The other day, I went running using an interval workout in the Nike Run Club app. It was difficult not only because I am finally easing back into my every-other-day running habit after a six-week-long hiatus owing to the move, but because I am still re-adjusting to the paludal humidity of the D.C. area (there have been points, as I have maneuvered back into this regimen, where I could have sworn I was actually moving backwards, the humidity suffocating my efforts) and my neighborhood is incredibly hilly compared to the relative flatness of my favorite running route around Jackie O. reservoir in Central Park. Beyond that, I’ve never done any interval training in my life, and my body reminded me of that negligence by the end of the workout. It was, however, strangely fun, possibly because of the novelty of running with a coach in my ear and possibly because the pattern of sprinting, then recovering, in sixteen brief segments made the time pass more quickly, or — perhaps — divided the overarching goal of running for thirty minutes into a smattering of tinier, more quickly achievable goals.
Around sprint six, however, my energy flagged. “Just two more,” I told myself. The coach in my AirPods, however, had a different tack:
“Do you know how many intervals you have left?” he asked.
“Two,” I thought.
“One. There’s only ever one left. The next one,” he insisted. In so many words: don’t think about the long game. Don’t derail yourself by worrying about whatever’s coming down the pike. Focus on the short-term, on getting through the minute immediately in front of me. To my genuine surprise, that sixth sprint was almost enjoyable. I resettled from my head into my body. I was able to keep at bay the calculations about how many more seconds I had and how many sprints lay ahead and instead focus solely on my breathing, on my feet hitting the pavement, on the movement of my arms.
Funny how sometimes the words you most need to hear materialize in the most unexpected places, isn’t it?
This week, my resolution is to focus on “the next one” in every realm of my life. Not “the one” — whatever that “one” may be — two days or two months or two years away. Just what’s immediately in front of me.
Post-Scripts.
+On the never-ending quest to live in the present.
+This breezy dress (would work with bump!) reminds me of something by Mille. This is so the vibe at the moment, especially if you layer under a chunky cardigan come fall, or perhaps pair with those shearling Birks in the interim.
+The Vitamin C serum I ordered last week is now 30% off with code CREW30! This was one of the top most upvoted Vitamin C products when I polled you ladies.
+LOVE this new scalloped stationery from one of my favorite Etsy paper sources. I use this notepad from the shop daily!
+This gingham flatware is just so cheerful at a breakfast table.
+Never underestimate the power of Crayola Mess Free coloring sheets. We had some little friends over last weekend and the first 30 minutes of the play date involved happy, silent, mess-free coloring.
+I have heard really good things about this small, female-founded business that sells candles inspired by the signature scents of fabulous hotels.
+ICYMI: this $30 dress is a dream. This is exactly what I imagine wearing with clogs and a cardigan this fall.
+I have seen so many chic women trotting around in Horror Vacui — I love this dress, but just can’t figure out if the shape would do my any favors. I am intrigued by this dramatic quilted coat, however…
+Currently in my cart for my children.
+More adorable toys you won’t mind leaving out!
+Oo these $45 ribbed lounge pants belong in this post, n’est-ce-pas!? They remind me of some of the separates from high-end loungewear brand ARCH4.
+Speaking of ribbed knits, this cashmere sweater is on ridiculous sale and would look so sophisticated with a pair of trousers this fall!
+I’ve been meaning to put together a post of our current favorite children’s books, but I had to share this one, which was an instant hit in our home. My mom read it to mini and she LOVED it immediately — it has some silly sections and great illustrations, but the message is wonderful: It’s OK to feel what you feel.
+Cecil and Lou have two REALLY cute dresses out for fall: this plaid and this navy floral. PSA: I find this brand runs big.
+I saw this sweater on Julia Amory on Instagram and I am devastated I missed out in my size! It’s currently 60% off and she looked SO chic in it. Eyeing this one for myself…
+More on-trend sweaters at all price points.
+Cute lil dress for a lil lady.
+Fun shatterproof, reusable cups for an outdoor gathering.
+This pouf would be cute in a boy’s room.