Q: Why did you start running?

A: I was tricked really. My cousins got really into running at one point and signed up for races almost every month. This was also, coincidentally, around the time when I had gone through a terrible break-up and felt depressed. One day I knew they were going on a run and at the last minute I decided to join them. They told me we would only go for about three miles to see how I felt. We ended up running eight and I’ve been hooked ever since! My relationship with running was off and on for years. I was never truly committed because #Life until about 2014. Even then, I still did not train consistently and ran maybe once or twice a week. Learning to enjoy fitness has definitely been a journey throughout the years.

Q: Did you ever feel like you couldn’t do it?

A: All the time. Even after years of running I sometimes doubt my abilities. When I first started running I wore all the wrong gear. Most of the time I was in old shoes I bought on clearance at Kohls, and ran what I thought was 2 miles but ended up really being about half a mile. I would end up back at home, on the floor, feeling nauseated and fatigued. With time, patience and consistency I’ve been able to achieve personal goals I never thought was possible.

Q: How many races have you completed?

A: I really should count my bibs to accurately answer this. My longest half time was 2:45, the very first race I ever completed. Even though this race took me the longest, I have the fondest memories of it! I walked so many times, and at one point I made a friend along the way who helped push me to finish. She and I crossed the finish line together and I could never thank her enough for her encouragement. That is when my love for running got stronger.

Q: What’s the best advice you give to someone who is just starting to run?

A: Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. When I first started running I found this very difficult. It was even harder not understanding why I wasn’t at a fitness level comparable to my cousins. It took time and training. Nothing happens overnight and running is no different.

Q: Why running for carbs?

A: I am not an olympic runner. I love everything about running and I love carbs. I cannot choose between the two. If it were socially acceptable to eat pizza every day I would. I run because I can and because I can I also eat A LOT of carbs. Good and bad carbs and in my opinion-they’re all okay. Often women place a lot of pressure on beauty and diets. I hate it. Moderation is key. Living an active, healthy lifestyle is important to me as well as enjoying food and giving into cravings every so often.

Q: What is your favorite carb?

A:Without hesitation PIZZA. I love pizza, pastas, bread and butter, and of course all desserts. Who doesn’t?! I literally eat pizza once a week.