A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step. – Lao Tzu I decided to participate in the Runner’s World Summer 2012 Running Streak. The streak requires participants to run at least one mile a day, every day, from Memorial Day to July 4th. That’s 38 days of running.  Here I am, posting my first running column on National Doughnut Day. A girl’s gotta burn off those calories somehow, right? Running and I have had one of those relationships that start off rocky, but then it improves over time. When I was in elementary school, I loathed any kind of physical activity and would walk …

When one thinks of fall, the thought of change often comes to mind. To me, fall is not just a season of change, it’s a season of letting go. A dear friend of mine is leaving town tomorrow to begin a new job in a new city. He and I were close for a good part of the past year, but a terrible dispute last month shattered our relationship. I’m genuinely happy for him, but at the same time I’m realizing that I need to let him go. Easier said than done. Weeks ago, he said to me, “I love you enough to let you go.” Since losing him, those eight words have resonated with me over the last few weeks. …

It's been one heck of a ride. One year ago today, Mount Vernon Patch launched into cyberspace to bring Mount Vernon residents the best local coverage. As this site celebrates its first birthday, I'm taking the time today to reflect on the past year and enjoy a cupcake from my favorite cupcakery. I am fortunate to have met such great people in Mount Vernon who have graciously offered their time and effort to help this New Yorker grow accustomed to southern hospitality.  I am also fortunate to work with a team of talented photographers and writers who are dedicated to Patch's mission of …

Happy Women's History Month! This month, Mount Vernon Patch will run a series of articles about the women of Mount Vernon. Additionally, I've decided to use my column to recommend some great books about women's history.  I double-majored in women's studies during undergrad because I was (and still am) interested in women's history. To me, the most interesting period was the 1960s and 1970s, as the Second Wave of Feminism was rolling onward. Women were becoming disgruntled with the ideal of maintaining "hearth and home," and they rallied, joined consciousness-raising groups, and fought for …

If you’d rather take a more creative approach to expressing your love to your Valentine this year, you’re not alone. Many people enjoy giving — and receiving – unique Valentine’s gifts that best reflect the giver’s talents. I'm as into romance as the next girl, but come on — a girl can only have so many teddy bears and balloons before her room looks like a Hallmark store. On the flip side, a guy can also only go through so much stress before choosing the perfect gift for his special lady. Why not break that trend by giving your love a well-thought, unique experience? Here are some of my …

I'll be the first to admit that I'm squeamish. I get weak in the knees while I'm waiting at my doctor's office for my annual physical exam, and I hate hospitals. I can't even watch Gray's Anatomy.  When my significant other, Josh, invited me to the DCJCC's Day of Service on Christmas Eve, I jumped at the chance to volunteer.  Up until he said, "Afterwards, we're going to donate blood." Needless to say, I blanched. According to Inova Blood Donor Services, only 37 percent of Americans are eligible to donate blood. Of those, only five percent donate blood regularly.  Like many cities across …

I'd like to take this column to reflect on the past month and a half since Mount Vernon Patch went live.  As an editor, I'm often so wrapped up in editing the work of others and assigning stories that sometimes I forget to take a moment to breathe. This website has truly been a labor of love; each day, I am happy to be able to share this final product with you. First of all, I am thankful for the opportunity to cover such a unique, multi-faceted community. I am also thankful for the opportunity to have met so many kindhearted, passionate people who are proud to call Mount Vernon home. These …

In honor of National Sandwich Day, I decided to embark on the ultimate quest: to find a good sandwich in Mount Vernon.  For those of you who don't already know, I hail from Long Island, New York. Long Island is not only known for the Hamptons, Montauk Point, and the Amy Fisher scandal, but for its superb delis with delicious heroes (also known as subs, or hoagies). To me, there's no better joy than eating a good eggplant parm hero.  I decided to ask my fellow Mount Vernon locals for their suggestions, and one in particular recommended Mamma's Kitchen. Located off of Route One, Mamma's Kitchen…