This Post is a Little Cheesy.

Here I am, precisely three weeks P.M. (Post-Marathon), at my parent's house in Plymouth, MA. We are snowed in for the morning while a little storm passes by.

snow!

I was planning to try for an 8-9 mile long run today, but instead have had to "settle" [read: eagerly get back in bed] for watching the HBO Beyonce documentary and hoping that the gym is open this afternoon for some treadmill action. If I feel like it.


I really don't.

You can print Beyonce motivational posters from Vulture.com to adorn your office or bedroom: http://www.vulture.com/2013/02/print-vultures-inspirational-beyonce-posters.html

As I've mentioned, I signed up for the NY Half before I ran Miami and now have that coming in exactly one month. I've run only a few times total -- and never more than 6 miles -- since the race. Hmm.

I won't run the Half for time (last year I PR-ed at that race before doing so again at the Brooklyn Half in May. But I still would like to have a decent showing. I'm doing this race because I had such a blast last year and wanted a repeat showing. This is the race that shuts down Times Square and ends at the South Street Seaport. It's on St. Patty's Day (after party, anyone?) and I have a bunch of friends running it as well.

Also I truly thought I wouldn't get in the lottery when I signed up at the end of 2012, but of course this is when I get lucky. I NEVER WIN ANYTHING!

So now I'm still training. Kind of. I'm trying to work out at least a few days a week, but I'mma be honest. It's tough.

For the week immediately following the marathon, I didn't work out at all. This is not only okay, but is highly recommended by just about all sources. What I did do, however, was eat all of the foods.

For a couple of months leading up to the "big day" I was really good about my eating to ensure that my body -- that I had worked so hard to cultivate over 20+ miles of training -- was in tip-top shape for the big day. The choices I made were ones I learned were right for my body through trial and error from all those months of training. Trust me: You'll know an error when you feel it during a 3+ hour run.

We'll leave it at that.

But between the low amounts of alcohol, minimal oil and fried foods, and zero lactose consumed...I felt great. It truly was not about weight loss as my portions of many foods (carbs, vegetarian proteins, etc.) were high. But if that's the side-effect? I'll take it.

I feel like others would agree that often when you're IN a healthy mode it's easy to STAY in a healthy mode. And as soon as you embark on unhealthy activities, sometimes it can be a slippery slope. A treacherously slippery slope.

So, let me graphically demonstrate to you the type of lifestyle I have lived P.M.:

 

And I'm finding it hard to get back on the wagon.

Is three week a long time for a downward spiral? No, no it is not. Will I get the willpower to get back on? Absolutely. Is this why they, in all their wisdom, invented stretchy pants? You're damn right.

But it is a constant struggle. It's one that has plagued me my whole life. But through training I was somehow able to reach an equilibrium. A balance.

When I was in marathon mode, I truly and honestly didn't crave the cheese and the processed foods as much as when I wasn't training. And I got really used to the fact that in order to have a successful run of more than 4-5 miles I simply needed to eat healthy the day before and abstain from all alcohol.

And so I did.

I also truly loved the feeling that I could eat large portions of many foods I love (stir-fries, pastas, big ol' bread baskets) basically guilt-free. It made giving up the daily cheese snacks more than bearable. Because in my mind bread > cheese > all other foods.

What they don't tell you after you run a marathon is that you're still "Marathon Hungry." I'm not sure for how long, but I can tell you with confidence that it is at least 3 weeks. And meanwhile, no calorie burn.

So here I am, midway down the slope and lazier than ever. With a Half Marathon that I've paid $100+ for and genuinely do want to race in four weeks. And I know that to do that successfully I need to stop the binge and start the running again (all in moderation, of course).


... I also do know that I deserve a break.


And so I'm torn.


I guess what I'm trying to say is that it's never easy, this whole "being fit" thing. Even when you are feeling the best about yourself than you ever have (which is where I was from basically October - January with the NYC Miami training), and even when you accompish huge goals....it's a struggle.

All we can do is all we can do. And I have to remember that no one cares if I gain or lose weight. They really don't. And no one cares if I ran 20 miles this week or 4. They care if you're confident and they care if you're happy.

I know, I know. It can sound contrived and ridiculous. I just ran a marathon, so howcould I feel anything other than pure joy and positivity!?

This running / racing / working out "thing" is a lifestyle. And I'm still trying to figure out how that lifestyle fits in with how I want to live my life.

I'm never going to be the girl who prepares a week's worth of lentils and bok choy (both things I do genuinely like, by the way) and then do some meditative yoga and drift off to sleep in a Buddha-like state of calm. Rather, I'm the one who will cook one singular healthy meal, brag about it for 14 days, and then go out for Mexican and order the extra-large burrito and yes I would like the side of guacamole and the large margarita with that. And more chips, please.

You may be able to relate.

So now, if you'll excuse me, I have some lunch to eat. Watching Beyonce dance so much took a lot out of me.

It's All In the Mind...Or Stomach.

I just ran 16 miles this past Sunday, aided by the New York Road Runners' awesome Long Training Run #2 which simulates a race environment with Gatorade and water on the course, mile markers, pacers, and recovery foods at the end (mmm....pretzels...helps with the profuse sweating...yum!) I was further aided by the company of my long-time friend and first Roomie ever, Jen. You may have heard of Jen before, as she has a lot babies and runs a lot of marathons. My definition of a lot is "two."

Okay, so great. Ran 16. Whoopie, you all know that this is happening. I'm gonna keep running more and more miles until I either run a Marathon or lose my mind. Whichever comes first. I'm not sure it's the sheer distance at this point, though, that matters. It's how you get there. Right? Right.

I read an article from Runner's World last week on overcoming mental blocks for running. While somewhat interesting, I couldn't help but wonder --as I channeled my inner Carrie Bradshaw -- are these so-called "mental blocks" really what keep people from running? Are they what challenge me as I run?

Here are what they classify as mental blockers along with my commentary.

Faster Runners. I mean, I guess if you're like, the #4 Olympian and you'd like to medal, this would be a mental block. But as I usually come in 10,000 or so out of a 20,000 person race...intimidation by those faster than me has kind of had to go out the window.

A tough course. Like...I'm not running in the Alps.

People who train more. Are cool? I guess this used to be kind of intimidating to me, but once you wear a boot your whole perspective on life changes. Feel free to run more than me. I would like to remain in my normal everyday shoes. Which are Dr. Scholl's. Comfort > Fashion. But I digress.

The idea of a first race. They mean the first type of race. Like, a first half marathon. Or a first marathon (as in my case). I don't think this is a mental block though. Because this is what I'm trying to do...so it's more of a motivator than a block. I think that there is merit in this for your first 5K or 10K or Half Marathon for sure. But at a certain point you're just doing this to yourself.

Entering a Mega-Race. A-la the New York City Marathon (as opposed to small-town race or something). Fine, that's a big deal but I'm relatively sure that I'm not going to be the focus of National TV or in the newspapers or something. Mostly because I am not that pretty when I run. I'm not this guy:

 Saying "I'm a Runner." Clearly not an issue for me. I write a damn blog about it for goodness sakes. I'm not exactly closeted about this fact.

They finish by suggesting that you "rewire your brain" to get beyond your fears. And that you should worry about the process rather than the outcome of the race. Solid advice, but a little too theoretical rather than practical for my taste. Also, the "process"? That sounds really great in theory or in a Runners' World article, but in practice? I am finishin' the damn race. Just saying.

Okay, so here are MeriG's suggestions for mental blocks and how one might overcome them:

Block #1: Fitting Running Into Your Schedule. Okay, so figure you'll do a weekend long run, but you need at least a couple during the week, plus time to do one or two classes or other cross-training at minimum. So you've really got two options: morning or after work. After work is cool and all, but can really dip into time to eat and drink and socialize with friends. And doing both I find to be very tricky if you have to work past 6 pm. So if you're like me, you're left with mornings. Which means you have to get up early. Like, real early. And that sucks. So your next step is to get a cat.

That's right, you heard me, a cat.



GOOD MORNING!!!!

Because a cat does not let you sleep in. Because cats can be real jerks.

Problem solved. You're welcome.

Block #2: But I'm tirrrrrreeddddd.
If you run a marathon you can basically eat whatever you want and not gain wait. And you'll probably get some ab muscles. Stop your whining and put on your shoes. And then go get a slice of pizza and some Godivas.

Block #3: I'm Slow.
I bet you can find someone slower to pass and then you'll feel faster. It's really all about being better than at least someone else. Write that down.

If you're not a vindictive person, here's another approach: pretend you're winning and that's half the battle.

Block #4: I can't run that far without stopping.
Run / walk in intervals and gradually change the run / walk ratio over time. Or get a cat. Either one.

Block #5: My legs and feet hurt when I run and that makes me sad.
Get yourself some good shoes, an ice pack, and some IB Profin and stop your bitchin.' I will also refer you back ot the "you can eat whatever you want" clause.

Note: This clause actually does change over time and you will have to start wtaching what you eat once your body gets used to running a certain distance. But at the beginning? It's like piggy central! Go for the gold! Enter an eating contest! The world is your oyster!

Block #6: But What If I Look Dumb?

You'll be fine. Buy yourself some new clothes at Gap Body or -- dare I say it -- Lululemon (you know the devil wears it, right?) and get out there. I promise you that there will be someone who looks worse than you.

Damn it, why can't I be nice to others! Maybe this is a mental block of my own...

Hope you found this uplifting and helpful. Now get out there, champs. There's eating to be done!

I mean running! There's running to be done!

Petition to Sell Out

This past Wednesday, June 6th, was National Running Day. To celebrate, Team for Kids had an extra special Wednesday evening practice with raffle giveaways [I didn't win...I never win. Sad face.], special running bibs to wear, and a happy hour afterwards.

They instructed us to fill out a bib inscribed with "I run because _______." So I did.

I find the use of underlining to be very effective.

Looking around, however, I noticed that others had taken the message a bit more -- shall we say -- seriously.

"I run because I feel amazing afterwards."
"I run in honor of my Mom."
"I run to reach my personal best."
"I run for the children."

Dammit....

So fine. Yes. I run for the food. You caught me. I ran 6 miles that night all for the love of fattiness. And I'm not going to apologize for it. Even to the children!

I do enjoy the eating. And I try to eat healthy, but at the same time...I run a lot and therefore I deserve treats. Today, for example. I enjoyed myself a nice pulled pork sandwich from the Big Apple Barbecue Festival (Big Bob Gibson pork shoulder out of Decataur, AL to be specific. Legit.)  But then I topped it off with a corn dog from Papaya. Amazing.

Yeah baby.

I'd like to say a day like that isn't normal. And it isn't. Just semi-regular. But whatever! I am running a freaking marathon! Chill out!

One of our coaches said that he is sponsored by Marathon Bars (it's like, a candy bar that they say has protein and stuff in it...pretty sure it's just a candy bar. But I'll allow it.). So, I have compiled a handy dandy list of foods I always have on hand so that these companies might consider sponsoring me. I will take payment in the form of money and/or food and/or someone cleaning my apartment.

• Luna Bars: I am all about these bad boys. Always have a bajillion at home and in the office. I have a total of two filing cabinets at work. One is full of shoes and the other is full mostly of Luna Bars. They have a new flavor which is baller:

         Seriously, Luna Bar. Sponsor me. You can't go wrong.

• Thomas' 100 Calorie English Muffins: I house these bad boys every morning for Breakfast #1. Nooks and crannies, son!

• Almond Butter: I'm not brand loyal, but I will sell out quicker than you can say "You ate a corndog and a pulled pork sandwich today????"

• Skinny Cow Products: It's ice cream, but it has the word skinny in it. So it must be true!

• Morningstar Veggie Burgers: Fabulous post-run meal in a whole wheat wrap with a side of somethin' or other. I never thought I'd be a veggie burger person....but there it is.

I'm envisioning a Nascar situation where I am just plastered with brands. Other brands I would like to reach out to me are: Samuel Adams beer, World's Best cat litter, The Boston Red Sox,  Big Sexy Hair products, Panasonic, Kayak.com, Costco, Lean Cuisine, India tourism board, and Colgate Total. I might have an in for the last one.

If all else fails maybe Big Bob Gibson will want to sponsor me. Pulled Pork sandwiches and marathon running are one in the same. They both take dedication (Kelly and I waited in line for almost an hour for that bad boy). They both are rewarding. And they both require conviction of heart and soul. What d'ya say, Bob!?

Me drinking a Sam Summer with some team members after the run. Brand loyalty, Sam Adams! Check it out!!

The Great English Muffin & Peanut Butter Debacle of 2012

Last weekend I went home again to Plymouth and was able to enjoy an 8 mile long (the farthest I've gone since injury!) The outdoor gear I bought was nice, but almost unnecessary in this unseasonably warm winter we've been having.

The night before I was to venture out to my now pretty established downtown Plymouth route, I started thinking about what I would eat the next morning. Runners often are thinking one or two steps ahead. And by steps I mean meals. And by runners, I mean me.

Every morning before I work out (3-4 days a week), I partake of Breakfast #1: An English Muffin, toasted, with either almond or peanut butter. This is not to be confused with Breakfast #2, which I have at work.

Breakfast #1 never varies, never faulters, and never disappoints. I have two butters, which is a lot more variety than one. I also really like English Muffins (nooks n' crannies, holla'!) Nutritionally, it's perfect. Carbs? Check. Protein and healthy fats in moderation? Check. Yumminess? Check plus!

So here I am, ready for bed at 9 pm on a Friday (I always get a delightfully full night sleep at home), and I mention casually, "Hey...y'all don't have english muffins and a nut butter of some sort, do you?" They did not.


Sidebar: If you also have a near unhealthy love of this breakfast bread, you are not alone. Someone has created this T-Shirt in Zazzle:

http://www.zazzle.com/i_love_english_muffins_heart_t_shirt-235306695900834978

You're welcome.


Ok, back to the story. So, my casual remark set off a frenzy of action. My personal reaction was "OK, I'll like, eat something else. Or go to Dunkin Donuts. Whatevs. Night!"

My glorious mother, however, would have none of it. You see, Myra is very supportive of me and my running. Very. And because she can not literally pick me up and run me on her shoulders (which, if you know her, you know she would do in a freaking heartbeat if physically possible), she likes to support in other ways. Such as providing me with a specific choice breakfast.

Her reaction*:

Oh no. Oh no. Oh no. I don't have English Muffins. I only have whole wheat wraps. Will that be okay? No, no, of course not. It's a wrap, not a crumpet-like bready substance. I'm an idiot -- a complete moron and undeserving of your attention, love and/or praise. I hate myself. And sweet god in heaven, why is there no peanut butter!? I had almond butter but I ate it ALL. ALL OF IT. Why did your father and I eat the food in our cupboards! We are bad parents -- nay -- bad PEOPLE and should be publically humiliated and shamed. I will wear a Scarlet E of shame and that E will stand for ENGLISH muffin, of which I can not offer you now.

* Dramatic re-enactment a la the hit shows Rescue 911 or I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant.

Again, let me stress my reaction**:

Shrug. Whatevs.

** In this reenactment, the role of Meredith will be played by a brunette Emma Stone.

So my mother, riddled with guilt and anguish, gets out of her pajamas, puts on sneakers, goes out into the RAIN, and drives to my sister's house to obtain the said English Muffins and Peanut Butter. She then laid it out for me on the kitchen table nicely, as if a holiday platter, awaiting my consumption in the morning. Myra's a damn saint. Crazy as hell. But a saint nonetheless.

What was the point of this entry, you ask? Something about multiple wholesome breakfasts and my mom loving me too much, I think. And the ever-changing hair colors of one Emma Stone.


You want blog? This is what you get people!

Lay Off Me, I'm Starving!

I had to share with you a little store about what happened at lunch in the company cafeteria today. My co-workers -- I am sure -- are scarred and will never quite be the same.

To preface, I ran 5 miles last night and then an additional 5 miles this morning. It is 1,000 degrees out and the humidity is akin to running through a swamp. The sweating has been monumental.

In the effort to be healthy and fiscally responsible (i.e. afford beer), I packed a moderately-sized healthy lunch and snack for the day. After eating not one, but two full breakfasts plus a snack before noon today, I finally arrived at lunchtime. My sandwich...and what was intended to be my afternoon snack...didn't stand a chance. I ate -- nay -- destroyed them. Record time.

My poor, innocent friend Kelly was sitting to my left enjoying her Meditteranean salad. I'm not going to lie to you right now: It looked good. Real good. Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, little bit of couscous in there, some hummus, pita, olives...good stuff all around.

She appropriately finished her meal, but had neglected a stray pita bread in her salad container. I noticed. As my colleague went to close the plastic lid in order to throw away yet another to-go container whilest Dining In (no judgement, Kelly!) I reacted in a mildly...uncomfortable manner. This manner would be me throwing myself across the table and putting my hand in between the top and bottom of the salad container while yelling "NOOOO!"

"Wow. You could have just asked for some pita," remarked Kelly as the rest of the table stood by stunned.

By this point my mouth was full of delicious pita and there was nothing I could do but sit and think about what I had done...

And about how many more hours there are until dinner.