If you’ve come to NPDC in the last year, there’s a good chance you’ve met Liz and her enthusiastic golden retriever, Maize! Liz is a happy force always looking to get herself and Maize exercise before the day. She’s welcoming to newcomers and a staple of all workouts. We’re thrilled to have awarded her the Positivity Award for her amazing presence in our lives!
How, when and where were you introduced to November Project?
I started coming to November Project in the summer of 2018. I had just moved back to DC, was training for a marathon, and looking for a fun way to meet people and get exercise. I first started showing up at the track (Cardozo Track Crew) thanks to a recommendation from my brother; and, from there, I met a lot of great NP folks who encouraged me to “just show up” on Wednesday’s. That summer, I spent many Wednesday mornings running at the Lincoln. Post COVID, when life was a little bit slower, and I was working from home, I started becoming an NP regular – showing up at Monday, Wednesday & Friday workouts with my new golden retriever puppy, Maize. With a wild, crazy, cute, puppy, I was no longer hiding in the back of the pack, but rather, had the opportunity to get to know everyone as they got to know me and my furry friend! November Project became the highlight of my day and I joke to my coworkers that my best hours happen before 9AM!
What do you remember about your first workout or thinking at/after your first workout?
I remember thinking how incredible it is that so many people wake up and come down to the Lincoln at 6:30 on a Wednesday morning; I also remember feeling so lucky to get to workout on the Mall!
What motivates you to keep you coming back?
Two things motivate me to come back:
1) My dog, Maize, loves the workouts and loves all of her NP friends (both human & dogs – hi Walnut!)
2) The community: everyone is so friendly, welcoming and accepting. Whether I feel like pushing myself hard, or partaking in a FAF, everyone is always there with smiles and encouragement.
What does winning the Positivity Award mean and represent to you?
I was honestly shocked to receive the positivity award. I find myself friendly and enjoy talking to others / meeting new people, but I don’t always think of myself as positive. It is a great reminder that, despite everything going on in the world and in my personal life, people perceive me as a positive person and appreciate having me around. I hope it inspires others to keep moving, keep meeting new people and keep trying to be the best person they can be.
What’s your favorite DC restaurant and your go-to food?
My Favorite DC restaurant is Chloe in Navy Yard. I love new American food and small plates where I get to try a lot of things. Another favorite is Exiles; definitely the best place for happy hour! I wouldn’t call myself a foodie, but I love trying new restaurants around the city.
Describe for us your favorite November Project moment to date.
There’s two. My first favorite NP moment was Maize running her first 5K at 4 months old along the Anacostia river. The next was celebrating Maize’s second birthday recently with all of her friends. It really made me (and Maize) feel the NP love.
Give us your running backstory. How’d you get involved with running?
I got involved in running after college. Back in middle school & high school I was definitely not a runner. I dreaded the mile and all the pre-season sports conditioning I had to do for lacrosse season. After college I realized I needed an outlet to get my stress out and to get fresh air after working in very demanding jobs. I realized that running was a perfect challenge. I started running with no real goals other than to get fit and destress and that has spiraled into running numerous races all over the country. Everywhere I have moved post college, I have met friends from running. That’s what keeps me moving today.
What’s your top fashion tip for runners?
Top fashion tip for runners is to always make sure your outfits match and try to smile for the photos; you never know when they’re going to catch you on camera! I would also recommend to get a good pair of running shoes that fit your feet; Pacers is a great local store to figure out the right fit! Lastly, I’d recommend getting a dog. Dogs always make running more fashionable & fun!
