Thursday, April 28, 2011

[34] Trail Blazin

Once all the Spring Break mail was sorted, I found the spring 2011 Runner's World Special: The Trail sitting in my post box. With spring setting up shop and summer coming quickly behind it, the flora of Westchester is finally returning to its state of lush beauty. A Florida girl at heart, I am used to flat land, high heat, and stifling humdity, but New York does provide ample shade, fewer brutally hot days, and nature galore. I was a Girl Scout for nine years, so somewhere deep down inside there is a nature girl screaming to be set free amongst the mud, hills, and woody areas.

I treated myself to a sumptuous yet healthy brunch at the Ritz-Carlton Lounge. The Spa Brunch was lovely with a bowl of fruit, Swiss oatmeal, a strawberry-banana smoothie, bran muffin, and choice of juice, tea, or coffee. I opted for tea (all I can drink) and a cranberry juice (to help with health), and by the end I felt full, refreshed, and ready to take on my day. While nibbling on my breakfast, I powered down. I stuffed my laptop back in my bag, chucked my iPhone in there for good measure, and flicked through The Trail by the fire place. With the lobby lounge almost entirely to myself, I became completely absorbed in the magazine. Alas, this serenity was short-lived as a trio of young, corporate hot shots came in, took the table next to mine (despite the room being empty), and started talking shop rather loudly. Though it caused me to cut my brunch short, I made considerable progress.

"Get Lost" (pages 2-5): If there was anything that would motivate me to take up trail running, it would be hoofing it through these exotic and scenic locals. Each month, RW puts a gorgeous two-page photo of a single runner booking it through some remote location. Simply looking at the vast landscape, it makes me realize how limited my running experience has been. Although, I've participated in destination races-- albeit they were all domestic-- they were all road races in urban areas. San Francisco. Washington, D.C. Walt Disney World. It wasn't like the sweeping plains of Owens Valley, California or the emerald green hills of Trail du Mont Blanc in Val Ferret, Italy.

What's Hot Now: "Cabin Fever" (page 17): In a world where we are fighting to find greener solutions to travel, I found this short article interesting. Instead of driving to the different huts and bungalows along a mountain trail, more and more trail runners are electing to run it! How much fun would that be?! I would love to do something like that, but I certainly would prefer having company, especially for safety. Also highlights the top four most popular cabin systems for runners.

Green Zones: "National Treasures" (page 19): I think the last national park I visited was the Grand Canyon on a family trip when I was in my early teens. At the time, naturally all I did was bitch and moan about the sweltering summer heat and staring at a (as I so eloquently put it as a mouthy kid) "a giant crack in the ground". Now, I am aching to go back, run in it, and catch a sunset (or sunrise) at it. I want to appreciate it as an adult. The thought of running through these scenic places is daunting, but it looks so rewarding at the same time. There are 56 national parks, so I should be able to find one I can run in somewhere, right?

Run Strong (pages 21, 23, 25, 27-29): Being a nerdy, trail running benchwarmer, I am in the research phase which comes prior to exploration. I do not have any regular local running partners (yet), so I need to be self-sufficient while out for a run. This section covers important topics for new runners such as hydration, fueling, handling crossing paths with wild animals, and essential packing list. It also continues to cover light injuries with "Body Repair", and a training plan for running that first Trail 10K in "One Month to Race Day".

Advertorial (pages 37-52; 16 pages): Highlights some of the prime trail running locations in top cities across the US, and includes suggested race to run and top local running retailers in the area. I think I want to try and tackle the New York area suggestions first before hitting up places like Seattle, Atlanta, Boston, or Salt Lake.

There is still half of the magazine left to enjoy, but I am certain I can knock that out after my afternoon jog tomorrow.

Inspiration gripped me, so I toyed with trail running. I hopped off the sidewalks into the grass when possible. The rain was falling, so I left my music at home and soaked in the natural sounds of my usual running path. I splashed through puddles, sloshed through wet gravel and sand, and tried intervals on a small hill outside the Manhattanville Castle (eight reps!). Though the weather was cool and I was heating up from jogging, I wore my long-sleeved  Nike Miler shirt (I need more of these) and my Tempo shorts (both of which were soaked through by the end of the run). Without music to distract me, I took in the sounds around me: the falling rain, my feet on the ground, and the occasional chatter of co-eds as I ambled by them. It was a nice change.

Growing up in south Florida, playing in the rain was a treat, much to my mom's chagrin. It was fine so long as there was no lightning, and at the first sound of thunder, I knew playtime was over. While the rain fell, I remmebered playing outside in the rain with my sister, cursing the rain as I dashed between college classes, driving slowly on the highways to avoid hydroplaning, and curling up on the couch in a blanket for movie marathons. I realized that these are all things I love about rainy days-- well, with the exception of driving through a torrential downpour on the highway with minimal (or zero) visibility. It made me wonder, when did I start caring about getting caught in the rain? Maybe it was in middle school when I first had to start changing classes. Being drenched to the bone, sitting through 50 minutes in the air conditioning, and then going outside to the heat and doing it all over again, was nothing short of miserable.

After the run, I decided that I no longer have an excuse not to run on days when the sun take a fiver and the rain clouds roll in. Granted, I will not be running or training hard, but so long as I am moving and burning some calories, I can justify (and relish) my couch surfing afterward. All it takes a little preparation and planning.

[33] Retail Therapy

Note: I started writing this post in tandem with "Trail Blazin'", and it's best nestled in beween my brunch at the Ritz-Carlton and my run in the rain.  

After my peaceful brunch was interrupted, I decided to get some fresh air and do a little window shopping. The selection of running and athletic apparel shops in White Plains is very limited (and I wasn't in the mood ot deal with the bozos at Sports Authority or test out the newly opened Dick's Sporting Goods), so after a drop by at WRR, I drove out to my beloved Greenwich.

Westchester Road Runner (White Plains, NY)
I love the folks who work here because they are all warm, happy people. I remember their extensive sports bra collection, but alas, I couldn't find any of the Moving Comfort bras that fit right. I love the adjustable straps, but the lack of breast separation (pardon the TMI for my male readers) was rather annoying. Also, the bounce reduction on even their high impact bras weren't satifactory for me. Though I love taking my time to look around, I knew I had to book it to Greenwich so as to complete my quest.

lululemon athletica Greenwich (151 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
I love l.a.g., but I always wind up spending money because I find things on sale. Initially, my goal was to acquire the run:speed skirt in Tango Red ($54), but my hopes were crushed as they only had sizes six and two in stock (and its already sold out online). When I inquired the day before about the availability, they said they had it in stock, so I was rather disappointed to see it gone (as they do not hold merch or take phone purchases). Though I don't mind making the 20 minute drive to Greenwich, I was a little frustrated. After a little browsing, I managed to decide on the following: Chai Time Pullover (Gray; $88)Skinny Satin Pirouette Headband (Tango Red; $12), and another wonderful Ta-Ta Tamer (T3; Heather Stripes; $58).

I really love their lightweight jackets for spring, but the price is a little steep. I am also in the market for tanktops which have more than a spaghetti strap or plunging neckline (neither are practical for sports as far as I am concerned). I am still on my quest for a regular white T3, but it looks I am going to have to battle hooligans and snipers on eBay if I want one as its not an en vogue color currently.

Threads & Treads (17 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
I have been looking for T&T for months now, and I realized last week that it's a stone's throw from Greenwich Running Company on East Putnam. It was my first time in the shop and I certainly wasn't disappointed. The staff were really nice and knowledgeable about their product lines. The shop space is a little cozy, but that doesn't detract from their diverse selection of merchandise. I really wanted a pair of Under Armour 7" Bermuda shorts in sandstorm or black, but sadly they were out of stock. I will try to find a sports shop which has them in stock so I can buy the correct size. These would be ideal for summer program as they are a technical short disguised as "business casual" (or golf) shorts.

After chatting with the sales lady, I wound up picking up two Seamless Sugarlips Tanktops ($14; Kelly Green & Neon Lime): I was rather concerned about the "one size fits most" sizing, but it was nice and snug (and retains its shape after). I've heard about Sugarlips before, but never ventured to try on their products. Though they also make camisoles, I think I will be stocking up on the scoop neck tank tops, as there are over 30 colors to choose from! While I was checking out, I snagged some Honey Stinger Energy Chews on an impulse. Without realizing it, I picked up the "cherry blossom" (cherry) flavored pack. It was nice and seasonal. Though I intended on saving it for my race on Saturday, it wound up being a late night snack (in lieu of hitting up the vending machine for junk). I liked it very much, will definitely purchase more.

I liked that they had a selection of bicycle gear and surfing/beach wear in addition to their running and tennis wear. It was a refreshing change.

Greenwich Running Company (2 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
After my disappointing first visit to GRC, I figured I would give them another shot. Situated at the top of the hill on Greenwich Ave, they have a gorgeous view down the hill to the train station. Their selection on fuel and gear, as well as their own gait analysis system reminded my why I originally stepped through their doors the first time. Luckily, the two gents working the counter today were far nicer, and we had a nice chat. I asked for feedback on the fueling selection, as I couldn't buy everything (this time at least).

I wound up picking up a Crunchy Peanut Butter CLIF Bar ($2), CLIF Shot Gel (Mocha + Caffeine), and nuun U Tangerine Ginger Natural Hydration Tablets (16 Count; $9.00). I have loved CLIF bars since I discovered them at Trader Joes. I was using CLIF Shot Bloks for my half-marathons, but wound up snagging a free gel (in mocha) around mile eight or nine of the Princess Half, and it was pretty good. The only new product trial will be the hydration tablets, but I was reassured that I would not be disappointed. I also gravitated to the sock wall as my colorful Asics socks are wearing thin and I have a lack of technical socks currently. I bought a pair of Balega X-Athlete Hidden Comfort Socks (White; $10.00; Unisex Small) when I was in D.C. for the Cherry Blossom 5K, and I loved them. This resulted in a second pair being bought on the spot.

Lucy Activewear: The Avenue (72 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
I've passed Lucy nearly every time I've visited Greenwich, but I never went inside as I had never heard of the brand. What I like about this particular brand is that they also include trek wear, a la The North Face (with a diet price tag). I really liked their light weight materials for their hiking wear (which would make working without roasting in the summer time ideal). I will need to restock my summer, "cool biz" wardrobe for the office, so I am thinking their "Walk About" Bermuda Shorts ($48; which remind me so lovingly of LOST) may soon become a staple. Also, their shorter length ($48; for playtime) shorts are also cute. The Spa Skort is also cute, but I would need to see it before I commit to a return to culottes. With the slim, A-line shape, they may not be as suspect as they sound.

It was a close call, but I put a a copy of Dr. Mao's Secrets of Longevity 8-Week Diary ($14.95) and pair of Gal Pal's Retro Ice Bags ($16/each) back on the shelf. I wanted to check the online price versus their retail markup. Call me savvy or a cheapskate. I don't care. Turns out the section at Lucy was two dollars cheaper! If you buy direct from GP, it's $16 a piece (+S&H). Granted, the selection at GP was different than that of Lucy, so it is possible that Lucy has the older models. I like the idea of having a couple proper ice bags/hot water bottles in my running gear, epecially for destination races (plastic bags and hotel beds do not mix).

Overall, I had a rather productive shopping excursion. Granted, I bought everything but the one thing I set out for, but sometimes its the items that you don't look for that wind up being the better investments. I just hope I can get my hands on a Tango Red run:speed skirt (size 10) by 5/8 for my Japan Run for Hope in Central Park 4 Miler. It would look bad ass with the t-shirt my students designed.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

[32] Bouncing Back

In my previous post, I rationalized my three week vacation, but reading it over, it sounded like I was simply making excuses. This morning, I woke up with a charley horse in my left calf. It's been a while since I've had one of those mornings, and after talking with one of my running partners, I realized that it was a signal from my body to get moving. Did I run today? No. Will I run tomorrow? Definitely.

Last night, I went to Manhattan for the first time in a while that wasn't merely for transit. I stopped by the Times Square Alliance Visitors' Center and picked up my Revlon Run/Walk 5K T-shirt which means one less thing to schlep around on Saturday. I can't believe race day is almost here. I added my donation to the pile, pushing my total to $420! According to their rewards scale, I not only get the swank black-and-khaki totebag with pockets-a-plenty, but also the black gym bag. Not too shabby. When I handed my bib to the race volunteer, she showed the other ladies how I decorated it. The bib was smaller than what I anticipated, so I was thankful that I managed to have a fine point Sharpie in my desk. Yes, I wrote each name on it, and added some hearts because who doesn't love hearts?

Thank you to everyone who donated! I'm so thankful!!
I have a nifty Instagram (LoMo Style) photo I also took, but it crops out some of the names with its square formatting. I wanted to make sure that every name was visible. Hopefully, I can get someone to take a picture of me wearing it. According to my weather app, the high for Saturday will be 67 degrees and partially cloudy (though it might be closer to the 50s in the morning when I leave for NYC).

I contacted NYRR today about my Membership Information. The online registration system for the summer races (July-September) goes live Monday, May 2nd at noon. If I have to hold off on lunch until I can register, I will. Last year, the Queens and Bronx halves sold out in less than 24 hours, so I can't sit on it at all. I need to get moving not only on my guaranteed entry plan, but also on my 3-by-33 plan. This segues into my my next dilemma: The Tinkerbell Half-Marathon at Disneyland.



Oh, Run Disney.

It would figure after having a spectacular time at the Disney Princess Half, that I would be bitten by the ESPN Endurance Series bug. I already promised my girlfriends that I would run the Princess Half with them next February as my college gal pal, Meredith, is turning 30 (finally!!). The benefits of the TB1/2 would be that 1) it's the inaugural year, 2) I've never been to Disneyland, and 3) I potentially completing the Coast-to-Coast Challenge medal for running a half-marathon (two races, one on each coast in a calendar year). The flipside would be 1) convincing my friends to shift to the west coast, 2) possibly running the race alone, 3) not recovering before the Princess Half, and 4) the Manhattan Marathon potentially being scheduled the weekend before. I'll e-mail them and see what the verdict is.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

[31] Loss Time

April has turned out to be a bit of a Lion, and I’m the gourmet lamb chop dinner. I have not run nearly as much as I should (including bailing on the Scotland 10K due to lack of recovery time), and I have felt incredibly guilty for not maintaining my blogging pace, too. Over the last three weeks, I have had one and a half vacations and one and a half business trips. Allow me to explain. I went to Washington DC for the Cherry Blossom 5K with my mom the first weekend in April, and had an outstanding time. Got to meet old T.J. (Thomas Jefferson) and Honest Abe (Lincoln), see the beautiful cherry blossom trimmed tidal basin, and run my best 5K to date.  Additionally, I had one of the most decadent desserts I have ever tasted at SOCCi (in the Renaissance Inn Capitol View), but I won’t order wine from the bar again.
The following week, I went back to DC for the National Japan Bowl, a language competition for American high school students. I chaperoned a delegation of student helpers from my school, and enjoyed my time with them. However, the relay race of taxis-train-subways-and-buses completely wiped me out. It takes a lot for me to bail on something, or to admit I am not ready to tackle it. After a week or so of traveling to and from DC, the thought of dragging my aching bones to Central Park for a 10K just felt wrong. I know my body’s limits, and sometimes it is just better to say no. I chose to sleep in and have a satisfying lunch the next morning. My body thanked me profusely for making the difficult choice. This does mean I have to be more stringent about my NYC races, if I want to complete the 9+1 for the NYC Marathon. Yet, in the name of injury prevention, sometimes I need to also budget my energy or simply say ‘no’.
After the second trip to DC, came school festival in which I had additional duties and last minute tasks to complete for the big day. Having three jobs simultaneously overlapping on the same day is nothing short of exhausting. I was firm about my boundaries and prioritization of workload, but the day flashed by me. Before I knew it, it was 11:30 at night, and I was completely knackered. On top of that, I would be leaving for the senior class trip to Florida at 3AM on Monday. The following morning, I had to help the cultural festival committee clean up, but I was done and off campus by 10:30AM. The sunshine felt perfect for running, but I opted to explore some of the local culture. I enjoyed a fantastic brunch at The Red Hat in Irvington-on-Hudson, and later a tremendous lamb chop dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Tarrytown.
These fine meals aside, I realized that part of my lackadaisical attitude toward running lately was in part to my less-than-stellar (read: horrifying) diet. I hadn’t cooked in weeks, resulting in countless trips to the school cafeteria and fast food. Though I love dining out, sometimes I pick items which are comforting and easy, especially when my stress levels are through the roof. I’ll come clean. I’ve gained four pounds since my last post in March (currently holding at 150.4 pounds). Try as I may, sometimes weight gain is inevitable. I am trying my best not to feel disgusted and disappointed with myself, but it is a little hard. With all the madness behind me, I am ready to get back on track with my running and dieting. Summer is rapidly approaching, and I need to buy a new bathing suit soon!