Trust the Timing of Life

After 3+ months of no running due to an injury, little activity with lots of Netflix, I finally dipped my toes back into running on a very cold January day with a two mile jog to my favorite park in Astoria. I stopped in the Socrates Sculpture Park to admire the winter-y scenery along the East River. At that moment, after months of missing out on early runs, jogs past the Christmas windows on 5th Ave, and most importantly sitting out the NYC Marathon, I was at peace with everything that happened. I've always heard, "everything happens for a reason," and I believe that if you slow down long enough to understand it all, it's definitely true.

Sometimes you just lose the spark. I admit my training last summer and fall for the NYC Marathon was anything but fun. Slogging through the heat on long runs, waking up early after working exhausting weddings, and giving up on social time just was no longer fun for me. I was wholly committed to running the marathon, but not as excited to do the work as I wanted to be. As a person who is driven by passion, it was hard for me to force myself to do the long runs that were a necessary part of training. Ironically, during the last 20 mile run of my training, which also happened to be one of the most fun and best times of my training cycle, I suffered a stress fracture. It was almost like the universe was telling me "wait, not yet." I deferred the marathon and struggled through several physically and mentally painful weeks leading up to the day I wouldn't be toeing the line in Staten Island.

However, the universe is always right in its timing. My parents flew in for marathon weekend and we had the time of our lives eating, drinking, seeing a Broadway show and ultimately cheering at the marathon. Originally, I had wanted to be as far away from the marathon course as possible on the big day, but my family urged me to attend and cheer on my friends and teammates. We went and saw the finish line the day before the race, and they hugged me as I cried for a few moments when the realization hit me that this wasn't my year to cross it. 

On Marathon morning we staked out a spot in Brooklyn and cheered on the elites and the throngs of runners. It really hit me when my training buddy Evi passed and I cried a few tears. The day couldn't have gone better as everyone had the race of their lives and I got to be with my teammates cheering on everyone's races. That day sparked my love of running once again.

Cheering in Brooklyn

When you really love something and can't do it, it hurts, but I think it also refills your tank. My running tank was pretty close to empty. Taking three months off to see friends I hadn't been able to make time for, actively pursuing my yoga practice, and traveling to Costa Rica on a retreat, all added fuel to my tank. Missing out on group runs, cheering friends in the Philadelphia Marathon, and having a ton of quality time on my couch truly allowed me the time to embrace my pain and understand how much I loved the sport. I had been moaning and groaning on early mornings, slogging through long runs, and counting down every mile until the runs were over. Ultimately, my injury was necessary for my running. I wouldn't have loved every moment of the NYC Marathon and maybe have even decided to continue running if I hadn't had the time to reflect while recovering from my injury.

Whippets Cheer Station in the Bronx

Therefore, I now embrace my running, and even more so the health of my running than ever before. I have learned I need to mentally be into it to enjoy it. I need to take care of my body and follow the plan that is best for me, even if others may be able to run more miles or faster than me. The longevity of running is truly based on the way you treat yourself and I want to treat myself well.

For now I have lots to look forward to and many more miles to run!

5 Things I Have Learned & Hope to Grow into in my 25th Year

January 25th I woke up the ripe old age of 25, which also happens to be my Golden Year! 24 taught me more than most years in the relationships I had, moving to NYC, and with my career. I have grown into myself a lot over the past few years and wanted to share a few things I have learned, and am working towards implementing more into my life.

1.     Success is measured by your happiness. I am happy when I am doing what I love; my new job planning weddings at my dream venue, running, doing yoga, being with those I love, and in nature.

2.     Be true to yourself. Always do what feeds your soul and not to satisfy others. It is really important to me to always be authentically myself, and to embrace all my quirks.

3.     Don’t give all of yourself. I am a giver; I give and give and am always there for my friends no matter what they need. However, that has not always been reciprocated. After much hurt, I have learned that I cannot always care for others more than myself, especially when they do not return the favor. Keep your good friends close, and always keep a special place in your heart and your day for yourself.

4.      Find an outlet. Life can be hard sometimes. I find that having an outlet to de-stress and refocus on something you care about really helps me. Running and yoga are that for me. The physical burn and the clarity I get through meditation in both are not paralleled by anything else to me, and I am obsessed with both!   

5.     Your body is your vessel, take care of it. You were given this one, precious, human body to carry you through life. Life is the most incredible gift we can have and I believe in wellness and longevity for that life. So I choose to eat real, nutritious, healthy food and move my body in ways that feel good to me (even what that means running a marathon.)

All in all, I learned after years of working to please others, or to “fit in”, that the most important thing we can have in this life is satisfaction with ourselves. I find that I am happiest when I am doing exactly what feeds my soul: spending a quiet night at home with Charlie and a book, going on a long run with friends, yoga and meditation, a hot bath, trying new restaurants, discovering new places, and a hearty glass of red wine. 

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!

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! 

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. 

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!