I Run for Me

After crossing the sacred finish line, the first question most people (runners and non- runners alike) will ask is “What was your time?” Granted, the sport of running and racing is based on trying to run the distance as fast as possible. Many set goals for themselves to run a sub 4 hour marathon, to Boston Qualify, etc. However, running to me may sound strange to many of my racing friends and the running community that is constantly trying to get faster. I run for the pure sake of enjoyment and the fulfillment it brings me.

Personally, I don’t like to feel uncomfortable or like I am straining myself when I run, so I tend to run pretty slow. I am a proud middle to back of packer. Running is my alone time to simmer in my own thoughts and wrestle important decisions with myself as there is nothing else to do but put one foot in front of the other and be in your head. I began running in college as a way to cope with stress, bad relationships, and as I could no longer Figure Skate as I did growing up. I would run a 3 mile loop around the UCF campus and try to convince my friends to do it with me in the sauna like Florida heat. Gradually, I ran my first half marathon (at Disney World of course) and although I enjoyed it I told myself at the finish I would never run a full. Fast forward 3 years later I was crossing the finish line of my first full overcome with so much euphoria and the realization that “I can do it,” that I couldn’t even breathe or see the last few steps. Immediately on my runners high that evening, I put my name in for the lottery of the NYC Marathon hopeful that maybe I would be there one day. Although I did not get in that year, I am thrilled to say that this November I will be running the five boroughs (and as a NYC resident!)

Running at a slow, comfortable pace is what brings me joy in running. Rather than focusing on my discomfort I can think about my blessings, my life ahead of me, take in my surroundings in nature, and pray. Morning runs work best for my body; straight out of bed and hitting the pavement. My head is clear, the day is new and quiet before the hustle and bustle of the big city. It starts my day on a positive and refreshing note where I can take time for my gratitude practice and say some prayers before a busy and successful day.

In January of 2016 I ran my first marathon. My marathon debut was probably the best day of my life, I ran my own race, took my time, made friends with my pacer, and finished knowing that I wanted to do it over and over again. Every time I start to compare myself to those that are faster than me, I bring myself back to that moment and remember the satisfaction I had with myself and that no matter how slow I did it, I was part of the 1% of the population that has run 26.2 miles.

Here I am now, training through the sticky heat of the summer for the New York City Marathon on November 5^th; unquestionably the largest and most exciting road marathon in the world. My goal is to finish with a smile on my face and take my time enjoying the sights, sounds, and high fiving the spectators along the way. So if you ask me my time, don’t be disappointed with I just tell you with a grin that I did it. 

Time to Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable

My first run did not go well. In high school, I would run a one mile loop around the lake by my house to improve my endurance for figure skating. I hated every minute of it and wondered how in the world my father ran marathons, and my sister excelled at cross-country. Other than the short prescribed runs from my coach, I completely wrote off running.

Fast forward to college when I had to quit competitive figure skating due to the demand of school, and I found myself running a 5k loop around campus and trying to convince anyone who would to join me. A few charity 5k races later, and I signed up for my first half marathon at Disney World where I ran 13.1 miles huffing and puffing to a 2:20 finish and swore I would never do a marathon. The rest is history.

As a runner that enjoys racing, I steadily improved with little effort as I didn't enjoy the discomfort of running fast. I would do steady 20 mile runs, "race" and finish with little effort given, and until this past weekend swore I would never do speed work or run until I puked.

After having to drop from the New Jersey Marathon to the Half Marathon due to a nasty virus (and a lot of disappointment and anxiety) I toed the starting line with many of my Dashing Whippet teammates sporting my shiny new singlet. Deciding to even wear the jersey was an internal struggle; as an obsessive perfectionist I tend to feel a lot of pressure to be "fast" and like I was not good enough to wear my singlet and represent the team. What if I ran slow, or had to walk? Would they judge me? I felt shame to already have dropped down to "only do a half marathon" as I describe it. Hesitantly, that morning at o'dark thirty of 3:30am I put on my team jersey and boarded the bus to Long Branch, NJ.

The best thing about being a Whippet is the support of teammates and always having someone to stand in a parking lot with you at 6:00am and take turns using porta-potties. Before we set out, my teammate Young asked me my goal. After feeling like I literally couldn't move my legs for weeks, I told him 1:55 which I knew was so out of the question and not in my tank of accomplishments for that day. Toeing the line, I just prayed to the universe that I could get through this in one piece and without walking. The gun went off, and I was off.

Mile 1 flew by as I maneuvered my way through the dense pack of runners and my watch beeped that my mile was 8:40. "Ok, gotta slow down I told myself." But by mile 5 after passing the pacers I swore I would stay behind and not slowing down, I decided I would keep it up as long as I could and although its bad, try to bank the time I was doing and positive split if I had to. I ate a pack of Honey Stingers chews 7 miles in and continued keeping a pretty steady 8:35 pace which was very surprising to me.

I saw the Whippet cheer team at mile 11 which boosted me up even more, and I cruised on. Mile 11.5 the half and the marathon split, and although I felt like I had a marathon in me at that point I was glad I had decided to drop to the half. Mile 12 my lungs started to burn but I knew I could make a big PR, and I "dropped the hammer" and crossed the finish in 1:55:05, over a 7 minute PR from my last half in October. Immediately, tears flooded my eyes as I was overcome with gratitude for my body, my team, training partners, and the power of believing in myself during that race. I really had not believed this was possible as I tend to run easy 24/7 in my training runs. I left NJ that day feeling something I had never really felt as a runner; strong, powerful, and like improvement was something I thirst for.

Moving forward, I have a new hunger for racing and improving my speed and stamina. It's time for speed workouts, more strength work, and recovering rather than running junk miles. It's time to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and continue to smash new PR times in all my racing distances.

What I've Been Doing Lately

New Year, new me right? Blogging hasn’t been on the tip top of my list of priorities, but it is definitely on my list of resolutions! I would like to realistically do a few posts a month, aka what I have been up to, recipe ideas, running, etc.

So since we’ve last chatted, life has been pretty sweet to me. I spent Thanksgiving with my dear friend Grace at her home in New Hampshire and had such a wonderful time. We went to the beach on Thanksgiving Day (her family tradition), her amazing mother made me a completely vegan meal, and took a drive up to Mount Washington and along the scenic Kancamagus Highway. We didn’t get to hike, but I will definitely be planning a trip to do just that this coming summer! It was bittersweet to be away from my family, but knowing I would see them for Christmas and having such an incredible time with Grace made for a very memorable trip.

My mom came to NYC (quickly becoming her favorite city I do believe) for a Christmas extravaganza! We ate lots of vegan dishes, saw the incredible Rockettes show, ice skated in Bryant Park, and toured the Rolling Stones exhibit in the West Village. We also got to see the film Jackie that I was dying to see, and it proved to be absolutely incredible. Of course we had several AMAZING vegan meals at my favorite spots! Her visits are always a whirlwind of fun, and never last long enough.

Jujube Tree in Astoria

Kimchi at Chelsea Market

As far as running goes, I took on my first (and maybe last) cross country race at Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx. My enthusiastic teammates talked me into it, and I am very easily influenced into signing up for any and all racing events. My sister, Tara, an avid cross country runner in High School and college gave me some tips, and I strapped on my trail shoes and took the train out to the park on a very chilly and wet morning. Standing at the start I realized “what have I got myself into” as we spread out and headed out quickly into a flooded field. Soaking wet, we turned onto the trail and began a very steep ascent into the hills. My legs burning, I put everything I had in me into finishing as fast as possible and trying to not finish last. As a distance runner, speed isn’t my thing and multiple times as I tried to speed up I told myself I hated running and would never race again. Crossing the finish line was a relief, and about 2 minutes later I decided it was really fun to race such a difficult trail! Runner’s brain for you…

I also ran the Ted Corbitt 15k in Central Park with my team, which was a lot of fun and I set a nice new PR! Other than that, I have been adjusting to winter running in the cold and snow and really enjoying it so far. Other than freezing hands, having no issues and I think that winter really is my favorite season! Another little note: started a new job as a Catering Sales Coordinator planning all weddings at the Plaza.. a real dream come true!

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. 

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. 

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!

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 :)

When You Can't "Just Keep Swimming"

Some days, you just can't. No, I am not trying to sound like an 18 year old valley girl that "literally just can't", but today I knew I had to quit. I have been trying to obsessively follow a marathon training plan for my half marathon on November 15, and my first full marathon on January 31. I have a schedule for my runs and workouts following the plan basically to a T, and today called for 12 miles. I do all of my long runs typically on Tuesdays, sometimes Wednesdays pending on my work schedule. So yesterday, I turned down invitations from friends to hangout after my 11 hour shift, came home to eat my dinner of brown rice, veggies, and tempeh, and hit the sack by 9:30pm.

My alarm sounded at 6:30am; trying to beat the heat of the eternal summer that is Florida (it is November 3...) yet my body just said no. It told me I was too tired, I needed to rest, yet I forced myself up, ate a banana and got dressed and headed out. By mile 4 I was already exhausted. It was nearing 85 degrees and only 7:30am. I just couldn't get in "the zone," and decided to cut down to 11 miles. By mile 5 I decided I couldn't go any farther and turned around to just do 10. It was hot, I was running out of water from my Camelbak, my IT band began to flare up and I resorted to run walking.

Mentally, I was over it. I wasn't having any fun, I was tired, thirsty, hot, and began to worry and doubt myself about being able to run 26.2 miles come January. If I couldn't even make it 12, how would I ever be able to run that far? Would I even be able to push myself to train longer distances? I had given up. I called my dad at 7.5 crying. He has completed many marathons, and always has the best advice. He told me that sometimes, our bodies need a break, to go home, eat, rest and get back on track when I felt better. My typical work week is about 6 days a week and over 50 hours, where I stand, squat, and remain pretty active and it all takes a tole on me that I really don't factor in. I am leaner and in better shape than I maybe have ever been, so why did my body quit on me? Because it needs rest, it just needs a break from activity.

So here I was, crying because of my obsessive compulsion to accomplish every single goal I set for myself and here I was failing myself. I have NEVER not completed a long run that I planned out, yet here I was walking the 2.5 miles left to get home. I was defeated, done, even walking bothered my IT band. Out of water, thirsty, and sweating bullets. I stopped at my neighborhood McDonalds to get water, and got quite a few confusing looks from the regular carnivores. Charlie greeted me with a friendly meow when I got home, showered, and had my usual post run waffles and fruit as a reward for my labor.

Now it is time to re-evaluate. I am a super obsessive person, always have been. It has led me to eating disorders, exercise disorders, and generally to be anxious about anything in my future. After this not so great run, I learned that I need to just take every run as they come. If I am injured, rest (very hard for me, I usually will run anyways.) Stop obsessing about races, if come January I cannot do the full marathon, I will drop down to the half. Maybe my body just can't handle it, and I will need to learn to be okay with that. I can't keep isolating myself from my social life because it "doesn't fit into my running plan."

Now, I will commit to making living a priority, rather than working constantly to attain my goals. Instead of working 6 days a week to pay my bills and have extra spending money, I am going to take my extra days to go out into nature and do the things I want to do, say YES more often to invitations from friends, and maybe even in December to drive my happy self to the mountains and stay in a hostel to explore. It's time to live, be present in everything I do, and to learn to work running races into my life rather than into my schedule and letting them consume me. Time to live.

Peace and running friends!

A Monumental Weekend in Washington DC

Traveling is my absolute favorite thing, my heart bursts with happiness in exploring new places, cultures, food, nature and climates. Last weekend I had the opportunity to experience a milestone in my sisters life: Tara ran her first marathon.

My family flew into DC from three different locations, and after regrouping we headed out into the city. Our first lunch was at a popular restaurant I had found in my research: Busboys and Poets. The restaurant itself was really interesting, it was named for Langston Hughes who worked at the Wardman Park Hotel as a busboy before he became a poet. Overall the feeling is artistic, murals and inspirational quotes on the walls, the servers all with their own quirky personality, and actually a bookstore too! Their menu is very eclectic from brunch, to burgers, pizza, quinoa bowls, and even falafel and vegan friendly with vegan items marked. I ordered the beef sliders which were delicious alongside sweet potato chips (you know I can't get enough.) I did not take a picture of this, but the next day we went back for brunch and I got the vegan scramble along with fruit, toast, and sausage! So delicious, with multiple locations I recommend everyone vegan or not try it.

I won't bore you with minute by minute recollections of our travels, I will highlight my favorite parts. 

The Newseum, a museum I hadn't been to before that highlighted monumental moments in history as well as the history of the news, from newspapers to radio, and TV based news shows. My favorite exhibits were the Berlin Wall, 9/11 section with the antenna from the World Trade Center, and the Vietnam War exhibit.

^Well recommended to all!

The night before the Marine Corps Marathon, we met up with my moms brother's family for a pasta dinner so Tara could carb load, and we're off to bed early. My dad took my sister to the start while I ran, and then my mom and I met my dad along the mall to see her at two locations. Seeing the runners made me so excited for my upcoming half and full marathon, and the energy was amazing. Everyone was so supportive as well as all the marines handing out water and keeping the spectators along the curbs. We saw Tara around mile 17 & 18, and she looked strong (other than a butt cramp.)

 We literally raced to Arlington to get through security checks to see her finish, of course I cried as usual. I had previously cried just thinking about her finishing the race! I am beyond proud of her, she has always been such a fantastic runner and cross country racer and to be there to experience that with her made my heart swell with happiness.

Her post race request was Native Foods, a popular all vegan restaurant with locations around the US. We got the nachos to share with my family, and I had  a burger although I can't remember the exact name. 

We did go back again for lunch before heading to the airport, and we had the nachos again, I had tacos, and the best chocolate cupcake I've ever had on the house since we were regulars. 

Here are some random pictures from our other adventures:

A wonderful weekend and family trip indeed. So thankful for these times we can be together. Many more trips in our future, and I hope if I enjoy my marathon I can come back and run Marine Corps next year! Oorah! 

Why I Am Taking on the Marathon

Everyone has a different reason for why they do things; run, bike, yoga, knit, fish, whatever the hell you do just for you. But, everyone has a vastly different inner reason for this as well. Sometimes it is not until well into your journey that you discover your purpose for what you do.

***Side note: Let's also set something straight, I don't like to use the concept of "journey", and am going to try to refrain myself from using that term. To me, journey means a path to a destination. Ultimately, we all only have one destination from life, and that is death. So rather than me constantly trying to find a destination in life, I will remain present and describe my process as just being.***

Struggles in life are something everyone of all races, cultures, and incomes faces, and I have faced my fare share of struggle. From early adolescence I struggled with body issues and eating disorders, wanting to shrink my strong and muscular thighs I thank figure skating for. I allowed the media to dictate how I thought I should look, and with my thighs as thick and strong as a tree I did not fit in their category of "beautiful and thin." Through over exercising and controlling what I put in my mouth I shrunk to a very dangerous weight, while still continuing to strive to improve my skating abilities which I finally learned could not happen after depleting my muscle. So through my desire to become a better skater, and to live my life in a healthier way for myself and my family I healed myself and gained weight and muscle to grow stronger than ever. Through conditioning and healthy eating I excelled more than ever at my sport. 

In my young adult years as stated in an earlier blog post, A Little About Me, I found running to both feel good physically and mentally. Now, as a college graduate and feeling lost as most 23 year olds do in what their "purpose" and career path is, I have decided to take on the marathon. To me, a marathon is a pretty huge feat to face physically. I have never run more than about 14 miles and want to prove to myself that I am both dedicated and strong enough to do it. 

Mentally, running a marathon makes you strong. I call it free therapy. Sometimes you can be on runs for 2-3 hours, with nothing but yourself and your thoughts, much more time than most people spend not distracted by technology, other people, work, etc. I thank running for making good decisions, when you can argue and debate with yourself about something for unobstructed hours at a time you tend to make the right decision. I find myself thinking more about my direction in life and making choices based on what my heart wants rather than what society wants. Relationship wise on runs I can recollect the good times and also the bad times which helps me to heal the wounds I carry in my heart from friendships not working out (I am an empathic person and tend to always remember the good times.)

The marathon is a goal I can work towards and singly rely on myself to accomplish. As a type A personality, I like to work alone and control what I am working towards. Whether or not I complete this feat is something only I can place reliance on myself for; and at this state of my life it is important for me to spend some time alone and with my thoughts. 

I hope you will follow me on my physical and mental journey through this process. Weekly, I will post my runs, distances, the woes and the triumphs I learn from my body and my mind. Be prepared for some deep and emotionally driven posts, as I tend to get deep into my core on my runs.

Some life updates:

Everyone go see this documentary! "He Named Me Malala." SO inspirational in every way of life. Shakes you up and makes you feel very thankful for our education in America and our rights as humans. Sometimes the things we fight for here seem miniscule in retrospect to what others want as basic rights.

Just got in my new Garmin Forerunner 220! Love it, a big step up from my old watch which will now allow me to clock intervals for speed training and tell me my pace while I am currently running.

Have a peaceful and meaningful day, friends!

Moss Park Forest Run Recap!

Wow. Just wow. I get it now trail runner friends… and I am officially addicted! A few months ago, I found this race while scouring the Internet for a fun summer race (not an easy task in the heat of Central Florida!) So, on a whim I signed up for the “Distance Dare” trail race, which consists of a 10k run that must be completed in under 75 minutes, and then running the 5k race when it begins. I had planned to find some trails and train there… however that didn’t happen due to pure laziness and time constraints with my morning runs.

So the night before I was very nervous, full of doubt whether or not I was even capable of finishing the 10k in under 75 minutes (I can easily run under an hour on pavement), but for some reason didn’t have much faith in myself. So I ate a good pasta meal, set out my gear, and went to bed early for my 5:00am wake up!

Hopped out of bed, made some coffee, chugged a glass of water, and hit the road! I ate a banana (my chosen pre-race fuel) about an hour before the race as well as had my coffee. I only drink coffee prior to running if I can finish it over an hour before I start so it will not mess up my tummy. It was very very dark arriving to the park, very little lighting. After parking I made my way to register, put my key in my belt and we were off! The loop was 3.1 (5k) miles long, so for the 10k we ran two loops. I had registered for the distance dare and had to complete the 10k in under 75 minutes in order to be finished in time to start the 5k afterwards. The race began on the paved road, and after about half a mile transitioned over to the sand like trail. It was pretty wet and muddy from the rain the night prior, but I thought it was a fun addition :)

I felt great, and kept up positive affirmations throughout my run (I don't race with music, etc.) Before I knew it I was done and crossing the finish, in 1:00:23.7 which was a little slower than usual due to the nature of the trail and the mud! I was very pleased with my time and got some water while I waited for the 5k to begin. I ran the 5k purely to add the miles and for fun, so I took my time and enjoyed the beautiful park and scenery. Afterwards, I grabbed some fruit and checked the results... only to see that I had placed 3rd in my age group for the 10k! I was shocked... I walked to my car to get my phone for a picture with tears in my eyes. I couldn't believe that I would be getting a medal for placing in RUNNING, a sport I still don't believe I am even skilled at!

I had a nearby runner take a picture of me, walked around the park and headed out. SUCH an amazing runner's high... and I am officially an addicted trail runner :) I plan to run trails on a regular basis now, and do many more off road races!

Remember friends, if you trust and work hard and most of all BELIEVE anything is possible!

Keep running friends :)