Today I ran.

Today I ran. I ran because it's what I know how to do. I ran because it's how I manage my thoughts. I ran because it's how I cope with my feelings. I ran because I miss it. I ran because it feels good. I ran because it hurts. I ran because I can.

Because I have two legs that can run, and that's what they know how to do.

This was my first run in over a month and only my third run in the last four months. I am three days late for the B.A.A. 5k and a day late for all of the memorial runs, but it was the first day I felt ready to run. It wasn't easy, and it hurt just a little bit, but every step reminded me of how grateful I am. And with every step, I thought of how terrifying running was Monday afternoon.

I ran wearing my B.A.A. shirt, and when the chaos clears from Copley Square, I will run the B.A.A. 5k course. Originally, I was running it for me, so I could say I did it, so I could complete the Distance Medley this year. Now, I will run it as my memorial run, and I will finish where it ended for three young people who didn't deserve the fate handed to them.

Today I ran. Because this is the only way I know how to cope.

April 15, 2013

I'm still in shock and speechless, but I feel like I need to say something. I somehow need to get it out and make sense of what happened.

Simply put, my heart is broken. I'm sad. I'm scared. I'm disappointed. I'm offended. I didn't grow up in Boston; I spent my childhood 45 minutes away with occasional day trips to the city. But, I lived there for four years during college, and in this vast, crazy, sometimes senseless world, Boston is my home. It's the city my soul identifies with.

I wanted so badly to be at the marathon yesterday. I knew people running, and I was really excited about the race. I watched the elite runners via live stream at work. After I heard the news, I was immediately worried for everyone I knew that I was in the area, but then all I wanted was to be in my city. I still want to be in my city. I want to walk the streets I know and love and put my arms around them.

I devoured the news coverage yesterday afternoon, but after a couple of hours, I just couldn't listen, watch or read anymore. That numbing feeling I usually get when absorbing the coverage of tragedy never hit me. Each word was a fresh wound. Of course I want to know what happened, but no one knows right now, and I can't stand to see my city in pain.

This feels like 9/11 all over again, except more real. I'll never forget where I was. I'll never forget the helplessness. I'll never forget what it felt like.

A bloodied battlefield on the street I walked every day? It is unimaginable. Yesterday was Patriots Day -- a day commemorating the start of the Revolutionary War, over 200 years ago when those streets were battlefields. The significance is not lost. Boston was a strong city then, and it remains a strong city to this day. We have always held each other up and stood united, and we will continue to do so.

I can't end this post without acknowledging the marathon. I consider myself part of the B.A.A. family since I have run several of their races, and I am so upset that my family was hurt by this senseless act of violence. I am praying and hurting for the victims and their families, but my heart is also with all the runners whose incredible accomplishment, hard work and feat of strength has been completely overshadowed by this horrible event. I know no one cares about whether or not they finished the race, what their time was, or getting that medal, but I want them to know that they are in my thoughts and their strength has not been forgotten. I know many did everything they could to help immediately after what happened, and they made us proud.

Since running the B.A.A. half marathon in October, I have been thinking of tackling the marathon distance, but it scared me. Well, nothing scares me as much as what happened yesterday. I want to run Boston. And, now, after this, I want to run Boston in 2014. I'm not going to qualify, but I'd love to get a charity bib. Even if I can't, I'll run bandit. Every mile will be in memory of yesterday and all those affected.

I can't think of a better reason to run Boston.

Eeeeee... time to start running!

This just happened:

	Thank you for registering for the 2013 B.A.A. Distance  Medley. Your Entry is CONFIRMED.

I am both excited and scared. I haven't run in five weeks, but I wanted to complete the Distance Medley so badly last year and couldn't because of injury. I ran the 10K and half marathon last year and loved both races -- despite the pain involved. This year's courses are the same, so I am looking to PR both the 10K and half, as well as PR my 5K distance.

I love running in Boston, and these races will keep me on track this running season. They will probably be the only races I run other than the Harpoon 5-Miler... and maybe some random 5K's my friends talk me into.

Oh, and I'm super thrilled to be able to run across this historic finish line at the end of the 5K:

Wish me luck getting back into the running groove and outrunning this awful, chronic sinus/cough disaster I have going on!

Beantown, country music, waves and sand

Whoa, I thought last weekend was a good summer weekend; this weekend was a GREAT summer weekend! All of my favorite summer elements combined into this one weekend, and it couldn't have been any better unless I escaped to the Cape for the entire weekend or something.

As I mentioned Friday, Jed and I ended into Boston to say goodbye to one of my friends from college who is moving back home. We checked into our hotel downtown, then headed out to my college stomping grounds and my favorite college bar, T's Pub (well, now it's 973 Commonwealth, lame). I was thrilled to see Absolut Boston behind the bar, so Boston ginger (as a bartender called it) became my drink of the evening. 

We headed back to the hotel pretty early, but stopped in the piano bar off the lobby before heading to our room. That stop over turned into two hours of old school piano tunes, sung by a mix of a 1940's era female singer and open mic. I told Jed I felt like I was dreaming, or on a cruise ship. The bar looked like something out of the 40's, and there was even a group of people dressed in era-appropriate outfits! 

While drinking Boston in Boston, a friend texted to let me know that she had an extra ticket for me to see

Saturday night at Great Woods (ok, it's supposed to be the Comcast Center these days)!!! I jumped on the chance to see this country legend -- performing and making country music for 22 years, according to Tim himself -- live! On top of that, Lady Antebellum opened for him, and I just love me some Lady A. 

Totally cheesing with Tim

It was probably one of the best shows I've been to; I love live music anyway, but it's even better when the musicians are full-blown entertainers. Lady A sang all my favs, and Tim sang a couple of my favs and turned me into a true fan. I'm going to work on downloading his extensive library of songs. He announced he just celebrated his 43rd birthday, and lemme tell you, he is not showing his age. This country boy can still rock! I was so impressed with his show and him in general. 

I've realized that I've really become a country music fan, and I think I should try to go to more country shows. There's such great music, great artists and great crowds. Lady Antebellum is returning to Boston in October, and I think I, along with these girls, are going to try to get tickets.

Yesterday, I slept in since it took us almost two hours to get out of the parking lot after seeing Mr. McGraw, then I was in my bikini and ready to hit the beach! I decided last week that I'm going to make an effort to go to the beach more this summer. It's really my favorite part of summer, and it is so relaxing for me. Plus, it gives me a prime opportunity to read, which I need to do a lot of to get through my 30-before-30 list (check out my GoodReads in the right sidebar to see what's on the list!). Now that I live a little closer to the beaches, I'd love if I could spend at least a couple hours on the sand every weekend.

Jed had to get some work done, so I flew solo, which was actually really nice. I packed a few drinks and snacks, my beach chair and my book, and I just chilled. The huge waves crashed on the sand while I read and lounged. It was perfect.

If only every weekend could include Boston, the beach and live music! This would be the best summer ever! 

Spill: What did you do this weekend? Was it a perfect summer weekend?

Throwin' on my Louboutins!

Did you see the So You Think You Can Dance finale last night??? SO GOOD!!! It's very emotional for me because I grew attached to all of the top six dancers, who have really grown to become better, more sincere dancers. I also have to shout out to my Beantown boy Russell! Boston's so proud of you!!! Thanks for representing!

Now... my jaw dropped at this little guest number, featuring some of the female dancers from Season 5 and 6. Mayra, if you're reading, this totally reminded me of you, lady! Between the Latina sassiness and those bright red Loubies... all you!

Take this NY!

{Disclaimer: I love, LOVE Jay-Z's new duet with Alicia Keys, Empire State of Mind, but I can't stand the Yankee reference. Love NYC, hate the Yankees.}

Super excited when I heard this on local, independent Boston radio last night! Give it up for Beantown!!!!

"... incomplete"

The announcer describes Brady's last pass of the Pats at Jets game. Ugh... and that's exactly what the Patriots' offense was today. I am so frustrated; nothing was right. Brady's timing was off, his arcs sailed aimlessly, the receivers couldn't get open or make plays, and the offense line was pitiful! I hate the turnover and injuries on the offense, but at least my #12 is back, albeit without some of his greatest weapons.

To their credit, the Jets' offense brought it. The pass rush was impeccable, and they were aggressive. Even the Jets' rook QB lit up in the second half. It will be interesting to see what they bring to Foxboro in November.

Welcome to football season with Nifer, folks. It's an emotional roller coaster on which I go from being totally amped up (as after last week's amazing comeback victory) to suffering the Monday blues (and not just because I have to go back to work); this will be the case tomorrow.

I'm the type of hometown fan who will trash talk, chant "Yankees Suck" until I lose my voice, and sacrifice my first-born for the sake of my team. What can I say? I'm from Boston. When it comes to sports, we are about as hard core as it gets.

Speaking of Boston...

I thoroughly enjoyed the new, limited-edition Absolut Boston with ginger ale last night. Simply delightful. It might be my new, limited-edition signature drink. Clean, fresh, simple. Try it out and let me know what you think.

P.S. A warm welcome to my newest follower, Samantha Ellis of The Nobody. This lovely lady just started blogging folks, so go check her out!

{click images for source}

"Finally!" Thursday

Lots of finally's today: fall fashion, my Chicago friend back in Boston for a night out on old stomping grounds, and booking our Palm Beach trip!

Yes, that's right folks, we are heading to gorgeous Palm Beach for 5 nights/6 days in just three weeks, at the Marriott Ocean Pointe Vacation Club!

As you can imagine after a summer without visiting the beach, my toes are aching to squeeze some warm sand.

All I want to do is lay on the beach and soak up the rays (this girl needs a tan pronto!). I'm looking forward to a bit of water fun as well... maybe some jetskiing or a catamaran sail with snorkeling?

And some serious sleeping in enjoying our one-bedroom villa(!). Maybe room service breakfast in bed is called for???

Between changing jobs and changing addresses, I need some major relaxation. I think the daily grind has been getting to Jed and I, so a little R&R and adventure is just what we need.

Oh don't you worry, this girl will be packed with itinerary in hand within a week!

For now, I'm super looking forward to getting out of work in a half hour and heading into Boston to see my Chi friend and meeting his new girlfriend! I love visiting college haunts and throwing back a few with old friends. Sadly, I will not have pictures as I rushed out of the house this morning without my camera.

{All pictures via marriott.com}

Destination: Boston!

Ok, so I'm bumming because I have an adorable picture of Jed and I in matching Red Sox hats from when we went to the PawSox (Pawtucket Red Sox) game last week. And I wanted to use it because...

WE ARE GOING TO SEE THE BOSTON RED SOX TONIGHT!!!!

Ah, I love going into Boston, and the Sox are a good excuse to get Jed in there with me. Not that I don't also love going to old Fenway to see the Sox play. It's supposed to be a lovely evening weather-wise, and I'm already dressed in my Jason Varitek #33 t-shirt, and I have my Red Sox hat ready.

A couple Sam Adams... some peanuts... a Fenway frank... I'm a happy girl!

Things I'm Loving

I am in such an incredible happy, hopeful place right now. I'm sorry for being MIA the past couple days, and it completely tore me apart that I couldn't write about the great feelings I was having. It was with good reason, which brings me to the first thing I'm loving right now...

photo source

I'm loving that my dad has the opportunity to get healthy and live a normal life again. He has been waiting almost five years for a kidney transplant, and he got it Tuesday! Here's to my Dad... always the most important man in my life.

I love walking the streets of Boston in summer, preferably during late morning/early afternoon. There is such a buzz around the city. I love feeling the heat off the pavement, finding a shady bench and people-watching. I got to do this with my Mom while we were waiting to see Dad.

photo source

I've loved them for a while, but today I am really appreciating my extreme flare jeans. They are a bit of a darker wash than these ones, but same simple, hip-balancing look. Need the low-rise. That is an absolute must!

photo source

Ditto for the wedge-heel sandals. I especially love these ones, as are the same with mine, for the cork sole. Super comfy with a really cool, casual look.

What are you really loving today? Post a comment or direct me to you blog post!

<3>

Boston Stay-cations

Wrote this for the summer fun-themed newsletter at work and wanted to share... Hopefully it will inspire you!


With summer underway – whether it feels like it or not – and budgets tight, many people are wondering how to get away and unwind without breaking the bank. While not as restful as a full-blown week on a tropical island or as insightful as two weeks touring Europe, a road trip within New England can provide just the budget respite you are seeking.

There are so many places within two hours of Boston for your summer fun. To get you started, here are a few suggestions, sorted by state.


Massachusetts

Nothing is easier than starting near home. Sure, you have been to Boston for dinner or a night out at the club. Maybe you even live there, but have you ever been a tourist there? Many of us never see our home cities as the out-of-towners do. So, lace up your sneakers, pack the camera, put on your Red Sox hat and hit the pavement!

Spend a day in Boston doing the things you make fun of the tourists for. You could burn an entire day exploring the Museum of Science or the Museum of Fine Arts.

Get the broad overview of Boston and learn some interesting tidbits by taking an Old Town Trolley Tour or the ever-so-corny Duck Tour.

Speaking of water fowl, stroll through the Public Garden to the pond for a visit with the famous resident swans, Romeo and Juliet. While you’re there, discover your inner child with a Swan Boat ride. After your cruise, grab a bagel sandwich from Finagle-A-Bagel on Tremont Street and have a picnic lunch in the Boston Common. One of my favorite things to do, try to get a spot sitting on the fountain next to the Park Street MBTA station: great for people watching!

After lunch, walk off those carbs by exploring the transitioning Downtown Crossing or head up Tremont to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market for street shows, the ultimate in tourist shopping and a piece of Boston history.

If you’re into history, look for the gold-dome-topped building atop Beacon Hill. This beautiful building is the Massachusetts State House, where you can schedule a tour in advance for free. If you feel ambitious to take in perhaps Boston’s most well-known historical moment, follow the Freedom Trail, Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride. All sites on the trail can be found on the Web site above, however, you will need a car to reach the end of Revere’s ride.

Those looking for a more exotic Boston experience should explore the North End – home to Boston’s Italian population along with some of the best restaurants, pizza shops, delis and bakeries in the city; Chinatown – the contents of this neighborhood are obvious, but I hear the dim sum is fantastic; or South Boston – the Irish enclave where those looking for a pint of Guinness in a hometown pub should head.

There is so much more to the City of Boston than the daily grind most of us know. So slow down and walk the city, and don’t forget to take pictures!

For those looking for a beach retreat, follow Rt. 3 down to Cape Cod, all the way down to Provincetown. This small town is an eclectic mix of shops, tourists, residents, restaurants and bars. Make sure to check for any special events going on in town and plan your visit accordingly. After a busy day touring the narrow streets of P-Town, kick back on a blanket at the Wellfleet Drive-In for a couple movies and greasy drive-in food.

Other options for charming Massachusetts beach towns include Scituate and Rockport. Both towns feature simple beaches to relax on and quaint towns with shops and restaurants – most with coastal views. In Scituate, make sure you head out to the St. Judith Point Lighthouse for the sunset. While wandering the streets of Rockport, do not miss Helmut’s Strudel for some of the best pastry you have ever had. I highly recommend the apple strudel, heated, of course.


New Hampshire

While Water Country and Canobie Lake Park are great options for day trips on pleasant summer days, New Hampshire has much more to offer in the way of nature excursions. If you are heading to Water Country, save some time to explore Portsmouth itself, a harbor town featuring many delightful restaurants as well as the Portsmouth Brewery.

A great day excursion is spelunking the Polar Caves in Plymouth. Ok, so spelunking is not required with wooden walkways and stairways, but for the novice hiker or those with children, the park is a good place to start your cave exploration. The park also features two mining sites, where you can mine your own gems and rocks, and picnic areas.

Another great natural area in the Granite State is the White Mountains. Many flock to this destination for winter skiing, but summertime offers many attractions as well, with less of a crowd. While the historic Mount Washington Hotel and Resort looks impressive against snow-covered mountains, it retains its grandeur when flocked by green mountains – a great time to take advantage of the resort’s golf course! There is also the attraction of Mount Washington, New Hampshire’s highest peak, itself. Those with hiking experience can explore the many hiking trails on the mountain, or those daring enough can drive up the mountain. (Ever seen those “This car climbed Mount Washington” bumper stickers?) If you just want to sit back and enjoy the ride, board the Cog Railway for a harrowing trip up to the summit. Remember a jacket, even if it’s 85 degrees at the base; it gets windy on the mountaintop. When you get down, get ready to go back up again, as the Mount Washington Resort now features a zip line tour!

Back to the beach – it is summer after all. Hampton Beach is right over the border on Rt. 1A, and offers a closer version of New Jersey’s Atlantic City – boardwalk and all!


Rhode Island

Heading south, preferably along the Coastal Wine Trail for those oenophiles out there, to the Ocean State – appropriate for the season. The wine trail is the perfect way to transition from Massachusetts to Rhode Island as the tour begins in Truro on Cape Cod, winds down to Newport, RI, and ends in Westerly. Over 100 miles long, this trip will have to be broken down into multiple days – perhaps the perfect long weekend getaway.

Definitely make Newport one of your targeted destinations, however. Another New England beach town, Newport has the quaint feel of Rockport, MA, strolling cobble-stoned Thames Street downtown, and the nighttime excitement of Hampton Beach, NH, at the House of Blues, among other waterfront bars and nightclubs, while offering something completely different: one of the grandiose displays of history New England has to offer.

Nine Newport Mansions are open for touring, portraying a glimpse into turn-of-the-century vacation extravagance. If you only visit one mansion, make it The Breakers, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the Cliff Walk. The vacation home of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, steamship and New York Railroad tycoon, The Breakers is the most luxurious “cottage” in town. After touring the mansion, wander out into the backyard to the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail along the ocean that can become treacherous in parts.

Bring a pack lunch to either Fort Adams State Park on Newport’s West side, or enjoy Easton’s Beach on the East side, bordering Middletown. If a picnic is not your cup of tea, there are many other options for beach-front dining in Newport. Near the beach, there is Flo’s Clam Shack off Memorial Boulevard or the Atlantic Beach Club across the street – where one can grab lunch while enjoying live music right on the beach.

If you are downtown, stop for lunch at the Red Parrot, featuring American entrees with a twist – the lobster pizza is to die for. Be sure to head south from the restaurant on Thames Street for some great window shopping.

You can either spend the night in Newport, dancing and drinking by the water, or you can drive up to Providence on select Friday and Saturday nights in the summer for Water Fire. This unique art display along the city’s canal also includes live performances, canal boat rides and a general carnival atmosphere. Be sure to make reservations if you are having dinner along the canal on a Water Fire night; restaurants book up more than a week prior.

Our final stop on this New England vacation tour is Block Island. While there are many islands off the coast of Massachusetts and Rhode Island to explore, Block Island, accessed by ferry from Point Judith or Newport, is one of the more untouched places. The entire island can be explored in a day – the best way is by bicycle, which can be brought on your own or rented. That is assuming you wish to explore the entire island in a day. Life on Block Island is laid back and leisurely. So, take your time, shop, walk the beach barefoot, feel the salt air blowing your air while riding a moped and relax. Welcome to your vacation, right here at home.