Hey there!
Hope everyone had a good holiday! I will admit it...I was lazy. I enjoyed home and didn't even touch my running shoes...which I should've...but I don't think I will be home until my sister's graduation in May...so whatever. Can you believe that 2013 is almost over? That means a new year, a new you, a new start. I always hated the idea of making resolutions, but this year I have decided to share mine with you. Maybe this year, like this blog, telling people will help me keep with them.
So here it goes: My 2014 Resolutions
1) Run the Disney Princess 1/2 Marathon in February 2015
2) Get an agent
3) See at least one artistic thing a month (poetry open mic, movie, play, etc...)
4) Live in the now more
5) Feel healthy and fit again
I would like to point out something- I put no number on anything relating with my body. It seems to be that every year we resolve to lose x-amount of pounds and do we? How well does that work? I have many times said I would do that and then by the middle of January went..."eh...it's okay". I have decided that events work better for me than numbers. See- I want to run the 1/2 marathon in a good time...but I haven't decided that time yet. So while my goal may be just to finish, I will eventually have a "magic" number in my head that will push me. And to be in shape for a 1/2 marathon I will need to become fit and healthy again...which will require more than just running. But did I say how I was going to do it? No! Because that is something I can figure out on the way. I think (stay with me now...getting all philosophical on you) that it's about the journey not the result. If we resolve to lose x-amount of pounds, once we get there we will have the urge to just stop because we reached our goal. But if our goal is to be healthy, not only do we take stress off ourselves to reach a magic number, we will set ourselves up for healthy habits that will last beyond 2014. As for the others, that really is up to fate and money...but who knows, maybe I will be able to get both done this year :)
I hope you all had a happy holiday and that each of your New Year's is not only a happy celebration of 2013 but that your 2014 is prosperous and full of health and happiness. Thanks for reading and remember, we're in this together....even if we don't see each other in action.
Until next time, keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
Monday, December 30, 2013
Monday, December 23, 2013
Shopping Thoughts
Hey Everyone!
I am currently home for Christmas so I will try to keep this post shorter; this one won't be about running (I am still putting off the dreaded 7 mile run...) but more about an experience and an epiphany I had while shopping today.
Now- shopping with my sister and my mom is one of my favorite things to do. We always grab coffees, we try on things we don't need, and try to buy more useful than frivolous things. The mall was decorated for Christmas so it was super festive. And most of the day was fun...but I let a black spot get in my way.
Here's the story- I found the perfect jeans at American Eagle. They were the only pair in the store and online and they fit perfect! I know, sounds like such a black spot eh? Let me continue- these jeans, even though they are perfect, are a size bigger than I wanted to wear. But I am 24 now, I am trying to accept that I am no longer my high school size. They looked good, I looked good in them, perfect. And it was done. But the rest of the day...nothing looked good on me. I, at one point, actually said to my mom and sister that I looked like I was trying to squeeze into a toddler's dress and I don't know what about that statement hit me but when I got to the dressing room, I started crying. Like crying in public. People who know me who are reading this know I don't cry very easily...so this was a thing. I, in that moment, realized how horrible and mean I was being to myself. No one said I looked bad, they just didn't like the style on me. And it was hard going to store after store not looking good in anything I wanted to look good in. But me cutting down myself...I expect the world to do that. It kinda comes with the territory of being an actress. You learn just to trust your gut and believe in your work and to hell with the haters. But I wasn't even being criticized, it was like my high school self saying that I wasn't good enough. And to hear that from your own head is hard to hear. My sister and mom, of course, was wondering was wrong and I was embarrassed to tell them why. But I did and my mom said "We all have days like that" and later my sister said "You just have to stop doing that to yourself". And it was like a light bulb, like those things you knew you knew but you just needed help remembering.
I was reminded of how much I care about that damn number on the tag and how stupid it is to care. I mean, my goodness, it's different from each store! No wonder women and men are so self-conscious and worried and freaking out and doing crash diets...there is no bar. There is no set guideline. And it's stupid...I don't want to feel great in one store trying on stuff and then like shit in another because of sizing. And I know I need to exercise more and eat healthier. It's not my favorite thing but I need too not just for my job and to be competitive, but for me to feel confident. I am not longer gunning for a certain size...though I might still be aiming for a certain weight (we'll see) but I will now be aiming for feeling healthy. But would it kill the fashion world to have one set guideline? I mean really...if we can have rules for all the nation's I think we could decide on a standard for sizing...(rant over).
I wanted to write this because with Christmas and all the other holidays that are happening (and happened) this December I am willing to bet that more than a few of us are feeling discouraged. Not only by lack of exercise but by how we feel. Maybe even guilt for eating what we wanted. But I want to encourage you (and I) to stop feeling that way. So we ate to much, we'll will eat healthier at the next meal. Feeling sluggish? Take a walk! Or even just move around a bit. And let's start thing about the new year a little earlier and start setting goals that are a little more attainable (New Year's Resolutions will be a different post). And if you want to connect, PLEASE Facebook me! Or message me through my actor's page. Or leave a comment. Maybe I can help you. Hell, maybe you can help me. But let's just remember that we are worth so much more than that stupid number on our tags. And just think- if we can get into a mental mindset of health instead of skinny...who can and could we influence? Our children? Our friends? Family? Co-workers? Just a thought...
I won't be advertising this on Facebook- it seems a little downer for right before Christmas. So, Merry Christmas to everyone! And to those who celebrate Kwanzaa, Happy Kwanzaa! And to those who celebrated Hanukkah, happy belated Hanukkah! And to those who don't celebrate at all...Season's Greetings! May you all be by loved ones during this time.
Until next time, keep running (and just generally being)strong!
Actress on the Run
P.S.
After my confession to my sister and mom, I later found cute clothes at the last store we went too...just think of what a mindset change can do :)
I am currently home for Christmas so I will try to keep this post shorter; this one won't be about running (I am still putting off the dreaded 7 mile run...) but more about an experience and an epiphany I had while shopping today.
Now- shopping with my sister and my mom is one of my favorite things to do. We always grab coffees, we try on things we don't need, and try to buy more useful than frivolous things. The mall was decorated for Christmas so it was super festive. And most of the day was fun...but I let a black spot get in my way.
Here's the story- I found the perfect jeans at American Eagle. They were the only pair in the store and online and they fit perfect! I know, sounds like such a black spot eh? Let me continue- these jeans, even though they are perfect, are a size bigger than I wanted to wear. But I am 24 now, I am trying to accept that I am no longer my high school size. They looked good, I looked good in them, perfect. And it was done. But the rest of the day...nothing looked good on me. I, at one point, actually said to my mom and sister that I looked like I was trying to squeeze into a toddler's dress and I don't know what about that statement hit me but when I got to the dressing room, I started crying. Like crying in public. People who know me who are reading this know I don't cry very easily...so this was a thing. I, in that moment, realized how horrible and mean I was being to myself. No one said I looked bad, they just didn't like the style on me. And it was hard going to store after store not looking good in anything I wanted to look good in. But me cutting down myself...I expect the world to do that. It kinda comes with the territory of being an actress. You learn just to trust your gut and believe in your work and to hell with the haters. But I wasn't even being criticized, it was like my high school self saying that I wasn't good enough. And to hear that from your own head is hard to hear. My sister and mom, of course, was wondering was wrong and I was embarrassed to tell them why. But I did and my mom said "We all have days like that" and later my sister said "You just have to stop doing that to yourself". And it was like a light bulb, like those things you knew you knew but you just needed help remembering.
I was reminded of how much I care about that damn number on the tag and how stupid it is to care. I mean, my goodness, it's different from each store! No wonder women and men are so self-conscious and worried and freaking out and doing crash diets...there is no bar. There is no set guideline. And it's stupid...I don't want to feel great in one store trying on stuff and then like shit in another because of sizing. And I know I need to exercise more and eat healthier. It's not my favorite thing but I need too not just for my job and to be competitive, but for me to feel confident. I am not longer gunning for a certain size...though I might still be aiming for a certain weight (we'll see) but I will now be aiming for feeling healthy. But would it kill the fashion world to have one set guideline? I mean really...if we can have rules for all the nation's I think we could decide on a standard for sizing...(rant over).
I wanted to write this because with Christmas and all the other holidays that are happening (and happened) this December I am willing to bet that more than a few of us are feeling discouraged. Not only by lack of exercise but by how we feel. Maybe even guilt for eating what we wanted. But I want to encourage you (and I) to stop feeling that way. So we ate to much, we'll will eat healthier at the next meal. Feeling sluggish? Take a walk! Or even just move around a bit. And let's start thing about the new year a little earlier and start setting goals that are a little more attainable (New Year's Resolutions will be a different post). And if you want to connect, PLEASE Facebook me! Or message me through my actor's page. Or leave a comment. Maybe I can help you. Hell, maybe you can help me. But let's just remember that we are worth so much more than that stupid number on our tags. And just think- if we can get into a mental mindset of health instead of skinny...who can and could we influence? Our children? Our friends? Family? Co-workers? Just a thought...
I won't be advertising this on Facebook- it seems a little downer for right before Christmas. So, Merry Christmas to everyone! And to those who celebrate Kwanzaa, Happy Kwanzaa! And to those who celebrated Hanukkah, happy belated Hanukkah! And to those who don't celebrate at all...Season's Greetings! May you all be by loved ones during this time.
Until next time, keep running (and just generally being)strong!
Actress on the Run
P.S.
After my confession to my sister and mom, I later found cute clothes at the last store we went too...just think of what a mindset change can do :)
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Cold Weather
Hey guys!
Well-a little bit has happened since I last wrote; nothing much but it's something. I had a birthday (Woo! 24!) had an audition which felt good...so regardless that's good right? And I ran and danced! So...that's been my week and a half. Oh! And I got to go home for Thanksgiving...so that was nice.
Anyways...run today! It was a short one but I must say it kicked my butt a little. Why? Ice. Snow. And I don't have grippy shoes so I was going super slow...or at least it felt super slow. But I felt okay because I was running to a dance studio to work on a dance I'm choreographing (I dance-now you know!). But while I wasn't concerned about my workout so to speak I began to realize that I need to make some changes mentally. I am not in bad shape by any means but I am not in "dancer" shape, which is important to me. What that really means is that I am lacking the flexibility I once had and the upper body strength I once enjoyed; this is not a hard fix though. But there is something else...maybe I just notice it more because I am one year closer to a "quarter-life crisis"...which I am pretty sure mine will probably last more than a year so hey, maybe I am getting a head start!
But I digress- I notice that I am not as fearless as I once was. Running on ice? Be careful but still go full boar. Dancing? I was constantly throwing myself around, landing (usually) ungracefully but with a power and passion that made up for it. And I feel like its gone now. Not necessarily the passion and drive...but I am unsure of how to do this in an "adult" way. I know the damage I am doing to my body now so I am trying to keep it so I can keep doing what I want to it for longer. I don't know how to think about that...should I consider it like putting money into a race car? You know each week it's going to get battered but you just keep going and putting money in because it will still do what you want? I mean-if I had sponsors I would do all of it because I could afford to fix myself. Right now though...that's not always the first priority. That was another thing- should you invest in yourself first? I was at a briefing this week that said yes...but he was talking financially. I mean artistically- do I invest in my artistic endeavors first and then pay bills? How do I do that? I am bad at the paycheck to paycheck thing...I worked a part-time job in college on top of all my classwork so I would have money...I didn't understand how anyone else couldn't have a job. But anyways- these are some things to think about. I hope you all stay warm!
Until next time-keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
Well-a little bit has happened since I last wrote; nothing much but it's something. I had a birthday (Woo! 24!) had an audition which felt good...so regardless that's good right? And I ran and danced! So...that's been my week and a half. Oh! And I got to go home for Thanksgiving...so that was nice.
Anyways...run today! It was a short one but I must say it kicked my butt a little. Why? Ice. Snow. And I don't have grippy shoes so I was going super slow...or at least it felt super slow. But I felt okay because I was running to a dance studio to work on a dance I'm choreographing (I dance-now you know!). But while I wasn't concerned about my workout so to speak I began to realize that I need to make some changes mentally. I am not in bad shape by any means but I am not in "dancer" shape, which is important to me. What that really means is that I am lacking the flexibility I once had and the upper body strength I once enjoyed; this is not a hard fix though. But there is something else...maybe I just notice it more because I am one year closer to a "quarter-life crisis"...which I am pretty sure mine will probably last more than a year so hey, maybe I am getting a head start!
But I digress- I notice that I am not as fearless as I once was. Running on ice? Be careful but still go full boar. Dancing? I was constantly throwing myself around, landing (usually) ungracefully but with a power and passion that made up for it. And I feel like its gone now. Not necessarily the passion and drive...but I am unsure of how to do this in an "adult" way. I know the damage I am doing to my body now so I am trying to keep it so I can keep doing what I want to it for longer. I don't know how to think about that...should I consider it like putting money into a race car? You know each week it's going to get battered but you just keep going and putting money in because it will still do what you want? I mean-if I had sponsors I would do all of it because I could afford to fix myself. Right now though...that's not always the first priority. That was another thing- should you invest in yourself first? I was at a briefing this week that said yes...but he was talking financially. I mean artistically- do I invest in my artistic endeavors first and then pay bills? How do I do that? I am bad at the paycheck to paycheck thing...I worked a part-time job in college on top of all my classwork so I would have money...I didn't understand how anyone else couldn't have a job. But anyways- these are some things to think about. I hope you all stay warm!
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| I need to remember this-do you? |
Until next time-keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
Monday, December 2, 2013
10k runs and giving to ourselves and others...I guess that title will work...
Hello everyone!
Happy December! I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving (and if your Jewish- I hope Hanukkah is going well!) . Well, today was a big running day- it was 10k day (6 miles). The last time I ran a 10k was my first race 3 years ago in Worthington, MN and it was a race. I am proud to say that I was only 6 minutes slower than then...I completed it in 1 hour and 4 minutes. So yay!
Now that we are done with the month of thankfulness we are moving into the month of giving. And so on my run today I was thinking about this a little bit (like I've stated in earlier posts during runs I kind of go blissfully blank) and I am had that realization of how lucky and blessed I am. And now writing this I am thinking of how can I spread some cheer? I mean I could pull a Buddy the Elf and sing loudly for all to hear (Brace yourselves- Christmas jokes are coming).
And yet again Ms. Lawrence popped into my head and I realized something. See, she discussed with the producers and directors of the Hunger Games and told them while she realized Katiniss should be more underfed she was concerned about the young girls watching the movie and wanted to give them a good role model to look up too and a role model who looked real. And I think that is to admirable and worth posting about. And I realized that the season of giving is also about giving to ourselves. Think about it- what if we just got healthy, not super skinny, not 'lets-do-this-cayenne-pepper-and-water-diet', just healthy. Think of the health risks we reduce just by going walking. I understand that quite a few people hate running and find it jarring. And it is- I'm not saying everyone should start training for a 1/2 marathon like I am. But there is a lot to be healthy for- family, friends, ourselves...it's worth it. And a lot of people just need inspiration. So I encourage you to find your inspiration. My epiphany came while running today-while I want to be in great shape for what I do, I also want to be in shape for me. Not for my boyfriend, not for the future directors hiring me, for me. And when you give a gift like that to yourself....it ends up giving to others too.
So, try to give yourself the gift of health and also give a bit of yourself to strangers as well. I need to work on both of these myself...we can do it together. And if we are happier with ourselves we are more cheerful and then we are easier to be around which then spreads cheer elsewhere (thought I wasn't going to connect back did you- TANGENT COMPLETE AND MADE RELEVANT!)
On a side note: While I think I discussed running gear in an earlier post- I'm posting a picture of what I wore today running (it was 36 degrees out today). I chose to wear brighter colors because: A)They make me happy B)I will be seen easily so the chance of being hit reduces a bit (side note to the side note: JUST BECAUSE YOU ARE WEARING BRIGHT COLORS DOESN'T MEAN YOU CAN BE OBLIVIOUS AND IGNORE TRAFFIC LAWS!) I tend to wear a little less than I probably should but I heat up a bit when running so just take that into consideration. But it's an idea for anyone who needs one...
Okay-first December post done. I always hope that these won't get long winded but they tend to do so. I just hope that you find them , if nothing else, entertaining. Hopefully some of you will find it inspiring. But please feel free to comment and tell me about your journey. Or what you think. Or don't-it's your prerogative. Just do take my advice with a grain of salt and ask your doctor before doing anything I may suggest- I'm an actress, not a trained dietitian or doctor..There- that should cover my legal behind now. Anyways- have a great day, probably be blogging later this week (short run so probably shorter post...maybe...no promises...) Thanks for reading!
Until next time- keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
Happy December! I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving (and if your Jewish- I hope Hanukkah is going well!) . Well, today was a big running day- it was 10k day (6 miles). The last time I ran a 10k was my first race 3 years ago in Worthington, MN and it was a race. I am proud to say that I was only 6 minutes slower than then...I completed it in 1 hour and 4 minutes. So yay!
Now that we are done with the month of thankfulness we are moving into the month of giving. And so on my run today I was thinking about this a little bit (like I've stated in earlier posts during runs I kind of go blissfully blank) and I am had that realization of how lucky and blessed I am. And now writing this I am thinking of how can I spread some cheer? I mean I could pull a Buddy the Elf and sing loudly for all to hear (Brace yourselves- Christmas jokes are coming).
 | ||
| See what I mean about being blessed? What a view! |
So, try to give yourself the gift of health and also give a bit of yourself to strangers as well. I need to work on both of these myself...we can do it together. And if we are happier with ourselves we are more cheerful and then we are easier to be around which then spreads cheer elsewhere (thought I wasn't going to connect back did you- TANGENT COMPLETE AND MADE RELEVANT!)
On a side note: While I think I discussed running gear in an earlier post- I'm posting a picture of what I wore today running (it was 36 degrees out today). I chose to wear brighter colors because: A)They make me happy B)I will be seen easily so the chance of being hit reduces a bit (side note to the side note: JUST BECAUSE YOU ARE WEARING BRIGHT COLORS DOESN'T MEAN YOU CAN BE OBLIVIOUS AND IGNORE TRAFFIC LAWS!) I tend to wear a little less than I probably should but I heat up a bit when running so just take that into consideration. But it's an idea for anyone who needs one...
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| Post run-please excuse the red face |
Until next time- keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
"Icy Run" and Thanksgiving wishes
Hello folks!
So today was a short run for me (can I just say I didn't think I would ever consider 3 miles a short run!) and it was icy today- we got snow is Chicagoland yesterday which was nice but made running this morning a little difficult. I love running outside but when the snow hits I have to become more careful because I am super afraid of messing up my knees- basketball and dancing has taken a bit of a toll on them but I want to keep running, dancing, and just generally being active. I know I need to strengthen my knees so I have started doing squats and Warrior III pose in yoga- it's helping!
Anyways- since this was my first run of the winter season I thought I would give you a run down of what I wore so you might have an idea of what to wear. I personally don't like my legs to be too warm (old habit from high school basketball...I always left my shorts on but always piled on my coat and sweater...to the the dislike of my coach. He was always afraid of us getting sick...we didn't but I understand why he was concerned). Today I wore cuddle duds (which are a cheaper version of Under Armor...not as thick but when you're budgeting they work)and running shorts. For the top I wore the undershirt that matched my leggings, a running T-shirt, and an old hoodie. Add a running ear-warmers and gloves and that was it. It was 32 degrees out and I felt fine. I might research and see if there are different running for winter- I know there are different shoes for short runs so you can build up strength in your feet so there might be shoes that are better for icy running conditions- if I find them I'll let you know! And if you find them- let me know!
Finally- since this is the week of Thanksgiving I want to say a huge thank you to anyone and everyone reading this. This makes my dream and idea a little more real. To my family who have been supportive of my dreams of acting and my harebrained idea of running races- I couldn't do it without you all. To my friends here in Chicagoland and elsewhere-thanks for being there for me through tears, laughter, bad days at work, and being willing to vent to me and let me vent when needed :) To my boyfriend- thanks for helping make Chicagoland home and for just generally being there (sorry you don't get a longer shout out-don't want to make people throw up ;)) To my professors, my bosses, my directors, coaches- you all helped shape me into the performer and person I am and there is no better word than thanks although I wish I could. To anyone I missed- I am thankful for all of you so just know I send you positive thoughts when I can.
Okay- long post over! Everyone please get home safe, if you're not going home please get to where you're going safe. And if you're not celebrating- do something fun! And to all the people working Black Friday...bless you and please keep your sanity!
Until next time- keeping running strong
Actress on the Run
So today was a short run for me (can I just say I didn't think I would ever consider 3 miles a short run!) and it was icy today- we got snow is Chicagoland yesterday which was nice but made running this morning a little difficult. I love running outside but when the snow hits I have to become more careful because I am super afraid of messing up my knees- basketball and dancing has taken a bit of a toll on them but I want to keep running, dancing, and just generally being active. I know I need to strengthen my knees so I have started doing squats and Warrior III pose in yoga- it's helping!
Anyways- since this was my first run of the winter season I thought I would give you a run down of what I wore so you might have an idea of what to wear. I personally don't like my legs to be too warm (old habit from high school basketball...I always left my shorts on but always piled on my coat and sweater...to the the dislike of my coach. He was always afraid of us getting sick...we didn't but I understand why he was concerned). Today I wore cuddle duds (which are a cheaper version of Under Armor...not as thick but when you're budgeting they work)and running shorts. For the top I wore the undershirt that matched my leggings, a running T-shirt, and an old hoodie. Add a running ear-warmers and gloves and that was it. It was 32 degrees out and I felt fine. I might research and see if there are different running for winter- I know there are different shoes for short runs so you can build up strength in your feet so there might be shoes that are better for icy running conditions- if I find them I'll let you know! And if you find them- let me know!
Finally- since this is the week of Thanksgiving I want to say a huge thank you to anyone and everyone reading this. This makes my dream and idea a little more real. To my family who have been supportive of my dreams of acting and my harebrained idea of running races- I couldn't do it without you all. To my friends here in Chicagoland and elsewhere-thanks for being there for me through tears, laughter, bad days at work, and being willing to vent to me and let me vent when needed :) To my boyfriend- thanks for helping make Chicagoland home and for just generally being there (sorry you don't get a longer shout out-don't want to make people throw up ;)) To my professors, my bosses, my directors, coaches- you all helped shape me into the performer and person I am and there is no better word than thanks although I wish I could. To anyone I missed- I am thankful for all of you so just know I send you positive thoughts when I can.
Okay- long post over! Everyone please get home safe, if you're not going home please get to where you're going safe. And if you're not celebrating- do something fun! And to all the people working Black Friday...bless you and please keep your sanity!
Until next time- keeping running strong
Actress on the Run
Saturday, November 16, 2013
The Path less taken
Hey!
Okay...5 mile run completed! In under a hour! Sorry...kinda proud of that because honestly I wasn't sure how I going to do today...let me explain why. I usually try to run early, gets it out of the way and then I can pretend there isn't as many people running so its less crowded. Well today the run didn't start until 11. And my iPhone paused my running app so I think there was a chunk where I wasn't being recorded so I was thinking "Great...everything is thrown off now" and I also didn't get a maintenance run in this week. But here's the thing...I still did it. And I actually avoided rain (which is always a plus). And I now know that I can still finish my time limit even if there is equipment failure. And the best part about the grey skies? I found a almost completely deserted running trail. It was one of those things that was just...it's hard to put into words. The trees were beautiful and I was right next to the lake. The trail was washed away at certain points so I had to find a way across... But it was so much fun. And it is moments like that when my legs are hurting and mentally I just want to give up that makes me go on. Gems like that. And the clarity of thought on my runs- I should probably go on a long run before every major decision because I can calculate things better in motion. And now I'm rambling...sorry friends. Hopefully I will be able to be a bit more of a coherent typer next time :) Until next time- keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
Okay...5 mile run completed! In under a hour! Sorry...kinda proud of that because honestly I wasn't sure how I going to do today...let me explain why. I usually try to run early, gets it out of the way and then I can pretend there isn't as many people running so its less crowded. Well today the run didn't start until 11. And my iPhone paused my running app so I think there was a chunk where I wasn't being recorded so I was thinking "Great...everything is thrown off now" and I also didn't get a maintenance run in this week. But here's the thing...I still did it. And I actually avoided rain (which is always a plus). And I now know that I can still finish my time limit even if there is equipment failure. And the best part about the grey skies? I found a almost completely deserted running trail. It was one of those things that was just...it's hard to put into words. The trees were beautiful and I was right next to the lake. The trail was washed away at certain points so I had to find a way across... But it was so much fun. And it is moments like that when my legs are hurting and mentally I just want to give up that makes me go on. Gems like that. And the clarity of thought on my runs- I should probably go on a long run before every major decision because I can calculate things better in motion. And now I'm rambling...sorry friends. Hopefully I will be able to be a bit more of a coherent typer next time :) Until next time- keep running strong!
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| You can't see it but this the record of all my running |
Actress on the Run
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Felt inspired to write...
Hi there folks!
So, while I have no run to write about today I wanted to share with you all why I am running. Or at least some of my stories with running. Hopefully you can relate- maybe you'll be inspired. Either way I felt the need to share...so here we go.
Being tall I was always able to get away with being heavier. I am not overweight but I'm getting close to being where I don't want to be. Anyways- I've always hated that people said "Well you're tall you can get away with it." Because I can't. And I shouldn't. And it's not just a weight thing- it's a pride thing. In high school there were girls close to my height, maybe 2 or 3 inches shorter and they were a good 2 or 3 sizes smaller than me. And I hated it because it felt like they didn't have to work at it. But that is life and I remember the first time I really started being concerned about my weight; I was going to a casting call for a TV show for VH1 and I had to put down my weight... I was 180 or heavier (I kinda blocked it out...do you blame me?) and I remember being so ashamed. I was going into 9th grade...which is not an easy year the way it is. I started writing down my food and keeping a journal and while it helped until my junior year I didn't really get into the losing weight, but I did for my prom. And I felt beautiful. And then I gained it back, and then I lost it and now I am working on losing it again. Being an actress- I have to worry about what I look like, which kinda sucks but as of now...it's the truth. Hopefully things will change- Jennifer Lawrence is a huge inspiration to me...not only as an actress (she's fantastic, I would absolutely die if I got the chance to work with her) but as a human being. She seems so down to earth and if you read the caption with the following picture I think you'll understand why I like her so much.
So, while I have no run to write about today I wanted to share with you all why I am running. Or at least some of my stories with running. Hopefully you can relate- maybe you'll be inspired. Either way I felt the need to share...so here we go.
Being tall I was always able to get away with being heavier. I am not overweight but I'm getting close to being where I don't want to be. Anyways- I've always hated that people said "Well you're tall you can get away with it." Because I can't. And I shouldn't. And it's not just a weight thing- it's a pride thing. In high school there were girls close to my height, maybe 2 or 3 inches shorter and they were a good 2 or 3 sizes smaller than me. And I hated it because it felt like they didn't have to work at it. But that is life and I remember the first time I really started being concerned about my weight; I was going to a casting call for a TV show for VH1 and I had to put down my weight... I was 180 or heavier (I kinda blocked it out...do you blame me?) and I remember being so ashamed. I was going into 9th grade...which is not an easy year the way it is. I started writing down my food and keeping a journal and while it helped until my junior year I didn't really get into the losing weight, but I did for my prom. And I felt beautiful. And then I gained it back, and then I lost it and now I am working on losing it again. Being an actress- I have to worry about what I look like, which kinda sucks but as of now...it's the truth. Hopefully things will change- Jennifer Lawrence is a huge inspiration to me...not only as an actress (she's fantastic, I would absolutely die if I got the chance to work with her) but as a human being. She seems so down to earth and if you read the caption with the following picture I think you'll understand why I like her so much.
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| Isn't she great? |
The first time I decided I was going to run-my dad didn't believe me that I was going to do it. Besides playing basketball, I never really showed much iniative for working out. But one day- I decided I was going to run around one of our sections near our farm (for you city folk- a section is 1 square mile so I was running 4 miles). While my dad had good reason to believe I wouldn't, my teenage self was pissed so I went to prove him wrong. It was long. It was slow. But I didn't walk...my jog got slow but dang it I did it. I will remember his face when he saw me coming over the hill-he was surprised but he said "You did it". And that was the inspiration I needed- I kept running although the idea of racing never came to mind until college. But when I ran that race- he and my mom were there, proud and so supportive. I run because something inside of me wants to prove people but mostly myself wrong. Because it is something I can control. Because when I run- I am running to get in better shape and because I want to do it. And that's why I do it.
Longer post this time...sorry about that. I think I'm going to be balls-y and post my blog link on my Facebook...so other people can read it (YAY!) Hopefully this at least gave you some background if not inspired you. Until next time- keep running strong.
Actress on the Run
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Semi- long runs = semi- cohernet thoughts
Hey everybody!
So- today was my 4 mile day AND I DIDN'T DIE! Thought I might, kinda felt like it...but I completed it in 41 minutes...which was much faster than I was expecting. I am aiming for a solid 10 or 9 minute mile at least so when I run the 1/2 marathon I can start in an earlier time slot- I figure the faster I run, the more time I have to take pictures with characters on the side of the road AND still finish with a decent time. I have also begun to hypothesize that I run faster when I run longer. Why is that you might say-well I will tell you why; when I am running for a set time (30 minutes x 2 a week) I am just filling time. I am running but no matter how fast I run it won't change the amount of time. Now when I am running for distance (once a week) I can change how long my run is because it depends on when I get my miles done...not the time. It's weird but that's how I work. Anyone else feel this way?
I also noticed something while running today (and maybe this is just a Chicago thing) but people here run with their running swag a lot. Let me explain- a lot of races here in Chicago give out "swag bags" which are actually draw bags to hold your stuff and a sweater or a shirt with the race you ran and the sponsors on it. These items are usually running based because they want you to keep running races and want people to see what races are out there. While running today I didn't wear any of my running "swag" and it kind of felt like being back in high school...except with a lot less judgement. There where people running with cross country shirts, Monster Dash sweaters, Hot Chocolate 15k/5k sweaters, professional looking running gear and I was just like "Ooo...I think I need to try harder". But these people do this all the time. I am by no means a serious runner- I like it but it's not a "Must do everyDAY" type of thing for me. But I will say that it inspires me a little to run more races-assuming that my body and my bank account can keep up.
Well-I'm off to stretch and just generally be chill today (or warm...it was cold running today so I am in the process of warming my legs-proper running gear will be a different blog entry). If you're running, run safe, if you're just reading I hope you're enjoying, and if anyone is interested in joining me on this little running journey please leave a comment below or message me. I will send you links to the training plan that I am using and we can be moral support for each other.
All for now- keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
So- today was my 4 mile day AND I DIDN'T DIE! Thought I might, kinda felt like it...but I completed it in 41 minutes...which was much faster than I was expecting. I am aiming for a solid 10 or 9 minute mile at least so when I run the 1/2 marathon I can start in an earlier time slot- I figure the faster I run, the more time I have to take pictures with characters on the side of the road AND still finish with a decent time. I have also begun to hypothesize that I run faster when I run longer. Why is that you might say-well I will tell you why; when I am running for a set time (30 minutes x 2 a week) I am just filling time. I am running but no matter how fast I run it won't change the amount of time. Now when I am running for distance (once a week) I can change how long my run is because it depends on when I get my miles done...not the time. It's weird but that's how I work. Anyone else feel this way?
I also noticed something while running today (and maybe this is just a Chicago thing) but people here run with their running swag a lot. Let me explain- a lot of races here in Chicago give out "swag bags" which are actually draw bags to hold your stuff and a sweater or a shirt with the race you ran and the sponsors on it. These items are usually running based because they want you to keep running races and want people to see what races are out there. While running today I didn't wear any of my running "swag" and it kind of felt like being back in high school...except with a lot less judgement. There where people running with cross country shirts, Monster Dash sweaters, Hot Chocolate 15k/5k sweaters, professional looking running gear and I was just like "Ooo...I think I need to try harder". But these people do this all the time. I am by no means a serious runner- I like it but it's not a "Must do everyDAY" type of thing for me. But I will say that it inspires me a little to run more races-assuming that my body and my bank account can keep up.
Well-I'm off to stretch and just generally be chill today (or warm...it was cold running today so I am in the process of warming my legs-proper running gear will be a different blog entry). If you're running, run safe, if you're just reading I hope you're enjoying, and if anyone is interested in joining me on this little running journey please leave a comment below or message me. I will send you links to the training plan that I am using and we can be moral support for each other.
All for now- keep running strong!
Actress on the Run
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Blogging about jogging...let's give this a shot
Hey anyone reading this!
So...this is my blog. I'm not sure I'll be very good at this but maybe this will help me stick to my health/just because I can goals...we will see. Anyways! Background! I live in Chicagoland, love to cook, have a loving boyfriend and some really awesome friends and a kickass family (sorry about language...this will probably be PG-13 most of the time...won't drop any big bombs). I am pursuing a career in acting and I am working two part time jobs (but none of them include food...at least I broke the poor actress stereotype!) And that's all you really need to know about me...if you want to know more about my acting career visit my actor's page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Gabrielle.Arietta.Cross.
So, the reason I am starting this blog is because I've just started training for the Disney Princess 1/2 marathon in February 2015. I know, it's really early but at this time there are 479 days until the race and for someone who hasn't seriously ran in over a year and that race was only 3.1 miles compared to 13.1...you need a little time to prepare. This is going to be just my general feeling about my days after running (am I dying? Did I see something interesting? Did I fall?) that might hopefully be inspirational or at least entertaining for people to read.
The race goes through the Magic Kingdom and Epcot- how flippin' cool right?? It's a little expensive...but it's in Florida in Disneyworld sooo what can you really expect? All magic comes at a price.
A little history with myself and running- I used to HATE it. And honestly, most days it still takes a bit for me to get the running gear on. But why I started getting into it was actually two-fold; the year I started running even a little bit I was trying to get into shape for my University's production of A Chorus Line. Now- while I'm not a traditional dancer frame AT ALL;I'm a 6 foot tall (according to Disney Casting) and 176 pounds (I blame that on being a foodie and for just general lack of interest in exercise...I am very much like Jennifer Lawrence in the food area)mover/dancer. I wanted to at least get into better shape for a better chance to get into the show (which I did- which was awesome and one of the best experiences I had at USD (P.S.- USD stands for The University of South Dakota...Go Yotes!)). Another reason was that I guy I had a crush on was a cross-country runner (if he's reading this, HI! If he's reading this and he doesn't know it's him...well you weren't paying much attention were you?) and I wanted to impress him. Fast forward a year after A Chorus Line and I am bored without a show to do so I decide I am going to run a race in my hometown- the Turkey Day 10k. I had a year to train for it, convinced my then boyfriend to run with me and that was it. But a funny thing happened- while I started running to have something in common with him (sidenote-he was the cross-country runner...just in case you missed it), I fell in love with it. It's like any relationship- we have our good days (Super fast mile? AWESOME!) and our bad ones (rain half way through run...grrrr...) And then it became a thing for ME and that's when running became fun.
So...that's it. For now. I would love comments (preferrably non-offensive ones...but there is freedom of speech so whatever...but do know that I'd consider you a coward because you're hiding behind a keyboard...probably after I ate some ice cream though.) And if you want to join me-please do! Keep me updated on how it's going since I'm doing so with you!
So until next time!
Actress on The Run
So...this is my blog. I'm not sure I'll be very good at this but maybe this will help me stick to my health/just because I can goals...we will see. Anyways! Background! I live in Chicagoland, love to cook, have a loving boyfriend and some really awesome friends and a kickass family (sorry about language...this will probably be PG-13 most of the time...won't drop any big bombs). I am pursuing a career in acting and I am working two part time jobs (but none of them include food...at least I broke the poor actress stereotype!) And that's all you really need to know about me...if you want to know more about my acting career visit my actor's page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Gabrielle.Arietta.Cross.
So, the reason I am starting this blog is because I've just started training for the Disney Princess 1/2 marathon in February 2015. I know, it's really early but at this time there are 479 days until the race and for someone who hasn't seriously ran in over a year and that race was only 3.1 miles compared to 13.1...you need a little time to prepare. This is going to be just my general feeling about my days after running (am I dying? Did I see something interesting? Did I fall?) that might hopefully be inspirational or at least entertaining for people to read.
The race goes through the Magic Kingdom and Epcot- how flippin' cool right?? It's a little expensive...but it's in Florida in Disneyworld sooo what can you really expect? All magic comes at a price.
 |
| Myself last November in my first Chicago race |
So...that's it. For now. I would love comments (preferrably non-offensive ones...but there is freedom of speech so whatever...but do know that I'd consider you a coward because you're hiding behind a keyboard...probably after I ate some ice cream though.) And if you want to join me-please do! Keep me updated on how it's going since I'm doing so with you!
So until next time!
Actress on The Run
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