Eastern Market DC.... FINALLY

Marathon Training Update (because I haven't said anything about it lately and I can't go too long without doing so :D):

Last week was a light week; my scheduled runs were 4-4-8. I ended up doing a 4 and a 8.5. I was short 4 miles but no sweat... I technically was only short about a mile. I set out to run on Thursday and ended up walking all the way home (about 3 miles). I just wasn't in the mood apparently but Alicia always reminds me "miles are miles". I do a good amount of walking anyway throughout the week.

At any rate, since I was off on Friday, I did my long run that morning which meant I was free the rest of the weekend! THAT, my friends, was awesome! I usually have to keep it together on Fridays so that I can wake up early on Saturday mornings and knock out my long run.

This Saturday morning, I lazied around in my bed until my good friends, Brittney and Jana (of The Jane Tales), invited me to hang out at Eastern Market! I exploded into produce and knick-knacks and culture because I have been wanting to go there for a couple years now. It's quite ridiculous that I hadn't been because 1) I'm from the area and 2) I currently live all of 10 minutes from the market.

At any rate, I went there with the intention of buying an amazing necklace for this Lilly Pulitzer dress that needs to be worn before the end of the season (which is basically tomorrow ::weeps uncontrollably:: I heart summer). Well, that didn't happen, not because I didn't see any necklaces but because I saw these pants that took my soul!

I basically died and went to Harem Heaven! 

 Yes, Brittany and I both snagged a pair and were so enamored that we changed right there in the parking lot. Best decision eveeeeeer! ::hi fives Brittany:: Our market adventure took off from there! 

As the euphoria of these great pants and Jana snagging an awesome vintage piece herself (that I covet and is not pictured but check her blog, I'm sure it will be debuted shortly) settled in, we headed to the indoor produce/meat/fish area of the market. Absolutely, amazing! 

EllE FACT: I love produce! It's basically all I buy when I go grocery shopping! My cart and budget are usually full by the time I leave the produce section and I'm fine with it. 

So, one can understand why I was in heaven. Everything was so fresh and beautiful! These grapes Brittany got are a small testament to all the tasty, fresh, natural goodness that filled this place! Cheeses, Olives, Flowers, Fish, Seafood, Pastries, Meats, Teas, Fruits, Veggies! I need to remember to skip the grocery store and head to the market next time. 

Great afternoon at the market with friends and my harems will be a staple for these last few weeks of summer! 

Do you have a wardrobe piece you want to wear everywhere?

Do you do your produce shopping at farmer's markets, etc? 

From "The EllE Epoque"

I wrote this piece a couple years ago during a very dark time in my life and a time when I realized I had to stop scrapping things or doubting myself because one thing didn't go my way. I titled it after a Lupe Fiasco song that inspires me that "even if they cut the lights out" (aka things do not go my way) the show goes on. The message to myself in this is still relevant to me each and every day of my life. Several people have suggested I get this printed and mounted somewhere in my home. Hopefully I remember to do that one day.

 "The Show Goes On"

Something went wrong.

Something did not go as planned.

Something happened unexpectedly.

Something did not happen at all.

Something happened too little.

Something happened too much.

Only ONE something is the variable.

However, it seems it was connected to everything.

Now what?

Knock everything down.

Empty everything out.

Cut everything off.

Turn everything upside down.

Forget about everything.

All bets are off.

Nothing makes sense.

Nothing is good enough.

Nothing works.

Nothing is right.

Nothing is wrong.

Nothing will do.

Enough is enough.

Maintain as much as you can.

Love as much as you can.

Live as much as you can.

Dream as much as you can.

Pray as much as you can.

Smiles as much as you can.

Do as much as you can.

Try as much as you can.

Brow Envy, get behind me!

I've been walking around thinking people had these magical unicorn-esque eyebrows that I sadly could not attain. Brow envy at it's finest. ::weeps uncontrollably::

I never, for once, thought "Oh, they probably use a brow pencil" because honestly when I think "brow pencil" I think of tacky people (IMO) with a line for brows. You can understand why I'd want no parts of that can't you?

 ::cringes::

Anyway, I was cruising through my favorite blogs and Krystal of The Feisty House had just posted about her daily make-up essentials and routine. She mentioned using the Wet n Wild brow pencil. Krystal assured her readers that despite it's low price point, this pencil did the trick perfectly.

Welp... that was my take home point! I decided I would add it to my daily make-up routine also.

A quick trip to CVS and exquisite brows were born

::shrieks:: 

I felt so complete and finished. Like I had the magical qualities the other ladies I've envied admired possessed.

Here are all my daily make-up essentials plus my new bestie: the brow pencil!

Tweezers to perfect my brows, toothbrush to brush them, brow pencil to make them magical.

Ambi facial moisturizer with SPF 15 (only 5 BUCKS!)

Nars "Taj" Blush

Nars "Laguna" Illuminator

I heart Sonya Kashuk make-up brushes (available at Target)

Random RIMMEL mascara 

I won't ever have an emergency again that drives me to purchase their mascara. I go back and forth between lux mascara and OTC mascara. My favorite lux mascara is MAC "Opulash" and when I'm doing OTC I usually go with Maybelline (which ever one interests me at the time).

Fun make-up fact about me:

If I was banished to a desolate island and could only take one beauty/make-up item I would take mascara. I do not leave the house without it. I used to be torn between mascara or lip balm but then I realized there are plenty of natural moisturizers so I'm totally packing my mascara!

What is your make-up routine? Do you have a "can't leave home without it" product?

Marathon (26.2 miles) Training

Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayddddddddddddaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

I must say that I have seen so much growth in myself through my running. It's been 3 years, 4 half marathons (13.1 miles), and I have 2 halfs and my very first full on my calendar in the next 7 months.

I run half marathon training schedules on a regular basis so I thought I could approach my marathon with the same ease of mind: a couple short runs and fit club during the week and long runs on the weekend (adding miles each week, etc).

SMH.

No.

I had a major panic attack about not making it to the appropriate miles at the appropriate times. I had to break out the tried and true method: write it down.

These 5 precious pages are my guidelines on the road to finishing 26.2 miles on November 16 at the Anthem Richmond Marathon. It was definitely helpful to visually map it all out and see that I will be just fine!

I, also, picked up some other new running accessories

I have a very low tolerance for distractions and discomfort during my runs. It really really throws me off my game. I like to get into my zone and stay there until I have completed my mile goal but with things like sweaty earbuds sliding out of my ears, my hands cramping from holding a water bottle, adjusting waste pack, fatigue, and thirst happening... that is nearly impossible... or at least it feels that way.

So, I picked up a new pair of sweatproof earbuds. They really work! :) No matter how insanely sweaty I get!

For energy, I am testing out the GU Roctane and Clif Shot Blocks. I normally run races with GU Chocolate, but I decided I might need something that packs more punch for my 26.2 miles. I haven't tried the Roctane yet. I did try the Clif Shot Blocks! NOM NOM NOM! oh... and they did give me the energy boost I needed to knock out my 7 miles. This Saturday I am going to go for 9 miles and I will take some Roctane with me. Stay tuned because I am nervous about the flavor options. I really like the chocolate GU versus all the funny fruit flavors that didn't make me feel good. GU Roctane sadly only comes in funny fruity combinations.

Since the start of my running career, I have strongly been opposed to running with anything on my back, including a shirt, when I can get away with not wearing one. So the thought of wearing a backpack is DOA. However, as time as gone on, I do not like wearing a hydration belt or carrying the handheld bottle. I just want to run free and "naked"! Also, in the past if I hydrated properly beforehand, I didn't really get thirsty during my runs... no matter the length, so I just stopped carrying hydration all together. During races I would stop for gatorade or water maybe 2 or 3 times. Recently, though, I have become very thirsty, very early in my runs. No Bueno. It was to the point that I would just quit running because I was uncomfy.

::enters idea of hydration pack::

I did some research and trial "runs" (went to running store and ran on treadmill with hydration pack). I realized that the pack experience wasn't as aggravating as I imagined. And now, that I have acquired the above pack and been on a few runs, I am so happy I gave the pack a try! It has saved my sweaty, parched, running life!! :)

What are your fuel and hydration tricks?

Keen-Wooooooooooooooh Success

I realized I am halfway through the year and I should probably review my "30 before 30" list in order to access my progress. Honestly, I was concerned that I had totally forgotten the 30 things I am supposed to be conquering. However, I discovered that I have succeeded in quite a few things on my list, I needed to edit other things, and tighten up on the rest. I was actually happy about where I stand at less than 6 months from my 30th Birthday.

One of the things I need to tighten up on is grocery shopping. I had a nice little routine going a few months ago and then I had a checking and a savings and well... my mission was deterred. Life happens. As much as I glitter, I'm not all gold. :) At any rate, last night after fit club (formerly or better known as "boot camp") I took myself to the grocery store. I picked up a few things last week during a Target run but I still needed some core ingredients.

I have learned that I do very well taking my goals in segments. That is actually how I entered into the "meatless" lifestyle. I decided to go vegetarian for a week and by the end of the week I felt so good that I decided to give it another week and the rest is history. Which brings us to this week, I told myself that I would challenge myself to go the entire week without spending money aka I will not fall victim to spending 10-15$ per day on lunch while Im at work (do not do that math... it will hurt).

Sidebar but totally relevant, I would like to make a huge edit in the minds of people that "know" me. The statement "elle doesn't/can't cook" is false. The correct statement is "elle doesn't go to the grocery store" but, when she does go to the grocery store that is less than 100 yards from her door, we get things like this:

Sauteed quinoa (Keen-Woh) (like rice) with spinach, onions, and tomatoes and over roasted paprika sweet potatoes with baked salmon.

I eventually mixed the quinoa into the wok with the spinach, tomato, and onion tossed with olive oil, sea salt, and pepper.

I tossed the sweet potatoes with EVOO, paprika, sea salt and pepper, and garlic before placing them in the oven at 450 for about 25 minutes.

                                                 

::waiting on the goodness::

 

If you are obsessed with plating like I am, then I sincererly apologize for not have a final picture of this goodness. I did this at 10 o'clock last night and packed some for lunch today. I can assure you it looks and taste as good as it sounds. (Yes, I am patting myself on the back)

The Doll in Brooklyn

I've always felt so country upon returning from a weekend in New York City because I'm usually exhausted and overwhelmed. The city really never sleeps and seems to be going a mile a minute at all times.

The thought of living there makes me tired and I've always detested the idea.

However, I spent this past weekend (two weekends ago, really) in Brooklyn (mostly in Fort Greene and Brooklyn Heights) and it took me about 5 hours to fall in love.

Brooklyn is still urban but minus all the pomp & circumstance of Manhattan. The awesome boutiques and shops. A wide variety of restaurants offering unique experiences. The street markets. The city is booming with culture and diversity. For me, Brooklyn is the essence of "city living".

My favorite dynamic of the weekend was that we hung out with locals which means we got a real life perspective of Brooklyn. When I was in Trinidad & Tobago a few years ago, I realized this is the best way to visit most places. In my opinion, this makes the experience so much more authentic and fulfilling.

Our first evening in Brooklyn was spent at this awesome restaurant located in Fort Greene called "Madiba", a South African dining experience paying homage to Nelson Mandela. The ambiance is inspired by shebeens, which are informal dining halls in South African townships. The idea is to relax, release, enjoy, and love in this place. And that we did!

Despite our hope for a happy hour, the unique experience captivated us. I ordered the "Tristan da Cunha lobster tail" (lobster tails over saffron rice in a mango and lemon butter sauce). Let me tell you!! That rice could have been the only thing on my plate. I will crave it forever.

I capped the meal off with a few laughs and a few authentic "dark n' stormy" cocktails. When I discovered that they carried Goslings rum and Goslings ginger beer, there was arguably no other cocktail to choose.

In a nutshell, I will probably crave that rice and this little Brooklyn "shebeen" forever. Can I vacation in Brooklyn every summer? Sounds like a few long weekends in Brooklyn are in order.

I Missed You, Too

It's been just over a month since my last post... while I do hate to let my readers down with such a lag in posting, I have to say that I am unapologetic because.............................................................

MAY WAS SO MUCH FREAKING FUN

 Every weekend and arguably every day was filled with mostly lots of fun.

Birthdays, Balls, Graduations, Concerts, & Weddings (I caught he bouquet for the first time)!

So, in short, I'd like to raise my e-glass to May!

I will be back on the ball with more substantial post in the next few days. I just wanted to say hello!

Ta-Daaaaaaaaaaa

Yesterday was a much needed rest day.  I attended my 90 minute bootcamp on Monday and on Tuesday, despite being sore, I ran 10 miles (half up the steep hills of "uptown DC") in the rain!  Invigorating!!!  To my surprise, there were tons of people out running!  I'll never be stiffled by running in light rain again!

Honestly, I wanted to run yesterday because it was such a beautiful evening and I strongly believe beautiful weather is for running and drinking frolicking with friends. Anything outdoors, really. If the sun is high in the sky and it's about 70 degrees, I want to be outside.

At any rate, I had already planned to attend an event called "Juxtapose" presented by my friend, wardrobe stylist: Biance Cerise, and a photographer friend of hers. They juxtaposed the art of photography and fashion into a cool exhibit.

There were about 20 shots using this loverly model. Her hair rocks! Forgive me for not taking more shots to share! I should have taken a picture of the set I loved the most.

Which leads me to my next point, I have to confess that I was about to let this event slip away without taking pictures and preparing to share with you guys. However, as it is with these events, I bump into a few familiar faces and I bumped into one of my inspirations, Jana. She noted that she needed to snap some pictures for her blog and I was like "oh yes! I should, also!" and so with a little coaxing from her (I do not like to draw attention to myself) I stood in the middle of all the people and Jana snapped a few pictures of my look for the night.

"Hurry up, Jana! Hopefully no one is looking at me! And if I keep laughing perhaps you'll catch a cool picture because I have no idea what to do with my face on camera"

"Fine! You're really making me do this?!"



I snapped this one in the car on the way! Face check!

Ta-Daaaaa! I finally was able to get non-selfies of my look! If I could have someone snap pictures of me enthusiastically more often that would roooooooock! lol I should have really let go and spun around with my jacket over my shoulders because the cut-outs on the back of the dress are half the fun, the pleated bottom is the other half!

I wasn't the only fashionista there! I live for an event full of stylish people! Not just trendy but stylish: innovative, creative, inspiring in the way they pull looks together! There were even precious "baby" fashionistas, like this little girl right here! She gave me so much life!

::whispers:: It's Not All About Running

Yes, it is true. It is not all about running.

I am saying this because on one of my many thinking sprees I realized that I blog about running the majority of the time. However, based on my tagline:

"A journey to patience while eating, running, styling, indulging in the fancies and navigating the not so fancies of life."

I should be sharing a few other things that are just as exciting and paramount in the grand scheme of my life's musings. I absolutely love to go out to eat! However, it's more about the ambiance and the overall experience than the actual consumption of food. I do a good amount of restaurant cruising. It's not always apropeaux for me to snap great pictures, though. My favorite thing to experience is plating! It just makes everything feel better when there was some art and thought to how my food was placed on my plate, the colors and the textures! I LIVE!

Now, my main, long time love and what I used to tell people was my sport of choice is "styling": the art of creating looks/getting dressed. I almost do not even have words for my love of style. It awakens every passionate molecule in my body. (I have a knack for being dramatic in speech :P but I am so sincere right now). It is to the point that watching the Rachel Zoe show makes me legitimately a little sick. Rachel Zoe is living my real life.

Love her!

Speaking of getting dressed! I am attending for the second year in a row, one of DC's top galas of the year, The 5th Annual Ball on the Mall. I was talking to one of my friends about it and I said "I am very excited...any opportunity to get dressed is filled with excitement for me... the rest is icing on the cake".  Last year, I got pictured in a couple blogs and I recently noticed that I am in the gallery of photos from last year (twice, hehe). Hopefully, I get "blogged" again this year! My dress arrived yesterday and I tried the look on and I am rather pleased. I am actually about to head out to search for a couple finishing touches aka go check out the new Nordstrom Rack down the block!

from the "Ball on the Mall" gallery

From my own gallery, lol

On that note, I am still working to grow my blog and this is one of the things I have noticed so far that I will work to change. So look out for more restaurant "Reviews" and more style (I would picture my outfits more but I loathe bathroom mirror selfies so I do not take them often! If anyone wants to be my photog, I am here for that, hehe)!

A brick to go!

Last week was awesome! I finished the week with 20 miles and I lost 2 pounds! Whenever, I mention weight loss or maintaining my weight, I get the ol' side-eye and I totally get it. But here is my logic, which could totally be flawed, but hear me out:

If I maintain my weight and pay close attention when I gain 3-5 pounds, then I won't have to want to off myself go through the sometimes trying process of burning off 30 pounds or 8249323 pounds. So, yes gaining pounds makes me very nervous because 5 turns into 15 and that turns into sadness.

I actually gained 7 pounds more than I would like to weigh. I prefer staying under 140 pounds. I am currently at 142. Hopefully, by the end of this week (20 more miles) and a few more ACV tonics I will be under 140 in no time!

Please notice, I ran 20 miles last week! Which means my ankle is better! YAY! I still wear my brace and will do so at least through this week!

I also got new running shoes. I originally bought the New Balance Minimus Trail shoes that are super cool and awesome! However, after my 7 miles run on Saturday, I realized that perhaps I wanted more cushion for my double digit runs. So, yesterday, I traded them in (thank God for the 14 days trial period that Pacers gives) and got the Brooks Pure Flow 2s. I will take them out for 6.5 miles in about 30 minutes. So far, they feel like I am running on marshmallows. I really like the minimalist feel but these are light and I do need more cushion for the (mile) pushin'.

Hopefully, they are good to me. My first real running shoe was by Brooks and I was not disappointed.

Stay tuned...

::pushes cup of Joe to the side::

I finally made it out to the Whole Foods to snag the ingredients for my new morning tonic (no gin): ACV tonic!

I read about it a few weeks ago, but once again, I have trouble heading to the ole grocery store. A friend of mine recently discovered the tonic, also, and was telling me about it and I was like "ugh! thank you, I need to get to the store asap! I've been meaning to for weeks!"

TADAAAAAAAAA!

Why am I drinking this? Read about the amazing benefits here and you will probably run out to the grocery store, also! Weight loss, lowers blood pressure, jump starts your digestive system in the AM, cuts fat! 

I got back to the office and immediately concocted the tonic. I held off on the honey to see how I felt about the taste of just the apple cider vinegar and the lemon juice. It wasn't bad at all for me. But if you prefer a little sweetness, I am sure the honey will help a little. 

I am excited about adding this to my daily life. I always make it a point to have a glass of water before anything in the morning so these ingredients are icing on the cake! 

Let me know how you like this or if you are already drinking it, are you seeing any differences?

I'll probably just have my cup of joe a little later in the morning now ;) 

Run for Boston & Weekly Running Schedule

***moment of silence and prayers for Boston***

As a warm-blooded human being, my heart broke for Boston on Monday. As a runner, my heart broke some more. Yesterday, I ran for runners everywhere. Some friends, asked if I would be deterred from my upcoming races out of fear of something tragic happening. Answer: ABSOLUTELY NOT! I feel like that is the complete opposite of the spirit of running. I look forward to crossing the finish line at both of my upcoming races! I will cross with those, lost and hurt, at the Boston Marathon on my heart!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

I have recently become obsessed with lounging in my running clothes. I also, use it as motivation, on some days, to do something towards my fitness. I can't remember if I have shared this before but I really really really do not like going to the gym. I thank God for the boot camp I attend 2x/week because I enjoy it and I get my much needed strength training in! However, I need to do a little more.

This past Sunday, I was lounging around in my running clothes, after returning from an amazing morning at Union Market DC. Etienne starts talking about some post he saw somewhere on social media that was commenting on someone who had gained a lot of weight since high school or something. We, immediately, went into how we would loathe ourselves if that became our reality! People saying things like "awww she/he used to look so good/be so slim", etc.

And at that very moment I stood up and headed to the gym to do some leg work! I only had 30 minutes before I needed to head off to the rest of my day and I figured that was the perfect use of my time and energy: 5 sets of 15 on the leg curl machine and the leg extension machine.

I am extremely proud of myself for taking those 25 minutes to do something towards my fitness. The gym was not THAT bad! On Friday, I will figure out an upper body routine. Pray for me though, because I do not believe anything unfun should be done on Fridays.

My weekly routine is shaping up like this, so far, and for now:

Sundays:
Legs and/or arms (depends on time)

Mondays & Thursdays: 
boot camp (90 minutes); I run to bootcamp, which is about 2 miles from my home

Tuesdays/Wednesdays:
 short run (5-6 miles)

Fridays:
PARTY! (I kid;  I just realized, I don't like to do too much on Fridays social or otherwise because I need to be up at 6am/7am for my long runs and in good condition. So scratch the upper body routine this Friday!)

Saturdays: 
long runs (my favorites!!!! 8 miles & up)

This works out perfectly because my goal on a regular basis is to run 18 miles/week. Of course, as I ease into my full marathon training, that number will go up so I can get to TWENTY SIX POINT TWO!!!!


Have you layed out a plan for your fitness yet? It is so much less overwhelming when you map it out per week. I promise!

Never a Dull Moment

...which is my excuse for why I have slacked on posting...

Ideally, I would like to post at least 2x/week. I have to work at that some weeks because I am an emotional writer. If I am not bursting with an idea then I won't write until I do. In the spirit of the premise of my blog, I am forcing myself to just sit down and start tapping out something in times where I do not have anything in particular to share.

Honestly, sometimes, so many different things are going on that I get overwhelmed with what and how I want to share. My friends often say "you always have something going on" and I never really realized that until lately. I have been blessed with the gift of friendship which allows me a pretty fun filled social calendar. It's truly expensive a blessing. I love celebrating or randomly hanging out.

The last month in particular has been non-stop fun! I mentioned my weekend in Tampa, then this past weekend I had a great time with my Hokie Loves celebrating life and love: bridal shower, birthday, baby shower.

Such a good time! The weather was gorgeous! I got to wear my super cute Anthropologie onesie that I had been saving just for Lauren's bridal shower.



I was totally engaged in the shower and was having a great time, but I did keep one eye on the clock because Louisville was scheduled to play at 6:09pm. I didn't need to see the tip off but I needed to be able to watch the majority of the game. My last sentence should tell you that my mission to embrace basketball via the NCAA championship was a true success. Basically, I want march madness every month!!!! Alicia sent me a t-shirt and I am forever in her graces for it! <3

GO CARDS!!! NCAA NATIONAL CHAMPS!

I proudly strolled into The Park on championship night prepared to celebrate the win!!!

I considered how I would feel if Louisville lost and I would still be proud; once a fan, always a proud fan is how I see it.

It was super nice to go out that night without a coat, just me and my v-neck!

The weather has been incredible over the past few days! You know what that means!!! I want to run!!!!!!!! I went out for a test run (1.5 miles) yesterday to see how my ankle was feeling. I felt fine! I did take care to wear my brace while I was running. My ankle was a little tender this morning so I took some ibuprofen and I feel ok. I think I will wait a couple more weeks to really go in because guess what!?!?!?!

I just signed up for the 2013 Divas Half Marathon in September!!! I am really excited about this race (I am excited about all of them though)! There is a pretty sparkly medal, boas and tiaras along the route to give you some extra UMPH, and a pool party and wine tasting across the finish line! TURN UP!!!!!!

This race comes at perfect time during my training for my full marathon in November! sooooooo I just want to heal and be strong so I can run like the win blows!!!!

Testing Patience 1.. 2... 3... Testing

My patience is definitely being tested right now. I want to run. I want to workout.

I recently read that baby elephants throw themselves in mud when they are upset, a tantrum of sorts. I totally sympathize with all the baby elephants in the world right now because that is exactly what I want to do during this healing process.

I am walking A LOT better. As recent as last Thursday, I was still basically dragging my left foot with me. I was really worried about this because I was preparing to spend an amazing weekend in Tampa and definitely did not want to be stifled by my injury. Although, laying on the beach doesn't put any pressure on my ankles. I was pleasantly surprised when I woke up on Friday to less of a dramatic limp. SCORE!

I am still wearing my brace, though. I am definitely not at 100%, maybe at like 60%. I grew weak and baby elephant like when I would see all the runners along Tampa Bay. Ugh! I tried to channel thoughts of hope and excitement for when I do finally return to the road.

I spoke with my doctor yesterday and she said hopefully another 2-3 weeks for full recovery. So, I made up in my mind that I will be back on the road by mid May. I will definitely want new running shoes as a welcome back present!

Wrandom Wednesday

I like alliteration and making up random themes for days. Hence the birth of "Wrandom Wednesday".

I had to think of something to call this post and I wanted to blog but had nothing in particular to say except a few wrandom things:

                                                                  

I am really excited about cracking this baby at the airport in a couple days. The sequel to a crowd favorite "The Coldest Winter Ever". Are you familiar? I guess this is also a good time to give you an update on #12 of my "30 before 30" list: I read way too slow and lately I have chosen really long books and I keep starting books and calling myself reading them all at once! lol go figure! And here I go, prepared to start another book in 2 days and I still havent finished:

•  "Monday Morning Choices" -it would help if I bought it on my iPad, I can't carry books anymore ::does fancy pancy dance::
• "Battlefield of the Mind" -this is more of a devotional but that means I haven't been great at #10 on my "30 before 30" list
• "The Happiness Project" -I read this one the most, I love all of the books I am "reading" but I super love this one

Yep... Yep... Yep... sprained ankle.... no boot camp... no "Speedy Gonzalez" through the streets (I tend to walk really fast for no reason at all)... &&&&&&&&&&&&&&most importantly NO RUNNING!!!! 

::fights tears and tantrum:: 

I have no clue how I did this. However, I am happy it is now and not in June when my official race training begins. Sunny side up. Keep my healing and training in your prayers and thoughts! Thank You!

Speaking of running:

A friend of mine tagged me in this on IG! I freaking love it! You know why? Because I have the biggest dream/fantasy of not only being able to go out on a run with my significant other/husband (not all the time though, running is "elle time") but even more specifically, I would love to tackle a race or two with him. If this ever actually happens for me, then yes, we will probably chose the same post run activity. ;)

My hair is growing, growing, growing... yay! I am really committed to my commitment not to cut it before my 30th birthday (if I even cut it) (see #14, "30 before 30"). However, It is getting to a point where I need to think of other things to do with it and I am seriously considering getting braids. To be honest, though, I have worn weaves/tracks/braids before, I really do not feel comfortable with them in my hair. I do not feel myself in them. I would rather have braids than tracks for now though. I think I want senegalese vs. the "poetic justice" or "solange" braids. Stay tuned...

Oh, no huge report here! I just love style. I may or may  not stalk her blog: Style Pantry ! dope. dope.dope.


I guess, this makes this official, I will only be wrandom on Wednesdays from this day forward. :)

Happy Birthday Beautiful!!

Dear Sibberling,

I've said this before and I pray to be able to tell you a million more times: you are incredible. Since we were wee little people in the single digits I've noticed how strong and courageous you are with everything. Even during your moments of indecision or tough times I've seen this in you. Life hasn't always been a crystal stair but when I'm able to see how every little thing: good bad and ugly, has flowered into the beautiful successful woman you are today on your TWENTY-FIFTH birthday, I find it hard to let any of the not so fancy and not so shiny parts of life be a smudge on your screen of life. While we are able to control certain aspects of our lives, there are a ton of variables. I must say that it has been totally inspiring and awesome to see you grab a hold of your life and pray for what you can't control and do what you can to achieve your dreams. I look forward to celebrating all your success in the very near future. I thank God for cradling you for the past 9,125 days and I ask Him to continue to take the best care of you for 47474773773727263 more days!

I am so happy to celebrate your quarter of a century today!!!

Happy Birthday. I love you.

I can't see through my tears right now so I gotta go!!!

Powerful Perspective

I don't know about you but my bank account has not yet caught up with my life or taste. At times this reality can be quite daunting! Just the other day I was telling one of my friends how I wish there was just this reserve of cash somewhere so whenever I needed wanted anything I could just pull from the reserve. Essentially, creating a life in which I want for nothing! 

However, since that is not realistic, I have to make it do what it do which includes my least favorite thing to do: saying "no" to myself and to my friends. I want to do it all and see it all and be it all. So, that is like the worst solution ever to me! As of late, I am actually learning how to better prioritize things I want to do and this has been really helpful in me not feeling so down about not being able to do everything. 

A couple of months ago, I was cruising the internet looking for a race or two to sign up for and before I knew it I had like 5 races I wanted to do! Slow down! Races are not cheap and especially when you start talking about running races in San Juan or Chicago or anywhere other than at home! I also plan on spending my 30th birthday in Kenya. I have some bridal showers, baby showers, my daily life, register for full marathon (Check), other random fun things (like signing up for this Divas Half Marathon), my wardrobe, new running shoes, and several other things that require my financial attention. So, I prioritized what I want and need to do instead of overwhelming myself sans calculating the fact that I am not a patrillionaire. What it came down to is that Kenya is top priority! I will starve before I miss out on purchasing that plane ticket for myself! I mapped out a savings plan and I refuse to falter (aka steal money from savings for frivolous things). 

At any rate, I was chit-chatting with one of my dolls about life and signing up for the Divas race and how we both had a lot of things on our social calendars, on top of regular life expenses. We were saying how we want to do it all and we just had to make it all work and possibly say no, etc. She began to list out all the things she had coming up and how she felt things were going to play out. Then she said something that blessed my entire soul:

"but it's all a blessing because these things means I've been blessed to have friends and to have events to opt to go to or not. I shall not complain!"

 That touched me so much! I always hear and read about keeping the right perspective in all things. In fact, two of the books I am reading ("Battlefield of the Mind" and "Monday Morning Choices") are all about perspective and how to change one's thoughts in order to be more successful . However, hearing her say that really hit home for me. It was a real life example of the power of perspective. She made a great point because I truly enjoy the gift of friends which allows me life experiences that I will never forget. So, I will not complain. I will just continue to make it do what it do (pray, exercise self-control, and enjoy)! 

Special shout to my "Bih" (why I call her that is for another day and time) for being an inspiration over my life! God is definitely using you to be an inspiration! 

I'm Going Blind

No, not physiologically. Thank God.

I mentioned to some friends a few months ago that I would try my darnedest to get into basketball or at least get to a point where watching more than the last 5 minutes (the only part of the game that really matters IM(nonexpert)O) is interesting. That didn't happen. Did I give it a fair try? I mean, a few games have been on in my presence but I just can't for the life of me focus. I always say it's because of all the constant moving. Watching a basketball game on TV is like an eye reaction exercise, the ball is everywhere in like 30 seconds. During that time, I mentally check out (due to exhaustion) and by the time I check back in 2 quarters have passed.

For the record: I am not one of those girls that knows nothing about sports and doesn't want to watch and only looks at who is hot or not. However, I am also not the girl that knows stats and history and all of those sorts of things. I am the girl that just enjoys watching sports. I get it. I love the competitive and social nature of the whole experience.

I super enjoy a good football game and I do not mind watching a patrillion games on Sunday. Basketball? Not so much. However, over the years I discovered a remedy: I need to be courtside. No, not because I am fancy pancy but because that angle makes it easier for me to focus. My eyes don't have to travel all the way down to the player's waist and then hands and then locate the ball (at which point the player has long passed the ball to his teammate and I am again back at square one, exhausted and lost). I have enjoyed a few basketball games from this courtside position so I know it is possible for me to love the game. Since, I do understand that it is a slight stretch for me to expect to sit courtside regularly, I wanted to find a way to force myself to engage in the sport a little more wholeheartedly.

I decided I am going to follow the NCAA Tournament and what better way to really stay engaged and invested in the Tournament than to fill out a bracket or two or three. So far, I have filled out 2 and I am strongly considering a third because of a very little known fact about me: I am competitive. The thought of one of my brackets taking me out early sounds terrible. I am not a sore loser but I do not like to lose so if I can heighten my chances of staying in the runnings (btw I am not challenging anyone with my brackets except myself, my own little bracket challenge) then I am here for that.

Essentially, this is like "going blind" in a game of spades. I am not really sure about anything coming of this but I am willing to give it a good try and I am super excited about bragging on how well I am doing with absolutely no expertise keeping up with the games.

P.S. I am not bandwagoning by going for Louisville. My dear Alicia is in grad school there and I often live vicariously through my friends and so... I am really invested in their success. GO CARDS!

Kickin' It II

To be totally honest, I started writing "Kickin It I" pretty blindly. I had a few things I wanted to talk about but no particular focus or order. I was getting a little frustrated and was ready to close out and come back with a fresh mind but I pressed on (yay, perseverance!). My method: just start rambling writing and see where it takes you. It worked!

Interestingly enough, my sister from another mister (BFF), and I had a conversation about using that exact concept as a way of life. We were discussing how much we hem and haw about things without taking any action. Instead of trying to make sure we have thought out every detail and experiencing roadblocks (in our heads because again no action is being taken), we should just do it (NIKE was on to something with that one). Take the first step. Sometimes, what we think won't fall into place, will if we would actually spring into action. The first step can really land you in places and with opportunities that you couldn't have thought of if you kept thinking for months. Join me in remembering to "Just do it" as often as we can muster up the courage. For inspiration read my favorite book: Oh the Place You'll Go by Dr. Seuss!

At any rate, "Kickin' It" became a two-part series because I realized that I wanted to talk about shoes and about the most "kickin it-est" (again, my blog, my words, bite me, hehe) day of the week: Sunday. The post would have been way too long if I threw it all together so for mental ease, here we are "Kickin It" again!

Sunday was definitely a fun day with three things to highlight:

I double floraled (do I need to say it again, I write what I want, lol)!!!! So exciting!! I was inspired by a few looks I saw on the red carpet! I remember Adele did this for the Grammy's I think and a few other people mixed very different but magically complimenting floral prints in one look! I accepted the challenge and I love  the outcome.

French green lentils with bacon and creamed shallots, roasted Portobello mushrooms and onions, red wine sauce

It was the perfect ensemble for a yummy brunch at RIS! I ordered bottomless mimosas, the apple-ginger flavor (must try!).... and oh! right, I ate also... hehe.... pictured above before I killed it : Mustard Crusted Atlantic Salmon. 

Win. Win.Win. 

And do not worry, I have been very mindful lately,of resting my fork in between bites, less shoveling, more resting. Actually, speaking of which, my favorite benefit of eating slower is that I actually have time to savor the goodness of my food. It's nice to be able to just relax and take in all the flavors and achieve real satisfaction from my meal. 

Nom. Nom. Nom.

Anyway, after brunch (or mimosas: I'm pretty sure I got close to the bottom of the mimosas), it was only fitting on such a pretty day and being so close, to head to Georgetown for a little window shopping. After walking around Georgetown for a few hours, it was time to eat again! Next stop: Burger Tap & Shake, which is part of the Passion Food Restaurant Group (District Commons, DC Coast, Acadiana, Fuego, Ceiba, PassionFish).

Crispy Falafel Patty, Pickled Vegetables, Feta, Cilantro Raita

I had the "Haight-Ashbury" and a "Talladega Nights" shaketail (Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, House Made Limoncello, Vanilla Ice Cream, Lemon Juice). Although, in the picture might be the "Apocalypto" (Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, Homemade Marshmallows, Chocolate Ice Cream) because they gave me the wrong shaketail. They told me to keep that one and they would give me my correct order. 

There I go winning again!

 ::aggressive fist pump::

I hope you make the most of the kickin-it-est day of the week! There is something about a Fun Sunday that is so invigorating! This Sunday, has promises of greatness also; can you say "day party"? Stay tuned...