plantains inside… incredible.

By Chloe

This uber trendy spot is popular among vegans and non-vegans alike. Their menu is all-American featuring sandwiches, burgers, salads, and incredible desserts. I have had the Guac Burger with Sweet Potato fries, and their tofu scramble breakfast platter. I would also recommend picking up a cup of their ice cream for your sweet tooth.

Bareburger

Veggie burgers are my ultimate weakness. I think I could actually eat one every single day. Bareburger has many locations throughout the city and the boroughs (one conveniently around the corner from me) and is my go to with friends. They offer 3 different options for veggie patties, sprouted vegan buns, vegan cheeses, and SO many veggie toppings and pickles! Meat eaters love it, veggies love it, beer drinkers love it. Seriously, something for everyone. And it is organic and cute to boot ;)

Franchia

On a rainy day in the area, I popped in with my friend Brooke to test this one out, and I have been back 4 times since. Wow. Exquisite, the décor is beautiful and well themed, the menu is extensive (all vegan) with appetizers galore, sushi, rice and noodle bowls, cocktails, and desserts! I love the Vegetarian ‘Duck’ Bibimbap (favorite), and I have also had the Javanese Noodles Goreng, and the Tofu and Vegetables Claypot in Spicy Ginger Sauce (pictured.) I could eat here everyday and never get tired of it because of their endless options! Vegs and meat eaters alike have enjoyed it, highly recommended for all!

My final eatery on this particular post:

Candle 79

Numerous times I have walked past Candle 79 and scoured their menu online, finally I had a reason to go! my best friend Allison was coming to visit for her birthday, and picked Candle 79 as her birthday dinner. After a long day of playing tourist, we were escorted through the restaurant to a cozy table upstairs. Deciding what to eat here was one of the hardest of our lives. We split the Empanadas appetizer and were immediately blown away. I can't say I've had many in my life, but these were the best by far. For my meal, I had the Mushroom Crepe with the most amazing sauce drizzled on top and a side Jalapeno salad. Allison chose the pasta special of the day and both were killer. Since it was of course her special day, she chose the Berry Crumble that came with a special candle (which I would expect from a restaurant with the name candle in it!) This was one of the best vegan experiences of my life based on the atmosphere, service, and food quality and options. I would recommend this for anyone, probably the easiest place for a non-vegan to eat because the choices were very similar to that of a standard restaurant. I will definitely be going back soon!

Thanks for reading friends, more restaurant posts to come as I explore the mecca of food here in New York City! 

Fall Race Plans

Ah fall, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin beers, pumpkin candles, sweaters, boots fall leaves, cooler temperatures, and now I get to experience the transition of the season FO REAL! I could not be more excited. I am ticking the days away until the cool temperatures move in and I don't die running in the heat everyday and I can frolic in the park with leaves crunching under my feet!

Fall is also the perfect time for races, especially in New York City. It's been overwhelming trying to pick and choose what races I wanted to run; some weekends have half-marathons on both Saturday and Sunday! Here is what is on the books so far:

Run 10 Feed 10: 10k in Hudson River Park September 18.
My goal for this race is to run fast.... which I don't enjoy. I am a spiritual runner; I run for the enjoyment, the way it eases my mind and brings me peace. But for this race I would like to shoot for 55 minutes or under (fast for me.)

Brooklyn Rock and Roll Half Marathon: October 8
I have ALWAYS wanted to run a Rock & Roll after only hearing the best things about it! So when I found that one was just a quick train ride away I was sold. There are live bands all along the course, and much of it is run in Prospect Park that I am excited to see!

I am hoping for this to cut my PR by 7 minutes and run it in under two hours. Like I've said, I am an endurance runner, not a speed runner so I am hoping by incorporating one speed workout a week and a tempo run that I can accomplish this! A little over a month to go!

After my January marathon, I have been thirsty for another. I went back and forth thinking about the Brooklyn Marathon and Philadelphia Marathon (both in early November) that I would have adequate time training for, but with adjusting to city life, making new friends, I decided to wait to do another marathon. It was a tough decision, but after a little bit more time I think I will be more ready for the next one and the next training cycle. Perhaps I will get into the NYC Marathon next year, or the Marine Corps Marathon instead since it holds a special place in my heart as my dad and sister both ran in. I am also considering an ultra in the near future.... only time will tell!

Keep running friends :) 

Running and the City

Since moving to New York City, people always ask me, "Where do you run? Aren't you constantly stopping at lights?" In actuality, NYC is one of the most pedestrian friendly cities to run in. You can get anywhere, from any of the boroughs to any point in the city, all on foot.

I have already mapped out my "go to" running routes around my area, for quick morning or easy runs and a track nearby for speed workouts. The biggest plus about morning runs (typically around 5:30am), are that there are very few cars so I can easily avoid stopping at lights and can do my runs almost completely non-stop, and avoid the summer sun! During the summer months, the sun rises around 5:30am so it is already bright out and I have no need for a safety light. However, it is starting to stay dark until almost 6:15am (usually when I am getting home from my run) so I bring a little clip on light with me that blinks to alert people and cars I am coming. I ALWAYS feel best getting my runs in before work, it sets my day up feeling my best, thinking most positively, allowing myself time to see friends or go to events after work, or... to come home and Netflix and get in bed at 9pm (fave.)

Those mornings that I just can't drag myself out of bed, I lightly pack my Osprey Daylite backpack for work, wear my running shoes to work, and then change and run home from the office. I live in Queens but work in Manhattan, so my run commute is the perfect distance for a short after work run (about 4 miles even.) I also get to run over the Queensboro Bridge which I think is absolutely stunning and boasts views of the East River, Roosevelt Island, and if you turn around mid-bridge, a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline. For these runs I take it pretty easy and call and talk to my parents on my run, listen to music, and just reflect on my day and my immense blessings.

I HIGHLY suggest this backpack for anyone that wants to do a running commute, a light day of hiking, or to simply carry more than a belt can on a run. I purchased this at Paragon Sports in NYC (available online as well) for $50.00 which I thought was extremely reasonable in contrast to many competitor packs. Here are the dimensions: 13 L, 18H X 9W X 9D IN., and weights only 1 LB! It has a pouch in the back to fit a large Camelbak bladder and on the strap a place to thread the drinking tube through so it stays in place. There are two adjustable cross body straps that are fantastic; this backpack does not bounce on me at all and is amazingly comfortable. I have had zero issues, used it to commute carrying Tupperware, wallet, an umbrella, my clothes from the day, and water. I even got caught in a torrential downpour and it kept everything inside dry; a pleasant surprise. I have also gone biking and traveling with it and it holds enough for a weekend away.
Osprey Daylite

My favorite place to run has to be Central Park because of its majestic beauty, history, and is a runners paradise. There are miles of paved roads, trails, hills, and many different running terrains. An area I highly recommend is The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, which has a 1.58 mile running loop around the beautiful lake with views of both the East and West side of Manhattan. It is perfect for runners, walkers, and fall strolls. For a longer run, the Outer Park Drive Loop is 6.03 miles with many hills and views of the four sides of the park, different neighborhoods, and the many areas the park has. Certainly the best part about the park is that there are running and biking lanes throughout so you are not interrupted and safe! There are many races during all seasons of the year taking place in the park as well as other events, something for everyone to find to do runner or not! I will post a map of my favorite route soon.

 A smoothie bowl after a long, hot run :)

Thankfully, the dog days of summer running are coming to an end. This will be my first time experiencing the coming of fall, changing of the leaves, and cooler running temps (Florida was consistently 70 degrees or higher all year.) So any tips on apparel I may need for fall or winter are greatly appreciated as my wardrobe consists of shorts and tanks!

Keep running friends. 

So it's been a minute...

Life has been nothing less but hectic, and absolutely wonderful for the past few months which resulted in a lack of posting. Between running my first Marathon in January, to some mini vacations, job hunting, moving to New York City, starting a new job, writing has been the last thing on my agenda unfortunately. However, I promise to post weekly about my exciting new adventures, struggles, and of course running which is picking back up quite wonderfully.

So... I did a thing and ran a Marathon in January. I ran the Town of Celebration Marathon and met my time goal and had a truly fantastic time with it. I struggled, triumphed, learned how strong I am physically and mentally, and crossed the finish line with tears on my face and barely able to breathe because of how proud I was of myself. Here are a couple pictures my sweet father took after he cheered me on:

Moving to New York City has been a dream of mine since I was 19 years old. Although I have a mountain spirit, I decided for my career and current state of 24-ness that I would pick up and move to the big apple. I have been here now for going on 4 months, and when they say "the city that never sleeps" they really mean it. New Yorkers function in a constant state of being tired. I love the non-stop action, opportunities at my finger tips, and how quickly I am excelling and moving forward in my career. No where else in the world does your career boom as quickly as it does here, with lots of moving parts, quick negotiations, and people willing to give you chances.

Mom's visit in July

I love how active the city and its people are, being forced and loving walking everywhere in such a pedestrian friendly city. You can literally walk the entire city, and I regularly strap on a backpack and can even run home from work! (I will do a backpack and NYC necessary gear review soon!) There are also copious amounts of running clubs and races regularly going on around the city. I have joined the Nike Running Club for many runs and will soon run with the Brooklyn Trail Runners to experience some of the more scenic trails around the city. I am very excited with how easily accessible it is to reach the trails around the area, even including the Appalachian Trail.

Running here is hands down the best way to explore, to de-stress, to remember who I am, my goals and ambitions, and to not allow myself to get caught up in doing things that are not uniquely me. When I run I feel in the purest form of myself, I have the thoughts that get jumbled up in regular day to day activities. I am kinder, more patient, understanding, and loving. Running will do this to you, if only the whole world ran.

 NYRR Women's Mini 10k (not sure why "mini")

 Nike Pride Run

Running the Queensboro bridge to Manhattan

The Three People You'll Meet in NYC

Serendipity: the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.

I believe in fate, moments, and the power of the universe bringing important people and experiences into your life during crucial periods of time. My recent adventure to New York City brought me three very important people and conversations that will leave a lasting impact on me, and at a very influential time of my life.

#1: The Creative

While strolling through the streets of the very beautiful Dumbo area of Brooklyn, I noticed a little shop with the words "art" and "music" listed on the Windows and I made the decision to further investigate. Upon entry, a woman who greeted me with a welcoming smile that radiated the most beautiful rays of sunshine with a warm hello. Her name was Natchie. Natchie is a singer, songwriter, and illustrator by way of colored pencil who creates art inspired by her music. Many of these are scenes of New York City, like the Empire State Building and the main pathway of Central Park with tiny unique people on their merry way. Her art is very whimsical, bright, cheerful, and moving. The songs that inspired her art are breathtaking and some heartwrenching. She spoke to me like an old friend describing her way of creativity and her passions flowing from her voice. She helped me pick out a gift for my sister that could not be more perfect for her, and of course a couple for myself as well.

She followed her passions as a singer, songwriter, artist, and took these three things and cultivated them into an original career where she goes to work everyday doing the things she loves and helps to inspire others. I look up to Natchie for creating a niche and flourishing business for herself where she can go to her store everyday, draw, sing, talk to customers and give them a memorable experience that many artists can't by explaining her art to them and share her inspirations for them.

#2 The Entrepreneur

Being the tourist that I am, on my list of "must sees" was The High Line Park in the Chelsea area of Manhattan. It was later in the day around 7pm, and while peeking in the windows of the chic little shops of the Meatpacking District, I noticed a Christmas tree in one window made out of vinyl records. While I stopped to admire it, my friend and I realized our friend from college was also inside! We went in to say hello, and I got caught up speaking to a man selling his women's fragrances. (Excuse me for misplacing his business card and his name.)

His spirit really captured me. He told me about his career working for big name fragrance brands and his resume bursting with things like creating Clinique Happy, a scent I told him reminds me of my mother too. He wanted to create a more simple scent, something with the essence of a woman rather than an alcohol based over powering scent. He created his line from inspirations like a flower he admired in Central Park, which really struck home for me that people who love things like this could also fall in love with his fragrance. He asked me about my passions, I told him travel, and he urged me to take every opportunity I could and to chase my dreams no matter how far they take me. "Think outside of the box," he told me. Meeting him helped me to realize that a move to the city might be the next leap for me. A city full of passion, innovation, and constant inspiration and creativity. Just what I need.

#3 The Dreamer

I'll admit I have been slacking a little on this blog (working 50+ hours a week will do that do you.) 

Anyways, Sunday afternoon after a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge and meeting person #1, we got thirsty and stumbled into a bar in the Meatpacking District called The Brass Monkey. We sat down at the bar upstairs, and immediately our bartender came to greet us and I felt an instant connection to him and a desire to get to know everything about him. 

He told us about how he packed a suitcase four years previously and moved to New York City without knowing a soul there in order to peruse a career in acting. While in persist, he became a personal trainer and bartender to support himself while he auditioned and did shows in and around the city. His ambition and drive was so inspiring me to do whatever it takes and to "be bold." To live without fear of failure is something I can't say that I embody; I always have a plan and a fall back plan for everything I do. Upon departing, I asked if he would like to hangout the next day and bravely left my phone number.

The following day was more than a dream for me; we met for breakfast at Alice's Tea Cup. A quaint tea parlor there's after Alice in Wonderland was right up my alley being a Disney lover. We enjoyed breakfast and then walked around Central Park for hours and discussed love, ambition, dreams, and life. It was more than ever before like I was talking to an old friend and remembering someone I had forgotten. We met again that evening for dinner and to see the Christmas decorations and the tree at Rockefeller Center before we said goodbye (for then, the rest is history.)

Sometimes, life throws people at you just when you need the inspiration. This trip forever changed my life forcing me to think about my creativity, my career, and who I am meant to be. So buy a plane ticket, take a chance, explore. You never know who you may meet ;)