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 ;)

Thank You, New York City

I have a huge sense of wanderlust, to explore, to find new places, meet new people. Even in the areas I live in I am constantly exploring and trying to uncover new places and find little gems. A few weeks ago, I was toying with what to do with a few days off I had, and after a glass of wine I purchased a ticket to New York City.

New York City has always represented creativity and boldness to me ever since my first visit when I was 19 years old, when I announced to my family that one day I would be a resident of the city. Obviously, that has not happened, but visiting will have to do for now.

I flew in very early on Saturday morning to be greeted by the brisk chill of the air tickling my face as soon as I stepped out of the airport. Cold air makes my soul dance for joy, in a past life I must have resided in a cold climate. I began my adventures with a filling breakfast at Brickyard Gastropub NYC in the Hell's Kitchen area, overflowing with eatery's, bars, and bakery's. I selected a veggie burger with sauteed mushrooms, a side salad, and a mimosa (go big or go home NYC.) One of the best and most distinctly different veggie patties I have ever had, 10/10.

After another mimosa or two, we frolicked (literally) to Central Park to meet a couple of my college sorority sisters to join them for ice skating. The rink is located on the south side of the park, and boasts beautiful views of the trees in the park, the skyline, and the stunning Plaza Hotel. This was truly a dream come true for an ex-figure skater; I have had skating outside on my bucket list for years. Having not skated in over 2.5 years and wearing rental skates, I picked up where I left off and joyously glided around the rink with a giddy grin on my face.

Sunday morning began as all good mornings do, with incredible vegan breakfasts. We made our way to a vegetarian restaurant I had read about online, The Butchers Daughter (what a pun.) I opted for Tempeh Lettuce Tacos topped with avocado, and a Cacao smoothie. I really loved the communal seating and getting to talk to other tourists and locals about their plans and experiences for the day. 

Afterwards, we walked across the stunning Brooklyn Bridge, another dream of mine. The sights from the bridge were breathtaking and one of those moments that truly make you realize how massive the city is. We spent sometime at the Brooklyn Bridge Park and strolling the streets of the Dumbo area of Brooklyn.

After exploring the Chelsea Market and a few drinks in the Meatpacking District of Manhattan, we stopped by Too Boots Pizza and split a vegan pizza. You can't go to NYC without pizza, even as a vegan, and this pizza was pretty incredible. 

Even more incredible, was seeing my favorite musical and probably favorite story of all time, Les Miserables on Broadway. Tears were flowing the entire time as well as holding myself back from bursting in song along with the actors. This was a definite highlight of all my trips to the city and another check off my bucket list.

Central Park has always been a defining symbol of the city to me as well and how easily you can walk in and get lost in the many different areas of the park, and really forget you are in one of the biggest cities in the world. Another bucket list item in my running life was to run in the park, and that I did. Breathing in and out the energy of the other runners, the greenery, and the tops of the skyscrapers you can barely make out from inside the park fueled my run twisting and turning across the bridges and fields of the park. It is quite a wonderful place to run, with pedestrian lanes for safety as well as hills to get in a solid workout. Truly one of the most joyous runs in my book.

Visiting New York during Christmas is in my opinion, the best time to visit. From the glistening ice of the many open air ice rinks, the intricate window displays of stores like Lord & Taylor, resident's fire escape lights, and of course the Rockefeller Center Tree, there is no more beautiful a place in my mind. Living in Central Florida and without family, this year has been hard to get into the spirit of Christmas. The crisp air, the sounds of laughing, blades scraping ice, twinkling lights, and the smell of fresh Christmas trees finally got me into the excitement of the holidays. New York captured my happiness and the non-stop way of my spirit. Thank you New York, for an incredible visit. I will be back, and soon.

I Admit, I Have Fallen in Love...

With trail running. There, I said it, everyone knows. Trail running is like running roads on steroids.

The soft, luscious Earth squishing beneath your feet and making way for many types of landscapes; sand, grass, leaves, ponds. Deer bounding across your path and tortoises smiling beneath their shells. Chirps of birds and crickets ringing like music to your ears along with the swoosh of the trees giving way to a gentle breeze. Time does not happen here. Earth rotates a little more slowly.

Thanks to a friends suggestion, I recently took my day off to explore Lake Louisa State Park towards Clermont in Central Florida. It costs $4 to enter, and boasts 7 miles of paved roads, 20+ miles of trails, primitive and tent/camper camping, lakes to swim in, wildlife, it's fantastic. Coming 2 days post half marathon I set out for a quick easy run but by the time I was done I was shocked that I had run 8 miles. I have never gotten lost in the absolute joy of running. Road running is hard to "get lost" in. You have mile markers in your mind of where you are, traffic to watch out for, other pedestrians and pollution. Yet on a trail all that encompasses your mind is the sounds of nature, sights, and your own thoughts. It is much more primal running on a trail like our ancestors did, whom did not stop to cross streets or run according to per mile pacing. They ran out of need, and out of desire.

To me, trail running is like a slice of birthday cake at a party. The feelings of the change of ground from grass to sand, the soft roll of the Earth, the trees whispering sweet nothings, deer perking up to say hello, and a game of hop scotch hopping over tree roots is nothing short of fantastic.

Since that first date with the forest here, I have returned twice for a 12 & 15 mile run I did mostly on the paved trails to more closely mimic the roads for my marathon. But I did sneak off into the trails for a few glorious miles.

Trails however require a different shoe for your best run. I ordered a pair of Brooks Cascadias which are more minimal that my overly cushioned Saucony Triumphs to allow my feet to better grip the trails, and I can't wait to strap those babies on for a test run!

A part of me I never before knew with running is out and so happy. Trails please my soul; being alone, in nature, doing my primal thing just soothes me to an extent I cannot describe. I know my soul is happy in a cooler more wilderness climate and I hope my future soon takes me to that happy little place.

Keep running friends, hit the trails!

Vegan at Disney

Eating well while traveling, it's hard. Being a vegan and traveling... Even harder! However, Disney accommodates all types of dietary needs and are very good for a vegan lifestyle! As a Disney Cast Member and avid park goer, I have found many nooks and crannies and tried many of the delicious vegan options, and want to share my knowledge with all those worried about being able to eat at the resort! Below are some of my favorite vegan Disney meals and some others listed I haven't tried or taken pictures of!

Sunshine Seasons (in the Land) at Epcot!

Vegan korma with Gardein Meatless Chik'n- with jasmine rice.

Highly recommend, so tasty!

Also pictured: veggie roll with avocado, cucumber and ginger!

My mom and I enjoying the 2015 International Food and Wine Festival! They only had two vegan options however, a vegan Korean BBQ in South Korea (using Gardein beefless tips, very good), and Vegan Moussaka in Greece.

My go to: Morocco's quick service- Vegetarian platter! Hummus, olives, salad, falafel, couscous, and lentils! Very filling, healthy, and delicious. 10/10

Craving ice cream on a hot day? The ice cream shop on Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom serves Tofutti and Rice Dream! Ask for flavors, they sometimes change. I believe the Electric Umbrella at Epcot sells as well.

Vegan Brownie Sunday at 50s Prime Time Cafe at Hollywood Studios, chef made for us on my 23rd birthday! Fantastic. They have recently changed their meat balls from vegan to vegetarian, containing egg now. Big disappointment their spaghetti and meatballs was a favorite in the fun environment.

Erin McKenna's Bakery NYC (formerly BabyCakes) is a vegan and gluten free bakery with all sorts of delicious treats at Disney Springs!

Also at Hollywood Studios, at Pizza Planet you can request dairy free Daiya cheese on your pizza! Very good.

Not Pictured Vegan Spots!

-Restaurant Marrakesh in Morocco at Epcot

-Veggie Burger at Sci Fi Cafe at Hollywood Studios

-Lighthouse Sandwich (without the broccoli slaw) at Magic Kingdom

-Veggie Burger at Cosmic Rays Primetime Cafe at Magic Kingdom
-Sanaa at Animal Kingdom Lodge is known to be very vegan friendly

Also, Disney is very accommodating! If you ask ahead, the chefs are more than happy to create a delicious meal for you! Feel free to email or comment with questions :)

Health and happiness!

You Know You're A Runner When...

I never expected to become a runner, maybe I could have seen myself as a bi-weekly jogger, but never as someone who stuck to a schedule and ran races. Pretty sure my family did not expect this either. There is a stigma involved with running, "Oh, those people." As in the people that do crazy things to their bodies, waking up at ungodly hours, and the constant chatter about their training. Now that I am part of the club, here is my list of when you know you're a runner:

You know you're a runner when:

• You have more running shoes than regular shoes.
• You start getting picky about casual shoes and actually start buying shoes for comfort.
• A pedicure is no longer about having pretty toe nails but to get off the callous.
• Your laundry consists of running clothes only.
• Everything you eat is carefully decided, whether for the nutrient content or how it's going to make you feel for the next run.
• Carbs are your best friend.
• You are eternally hungry.
• You spend more money on races than vacations. You also pick races on their location so you can make it a vacation.
• Going to bed early is a must.
• You wake up before the sun on your weekend to do your "long run."
• Laundry mainly consists of running clothes, and you never allow anyone else to do them for you (no dryer!)
• Wearing real people clothes happens quite infrequently.
• Your Garmin (or other watch) is your best friend.
• All you want to do is talk about running.
• You stretch wherever, and whenever you can. Your roller also travels with you.
• You have worn compression socks under pants in public.
• You cannot run a race until you poop. (TMI, but it's incredibly true.)
• Water is your bff.
• You get angry when you can't run, or when you haven't run in a few days.
• Running partially injured is always an option. Not running is worse.
• You can't function through a day without running.
• You are always planning and thinking about your next run.
• You keep a spare running outfit in your car (just in case.)
• You may be broke because races are just too fun.
• You just love running and can't get enough!!

A short list, but I hit all the statements that really pertain to me! 

Also, sorry friends. I am an obsessive runner, I love it. And I will probably try to convince you to start running!

Peace, and running :)

St. Augustine Half Marathon

Following my Marathon training plan, this past week called for a 13 mile run, and I decided I wanted to race it and found the St. Augustine Half Marathon to perfectly fit into my plan! 

My dad (aka biggest running supporter) drove up to Orlando and picked me up Saturday morning for the trip. We got to St. Augustine at lunch time and headed to our favorite little cafe for lunch. The Manatee, recommended for all! Healthy, delicious, and lots of vegan options. We got the hummus and tabbouleh appetizer, a veggie burger and vegan Reuben to split. Carb loading at its best, plus I'm always starving.

The Reuben above, veggie burger below! Dad got a side of quinoa veggie soup and I opted for fruit.

Afterwards, we checked into our hotel, and walked to the expo to pick up my packet for the race the next morning. We walked down the historic area to St. George street amongst the many little shops and got a pumpkin pie Popsicle from my favorite Popsicle place!

Then, we strolled to the fort and made our way back to the hotel where we tested a bit before heading to sushi to carb load for the morning. I got a cucumber roll and an avocado roll, very tasty. 

Before I knew it, I was waking up for race morning! I got dressed, ate my banana and cold brew coffee, and drove to the race. We over compensated how long and busy it would be and were there pretty early. It was a small race of only 1,200 runners which is my favorite kind of race. I ate my honey stinger waffle right before the start and we were off at 7am after a moment of silence for Paris. 

The run began at the Fort and traveled over the famous Bridge of Lions to Anastasia Island. I was feeling amazing, so thankful for my safety, my many blessings, my father who is so supportive in every single thing I do, my body for being strong and allowing me to run, and living in a country that I can freely run in! The race turned over a huge bridge, .25 up, and then an immediate turn around and back over the bridge. Not fun. Then the race continued through the National Park of beachfront Anastasia Island, breathtaking sand dunes and streets covered in mossy trees. My knee began to flare up and send shooting pain at mile 9 but I dug deep and pushed through set on setting a PR.

The last 4 miles flew by, I started out running way too fast almost a minute faster per mile than I wanted, and eventually slowed down towards the end. One more time over the Bridge of Lions, past the fort and finished with a PR of 2:06:27!!! A 7 minute PR for myself, which I am so proud of. After my horrible long run the week prior I really didn't know that was possible. But when you believe in yourself, anything can happen! And I am hungry for that Marathon in January.

A post run breakfast of tofu scramble at The Manatee Cafe, and we were headed home. Shout out to No Meat Athlete for the perfect new race shirt!! You can find it here: store.nomeatathlete.com

Peace and running friends :)