When did you begin running and why? What are you training for right now?
Nothing - I just wrapped my races for the spring and I'm currently planning for the fall.
What is the toughest run or race in which you have participated?
I got pressured by my coworkers to sign up for a trail Ragnar and it was the worst decision ever! My first leg was at 2 AM and my headlamp died 2 miles in. I think I cried once during every leg after that, but somehow finished.
What is the most important lesson running has taught you?
Running is how I process everything. Anytime I have a problem or I'm feeling down, I just take myself on a long run and let my mind wander.
What is your favorite route in the area?
C&O Canal will always be one of my favorite routes (especially if I do it as a point-to-point and have someone pick me up farther down the trail).
What race day traditions do you have?
I used to paint my nails in crazy colors before every college meet. I haven't done that in a while, but for Cherry Blossom this year, Gaither and I resurrected that tradition with pink polish and cherry blossom stickers!
What is your favorite post-race meal?
Everything bagel with egg and cheese.
What is your proudest running moment?
Getting my PR at Cherry Blossom 10M this year. I've battled a lot of injuries in the past, so after a year of training smart, listening to my body, and properly fueling I finally felt like I was able to achieve what I believed I was capable of. Plus I ran the first 7 miles with my sister (she lives in Denver so this was a rare occurrence)
What is your favorite running book and/or movie?
I recently read The Girl Who Ran (a children's book about Bobbi Gibb's Boston Marathon) to my niece and I might have teared up a bit!
What is your life like outside of running?
I work as a creative strategist for a local marketing agency. In my spare time, I do a lot of crafty things (embroidery, card-making, drawing, etc.) and I read a lot of contemporary fiction.
