tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3991449893563033572024-02-07T13:23:39.431-05:00My Road to the Princess Half and BeyondA blog about my training journey towards Disney's 2013 Princess Half Marathon and more. While it focuses on my running experiences it also includes race recaps and information about Disney from our many trips to Walt Disney World with 2 small kids.ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-73771140721987460772014-08-24T18:47:00.002-04:002014-08-24T18:47:20.164-04:00Running the CRIM for the first timeLast year when the CRIM was over, I just kept reading how amazing the race was. So when it opened I registered right away. Then I promptly didn't think about it again for about 7 months. The week of the race, I realized I was registered AND I was supposed to run 12 miles as my long run that weekend. Initially I planned to just not make the drive to Flint since it was not in my plans but I figured that was silly so my mom and I made plans and off we went.<br />
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Now, I have never been to Flint except driving through on 75 so I had no real idea what to do. My mom had printed so directions so we managed to get off the expressway at the right exit and we ended up parking at the YMCA which was perfect! It was only a few blocks from bib/shirt pick up and the start. We parked, got our race stuff and headed back to the car to get ready. We then stopped in the YMCA to use the restroom (this was so nice that they opened their doors to the runners). The MTA station also did too which I thought was great.<br />
<br />The start area was very crowded but super well organized. There were 8 corrals and I was in E (my mom was in F). My plan for the race was to try and maintain my marathon goal pace, despite the hills. Now, I knew very little about this course. I had read it was hilly and that it had great course support. In my head there was a hill at Mile 5 and otherwise I had no idea.<br />
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I was not ready for everything this race had to offer. First, it was HILLY and I mean the whole course. Not crazy hills like Kentucky but there were a quite a few. Also, at Mile 5 there were 3 hills in a row. Now for the course support, oh my, it was amazing, beyond anything I had expected to have at a race. First from the race there were water stops every mile and Gatorade at Mile 5 and Mile 8. Then there was all the rest of the course support! A lot of the course went through areas where students from U of M Flint and Kettering University lived. The frat houses had music and sometimes beer, shots and just out there cheering. People and businesses were out cheering, watching, offering cups of ice, champagne, more beer, Jell-O shots and more music. It seemed like the entire city came out for the event and it was the most welcoming feeling ever. I also loved the mile markers and I wish I could have taken a picture but each mile was painted on the road! It was so cool.<br />
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I am so glad we went and I think this race is going to be a must run for me each year from now on. I loved it!!!ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-14679075382693564882014-07-26T09:08:00.000-04:002014-07-26T09:08:48.154-04:00Niagara Falls Women's Half Marathon 2014 RecapLike I have mentioned previously, I have been really bad at updating my blog about my races and training so I am trying to do better. With that in mind, I am heading back in time to recap my race from the beginning of June (oops).<br />
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I had done this race last year for the first time and I had really enjoyed it. I had signed up the week after for a super discounted rate and I was looking forward to it. I even had convinced my mom to do it as her first half marathon. We made an entire plan of it, with my sister and niece coming with us (so the kids could sleep in) and my mom and I running. Then I found out my BRF (Best Running Friend) was getting married the day we had to leave to get to the race. There was no way I could make the wedding and get to Niagara Falls for the race so I knew I had to skip the wedding. I think this was the hardest running thing I have had to ponder. I would have let the race registration go but with passports being ordered/paid for and my mom ready to complete her half, I needed to be there. (We did make it up to them with a dinner out to celebrate, though even 7 weeks later I am still so sad I missed their special day).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFsBQkql4urOlJLMOcCCrHrr9Cbl39RSsVIxzO_fYwa0FbajS3mWpQKE7tSa_ZCT-Qm9OHgtp5y9a4Rwxqc6T6cz4kvB1Oc6Aeb8ZADNLxTZi53GwRtqogB7p68o-1WT-YHw34T-7PdhC/s1600/IMG_3333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFsBQkql4urOlJLMOcCCrHrr9Cbl39RSsVIxzO_fYwa0FbajS3mWpQKE7tSa_ZCT-Qm9OHgtp5y9a4Rwxqc6T6cz4kvB1Oc6Aeb8ZADNLxTZi53GwRtqogB7p68o-1WT-YHw34T-7PdhC/s1600/IMG_3333.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>So back to the race. We left Saturday morning for the trip over. It was uneventful which is GREAT when traveling with 3 kids under 6. We got to the race expo at the mall. Now this was different than last year. Last year it was just a tent in the parking lot where the race was held. I was excited for the bigger location until we got there. It was about 3pm and the expo had a couple hours to go and the line was NUTS. It was wrapped around and back to the center of the mall. We ended up waiting in line almost 45 minutes, which after a 5 hour car ride was not the best for the kids but they did great.<br />
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Again this year the swag was AWESOME. Included was makeup, bubble bath and WINE, yes, a full bottle of wine.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8hpmJ0eCrGblhOdrG5SggGPMP8IdYjiGY8qA1OMzGNN12vSuRkBofpzhVfHMyt0lpNcIZwt3JoBiVn0yEPJ2TFCFMLax3QFFVPZ2vBooLEKwg4DrvgZQWgShZbQSLanJn_2L_b6ZbRXp/s1600/IMG_0969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8hpmJ0eCrGblhOdrG5SggGPMP8IdYjiGY8qA1OMzGNN12vSuRkBofpzhVfHMyt0lpNcIZwt3JoBiVn0yEPJ2TFCFMLax3QFFVPZ2vBooLEKwg4DrvgZQWgShZbQSLanJn_2L_b6ZbRXp/s1600/IMG_0969.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a>We went to check into the hotel and get settled. We had dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe (never again, just too slow and overpriced) and went to see the falls. Then it was bedtime.<br />
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Sunday we got up bright and early and met a running friend in the lobby to head over to the race. It was smooth as could be from our hotel (we stayed at the Embassy Suites this year instead of Great Wolf Lodge like last year and it was SO MUCH closer). We parked and headed to meet up with some people from the Posse!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWtf8Ld5QprQ5TQPz67X3ivKJhbP88gZKfvg7o11t-QioNh1Rc5oOR2CSMGmhXr7rvGb9-_C9oJAfQSJTmIEbBQA1ddWU5E86yiLMzLzD3XffaCFerVmudUpu1mUjmsSZETzbCexCPiJL/s1600/IMG_3351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWtf8Ld5QprQ5TQPz67X3ivKJhbP88gZKfvg7o11t-QioNh1Rc5oOR2CSMGmhXr7rvGb9-_C9oJAfQSJTmIEbBQA1ddWU5E86yiLMzLzD3XffaCFerVmudUpu1mUjmsSZETzbCexCPiJL/s1600/IMG_3351.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>When it was race time we all headed to our starting spots. My mom was a little worried, as is normal before your first race. I just knew I was hoping for another PR this year but I wasn't sure how it would go. As we were waiting to start I realized I was lined with with the same two ladies that I had lined up with the year before! What are the chances of that. It was so fun and a great start to the race. It is always nice to hear everyone singing the Canadian National Anthem too!<br />
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And we were off. I really did not have a plan for this race. In the first 3 miles I took 2 walk breaks then I switched to a 5:1 interval but sometimes I did 3:1. I really just ran more on feel this race. I did have in the back of my mind that a month earlier I had my best time in the hilly Novi half, so since this race was flat I was hoping to do better. I did, though not by too much!<br />
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I came in, got my food (boxes from Tim Horton's with cookies and fruit) and went to watch my friends and my mom finish. I have to say, it was awesome to be able to cheer people in and to see my mom cross the finish line. It really was wonderful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gzCC_qnzCsuIMPtYreh8sGl21lbHLyJHXI87iPxnhb2aI_LZrA3xTb4kvsUV1Ig9gdEinEHcc7iDGWTVL3fivz-5VRm6byAGEt42PVR6N9AKzVoE34L2BrfNqucwW1wEjMu_1chYoOAA/s1600/IMG_3385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gzCC_qnzCsuIMPtYreh8sGl21lbHLyJHXI87iPxnhb2aI_LZrA3xTb4kvsUV1Ig9gdEinEHcc7iDGWTVL3fivz-5VRm6byAGEt42PVR6N9AKzVoE34L2BrfNqucwW1wEjMu_1chYoOAA/s1600/IMG_3385.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>Once my mom was done we met up, did a finishers picture and then we went back to the hotel to get showered and checked out. That was smooth as can be and then we were heading home.<br />
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Overall, again this was a nice race but I am not registered for next year. The expo was kind of a bummer with the long wait and also the drive is a bit long. Not horrible but there are a lot of other races the same distance away that I want to check out. I do like this race a lot though, just having done it twice it is time to explore others!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-60638995634774099312014-07-22T21:12:00.000-04:002014-07-22T21:20:48.307-04:00Escape to Belle Isle 10KI know I have been slacking in my race reports so I am committing to getting better. Along those lines I am going to share about last weekend's race on Belle Isle.<br />
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I had noticed this race a couple months ago and since I love Belle Isle it was in my plans. Now, I knew we were coming back from Hawaii a couple days before and I wasn't sure how things were going to go so I held off registering since there was no price difference for registering day of.<br />
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June 1st I started a new training program. I am working with a personal running coach. This training has really changed how I train and how I run. At the most basic level, I am moving away from intervals for now since I have been using them as a crutch and I am also adding a lot more miles to my weekly runs. It has been a lot of work but I have honestly been enjoying myself. Now I know, what does this have to do with THIS RACE. Well, this 10K was going to be my first race with no intervals. Now remember, 7 weeks before I was using 2:1 intervals and enjoying it so this was a HUGE chance for me. Also, I usually averaged about 12-20 miles for a week with a race. This week the race would bring me to 24 miles for the week and it was a 10K!!<br />
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The day before the race, Abby decided she wanted to run with me. She has done 2 5Ks and I knew she could do the 5K. Problem was, I wanted to run the 10K for time. So what's a mom to do? Easy, I called my mom who said right away she would do the 5K with Abby and I could run the 10K for time!!! There were several other ladies from my running group (Posse Power) running so we all decide to wear our matching group skirts since Abby has one too!<br />
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Race morning was perfect weather for me! We were having another Polar Vortex (which is much better in July than in January I might add). We got to Belle Isle about 7am because I had to do same day registration. We registered quick and got our bibs and went back to the car to hang out. Everything was at the casino. The bathrooms there were open but there were no Porta Potties which was strange, I was really surprised. Didn't matter to us but I am sure the lines were a problem for some people.<br />
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It did start to lightly rain but since it was mid 60s it was fine. There was some slight confusion since when we registered Abby and I were given the wrong bib colors for our races but Running Fit Timing straightened it right out.<br />
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At 8am we headed for a picture at the fountain. Imagine my surprise when the fountain was ON. I cannot remember seeing it with water. It was clean and beautiful. It made me smile. I did a short warm up as I was instructed to do on my way back to the start line outside the casino.<br />
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Then it was time to start. I lined up and off we went. No national anthem or anything which was a little weird. Maybe they did it and I missed it but I don't think so. I was were I thought I should be and as usual I went off too fast. I was watching my pace and I knew I needed to slow down. By mile 2, I was in a rhythm and more comfortable. As we ran around the island it was like life had come back to it. They were putting new picnic tables out in one area, people were lined up for the Nature Zoo to open, sprinklers were turned on at the golf course and people were around fishing, playing with boats, biking and running.<br />
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I had made a deal with myself that I was only going to stop for 1 water stop. Well, around mile 4, I just needed to rinse my mouth so I grabbed a cup and kept going (I was so glad it was not a crowded course so I could just keep going). I promptly spilled a ton down the front of myself. It was warm out so it was fine but I had to smile. The next stop I had just taken a GU so I tried again. Well, this time it went up my nose. Oops but I didn't slow down. After Mile 5 I knew all bets were off and I needed to go as fast as I could and not pay attention to pace. As I came around the corner I saw the clock and it was at 59 minutes. WAIT WHAT?? I was going to go sub 60 so with a smile I pushed forward and finished. The end was great and my mom, Pattie and Abby were at the finish line cheering and waiting for me. I was just so happy. I had cut over 7 minutes off my best 10K time ever. The training had paid off (thanks Coach).<br />
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After we waited for my friends to finish so we could cheer them on. I love seeing people I know complete a race!<br />
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Overall, wonderful race. Flat, fast course and Belle Isle is so nice to run on. Good event. Nice medals (though they did run out for the final 10K finishers but they are mailing them out). I would do this one again!!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-8441534543001668852014-06-03T19:08:00.001-04:002014-06-03T19:08:51.755-04:00Mary Kay and Influenster<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOqyeIr7YjeyXM9CXlAQC3KaAydh5V6GZObRp7lV9rqRkV22AgrF-tKT2MmvkhdNdShd5v5q5vOREH6khoCRFXuM-smg86COBfR_eCr4KKRp5R1e6ksZ9mx7i-UEhfc027D8afgI65dNJV/s1600/IMG_3166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOqyeIr7YjeyXM9CXlAQC3KaAydh5V6GZObRp7lV9rqRkV22AgrF-tKT2MmvkhdNdShd5v5q5vOREH6khoCRFXuM-smg86COBfR_eCr4KKRp5R1e6ksZ9mx7i-UEhfc027D8afgI65dNJV/s1600/IMG_3166.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a>WOW, I got selected for the Mary Kay box and I have to admit, I was not thrilled. I had tried Mary Kay in college and to me it just was not worth the cost. Maybe it was the high pressure sale but I just was turned off to the brand. This box changed EVERYTHING.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR468sONKkbBtpGREL2QfBNSrOeFk_gGfFFoFDSv3QZeZLmnY2aFcJQrdKApjGoqSxlMp2hFmZWA4EVTKWY7abq_THTQqOcDGS_fp9wBH3HT-qSYtkdzj0CqfKLiWNRDbhTDUOv5iwU-NL/s1600/IMG_3167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR468sONKkbBtpGREL2QfBNSrOeFk_gGfFFoFDSv3QZeZLmnY2aFcJQrdKApjGoqSxlMp2hFmZWA4EVTKWY7abq_THTQqOcDGS_fp9wBH3HT-qSYtkdzj0CqfKLiWNRDbhTDUOv5iwU-NL/s1600/IMG_3167.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a>I was impressed with every single thing I received. By far my absolute favorite thing ever is the gel eyeliner and eyeshadow. I got so many compliments when I used it!!<br />
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I have even ordered more eyeshadow colors since receiving my samples.<br />
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Thank you Mary Kay and Influenster!!!<br />
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ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-52366301052037764762014-05-05T18:06:00.000-04:002014-05-05T18:06:32.067-04:00The Novi Half Marathon--Who decides to run a race less than 24 hours before the race starts? That would be this girl. I had been going back and forth about races for this last weekend for a couple months. I had really wanted to do the Hightail to Ale downtown, Run with the Cops, not from them and the Novi Half. For some reason I just kept putting it off. Hightail to Ale sold out (and I am still mad at myself about this one) and the weather was icky so I skipped Run with the Cops but I wanted to run.<br />
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Saturday morning I talked to my mom and we decided to head out to South Lyon and see if we could still sign up for the Novi races (Half and 10K). Kona running company was running this so I knew it would be well run. I am not in love with the repeat square medals but this one was cute. My plan was if the half was sold out, I would go for the 10K for time for Wine & Dine placement.<br />
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Well, luck was on my side and I was able to get in for the Half (mom went with the 10K since it fit in her training plan). Now, I had not planned this well. I didn't know a lot about the course, what was going to be available on the course or even the area. I was just going to run for fun and not worry about time.<br />
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We got there early and were able to park right at South Lyon East High School so no need for the shuttle bus. We got ready, went inside to use the bathroom and then it was time for me to head to the start line. I got there as they were talking and it was neat to hear that a local athlete was trying to qualify for the Olympic team. He needed a 1:04 half time, YEP 1:04, that beats my 10K time!!<br />
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I got lined up and somehow I thought I was further back than I was. About 1/2 mile in I realized I had not used my inhaler and I did not even have it with me. Oops, this was not good but it was cool, no humidity and it wasn't like I had a lot of choice so I pushed on. The beginning of the race was on road but moved quickly to packed dirt roads. I knew some of the course was like this and I also knew that the rain had made potholes but I was not ready for how it was. The roads were in bad shape though Kona did a good job of marking bad spots and it was not a problem for me, not ideal but not an issue and it did not last too long.<br />
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At mile 1 I looked at my watch and realized I had just done an 8:45 mile. Another oops, I have never done a mile in under 9 minutes and I still had 12.1 more to go. I was in trouble. At this point I switched to intervals since I knew I had to slow down. I stuck to a mix of 5:1 and 2:1 based on where I was on the course. There were some cramped areas on the sidewalks but not too bad.<br />
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Overall I did not love the course. The paved parts were through neighborhoods around Island Lake which just didn't do a lot for me. There were some people out but not many and it was boring. I was just focused on me. At the 10K mark I realized I was at 1:04!! 1:04? WHAT, if I had done the 10K it would have been a PR. I was kicking myself a little but I had another half of the race to go.<br />
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Now, with hydration I have been trying to cut down on how often I stop for water. I skipped the first 2 stops since they were really close to the start. By mile 6 I realized that I had not had any Nuun which was supposed to be on the course. Not sure how I missed it but I got a small cut and kept going. At Mile 8 we got back on the dirt roads and I actually preferred this part of the course even though it was HARD on me.<br />
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At mile 10 I realized I had a great chance to PR. This was not what I had set out to do but I was super excited. I will say the rough roads took a lot out of me but as we hit the paved road to head back to the high school and the finish I knew I could do it!!!<br />
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I finished strong and came in at 2:23:36!!! I beat my Detroit Women's Half time by 3 full minutes and this was a harder course. I got my medal and headed back across the field to grab some water, a banana, a cookie and to head home.<br />
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Overall this was not my favorite race. I think I am spoiled with races with perks. GU on the course, Sports Drink at every stop (or every other one), entertainment on the course, even a better medal instead of one that looks a lot like the ones from other Kona races. I mean it was not horrible but I guess I just expected more and I am not even sure what I wanted. I just know when I left Niagara Falls Women's Half, RunTheBluegrass and the Detroit Women's Half, I felt special and like I had a great time (this is even taking Disney Races out of the mix). I could not stop talking about them and I was eager to sign up again. This one just left me blah though I am over the top excited about my PR!!!<br />
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I know the speed work is helping and I am ready to get better! Now time to take it easy before my first 25K on Saturday!!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-44475753743102095542014-04-07T22:44:00.002-04:002014-04-07T22:44:23.867-04:00RunTheBluegrassA few months ago, one of the groups I follow posted a discount code for this race. I googled it and Lexington, Kentucky was only 5.5 hours away and the race was a Saturday. I was able to get a cheapish room and on a whim I signed up.<br />
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Not long after I signed up, the race director posted this on the Facebook page:<br />
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What did I get myself into? I don't even know what an incline of 9 looks like, I feel like I am going to fall off at 3!!! Based on this I made a real effort to train on an incline. Since the weather has been so horrible here, I have been spending a lot of time at the gym so at least I could do some practicing though I know it was nowhere close to enough.<br />
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All along my plan was to leave right after work and head down alone. About a month before the race, they opened more spots for the 7 miler opened up and my mom decided to come with me!! We were able to go down together.<br />
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I was really looking forward to this race. The race director is amazing. I was blown away time and time again by the race communication. I have done 10 half marathons and this was by far the most welcoming race ever! Since my mom was going to finish about an hour before me, I signed us both up for the VIP race experience so we had a place to be inside and so we could get something to eat before heading home.<br />
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The week leading up to the race, the weather was looking worse and worse. While we had some BEAUTIFUL days leading up to it, rain kept popping up in the forecast. As we drove down on Friday it was beautiful and mild. We hit construction/an accident/rush hour, in Cincinnati that really slowed us down but we made it to the expo with about an hour to spare.<br />
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I picked up the special edition bourbon I had ordered for Jeff and we got our race stuff. We checked into the Marriott Maingate. It was an OK hotel. Nothing special but it was clean and fine. We ordered hamburgers from room service (have to have my meat and potatoes) and it came quick. After we ate, it was off to bed. Since the race was not a super early start (9am) we did not have to get up too early which was nice.<br />
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The morning of the race, it was overcast and cloudy. Not raining and the forecast was saying it was going to start about 11am or 12pm. It was also about 49 in the morning. We drove the 10 minutes to the race and got parked smooth as can be. Tons of port a potties around the parking lot which was awesome. I got to see an awesome running friend and then we headed back to the car to wait since it was a little chilly.<br />
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As we headed to the start line, I ran into 2 more wonderful people I met through my running groups. It was so special to get hugs and pictures with them (though not on my phone so I don't have them).By the time we got to the start line it had started to "mist". Not really raining but not dry either. We did get to see 3 of our running friends as we started but there was no time to start because we were off!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halfway point</td></tr>
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Now, I knew there were hills, I saw the elevation chart, I saw the treadmill training. Basically we started and as we came around the first turn, there was a hill, then another hill. It was hill after hill. I had set my watch to 1:1 but my plan was to start with 3:1 and see what happened through the first half. As you can see from behind me, that was just one of the hills.<br />
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Honestly the miles really just ticked by quickly with the hills. I really enjoyed it. The longer the race went on, the more it started to rain. By mile 8 it was pouring rain. Around mile 7 I switched to 2:1 intervals BUT I switched them up based on the hills. I tried to use a minute to walk up and run the rest and down and in between.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 8.5</td></tr>
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People on the course were amazing!! The volunteers, the other races, everyone. I always appreciate the volunteers at races but never more than this one. They had been out longer than we had and had more time to wait but they all had a smile, a cheer, a cup of water, a kind word. It was over the top.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 11</td></tr>
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Going in, I had registered for the Director's Challenge which meant I submitted my best time (Detroit Women's Half Marathon on flat old Belle Isle) of 2:26. If I beat that time, I would earn an extra award. Also remember, Detroit is rather flat. Belle Isle had an elevation change of 79 feet, (this one registered 840ft on my Garmin). As the winter went on training was hard. I had only 1 outdoor training run between November and this race. I was just hoping for a sub 2:35.<br />
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At mile 12, I realized if I could pull off an 8 minute mile I could beat my time! Since that was not happening I settled for my 2nd best time! I have never been emotional when I run. Even finishing Detroit, I didn't cry. I wanted to cry when I finished this race. I was so proud of myself and I felt awesome. Frozen but awesome. My skirt was even dripping when I was done.<br />
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Because of the rain, the indoor area was opened to everyone (completely the right thing to do) but it made it hard to find and get to the VIP area. I was also freezing and dripping wet. I got in, met up with my mom and some other people from Michigan which was awesome. I went to get food and I was underwhelmed for the first time in this race. It was grapes, cold cuts, cookies and brownies. They did have a soup but I did not try it. Just a lot of money and not a lot of food choices but it was OK, my mom had a place to be while she waited and that was great.<br />
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We got out of parking, to the hotel, got showered and on the road before 2pm which was awesome. Even though we did not get to run together, I was so thankful to have my mom there with me. I am so proud of her and how far she has come. I can't wait until our next race together!!<br />
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I loved this race. It was the worst weather I have run in. It was 42 at the finish and pouring rain but I LOVED THIS RACE. I came home and registered for next year. I cannot wait to do it again. Hard or not, raining or not, it was so neat and I loved it. I will do better next year and maybe there will be sun and horses on the course!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLLAepimJiJPGc-ZDW7KMpZ3pLqDnE9EjpDHkx5XNNFN-NepzxAPEmxLF0ur-2Frj9dRitP8UrDBXL4RX24-QPGfiibp0CiGJAqHszwvGm-2Vcjnu1KncTxloqM6MbtgdhRPq2QMoxhQ_/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-07+at+10.42.00+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLLAepimJiJPGc-ZDW7KMpZ3pLqDnE9EjpDHkx5XNNFN-NepzxAPEmxLF0ur-2Frj9dRitP8UrDBXL4RX24-QPGfiibp0CiGJAqHszwvGm-2Vcjnu1KncTxloqM6MbtgdhRPq2QMoxhQ_/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-07+at+10.42.00+PM.png" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-53610685697981148152014-03-16T20:30:00.000-04:002014-03-17T21:02:53.711-04:00Kona St. Patrick's Day Run--Dublin Double<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYd1WpAWWDkkrxduK3u-9meVY0b7kYMDyqn-VzUw8RPD2LfdD1_0FX7-ohwmdx_tcu11xYISdpDK1kXbKxY6y_g1lnhzwiJjl0OmSQfrQDPpz7dRbwaknju-qgfPk-RPXBhzMtt_RQfDZ/s1600/IMG_2944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYd1WpAWWDkkrxduK3u-9meVY0b7kYMDyqn-VzUw8RPD2LfdD1_0FX7-ohwmdx_tcu11xYISdpDK1kXbKxY6y_g1lnhzwiJjl0OmSQfrQDPpz7dRbwaknju-qgfPk-RPXBhzMtt_RQfDZ/s1600/IMG_2944.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a>This was another race put on by the Kona Running Company. I had planned to do it since I did the Chocolate Run last fall but I waited to sign up until about a month or so ago. Actually I ended up signing up when they said that runners signing up would get a beanie. Now I don't really wear hats but after the one from the Super Bowl 5K, I wanted another one!!!<br />
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I don't know why I waited because I really enjoyed the Chocolate Run and I like how Kona communicates with runners. While Plymouth is not right around the corner, it is also not hard to get to. One "problem" was, Corktown is the same day and some people I know were doing that race. What pushed it over was that Kona was offering the Dublin Double which was the 10K and 5K. Since this was a long run weekend, it just worked out well.<br />
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Heading into this weekend, I was really hoping for at least mild weather. Even though we had a snow storm this week, we had so really mild days which were so nice. Even Friday and Saturday were not bad (mid 30s). As luck would have it, the weather did not hold out for us today. It was 12 degrees when I left my house and with the wind it felt like 2 degrees.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHUNXnv5yRcx19Ys3SISvKc4v8tdo8Oc1vYbuJlyRnV1DqpWtvbkSJsUyCpo-Zxzhh8Ca05dkWJR5jhgzpKAwPA4IzZSmr4l6LKhOIYa7qoO3nj_lWD0IeLRyYouoFMjvssH50cVUtlwPa/s1600/IMG_2940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHUNXnv5yRcx19Ys3SISvKc4v8tdo8Oc1vYbuJlyRnV1DqpWtvbkSJsUyCpo-Zxzhh8Ca05dkWJR5jhgzpKAwPA4IzZSmr4l6LKhOIYa7qoO3nj_lWD0IeLRyYouoFMjvssH50cVUtlwPa/s1600/IMG_2940.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>I picked up Jennifer and we parked downtown and got all ready in our layers. We went over and spent a few minutes in the warming tent before heading to the start line.<br />
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Since we were doing the Dublin Double, we were suppose to start in the first wave of the 10K. Problem was, we were not really sure where that was so all of a sudden we had to push our way up to the start to go. Not a big deal. <br />
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Since the weather was so cold we decided to take it easy and we went with a 1:1 interval. It was actually a perfect pace for this race. At 2 miles we were maintaining just around a 11:10 pace and I was feeling awesome. Now, I was not feeling the toes on my right foot at all but running wise, I felt great. After about mile 4, I got feeling back and it was not bad as long as we were not heading into the wind. We did slow down a little at the end due to the cold and breathing and knowing we still had a 5K to go but overall it was good.<br />
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Once we finished, we had about 10 minutes before the start of the 5K. We went over and wished good luck to an elite runner we knew and then it was time to start again! The 5K was much more crowded and after that small break it was hard to get back into the grove but we did OK. Overall, the race was good. FREEZING but good. Even the water at the stops was slush and the bananas at the finish were frozen. I am looking forward to some spring races. I can handle 30-40 but this was just too cold!!<br />
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The medals were cute too!<br />
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www.runmichigan.com always seems to be at races and I love it. They caught a couple of me from this weekend.</div>
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Here is the 10K finish area.</div>
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-81503760761065516502014-03-08T21:20:00.004-05:002014-03-08T21:22:25.962-05:00Princess Half Marathon Weekend 2014--Part 1 (Arrival and the 5K)This trip, my runniversary of my first half marathon, was going to be very different than the first year that was for sure. We were making it a whole family trip this time! After we had made reservations but before we had our flights A decided she wanted to run the 5K really bad, we with some work on things, we were able to make it happen. The only issue was we could not get all the nights we needed at Bay Lake Tower (because of lack of points and available 2 bedroom units) so we decided to try another split stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge/Bay Lake.<br />
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Our flight down was interesting. It was supposed to be warmer that day but some how it wasn't and it snowed, sleeted and was NASTY that afternoon. We even had ThunderSnow (a thunderstorm but with snow). The drive to the airport was horrible and I was so stressed until we got to the gate only to discover the flight was delayed. Then we found out we had to move to the other end of the airport because our original plane had been hit by lightening and they needed to check it out! After deicing we were on our way.<br />
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Of course we were the last drop off from the Magical Express and we were all so hungry. Check in was quick and we got to the room. While I got the kids settled, my mom and Jeff went to get food in the other building (we were at Kidani and the food was at Jambo). A wonderful friend had picked up all our race stuff and dropped it off and while we were downstairs for that, my secret Princess showed up with an amazing bag of stuff for the weekend! Things were off to a great start!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigU6_WsTX3KqigrPu0W5czPWFVpT6iylYKHSnel6xXbUe3OKs7QshXC3erNuEgCtkAi1UGBo2sy_irH9huOnMjYwV2IPXLgS0w0BVlrlBHcHKqSqFsug9VxvZd7dbfRb-SrVKz6cEdRcew/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigU6_WsTX3KqigrPu0W5czPWFVpT6iylYKHSnel6xXbUe3OKs7QshXC3erNuEgCtkAi1UGBo2sy_irH9huOnMjYwV2IPXLgS0w0BVlrlBHcHKqSqFsug9VxvZd7dbfRb-SrVKz6cEdRcew/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhie3GR-DJY1smJ2TcKgQwjK0Fh5dGbK4NXBuUFcHZ8jgW5RKATCajfSbbDyPOnvvpWus-e17E5emkLcVp219z7QW4S6b5oQ0K8ab-jXwAO9L4OpErPj9SuzEjz5JRrTr4SMZt5nYD2bBUY/s1600/IMG_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhie3GR-DJY1smJ2TcKgQwjK0Fh5dGbK4NXBuUFcHZ8jgW5RKATCajfSbbDyPOnvvpWus-e17E5emkLcVp219z7QW4S6b5oQ0K8ab-jXwAO9L4OpErPj9SuzEjz5JRrTr4SMZt5nYD2bBUY/s1600/IMG_0386.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a>Our room was amazing! We were at the end of the Savannah and the first night we saw a zebra off the balcony and then other animals throughout the weekend. Also, a dedicated two bedroom is so nice, even nicer that a 2 bedroom lock off!!!<br />
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We ate fast since we had an early morning and it was off to bed for us.<br />
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I was up by about 3am because I was excited and I slowly got up and ready. I got A up at 4am and rushed her through so we could be on the bus at 4:30am, she did awesome and was in a great mood. We made the quick bus ride to Epcot and met up with some friends for fun and pictures. We danced and had a blast before heading to the corrals.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBU0cioy5pDX0JHo4JgmlLPmV13b0XFJdZc1_GxW59OZfrjPAjEDF51-QuI3iLogrjDaqQmJACLYqz6NRm9NcGthx-QKVKTc0Xy_Wk0_qvm2XHtNjWrNYedN3q5UAwWn_60wiBEV6NTT4/s1600/754770-1001-0004s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBU0cioy5pDX0JHo4JgmlLPmV13b0XFJdZc1_GxW59OZfrjPAjEDF51-QuI3iLogrjDaqQmJACLYqz6NRm9NcGthx-QKVKTc0Xy_Wk0_qvm2XHtNjWrNYedN3q5UAwWn_60wiBEV6NTT4/s1600/754770-1001-0004s.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a>When we were deciding on costumes, we let A pick and she wanted to do Minnie Mouse. With some help from an amazing friend (who made the skirts) we were coordinated and ready to run!<br />
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We were in Corral B and we started off good. On the bus over, A had said she wanted to stop for every picture. Well the first stop was the Bugs from Bugs Life and she had NO INTERESTED! We joined up with a running friend at this point who stayed with us for the rest of the race. She has little ones too so she knew what it is like to run with littles. We sprinted, we walked, we ran, we sprinted again. It was just fun.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSo4JuUB5iHSGSkg0BRs7oBh_dZNwkJdMKOzgtA6p9gCFSFzP6xsNoOnWynn4IGaGjaanJl4hnrTenvfTOLc-vQB1KekEGB70vrFpw3cE0uJWTD0asWuT_Pup4pQn-RXIhH0Bjo-V2EO3/s1600/754782-1004-0015s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSo4JuUB5iHSGSkg0BRs7oBh_dZNwkJdMKOzgtA6p9gCFSFzP6xsNoOnWynn4IGaGjaanJl4hnrTenvfTOLc-vQB1KekEGB70vrFpw3cE0uJWTD0asWuT_Pup4pQn-RXIhH0Bjo-V2EO3/s1600/754782-1004-0015s.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a>As we got into the World Showcase, Dopey was in Germany and we had to stop!!! Dopey is never out. A was complaining she wanted to run but she smiled and had fun. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi64s9xNAsEKuAIzleD4sW7AqD-GvFIAYz8Wn6Uhs0QQfZBsh2h5MSgbIOf3ct2ESHq-69unZb6rRvwBPx7UwBs5KUTK_cD4zPT_jsw_gspAzPULR3goEvyPryyNkB5j0T27famuiUHxDP/s1600/754781-1006-0022s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi64s9xNAsEKuAIzleD4sW7AqD-GvFIAYz8Wn6Uhs0QQfZBsh2h5MSgbIOf3ct2ESHq-69unZb6rRvwBPx7UwBs5KUTK_cD4zPT_jsw_gspAzPULR3goEvyPryyNkB5j0T27famuiUHxDP/s1600/754781-1006-0022s.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a>Not a lot further and we were in Morocco and Jasmine was out with the Genie, another must do even though at this point A was ready to go!! We skipped the rest of the stops (I think there were 6 total on the course) but she was OK with posing in front of the ball with me!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixqXVKD3E2nO8dAlUF6YqfhrxEPiHRAxq3KCKwi7_GDWQiLe99NlVd0e3YiBJ_H6PwzoodEAKwf9LejY-_C16VjhY4llvptwDt1xFFd4GwV2txGzUXi4nE8Jgu0Eq1z2FYv1gCK58ZwbO/s1600/IMG_2662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixqXVKD3E2nO8dAlUF6YqfhrxEPiHRAxq3KCKwi7_GDWQiLe99NlVd0e3YiBJ_H6PwzoodEAKwf9LejY-_C16VjhY4llvptwDt1xFFd4GwV2txGzUXi4nE8Jgu0Eq1z2FYv1gCK58ZwbO/s1600/IMG_2662.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ypJw_GgAuzUmYcCFjU7eIcxKjlHe_1TKeRku6G6nNphw6bEpDysArzCyQEg4rwD5NAQVF6fsl4dIcBWQuhJNFA5K1MaIRduAyqHGnFKZcmWTXPSagqaaffxbnLOpf_PZIeuazl8NS7Ud/s1600/IMG_2665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ypJw_GgAuzUmYcCFjU7eIcxKjlHe_1TKeRku6G6nNphw6bEpDysArzCyQEg4rwD5NAQVF6fsl4dIcBWQuhJNFA5K1MaIRduAyqHGnFKZcmWTXPSagqaaffxbnLOpf_PZIeuazl8NS7Ud/s1600/IMG_2665.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a>It was not a fast race and I did not even wear my watch but it was one of the most fun races I have ever done. To be able to do it with my mom and my amazing daughter made it great. Seeing her get her medal at the end and how happy she was made the extra early morning completely worth it. I hope she continues to love these kind of experiences.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7T1775SwzjjZofAP2lNcr8zjE-A3uU1KSiVdbkQb1sjTmu9cFHhNZvPEl9tCRaBikmR7y8E7amBu4wCmsjD7xtPjltDLFYUQEopnadSD6Rhzi-hs2KuFjKVpVgQc1PrdPtYo0jmiE4gZs/s1600/IMG_0406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7T1775SwzjjZofAP2lNcr8zjE-A3uU1KSiVdbkQb1sjTmu9cFHhNZvPEl9tCRaBikmR7y8E7amBu4wCmsjD7xtPjltDLFYUQEopnadSD6Rhzi-hs2KuFjKVpVgQc1PrdPtYo0jmiE4gZs/s1600/IMG_0406.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a>After the race, we went back and got the boys and headed to the Magic Kingdom (where else would we go) for some fun. We had a great time as usual. We kind of missed the old Fastpass system but I will admit the new system was not bad for us and worked out well. By the time we left, A was exhausted and I was glad we had the stroller with us!<br />
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After lunch my dad arrived and we met back at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, swam and then had dinner at Cape May. Then we took a trip through Epcot before calling it a night. Tomorrow was the 10K and day one of the Glass Slipper Challenge. Let the fun begin, again!<br />
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ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-17478241254171392962014-03-06T21:46:00.003-05:002014-03-06T21:46:52.138-05:00Tinkerbell Weekend Part 3 (the Half and saying goodbye to Disneyland)Sunday morning was the half. I convinced my mom and Holly that there was really no reason for them to get up super early and come to the start. After seeing how fun it was and how many people were around they agreed there was no reason. I met my local running buddy at the corner and we went to the start line. Due to crazy work schedules we have not had as much chance to run together as usual so I was totally looking forward to being able to do this race together. Local ones are fun but there is something special about Disney with a friend.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0frE7mBZcAlY6KfxhKuvdbwTfr9z7e5yH8iJfynpfU65t4s2OOJ-q_ZeSsOPfLCxRC5HY74T9zjJ7E-UsJu2DOc_K0Gy8G_RyNw4Sq7Fk-bkjfvUsSLlCwsJ8JV6Ou8wBVTHXeAj7-dKF/s1600/750198-1003-0012s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0frE7mBZcAlY6KfxhKuvdbwTfr9z7e5yH8iJfynpfU65t4s2OOJ-q_ZeSsOPfLCxRC5HY74T9zjJ7E-UsJu2DOc_K0Gy8G_RyNw4Sq7Fk-bkjfvUsSLlCwsJ8JV6Ou8wBVTHXeAj7-dKF/s1600/750198-1003-0012s.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>We had the usual fun at the staging area and had our group picture. Then we headed to the start. I love how Disney starts races. Each corral was a different fairy and it was just so fun. Since we were in B, it seemed to be so quick and we were ready to start. It chilly at the start so I was glad I had a jacket<br />
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The Tinkerbell course was really fun. The entire first part is in the parks and there are just so many fun things to see and experience. It was not too crowded and we even had fun running behind some guys who were wearing SparkleSkirts they had bought the day before!! We had talked before we started and Jennifer and I had decided we were going to stop and take a ton of pictures. We did have some we skipped but not many. Because of how the course is set up, the character stops are at the beginning of the course so seeing our 5K/10K splits, we were SO SLOW but it was SO MUCH FUN!!! As we ran through Downtown Disney we got to see my mom and Holly waiting for us! I was also able to hand off my jacket so it survived 2 races without getting tossed!!<br />
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We had really been looking forward to some of the pictures. As you can see, the Monsters Inc group was the #1 stop we knew we had to get. There are also some at Disneyland that are just so special. The picture in front of the World of Color area is just so pretty. That area is all lit up and the music is playing. I think out of all the places at Disney (both World and Land) this one is one of my favorites. In some ways, it is even better than Cinderella's castle since it is not as busy!!!<br />
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I will admit once we got out into the streets of Anaheim it was a little harder than with the Disneyland Half. We ran through some neighborhoods and they had the cutest signs up reminding up to be quiet that people were sleeping. It was just a cute Disney thing.<br />
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We also went through what I think is more their downtown. It was a nice course. The Disneyland one takes you a different way so you go through Angels Stadium which is special but this was more peaceful. Now, I made a rookie mistake, for the 10K I had worn a new pair of shoes. Not only a new pair but a new style. I love them but they were not something I was used to. I had switched to my old ones for this race. I think that was a mistake because by mile 9 or so my foot felt bruised. It was OK but annoying.<br />
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Now I had a brilliant idea that I was going to do a leap before the end of the race. I did one about mile 5 and then another at 12.5. Not as spectacular as some but it was fun and I am surprised I could even go it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmOLaua1tDtxH8NiQ3Gh9CsKU9gkUkIXQbWr6hkg6KRsNXxKPAivzxYIzehSM1yDAnX_Wp5Zb1xE70wBNbVFjuQ5QjUXGuB-VLeQn2U7xwsC2DMKcD83YMHu2IvqmTG81JzKkuj25dE6C/s1600/750721-1010-0004s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmOLaua1tDtxH8NiQ3Gh9CsKU9gkUkIXQbWr6hkg6KRsNXxKPAivzxYIzehSM1yDAnX_Wp5Zb1xE70wBNbVFjuQ5QjUXGuB-VLeQn2U7xwsC2DMKcD83YMHu2IvqmTG81JzKkuj25dE6C/s1600/750721-1010-0004s.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a>Once we got back to Disney it was a quick bit to the finish. The end was awesome. First we saw my mom and Holly and then not far away, we saw Scott.<br />
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I have to admit, I LOVED getting the space blankets at the end of the race. It was so nice and super helpful<br />
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After the half marathon we had met up with my mom and Holly and Jennifer's fiancée before heading back to the hotel. We had brunch reservations and we had to make sure we packed a lot into the few hours we had left. </div>
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We had brunch at the Plaza Inn. Overall, it was another very disappointing Disney meal. I had fun with the people and they had a LOT of characters but it was just OK, nothing special and probably one of the worst Disney buffets I have experienced. Oh well. The characters were great!!!</div>
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We made sure to stop and get some castle pictures though I will admit the castle down not have the same backdrop as it does at Disneyworld.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUbHDcIMChtBSg9cDL2KWS-KyQ-cqw684IYvllDar8fXKhLbqQaDarF-DkNOCXRgTnEU7OTaE41nmBesIKLUwzOZbUN9734U90z9cnS2IPBKAIOzW2ZDvrQDOLJFLEpMl2YuqjIS4eU78w/s1600/DSC_0397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUbHDcIMChtBSg9cDL2KWS-KyQ-cqw684IYvllDar8fXKhLbqQaDarF-DkNOCXRgTnEU7OTaE41nmBesIKLUwzOZbUN9734U90z9cnS2IPBKAIOzW2ZDvrQDOLJFLEpMl2YuqjIS4eU78w/s1600/DSC_0397.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a> It was fun to get to show off my medal here and Merida made a fuss over seeing it!</div>
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At this point I think the 2 early days, a cross country flight and 19.3 miles had caught up with me. I left my mom and Holly and I headed back to the hotel for a short nap. I was really exhausted and just tell asleep for 30 minutes. It was exactly what I needed before heading back to meet them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2195Ya_BpHuZBmeJ0DE9DRtH5PP5LNPKk7U2eaRP8dR33pyKVpcWbJE9TCTtW4-w0-E7jcDXpi-fksauXtsnHoZPqVFvdV0GJwo9wsrOE3_pan1IZ7LIrntpefh3yUt5iepHSFlcYrAbb/s1600/DSC_0501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2195Ya_BpHuZBmeJ0DE9DRtH5PP5LNPKk7U2eaRP8dR33pyKVpcWbJE9TCTtW4-w0-E7jcDXpi-fksauXtsnHoZPqVFvdV0GJwo9wsrOE3_pan1IZ7LIrntpefh3yUt5iepHSFlcYrAbb/s1600/DSC_0501.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a>Our last stop before leaving was to watch the Mickey show and pose in the teacups. <br />
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It was so hard to believe this was such a fast trip. I mean we were on the ground in California for 52 hours. I think that hardest thing about getting on the plane was knowing that when we landed I was heading right into work. Oh well, made for an amazing girls weekend with some of the most important people in my life.<br />
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I really am so lucky to have such great friends and such a wonderful mom!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-62010966036541910862014-02-11T21:11:00.002-05:002014-02-11T21:12:02.626-05:00TinkerBell Weekend Recap--Part 2 (the 10K and Saturday at the parks)Saturday morning (January 18, 2014) meant the usual early Disney start. I have to say, West Coast races are not as bad though because even though it was early, it was not that early to us! Holly decide to get up and go with us and be the official photographer for the day. We met up with 3 ladies I knew from my online running group and we made the walk over to the staging area. Unlike for the Disneyland Half in August, this race stages in the Paradise Pier parking lot and the corrals lined up in front of Paradise Pier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiUb-Lxekos2uHUREsQOGFHmaUhkJZJ5HgdMyvJpjujIZV0MO8lwW2PALeWfqBrS4H-Dq9q1N7E1F-o4KgCseWWkxGYW-LUcAMVPN00hYvL10GltFB1Yl-F8WiEykB34BrTIwRXfCjhdH/s1600/757062-1002-0050s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiUb-Lxekos2uHUREsQOGFHmaUhkJZJ5HgdMyvJpjujIZV0MO8lwW2PALeWfqBrS4H-Dq9q1N7E1F-o4KgCseWWkxGYW-LUcAMVPN00hYvL10GltFB1Yl-F8WiEykB34BrTIwRXfCjhdH/s1600/757062-1002-0050s.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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We went over to the area and took pictures and hung out. It was not long at all before we went to the corrals for the start. We said goodbye to Holly with plans to see her on the course. Again, we were super lucky to have a bunch of people I knew in our corral so the time passed fast. Before I knew it we were off and running.<br />
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I have to say, I LOVE the 10K course at Disneyland. It is almost all through the parks and Downtown Disney.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPmhEV-Gt4mXaCcPz3xBMWdv73PLhzT4jA23iWpOfWH4EXecMRtBqzxL2jB32ebS63sehoCViaetV79mHfcbi_nHOHzSBE9oxi5M12iR-eCHvZ_ZfqmmBAL9U6UsnRO_k8JJSlkEOGe2-/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-11+at+8.45.06+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPmhEV-Gt4mXaCcPz3xBMWdv73PLhzT4jA23iWpOfWH4EXecMRtBqzxL2jB32ebS63sehoCViaetV79mHfcbi_nHOHzSBE9oxi5M12iR-eCHvZ_ZfqmmBAL9U6UsnRO_k8JJSlkEOGe2-/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-11+at+8.45.06+PM.png" height="308" width="320" /></a>There were so many character stops and fun things to see. From the floats and the farm animals to SO many cast members out and cheering for us.<br />
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It was just so much fun. We took a lot of pictures but we did not stop for every picture stop and that was OK. We got really lucky and Holly was able to see us 3 different times on the course. She really worked her butt off to get to the different view points and I think she might have had a rougher time than we did. I told her she should have just done the 10K with it but she didn't believe me!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmgRbzafCtqTYHoBeTs-eLRvHxmzNF_tngEQcNn3i7ZdAUxCc1Ceq6mRSsT_vrZJ-EOPaMaIsQkC5AUYMTZMQTLuRSOBIQAFH0KnPqjQvRBodRM1C6fRXPVgX0_TKKi_dm4wCGxbjgJ1H/s1600/DSCN0658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmgRbzafCtqTYHoBeTs-eLRvHxmzNF_tngEQcNn3i7ZdAUxCc1Ceq6mRSsT_vrZJ-EOPaMaIsQkC5AUYMTZMQTLuRSOBIQAFH0KnPqjQvRBodRM1C6fRXPVgX0_TKKi_dm4wCGxbjgJ1H/s1600/DSCN0658.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At California Adventure</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running through Carsland</td></tr>
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I just cannot even begin to list all the amazing shots we got but the best part was to do this with my mom!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carsland</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see my flat running friend in this picture</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRXl6asuUq1_N6RTjS1Sc3dgjpaa2kf_JMQqSGqO9dohQPiEkcaKzXL9CTPeKjzH7aXtvaVl5IUb5doqik3OXGk10Twqq2ThBzjNcgIh7B4FfdNDiq274-MH5h8daAhaFbUaGuuocRHSx/s1600/DSCN0655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRXl6asuUq1_N6RTjS1Sc3dgjpaa2kf_JMQqSGqO9dohQPiEkcaKzXL9CTPeKjzH7aXtvaVl5IUb5doqik3OXGk10Twqq2ThBzjNcgIh7B4FfdNDiq274-MH5h8daAhaFbUaGuuocRHSx/s1600/DSCN0655.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside "It's a Small World"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcj3Gs-amUY0hCfJdd4nOH4eviQA7b2yFnm0k2oHM9g92stiqdzCmc_xcr2YXt2BlC1goMGXNphs5mwATbfY_rf0U0X3zlXUAPNHo9PESRxxN95FuWXLsOvNX5sJbPCK69ZR7rrl3sFOe-/s1600/DSCN0656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcj3Gs-amUY0hCfJdd4nOH4eviQA7b2yFnm0k2oHM9g92stiqdzCmc_xcr2YXt2BlC1goMGXNphs5mwATbfY_rf0U0X3zlXUAPNHo9PESRxxN95FuWXLsOvNX5sJbPCK69ZR7rrl3sFOe-/s1600/DSCN0656.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Castle picture!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got runDisney space blankets</td></tr>
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This really was an amazing day and race and it was not even breakfast time yet. I knew if the morning had been this good it was only going to get better once we got out to the Expo and the parks.</div>
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We went back and got ready to hit the parks but first we had to eat breakfast and get to the expo. I was so excited for my outfit for the day. My friend Judi had made this skirt for me and it was so much fun to wear. I put my Black Silk SparkleSkirt under it and it was perfect for park hopping.</div>
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After this we decide to hit the parks. We went to California Adventure so we could get the free VISA picture and just have fun. The park seemed busier than when we were there in August which really surprised me. I thought Labor Day weekend would be far worse than MLK day weekend. It was still a lot of fun.<br />
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We did take a nap during the day before going to dinner at Carthay Circle and to see World of Color. I will say, the pork chop really was the best thing ever though I do not think I would recommend going there for the World of Color package, it was good but not that good.<br />
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Before I knew it, it was time for bed before the next day was time for the HALF!!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-20455972683057657422014-02-11T20:36:00.000-05:002014-02-11T20:36:11.283-05:00TinkerBell Weekend Recap--Part 1<br />Looking back I realize I have been doing a horrible job of keeping up on my races and the fun. Tonight I looked back at my Princess Recap from last year and I was reminded of so many wonderful things I had forgotten. This has motivated me to make sure to record the TinkerBell Weekend experience.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who could resist this?</td></tr>
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I knew last summer I was going to do Coast to Coast again in 2014 when runDisney announced the new Pink Coast to Coast medal that was going to be offered for people who completed both of the women focused races in 2014.<br />
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I made sure to sign up as soon as I was able to. As luck would have it, I was able to register for Tinker Bell at the same time as I registered for the new Glass Slipper Challenge during Princess weekend. Since I was registered, I was committed right?<br />
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I knew Jeff really did not want to do another super quick west coast trip so when I first started planning things I was planning to go by myself. I was going to fly out Friday night and then come back on the Red Eye on Sunday night for PD on Monday. Well, as planning continued my mom decided she wanted to come with me (awesome, girls weekend) and then I got the amazing news that Holly had a flight credit and was going to come too!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8rm3VGVQZUDtWyoiJVAxlffSurx8wGiV6b1vL1Uh3YvduTjFFekR5lxr59d9E5ZRRktzcIiZ_40D23_FjcCE5ueltaknPfq1y1B_MeW3xnR9pryZTUZuW23bnTrbRNhDlQ5m4pwGrBcXk/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8rm3VGVQZUDtWyoiJVAxlffSurx8wGiV6b1vL1Uh3YvduTjFFekR5lxr59d9E5ZRRktzcIiZ_40D23_FjcCE5ueltaknPfq1y1B_MeW3xnR9pryZTUZuW23bnTrbRNhDlQ5m4pwGrBcXk/s1600/images.jpeg" height="199" width="200" /></a>I thought we were all set and then runDisney released the 10K medal for Tinker Bell weekend. I knew that even without that challenge that weekend I wanted to do it. Somehow I convinced my mom to run it with me and the weekend just got more interesting.<br />
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All went according to plan and we arrived in LA and got the rental car, got to the hotel and checked in. We stayed at the Anabella and I was really impressed with the room. We had a king bed and a full bed in a little alcove area. I had an amazing friend who got our race stuff so we got everything ready and went to bed pretty much right away since it had been a long day and the next morning it was RACE time.<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-76033521748019511132013-11-19T19:50:00.004-05:002013-11-19T20:13:31.686-05:00Kona Chocolate RunWell this was supposed to be my break out race, the amazing 10K following the marathon, my chance to move up for placement for Princess Weekend. Instead it was a flop and it was 100% my own fault.<br />
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Since Detroit, I have been slacking with training. I could go through the list of excuses that I had been using but in the end it boiled down to, I just took too much time off and I paid for it.<br />
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In the week leading up to the race, the weather did not look to promising. It was supposed to be warm (low of 56) but rain was in the forecast. I wasn't worried about rain as long as the temperate held out.<br />
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Saturday before the race we decided to make the trip over to Plymouth to get the race stuff. It was a bit of driving but I prefer to not have to worry about stuff that morning if at all possible. Plus, I wanted my jacket!!! We got there not too long after opening and there was no problem getting in and getting our stuff and getting out. The kids checked out the expo area (their favorite thing to do) and we headed home.<br />
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Sunday dawned very rainy. Actually when I woke up it was POURING. Oh well, I got ready and headed over to meet my mom and Jennifer. It was going to be mom's first 10K and I was so excited for her. The drive in was fine and we found a parking spot with no problems. No rain at this point. We got over to the start and met up with another friend Janie and her mom and friend for pictures!!! So far the rain had stopped and was holding out.<br />
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The race had 2 starts for the 10K and we were all in the 2nd wave. It was 10+ minute mile pace. I was really hoping to be towards the front of this group but life had other plans. I just was not feeling it from the very beginning. I was pushing during each interval. By the half way mark the rain started. Then the rain really started. It was really warm though so it was not really unpleasant. It was about this point Jennifer and I came upon a group doing 2:1 intervals too. Tony and crew were cheering and having a blast. We stayed with them for the next 2.5 miles then I was just done. I told them to go ahead and I would get to the finish.<br />
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It was not pretty and it was nowhere close to a PR but I finished in 1:10. The end of the race had a chocolate buffet but by the time we got to the finish the line was around the park with no sign of the end. We decided it was not worth the wait and went to the finish line to see my mom. We got to see her cross which was awesome. She did so great and I hope I have convinced her she can do more races!!!<br />
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I did love the course, it was through the neighborhoods of Plymouth and I will for sure do another Kona race!!!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-26423922598386950972013-10-21T15:07:00.000-04:002013-11-05T18:13:24.413-05:00I did it--I finished a MARATHONTo think that 18 months ago I had no desire to even go a mile, to complete 26.2 of them on a Sunday morning is huge. My first race over a 10K was in February but before that, I had already registered for my first full marathon. How do things like that happen? Well, this one was simple. For the Detroit Marathon the cheapest registration is the first week of the year. The race with the least amount of spots is the Marathon BUT unlike other races, Detroit allows you to change your race distance through August. So, I signed up for the full expecting that come August I would drop down to the half, well I didn't.<br />
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The race was amazing and hard and emotional and everything I had read it would be. Here is how it went.<br />
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The night before we stayed downtown at the RenCen. This has 2 benefits. 1. I would not have to stress about parking or getting downtown by 6am on race morning. 2. It meant the kids could be on the course. There was no possible way the kids could be outside from 6am-1pm and not go nuts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vi0xbV_50k_ihx_7zZt672pxvR_BY4mFCeJmRYs3MkjksdjeEqjS1MvMEnRJz9oqKPROzYUwLnGGdEg9FYtiEURhINpuDNrNNzU12djkqc50f9ZNCdft-6UkHfgoaix4lKpN0zrBBwD5/s1600/key.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vi0xbV_50k_ihx_7zZt672pxvR_BY4mFCeJmRYs3MkjksdjeEqjS1MvMEnRJz9oqKPROzYUwLnGGdEg9FYtiEURhINpuDNrNNzU12djkqc50f9ZNCdft-6UkHfgoaix4lKpN0zrBBwD5/s200/key.JPG" width="149" /></a>I have to admit, when we checked in I got super excited. Here is the room key for the runners. I was wondering if everyone staying there that night got it but I saw others with a different, normal key so it was so cool!!<br />
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I had a nice dinner with my amazing group of running friends and then had a relaxing evening, I even skipped watching the Tigers play so I could rest.<br />
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Sunday morning came early. We met in the lobby at 6am to walk to the picture meeting point at Campus Martius. It was cold but not miserable (I think it was 41 at the start but very little wind). I even left my sweatpants and sweatshirt in the hotel. After the picture I realized I had not grabbed my inhaler and had not used it either. I knew I was going to go slow in the beginning so I texted my mom to bring it to Mile 8 for me. After a quick stop in the Compuware building to use a real bathroom it was off to the start.<br />
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<a href="http://photos.runmichigan.com/2013/October/Start-Gallery-4-2013-Detroit/32889288_jbpkrd#!i=2849375781&k=ffMnWrF&lb=1&s=A" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" height="212" src="http://photos.runmichigan.com/2013/October/Start-Gallery-4-2013-Detroit/i-ffMnWrF/0/S/600_7171-S.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
I was in corral L and it was not bad. Not too crowded and the people around me were so nice and friendly. Lots of first time runners which was so neat!!! I knew in my head I had to start off slow because I had to make it the entire way. I got lucky and ran into a friend and her mom and I stuck with them for the first 10K. It was so much fun to run across the bridge and into Canada. The border agents were cheering and super friendly on the course and Windsor was very welcoming to us. I made it to the relay exchange, saw my team member off and I had to double back to get my tag cut off my shoe.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQIU5xx-Ga8eCtdQgURjZnCIMbKAClSA3ZCIZchRHxUpDJqHb-7IPX5oGfAJLyghafYSEWhkWoOK028lyFCkEuMlp0Ezhmh_VPLRNVMy31cJ0LkRvOA2OFSEq7q-MTKzD0GSMWwFEfCPWU/s1600/IMG_2025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQIU5xx-Ga8eCtdQgURjZnCIMbKAClSA3ZCIZchRHxUpDJqHb-7IPX5oGfAJLyghafYSEWhkWoOK028lyFCkEuMlp0Ezhmh_VPLRNVMy31cJ0LkRvOA2OFSEq7q-MTKzD0GSMWwFEfCPWU/s200/IMG_2025.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLMW2HeqiZTurTFB9To31ClIecS8bjczhqXlhgHDsfNZnscbapdmGy5eSmgYeXjg7NV8Cj4yGZWngUgRj4tvMdVylmi-etB-YVk9H4GpGaQ5yYgJW6-ZzYpZNGirlrn8fnL922kCIYS1N/s1600/IMG_2020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLMW2HeqiZTurTFB9To31ClIecS8bjczhqXlhgHDsfNZnscbapdmGy5eSmgYeXjg7NV8Cj4yGZWngUgRj4tvMdVylmi-etB-YVk9H4GpGaQ5yYgJW6-ZzYpZNGirlrn8fnL922kCIYS1N/s200/IMG_2020.JPG" width="200" /></a>At this point I was feeling good and it showed in my times. My time from the 10K-20K split were the best of the whole day. I really liked the tunnel, though I know a lot of people don't. I thought it was just so cool and coming out to all the cheering fans. I also got to see my family for the first time at that point. The kids were so cold and I felt so bad for everyone standing out there. It meant so much but honestly I think it is too much to have the kids come to races, it is just not fair to anyone.<br />
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Corktown was fun and there was a group giving out M&M's (complete with someone dressed as one. That was fun and a nice treat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_00Jmfv6KsoGVXj9PJk6DRc0-6MzzvAipgxzWfBJ49CJ2HxOLwTKAHTUvlH3VQvtdizfyq0t2w8Px1Jy_32z5b9dfTaTj_0f5Wssrg98setZb80f3IUtqooeJza2jGLVdFea_tbKyVYKZ/s1600/1373043_10200751987862518_1398299072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_00Jmfv6KsoGVXj9PJk6DRc0-6MzzvAipgxzWfBJ49CJ2HxOLwTKAHTUvlH3VQvtdizfyq0t2w8Px1Jy_32z5b9dfTaTj_0f5Wssrg98setZb80f3IUtqooeJza2jGLVdFea_tbKyVYKZ/s320/1373043_10200751987862518_1398299072_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>At mile 13 we split from the International Half runners who had done the first half of the course with us. It was quiet on the course until about 14.5 miles when we caught up to the US only half runners who were doing the second half of the course. I got to see a running friend at 14 and it was a huge help to see him and have him check in with me. He caught a picture of me going past!<br />
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As I approached Mile 16 I started thinking, only another 3 miles until I see some friends who were coming out to cheer. Imagine my over the top surprise when they were there on the side of the road. They had brought signs, a speaker system to cheer and their kids ran with me for a little bit. It totally gave me a boost!!! I actually had tears in my eyes to know I have such an amazing friend to do this.<br />
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Indian Village was amazing. They seem to have a lot of fun with the event. So many of the people who live there were out and celebrating the runners. There were beer stations and one guy was out with Jelly Beans in a cup. I also found a PoP with NO LINE and I took a quick pit stop which I have never done in a race before.<br />
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Then it was time to get onto Belle Isle and I fell apart. My hamstrings got so tight (never happened before) and that was my slowest split time, including the end. I was just dragging around the island. I could not get into and kind of groove BUT my friend and her family where at the start of the island and the end! Leaving the island I felt better after seeing them and knowing there were only 4 more miles to go. I knew I could do 4 miles but I also knew my chances of getting below a 5:30 were GONE. The Riverwalk was nice but it was kind of boring, not a lot going on but it was the end!!! There was a nice man and his daughter with bananas and cider as we got on to Atwater and it was so sweet to see all the people who came out to support strangers.<br />
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I had been dreading the hill at 25 but I knew my family would be there and sure enough, I turned the corner and there they were. The kids even ran with me up the hill and it made me want to cry. As we left and turned on Larned towards the finish a lady said seeing the kids made her want to cry and gave her a boost. It was so sweet. Then right as I was questioning why I was doing this, I saw my amazing friends. Her husband and kids ran a little with me and then it was time to get to the finish. One of my relay team members was right there and that gave me a boost!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PBQ9d1iiCkgB1wSw87JOVNbm9ELN1ffcPGz-Y9yjLGvMOJfdaGegKYDmSRkbdcgh3BuDNP3Ud24qiRXJR0cQhjVBqUw98ZBrYktPf98U0qu6m_EhG-ajPyPbPxtUcPtnBEvAA9OFUMal/s1600/Conquered.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PBQ9d1iiCkgB1wSw87JOVNbm9ELN1ffcPGz-Y9yjLGvMOJfdaGegKYDmSRkbdcgh3BuDNP3Ud24qiRXJR0cQhjVBqUw98ZBrYktPf98U0qu6m_EhG-ajPyPbPxtUcPtnBEvAA9OFUMal/s320/Conquered.jpg" width="320" /></a>The finish line was emotional. I did it. I knew I could but I had not counted on it being so hard. It was the hardest thing I have ever done but I did it. I walked to the end to get my finisher picture and then to meet my relay team. I was even able to bend down which I count as a HUGE WIN!!!<br />
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I was so lucky on this journey to meet so many amazing people to help me through this and support me. Also I know without Jeff and my mom there is no way this could have been possible. The support and encouragement they gave me was beyond anything I could hope for. Not a single complaint when I headed out for my long runs on the weekends and braving the cold to be there to cheer me on. THANK YOU!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qsmiSwfddREeHeYQ_Gezu19rHWMpyyZxY-KcD8igx_VG5wIo9aWJcUVI5fxn0-1TV4Lml7WR0cuLMJlHYmES3leWUX91ZjpSB4aHsu6TM0SWfgIAJYBHUEz8WweWBZdrZrAisyk4rXum/s1600/finish+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qsmiSwfddREeHeYQ_Gezu19rHWMpyyZxY-KcD8igx_VG5wIo9aWJcUVI5fxn0-1TV4Lml7WR0cuLMJlHYmES3leWUX91ZjpSB4aHsu6TM0SWfgIAJYBHUEz8WweWBZdrZrAisyk4rXum/s320/finish+time.jpg" width="320" /></a>I will do this again, I am not sure. I love the half and enjoy running it. I am not sure if the full is my thing but I did it and I am proud, even if my time is not so pretty.<br />
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The best thing about being done was coming home. My sister and her family came over and decorated the house. It made me tear up, again!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvjhmiqWVXQuHGLLMsS54irgxt6lXwp5d4sxmllnwEgSzju8KXj3701-38brb2X8Jm3wg6KL07vhpkM3nsE1aurIpehFcnJj1X1O_c6V4BXu9cJe9gcXzJOpIGFcMF6qT4vmLW-683TmDJ/s1600/House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvjhmiqWVXQuHGLLMsS54irgxt6lXwp5d4sxmllnwEgSzju8KXj3701-38brb2X8Jm3wg6KL07vhpkM3nsE1aurIpehFcnJj1X1O_c6V4BXu9cJe9gcXzJOpIGFcMF6qT4vmLW-683TmDJ/s640/House.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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BONUS Surprise: Today I got a video of the start and finish! I am hard to spot in the start but it is just before it ends and I am in the middle wearing teal<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BOxQoicvU2Q" width="560"></iframe><br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-46880148083891675992013-10-17T10:22:00.002-04:002013-10-17T10:22:51.408-04:00It is almost here--Marathon TimeHard to believe I registered over 9 months ago to undertake this feat. I am not sure what made me think I needed to tackle this but I am glad I have. As the hours and minutes tick away I am playing the event over and over again in my head. I am so thankful for RunDetroit for sponsoring the 18 mile training run on the course. I have a better idea about what to expect and I have more confidence in myself.<br />
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I am scared though. Am I eating right? Am I drinking enough? I know I am not sleeping well and I am not sure if it is the excitement, the fear or what.<br />
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This is so exciting and I just cannot believe it is almost here. I hope the weather holds out and we have perfect race conditions!!<br />
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It is almost time!ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-62732715472034323772013-09-28T22:00:00.000-04:002013-09-28T22:00:00.497-04:00Detroit Women's Half Marathon and 5K on Belle IsleLast weekend I decided to take a training run and use this new race as a place to get in my miles. I am SO GLAD I did.<br />
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First, the communication by the race were the best of any race I have done. They made sure everything was completely clear and they send out many email updates and posted to their Facebook page all the time. I really helped me to get excited for the race (well more excited).<br />
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The expo was help downtown at the Hilton Garden Inn. It was OK, but I think if the race grows at ALL it will need a different layout or venue for it. My favorite part of the entire expo was the Spa. Since it was a Women's race it really catered to women. Inside the spa were students from Aveda doing nails, neck/hand massage and hair braiding. There was also a local PT/therapy place offering stretching which was nice!<br />
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The expo also had some of my favorite vendors and the Blick Art store had the BEST EVER poster making station there. Plus they gave out a coupon. Because of their station I have to have the SUPER big markers they had there, they were perfect for posters!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwKoMmUFUbzzlI0mTKtiXbPpZqken4O44zGJN1iiTiFv4K5w-svclxe5Axib-OGflNaCZnXCmSCpDbwR93zpVFSa1vfCnVQFTv4sVeHkzzhlF2mI14oupjaWHbLrsiJkNzA3gvgGQXdrZ/s1600/IMG_1714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwKoMmUFUbzzlI0mTKtiXbPpZqken4O44zGJN1iiTiFv4K5w-svclxe5Axib-OGflNaCZnXCmSCpDbwR93zpVFSa1vfCnVQFTv4sVeHkzzhlF2mI14oupjaWHbLrsiJkNzA3gvgGQXdrZ/s320/IMG_1714.jpg" width="239" /></a>Race morning was a perfect Michigan fall morning. It was a little cool at 57 but it was clear and nice. We headed down to Belle Isle early so we did not have to worry. Just as promised, parking was a breeze. Tons of spots and super easy. Standing around it was a little chilly but not bad. It was just mom, my godmother and myself and they planned to meet up with Pattie. I missed seeing her due to a last minute run back to the car for my inhaler!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01cKkLI-NPCPV3poq6zYDpwHC2TdKaNIcj-KYzmX-ZvCvg0zpPcHWJd5nwoWEnRVscMb4Pr0FEeDlv4GgB3U3ibsynKhCzzbOXPolDKyr-EF-9D5Vji18OR5Xv78h9xibk17gDbzSkPC_/s1600/IMG_1711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01cKkLI-NPCPV3poq6zYDpwHC2TdKaNIcj-KYzmX-ZvCvg0zpPcHWJd5nwoWEnRVscMb4Pr0FEeDlv4GgB3U3ibsynKhCzzbOXPolDKyr-EF-9D5Vji18OR5Xv78h9xibk17gDbzSkPC_/s320/IMG_1711.jpg" width="239" /></a><br />
For an inaugural race, it was amazing (heck, it was amazing for any race I have done). They had pacers at all levels (wearing the cutest matching skirts/tops). I ran into a long time friend before and got to say hi. She was planning for a much faster I got in with a Princess friend, Janie (we matched) and kind of planned for a 2:45 or so finish. I was using this as a training run and honestly my times lately had not been breaking any records, actually as my miles increased my times did too. I went off and felt great. The sun was coming up over the river and Belle Isle looked so nice. The course actually went backwards from the marathon course which was a little confusing for me since I went the other way 3 weeks ago (and I am easily confused on directions).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-cMPtDLSJitC7f9s2hYJwTnepkO_FCVIgbRRJ1XdDVG4PCswn_M1-xLijoc8GpF2TBxKYKwnYh1iwu-fjDFqwpRpJq4hL00Xz8uiVoh9ICFaocL4SR2O2Dych61XSLv_zpty-MqWJt6XH/s1600/IMG_1717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-cMPtDLSJitC7f9s2hYJwTnepkO_FCVIgbRRJ1XdDVG4PCswn_M1-xLijoc8GpF2TBxKYKwnYh1iwu-fjDFqwpRpJq4hL00Xz8uiVoh9ICFaocL4SR2O2Dych61XSLv_zpty-MqWJt6XH/s200/IMG_1717.JPG" width="200" /></a>There were so many cool things on the course. There were inspirational signs everywhere with the best quotes. I really wish I had been able to get a picture of all of them. Also, tons of water stops, 3 fuel locations and 2 chocolate stops with Sanders chocolate caramel candies!!! They also had course support, the best being what I think was probably a high school group. They were awesome to run past! Also the view was so nice!!!<br />
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I did not like the energy drink they had by Hammer but I loved the Hammer fuel stuff. I stuck with water. Now, I have been trying to limit how much I drink on the course and 9 water stops were a lot BUT with the wind my mouth was dry and I am so glad they were there.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGlB-6FxHjSDq2F2W773oQYnm4YacxOcWFC2bG8bNwU82o9FD1vwEZWURAzVtMoOa5hIetpfYzwvaAMmh3lPT6rr9wqswIt4z5Np7uWrr3MecAPf3G_KuAdKXDNsOZ9u3PliOWYmzIsnT/s1600/IMG_1718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGlB-6FxHjSDq2F2W773oQYnm4YacxOcWFC2bG8bNwU82o9FD1vwEZWURAzVtMoOa5hIetpfYzwvaAMmh3lPT6rr9wqswIt4z5Np7uWrr3MecAPf3G_KuAdKXDNsOZ9u3PliOWYmzIsnT/s320/IMG_1718.jpg" width="239" /></a>Belle Isle really is a wonderful place. We made the loop of the island 2.25 times. The worst spot was at the end near the Coast Guard post because the wind was brutal. Someone said it was over 20 mph which I believe but I don't know for sure.<br />
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So, as for my race....I just went with a comfortable pace in the beginning. At about 5 miles I realized I had the 2:20 pace in my sights which was not good. I knew I was going too fast. At the 10K mark I checked my watch and I had run my fast 10K ever! I kept saying I needed to slow down but I felt awesome. At 10 miles I knew I could beat my Niagara Falls time so I decided to see what I could do. I came in at 2:26 which was a PR by 3 minutes!!! I also felt great.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdt5BJjGQlsXBtgPdIfY8coEFAWbFugWsVyfk37mVSn_prsqc4hj7bI_xCY8nduP49MYZdHlrFLRr6fL5PHjaLhHJiB4H_18OlVEcyCrPR78AUIn8Mam5xQ4ttm8H8AsWh3bZs6sLTArMx/s1600/IMG_1729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdt5BJjGQlsXBtgPdIfY8coEFAWbFugWsVyfk37mVSn_prsqc4hj7bI_xCY8nduP49MYZdHlrFLRr6fL5PHjaLhHJiB4H_18OlVEcyCrPR78AUIn8Mam5xQ4ttm8H8AsWh3bZs6sLTArMx/s320/IMG_1729.jpg" width="239" /></a>I got my medal (this was the only odd thing, it was the same medal for the half marathon and the 5K). I do love the medal. Then we realized both my mom and my godmother had placed in their age groups so we waited for them to get their wine prize and get a picture on the podium!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNnWzu_GxktmN96DPbP0riPaiRGHGNg4RBZFJe6Uj00pm3y9S77loyPwG4i6lGRDOFuGWBW6QYhkLff7g1kJmXseQUuUDOe0mKzHyr7wTJNfoUeBvEIKlXvN74VVoxecnWYBT-bXf0YJbA/s1600/IMG_1721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNnWzu_GxktmN96DPbP0riPaiRGHGNg4RBZFJe6Uj00pm3y9S77loyPwG4i6lGRDOFuGWBW6QYhkLff7g1kJmXseQUuUDOe0mKzHyr7wTJNfoUeBvEIKlXvN74VVoxecnWYBT-bXf0YJbA/s200/IMG_1721.jpg" width="149" /></a><br />
A few observations. First, most races are not like Disney races (I know, I was shocked). In this I mean times. At 2:26, I would be placed in the top 20% at Disney since there are a lot of new runners. Here, I was in the bottom half of finishers so I was on the slow side. Also, while many people wore skirts (it was a women's race after all) there were very few tutus or costumes!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghy6-Xv_O9TQakFQvKyOjZs1DECnGbYwbfV43HpGHRU3DsJXy_uXead3W_KMGqYtGucxi_OR3v7o229WeLqMu7f9iNtGZSnqn2_GyBONkc8ebQmag7deJMLA5GsDBEU-cWz58U0_O3ZX5q/s1600/IMG_1719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghy6-Xv_O9TQakFQvKyOjZs1DECnGbYwbfV43HpGHRU3DsJXy_uXead3W_KMGqYtGucxi_OR3v7o229WeLqMu7f9iNtGZSnqn2_GyBONkc8ebQmag7deJMLA5GsDBEU-cWz58U0_O3ZX5q/s200/IMG_1719.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLo64kSVbVw_kPt4GcutvfPm004aInGxmx_ZeguCJTnTOE2nivSnJqKXHkhZ-Nc_iBeg9ZXq77z6gxVf1A1SxuDZA5_MBMeOF3QtK5yiEKtFwoXiSmz0qqkYvjZ7aTDzdCGWgIZDVlYc2/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-09-22+at+3.53.28+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLo64kSVbVw_kPt4GcutvfPm004aInGxmx_ZeguCJTnTOE2nivSnJqKXHkhZ-Nc_iBeg9ZXq77z6gxVf1A1SxuDZA5_MBMeOF3QtK5yiEKtFwoXiSmz0qqkYvjZ7aTDzdCGWgIZDVlYc2/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-09-22+at+3.53.28+PM.png" width="248" /></a>Either way, I will do this race again for sure! It was nice to have something so amazing in the D! And according to them, Women Run The D!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-27364258227464562452013-09-28T14:15:00.001-04:002013-09-28T14:15:11.931-04:00Last Long Run before the Detroit FullWhen I decided on January 1st to make the Detroit Marathon my first full, I thought I had plenty of time. I was trained for a half and how much harder would it be to double the miles? BOY, I was completely wrong about that.<br />
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Before today I had done three 18 mile runs. One of them was even an amazing training run downtown using the last 18 miles of the marathon course put on by RunDetroit (I will post about that in another post). Today was the last long run before it was taper time. I had originally planned to go out to Kensington to take part in the 20 mile run out there put on by Running Fit since the one downtown was so awesome. I got up this morning and got ready and all packed up and then looked outside. FOG, not bad here but enough. Then I talked to my mom and I decided the 40 minute drive without fog just wasn't worth it. I decide I could bang out the 20 miles here around the house and be done earlier than going out there and adding 1.5 of drive time.<br />
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Again, totally wrong. 20 miles alone is tough. I am not sure if it is because of the half I ran last weekend, the just getting over the cold, the being completely alone or just because it was 20 miles but it was the hardest thing I have ever done. I was not fast but I kept reminding myself that Jeff Galloway says over and over in his books (and when I talked to him) that the pace on training runs does not matter, it is the distance.<br />
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I do feel slightly guilty though. When I met JG at the Disneyland expo he urged me to make it to 24 miles at a minimum. I just couldn't do it. I did take the kids and walk to get a Gatorade which got me another 1.5 miles so my maximum distance before Detroit is 21.5. More than some training plans but a lot less than Galloway suggests.<br />
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I am nervous. I am respecting the distance but right now the distance is scaring me!<br />
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22 days from now and my first Full Marathon will be over. At this point I am unsure if I will do another one. I enjoy the halves I have done and the training for a full is hard and I have not even given it as much as I should be giving.ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-65515724432427884682013-09-19T10:46:00.000-04:002013-09-19T10:46:14.132-04:00Time for the Wonderland 10K--Dumbo Double Dare Begins<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavpoHDb4m4gIJ9MXEAf5LZbhLGVj7_J1crHwjs-OZYcuHg_T5aEgeDxodDoxggT00-D-FnKsdNsz2QLBsoOanYdzHQYDXAfHhOhVp2Cdn87RNk6CP5DSiEx94k5Fjb99A5BleahgoLBmC/s1600/DSCN5214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavpoHDb4m4gIJ9MXEAf5LZbhLGVj7_J1crHwjs-OZYcuHg_T5aEgeDxodDoxggT00-D-FnKsdNsz2QLBsoOanYdzHQYDXAfHhOhVp2Cdn87RNk6CP5DSiEx94k5Fjb99A5BleahgoLBmC/s200/DSCN5214.JPG" width="200" /></a>I will start by saying, Disneyland races are so different from ones at DisneyWorld. I had read about them and I had looked at the maps but WOW, I was shocked when I made the walk from Paradise Pier over to the start line. It was crowded but nothing like WDW and it was SO CLOSE!!!<br />
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I got there super early so I could be there for the Princess Posse picture and the PbRC picture. It was so fun to see the costumes and to see people in person for the first time. I have to say, once again the running community is the best and the most welcoming!<br />
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After pictures and talking we made our way to the corrals. Now since we had all done this before we waited. By the time we got to D corral, it was completely packed. I mean there was NO WHERE for us to go. We ended up kind of sneaking into the front of the corral which was nice but it was not laid out well or in a position to fit as many people in as needed to be there. They did delay the corrals so there was more time between starts.<br />
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In the corral we got talking about how we were going to manage the timing/pace for this race. I said I was going to go slow and use my intervals. Melissa was there and decided to stick with me and use my 2:1. When we went off at the start Jeff Galloway was in front of us. It was so cool to watch him. He was using his usual :30/:30 and he took off and left us in the dust within the first mile.<br />
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I personally think the course for the 10K was altered so we did not cross the 5K course because the water stations did not match what was on maps from before the race. Melissa and I stuck together and I have to admit it was a HOT day.<br />
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There were not many character stops in the beginning and the ones we did pass were BUSY. Since it was the Wonderland 10K they were all Alice in Wonderland characters. We did stop at a couple places and we had a great time!<br />
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Our time was not great but we had an awesome time!!!<br />
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After the race, we decided to spend the day exploring Los Angels. Now that was a fun day!!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-25110155488937194752013-09-19T08:28:00.001-04:002013-09-19T08:28:48.664-04:00Dumbo Double Dare--Part 1 The ExpoSince I had to work on Thursday AND we were flying with a companion certificate, we were very limited in the flight choices we had. We were supposed to leave DTW before 8pm and get into LAX about 10pm. We were delayed about 30 minutes but they were able to make the time up during the flight. We landed a little after 10pm PST. Now at this point we had to get the luggage and get to Avis to get the rental car. Overall it was not a bad experience but LAX is under construction was so it was not the most pleasant experience and the traffic at the airport and getting to Avis was a little bit much so late at night.<br />
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We did have a funny. I was assigned our car, a white Kia. We got the bags in and were just getting into the car when another group walked up. Seems they were assigned the same car. Well, we were in it and we just left.<br />
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We got to Anaheim in about 35 minutes and overall not bad. We checked into Paradise Pier. We had to wait a few minutes. It was late and the person working seemed distracted but he was pleasant enough. Our room was on the 12th floor and near the elevator which was nice later in the weekend. I have to give a huge shout out to Leigh from the Mousekeplanners. She did great getting us into the room block here.<br />
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The room was super cute. It had 2 queen beds and a sofa. The beds had the cutest beach ball pillows on them (only $65 if you chose to take it home with you). We had a view of the parking lot BUT it turns out it was also the last 1/2 mile of the half marathon!!<br />
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We both crashed because we were so tired.<br />
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Friday I was up kind of early since I was still on our time. I was ready and headed to the expo about 9:40am. I had not planned to camp in line but I knew I wanted official merchandise. Jeff decided he would run to CVS with the car and get water, Gatorade and pop for the weekend which was SO NICE to have.<br />
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I got to the expo and I was in complete shock. There were people EVERYWHERE. runDisney had put green tape on the group to keep people in lines. There were lines for getting your packet and another for the expo. I jumped into the back of the expo line figuring I could get my race stuff later since we were so close. Once the line started moving shortly after 10am it was a mad house. I got lucky and a nice girl in line worked with me so we both got the things we wanted. I managed to get a Dumbo zip up, a Disneyland Half jacket, a Coast to Coast shirt, 2 straw cups, a Dumbo magnet and 2 sweatybands. Then I got into line. WOW, it was a line. It went to the back wall of the expo. After about 30 minutes I was so thirsty and still did not have my bib. I was happy since at one point I was right near Jeff Galloway as he was speaking!! It was so neat. Jeff came over to the expo and stood in line to pay for me while I went to get our park tickets and my race stuff.<br />
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It was at this time I started to see posts that the expo had been shut down for overcrowding which was completely understandable. I got in line outside and waited for about 20 minutes in the sun before I gave up. I was hungry and defeated. I asked at information how I could get my park tickets and she told me how to get into the basement area where the tickets and bibs were without standing in line. I followed her directions and there was NO LINE for park tickets or for bibs. The entire hold up was the t-shirts that had to be picked up in the expo. It was out of control. I got my tickets and my bib and joined Jeff in line. At this point he was almost to the front after over 90 minutes. I was so excited to find out a running friend was in line behind him so I got to meet her in person and her delightful daughter.<br />
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I finally got my official merchandise and we had park tickets. We went back to the room, grabbed a drink and it was time for the parks!!<br />
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-25851539969685600722013-08-18T09:08:00.001-04:002013-08-18T09:08:13.805-04:00Cruise in Shoes 5KAbby has been really wanting to run with me and has wanted to do a race. When we were in Chicago she walked over 3 miles without complaining and kept up so I knew she could do it. I was looking online and came across the <a href="http://www.cruiseinshoes.com/" target="_blank">Cruise in Shoes 5K</a> that is part of the <a href="http://www.woodwarddreamcruise.com/" target="_blank">Woodward Dream Cruise</a> weekend. Now usually we are like most locals and stay as far away from Woodward as possible during this weekend but I figured a 7:30 race would get us out before most of the crowds (so glad I was right)!!!<br />
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Another bonus for this race was that there were finisher medals for everyone since I wanted Abby to get a medal. Somehow I talked my mom, Jennifer, and Pattie into joining us. The plan was Jennifer and I would let Abby set the pace and stay with her and Pattie and my mom would stay together and go at their pace.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDP-iFAzYDQGd-cSv02R7zDOgcHWha0PmpxC_UUoFjLU3sTuiaclSIPgRo42uTQfKTBP39xZQ_l3oe93fYSEKL73fAtYqL4QbgA6sdsBK0uEXrTq_92Wgen8yubsbJeascCR9vPDjoIbT7/s1600/IMG_1473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDP-iFAzYDQGd-cSv02R7zDOgcHWha0PmpxC_UUoFjLU3sTuiaclSIPgRo42uTQfKTBP39xZQ_l3oe93fYSEKL73fAtYqL4QbgA6sdsBK0uEXrTq_92Wgen8yubsbJeascCR9vPDjoIbT7/s200/IMG_1473.jpg" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCKixtPL5MPg4fnTkT9rlBaXI4WXmrJ9ixPlUBen4m5GaDvRmcHGks3HoRPOaEwmhp8l2Reiw8F3cfna0HiLDN8wgQwNfMybLGQMs2syRRGU26Jmg1ukWquPtwDaxNvONbBhPh5_5D-NC/s1600/IMG_1472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCKixtPL5MPg4fnTkT9rlBaXI4WXmrJ9ixPlUBen4m5GaDvRmcHGks3HoRPOaEwmhp8l2Reiw8F3cfna0HiLDN8wgQwNfMybLGQMs2syRRGU26Jmg1ukWquPtwDaxNvONbBhPh5_5D-NC/s200/IMG_1472.jpg" width="149" /></a>Abby did so good yesterday. We got to the Memorial Park lot about 6:30am. We pinned our bibs, did our hair and made our way over to Shrine High School. I will admit, it was a lot colder than I had thought it would be but Abby did great and did not complain. Jennifer met us after running to the start from her house (it was a long run weekend) and we jumped into the start.<br />
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I also got really lucky and finally got to meet a local Princess who I have not been able to connect with. Janie is just as sweet and nice in person as I thought she would be!!!</div>
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Abby went off really fast and her first mile was under 11 minutes. She loved the cheering on Woodward and people telling her to go. Once we got into the neighborhood she slowed down, I think more because she could, not because she had to.<br />
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The course was set so that we came up to the finish line through the neighborhood before we entered the football field so we could see the finish from about .4 miles back. As soon as Abby saw it she took off and she did not slow down. She finished so strong and I was so proud of her. It was a slow 5K for Jennifer and I but it was nice to do it with her and to have someone to talk to. My mom and Pattie did amazing too and finished just a few minutes behind us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiifIaeaRez_cSIXEcqIIpi7yxMZjClBJbFX2RzwjPyUZa42xz9G9n6flvAwMJ4VZSG2HSKBJdONyZuUCtl3VxR_3wcEvNn-RdJ6MsJIRTzOHKDyxxwDRsAoF3cIvmnP7AOq-W4YmQRQNoi/s1600/IMG_1484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiifIaeaRez_cSIXEcqIIpi7yxMZjClBJbFX2RzwjPyUZa42xz9G9n6flvAwMJ4VZSG2HSKBJdONyZuUCtl3VxR_3wcEvNn-RdJ6MsJIRTzOHKDyxxwDRsAoF3cIvmnP7AOq-W4YmQRQNoi/s320/IMG_1484.jpg" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmOjTEeJqc_WS2r3ofVehjZE9CkYC_qzg-hmBzGpDQRPSWxV0dd8NQu6I9dGHGQW2O9GyRhjfV-hJO7giA4K5D31Q_Czw2jSNXODXaggRUIew2UWa2YPPksJiN0N4LP8A8SdfQ3t7oCds/s1600/IMG_1494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmOjTEeJqc_WS2r3ofVehjZE9CkYC_qzg-hmBzGpDQRPSWxV0dd8NQu6I9dGHGQW2O9GyRhjfV-hJO7giA4K5D31Q_Czw2jSNXODXaggRUIew2UWa2YPPksJiN0N4LP8A8SdfQ3t7oCds/s320/IMG_1494.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had a few snacks (they had bananas, pretzels, bagels, chips and salsa and protein bars along with water). Once done we headed back to the car and you could tell the Dream Cruise was starting! The cars were out and it was so neat to see. I think we will do this race again next year and I think we will have to bring the little one so he can see the cars!!ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-67066043439612535792013-07-22T10:43:00.002-04:002013-07-22T10:55:50.182-04:00Running with a GPS in the Big City--A race recap of the RnR Chicago HalfYesterday I completed my 4th half marathon. This one was the Chicago Rock n Roll Half Marathon. This is a race series that has races around the country. Chicago happens to be the closest but it is also in the middle of the summer!<br />
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To start off with, I was really unsure of this race and how it would go. The weather had been super hot for about 10 days before with high humidity. Also, I had had some off training because of long runs, weather, laziness, and life. Finally, we ended up walking almost 8 miles around the city the day before, oops.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6LvIfCLBGyD7cNLvGy7RQP5B0dzC7421Co5i-e2VO8kGTEdbO9EllQ6s8P595fOSU_CN21iIF7yyDXEiFxh0x3ohOclFAMuuaCcZ1sBknP6DKS2cwmhd2LAgcuATjJjnREMWzqOPLQeF/s1600/IMG_1190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6LvIfCLBGyD7cNLvGy7RQP5B0dzC7421Co5i-e2VO8kGTEdbO9EllQ6s8P595fOSU_CN21iIF7yyDXEiFxh0x3ohOclFAMuuaCcZ1sBknP6DKS2cwmhd2LAgcuATjJjnREMWzqOPLQeF/s320/IMG_1190.jpg" width="239" /></a>Race morning I was up before my alarm and I was ready to go. I got dressed and headed to the lobby to meet to amazing Princesses from my running group! We were supposed to meet 2 more ladies so we headed out. Well, when we got there we realized we could not get to where we were meeting for a picture so the 3 of us took our pictures and got ready to run.<br />
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BIG plus for RnR, they had prerace stuff out for runners. They had small bottles of water, bananas and bagels. It was a really nice touch.<br />
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They also so a bunch of smaller corrals, unlike runDisney that seems to do fewer LARGE corrals. There were 28 starting groups that started about 1 minute apart. It was a long wait to corral 24. Now, I had put an estimated finish time of 2:30 and it ended me up almost in the back which is odd since even with runDisney that would be more like midway but whatever, I do wish I had started earlier but I could not control that. No one was checking the corrals so I could have gone up but I did not. **Funny story, a guy walking by was complaining about finding the right coral to start in. All I could think of was being in an under the sea race.<br />
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I started off strong and decided to run the first mile. I felt great. My pace on my Garmin seemed crazy but sometimes it takes time to get it right and I was not really watching. At mile 1, my Garmin said 1.10 which is not too weird and I was about at a 10 mm pace which again was too fast, which is always my problem.<br />
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I got to mile 2 and my Garmin said 2.3 and an 8:30 pace which was impossible. Then I remembered all I had read about GPS. One of the biggest issues is that if it cannot get a good satellite signal, it throws everything off. Sure enough, with all the tall buildings my GPS was all off. Crap. The time was the only thing correct. I was really lucky though, I had put on a Westin pace bracelet so I knew I was on pace. Just to give an idea, my Garmin logged the course as 13.96 miles and my final pace at 11:16 which is not even possible!<br />
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I stayed on pace until Mile 5 when there was a HUGE backup for water/Gatorade, it was horrible. It was my fault because there were other tables but I could not see them because of all the people. It completely threw me off.<br />
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I was only about 3 minutes off pace but I was annoyed. I could not check my pace, my Garmin was saying I was over a 1/2 mile further. It was so off. Finally I got to Mile 7 which is where my mom and the kids were in front of the hotel waiting! It was so awesome to see them. The next 3 miles were nice, not too bad but it was getting hotter and we were out of the downtown building area so the shade was gone. Mile 10-12 were hard. I was trying really hard but it was just off. A lot of nice people were around but a lot of people were walking in HUGE groups and I kept getting boxed in. At mile 10 I actually ended up cutting someone off and I still feel so guilty for it. I spent almost a mile thinking about it.<br />
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Another plus for RnR was the cold water sponges at Mile 11. So cool in many ways! It was weird seeing all these sponges on the ground and kind of neat<br />
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At this point I ran into another Princess who I identified from her SparkleSkirt. We talked for a few minutes before splitting up and heading under McCormick Place. This was weird. It was so sunny and then we went into the dark where they had colored lights and glow stuff and then we came back out into the sun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuGNmqIQCvSOu5yS4rEZh9jCgQRbZfguGtHzgimKk4MV23YwoA8RFfCYjOseEHTRdlhoeOyDs6aCGLeZt7WTPyzphvf5e-Q6G43agKjcasVzv7Yu2cQBa129MDrUAT4VF-Xvx2tm9lPvf/s1600/IMG_1196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuGNmqIQCvSOu5yS4rEZh9jCgQRbZfguGtHzgimKk4MV23YwoA8RFfCYjOseEHTRdlhoeOyDs6aCGLeZt7WTPyzphvf5e-Q6G43agKjcasVzv7Yu2cQBa129MDrUAT4VF-Xvx2tm9lPvf/s320/IMG_1196.jpg" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8XqPnMSh6EWVeY3XTSUDuEWMo4ZaM6EPTYLAaGQ9BhSU0kD2pfn-aeUK6_LmK1IFPNqrV37diec2oy_MQhHk39njOyTmUKg5Ik9pRby2B98ZVyeEWaFqhECENTfW88zfWMsoZh_4qKSq/s1600/IMG_1193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8XqPnMSh6EWVeY3XTSUDuEWMo4ZaM6EPTYLAaGQ9BhSU0kD2pfn-aeUK6_LmK1IFPNqrV37diec2oy_MQhHk39njOyTmUKg5Ik9pRby2B98ZVyeEWaFqhECENTfW88zfWMsoZh_4qKSq/s320/IMG_1193.jpg" width="239" /></a>I finished about 10 minutes off where I wanted to be but I did finish. I got my medal and headed through the stuff. I ran into my mom and the kids without even looking for them! It was awesome but Abby was heartbroken. They had headed to the finish area and she could not see over the barriers. She was so sad. I felt horrible for her. She was better after we took pictures together like we do at the end of the races! I love her and love that she enjoys coming to see me. It means the world.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxiEIaYVMHuWRsTf6mDU3iDHUGCLR_o5jpeLoYyKTDhd0-lQ9zrJF-15FjSxWatrNmJ9tBBjfD9ifV3-cL4yveWfigcdFTMtZx6y4X-kXU2HuCf-fllNmUbFLE0421bBHRY-6386DpVZC_/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-22+at+10.43.15+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxiEIaYVMHuWRsTf6mDU3iDHUGCLR_o5jpeLoYyKTDhd0-lQ9zrJF-15FjSxWatrNmJ9tBBjfD9ifV3-cL4yveWfigcdFTMtZx6y4X-kXU2HuCf-fllNmUbFLE0421bBHRY-6386DpVZC_/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-22+at+10.43.15+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Highlights--Lots of crowd support, great signs, fun and nice people and awesome course support. From the medical people who just showed up out of no where when someone stopped to the sponges and the volunteers.<br />
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Cons--Chicago is a LOT hillier than I ever imagined. Big City running means not being able to depend on my Garmin which was hard. It was my hottest half ever and it was rougher than I had thought it would be!<br />
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I wish they did more fun races in Detroit!ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-85472770756321854252013-07-20T21:00:00.000-04:002013-07-20T21:00:01.316-04:00The Night Before Half Number FourWe are in Chicago for the Rock n Roll Half Marathon. It has been a crazy weekend but so much fun. I will make sure to write more about the entire weekend when I get back but since it is the night before the race, I want to put my goals in writing.<br />
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A Goal--sub 2:30 again. I really do not think this is likely since the weather might be a little warmer than perfect and I walked 8 miles today around Downtown Chicago (not smart)<br />
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B Goal--Sub 2:40, I think this might work but I will have to see in the AM<br />
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C Goal--Sub 2:45, if I cannot do this, I will be disappointed in myself.<br />
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I am excited for another race but I am not mentally in race mode. Maybe it is the busy day today or the summer weather. Either way I am going to Rock n Roll tomorrow and enjoy every mile!ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-76474565884226355732013-06-28T13:37:00.000-04:002013-06-28T13:37:21.374-04:00Runner Box June ReviewLast shipment I was really excited with what was in my Runner Box! It was my favorite of the three I had ordered to try out and so I was wondering if this box would be as good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxws3bMArZE5svLYwird22dqWb7Bt6xn6VEX6dzVyPp5bZHezDBi4y9I8mHN0ccIRgrGTDWJfodtDtBali6o79m9cJhObU-ekdqQwonK_SDeS13faeSUFPctdZGlTo3RjFgofhTO4TT-F/s1600/IMG_0950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxws3bMArZE5svLYwird22dqWb7Bt6xn6VEX6dzVyPp5bZHezDBi4y9I8mHN0ccIRgrGTDWJfodtDtBali6o79m9cJhObU-ekdqQwonK_SDeS13faeSUFPctdZGlTo3RjFgofhTO4TT-F/s320/IMG_0950.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40Nz3wNFIiGhiLj2Yfyr2nlWusTQwA3E8YoNTdLJaOmZ4bCsbFFg9ONfyPwEnwURZVrxWR7IMRAKDdSGDMjT1hkYNKNwDNizzdjH91N2_vEczjLtor7Fv1LmGCk0KE8lWBeKIgRTBCUK2/s1600/IMG_0952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40Nz3wNFIiGhiLj2Yfyr2nlWusTQwA3E8YoNTdLJaOmZ4bCsbFFg9ONfyPwEnwURZVrxWR7IMRAKDdSGDMjT1hkYNKNwDNizzdjH91N2_vEczjLtor7Fv1LmGCk0KE8lWBeKIgRTBCUK2/s320/IMG_0952.JPG" width="320" /></a>This month was a nice mix of different edible samples and some non edible ones. There was no one "big" thing in this box like last month but I will say, again I was very happy with it.<br />
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<u><b>This box contained these edible things:</b></u><br />
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<ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5YMJhJOaZodNPZdR9F5-AXwA2z1cxp15gaEQCLgggVnlYv-3aoYsWcH133LATSQCvwgjAEusgiF1apE2WrDA7HD2AJtWzoFLiM7X2tphwSHtSq8FNXf1U7Lp9R9-sZFRfmFqbqbumfIEd/s1600/IMG_0955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5YMJhJOaZodNPZdR9F5-AXwA2z1cxp15gaEQCLgggVnlYv-3aoYsWcH133LATSQCvwgjAEusgiF1apE2WrDA7HD2AJtWzoFLiM7X2tphwSHtSq8FNXf1U7Lp9R9-sZFRfmFqbqbumfIEd/s200/IMG_0955.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsavVGb2x2C96jLtu7HlYPNzzgJ44X74G2FaZVdTMaS6QWYbc8zSr-jGDVZIG_DlhSfNMRoZnoXkP7bLvyf_4lnHJHw8nZGC63aPQvv-B1ApsSoQwma4G1XHixG_qOA9-3DA_2z8bNOPWf/s1600/IMG_0954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsavVGb2x2C96jLtu7HlYPNzzgJ44X74G2FaZVdTMaS6QWYbc8zSr-jGDVZIG_DlhSfNMRoZnoXkP7bLvyf_4lnHJHw8nZGC63aPQvv-B1ApsSoQwma4G1XHixG_qOA9-3DA_2z8bNOPWf/s200/IMG_0954.jpg" width="149" /></a>
<li><a href="http://www.honeystinger.com/" target="_blank">Honey Stinger</a> Energy Bar--Yum</li>
<li><a href="http://www.kindsnacks.com/" target="_blank">Kind Bar</a>--Again with the Kind bars. Seems they are in every company's box and I just do not like them.</li>
<li>I<a href="http://www.islandboost.com/" target="_blank">sland Boost-</a>-Another thing like a GU shot which I am excited to try. Plus a coupon that I will be using.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.lennylarry.com/healthy-snacks/muscle-brownies" target="_blank">Lenny & Larry's Muscle Brownie</a>--Not sure about this one but we will see</li>
<li><a href="http://sensiblefoods.com/" target="_blank">Sensible Foods-</a>-This was really great. Two different packages, one of dried fruit and the other edamame. I cannot wait to taste these and use them as a natural run fuel</li>
<li><a href="http://www.pureprotein.net/" target="_blank">Pure Protein Bars-</a> This also looks great</li>
<li><a href="http://theprobar.com/" target="_blank">PROBAR Bolt Chews</a>--Another one I am excited for since I tend to go back to chews over gels</li>
<li><a href="https://drinkclick.com/" target="_blank">Click</a>--Protein Drink is Espresso Flavor. I do not have good luck with these so I am thinking this will just sit in my bag but maybe I will find a time to try it</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nuun.com/" target="_blank">Nuun</a>--This is my favorite this month. I have wanted to try it but the cost for something I am unsure of was a lot. Getting to try 2 samples PLUS a discount couple made me super happy.</li>
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<u><b>There were also these non edible things:</b></u></div>
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<li><a href="http://www.hylandslegcramps.com/" target="_blank">Leg Cramps</a>--These are made by Hyland's which I loved for teething tablets for the kids so I will definitely try these if I get leg cramps. Plus it was a large sample which was impressive.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RkoBtvqtXLKNVct0r_kATB0d-8N-cTR-b3i8vxZBwq05w6-xJSfWWjwpogo3zXLdVkXVh7vlIGY_OhYypTUjL1e7c5SisZ2AgcNDE8jzkk0NUUcSnhL6Ojum7fiWcpfr-Ucfnzy31q8k/s1600/IMG_0953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RkoBtvqtXLKNVct0r_kATB0d-8N-cTR-b3i8vxZBwq05w6-xJSfWWjwpogo3zXLdVkXVh7vlIGY_OhYypTUjL1e7c5SisZ2AgcNDE8jzkk0NUUcSnhL6Ojum7fiWcpfr-Ucfnzy31q8k/s200/IMG_0953.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
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<li><a href="http://www.runguards.com/" target="_blank">Run Guard</a>--Kind of like Body Glide. I have not had issues with chaffing but it is good to have around. I did have a little giggle when I realized they made Nip Guards too.</li>
<li><a href="http://showerpill.com/" target="_blank">Shower Pill</a>-Strange name but this is a antibacterial wipe for after running. I love these and I am excited to try it.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.iondesigns.ca/" target="_blank">Ion Designs-</a>-Sent 3 really cut iron on reflective designs. I really like these and will be putting them on soon. Plus there is a coupon!!!</li>
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Now the only thing that did not impress me was that a coupon for $5 off <a href="http://www.knucklelights.com/" target="_blank">Knuckle Lights</a> was included. I guess I just don't like paying to get coupons so I hope this is not something that we will be seeing more of in the boxes. I might check out the site and see but I doubt I will order them, even if they are amazing since I will feel like I paid to get the coupon. I mean I do understand not being able to give free $45 lights to everyone though so maybe this is a good balance.</div>
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Overall I again loved my Runner Box. I cannot wait to get further into my marathon training so I can try some of these things.</div>
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I will say my only "negative" about the trying new things is that for a long run (and how slow I am) I need more than 1 of something during the run. I tend to not like to try different things so I know what works and doesn't but with only 1 to try I either have to mix it up or stick with what I know works. I guess I have to figure this one out.</div>
ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-71860023222102497702013-06-27T10:49:00.002-04:002013-06-27T10:51:42.170-04:00June Kona Kase ReviewAfter the disappointing box last month (that was 1/2 off) I thought I had suspended my account, I got a shipping notification for this month's box so obviously the suspend on my account page did not mean what I thought it did. I did open the box and was happy to see some new stuff and some things I am excited to try. This box was better than last month, but again, it just did not live up to the level of the StrideBox or the RunnerBox.<br />
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It started off with a really cute card with this quote on it:<br />
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"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win." Mahatma Gandhi<br />
I am not exactly sure how this relates to running but I like the quote.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbHvgWC5uhWXAP3qlyeu7VG0cfsKqWn4xh50vmx_Nga1Eby3O8U_eO946MHmtn9kPssjYUuFEvCKS5jCs8b2IMYrFJqAvCOE2sN54nVppcAjSZvR_CIGUpZxjCQXILeJq-Kv0TNqXMssc/s1600/IMG_0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbHvgWC5uhWXAP3qlyeu7VG0cfsKqWn4xh50vmx_Nga1Eby3O8U_eO946MHmtn9kPssjYUuFEvCKS5jCs8b2IMYrFJqAvCOE2sN54nVppcAjSZvR_CIGUpZxjCQXILeJq-Kv0TNqXMssc/s400/IMG_0945.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
This month was again a lot of different bars to try. I am not a huge energy bar fan because I usually do not like the taste or texture but it is nice to have choices.<br />
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Here is what was included in this box:<br />
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<li>One Bar--It was a Mango one and really tasty!!!</li>
<li>Kind Bar--I have tried them before and I am not a fan but maybe this will be better</li>
<li>Dr. Will Bar</li>
<li>18 Rabbits Bar</li>
<li>Clif Shot in Razz--I like these but they are not new</li>
<li>Mamma Chia--I am excited to try this one since I have heard a lot about Chia so maybe I will like this one</li>
<li>HalfPops partially popped popcorn--I am unsure about this but I will try it</li>
<li>Osmo Active Hydration is an powder to add to water. I have not found one I can stomach so maybe this one will be different.</li>
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Overall, I am again underwhelmed with this box. I have cancelled my subscription mostly because the other two services just seem to have a better product so I don't want to waste money on things I will never use.</div>
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ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-27762260268049536682013-06-25T09:29:00.000-04:002013-06-25T09:29:36.598-04:00Visiting Walt DisneyWorld now that I have runDisney!!!We just got back from our family trip to WDW. Yes, we are one of "those" families who love Disney and vacation there whenever possible. Right now it is the perfect escape for all of us and we love it. When we told Abby we might not be back for 2 years she broke down saying it wasn't far (we used all our points for this amazing whole family trip so we need to take a year off to get back on cycle). We will have to see if we can really not go next year!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuuOkNUjHQ79DzxuYDYA2XxaFmKQCZmcWYQueS-idPmd42egrTnl28NXtNFQJ4QZBSI3Q6je08hgz-HsD2JDHymW68qK-JDVaZGy2XF1l5mSZ3N1rjbbvy-wcCxhdUGZUTouFJhjyxxPEU/s1600/IMG_0916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuuOkNUjHQ79DzxuYDYA2XxaFmKQCZmcWYQueS-idPmd42egrTnl28NXtNFQJ4QZBSI3Q6je08hgz-HsD2JDHymW68qK-JDVaZGy2XF1l5mSZ3N1rjbbvy-wcCxhdUGZUTouFJhjyxxPEU/s320/IMG_0916.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Now how does a family trip in June have anything to do with runDisney? First, I met up with some amazing ladies I met while training. We all did the Princess Half Marathon together in 2013. We have stayed together and are still there for one another. Go Princess Posse!!! We met at the Tea Room at the Grand Floridian and had a wonderful time!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYr5GLizYUhVH2GScnnfk9QKzUr0ZP3SSPXXLk2OQltJM5R7-bhZwWeU-jO0rw7piu_zaamgKPDg88EQWXQG9ePaWktmO8HMG_ryg9mjkuSU0bZg4TVxZ1guA15Uq_FbE3gNOW_AKYajM/s1600/IMG_0912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYr5GLizYUhVH2GScnnfk9QKzUr0ZP3SSPXXLk2OQltJM5R7-bhZwWeU-jO0rw7piu_zaamgKPDg88EQWXQG9ePaWktmO8HMG_ryg9mjkuSU0bZg4TVxZ1guA15Uq_FbE3gNOW_AKYajM/s320/IMG_0912.jpg" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAzrQ9IXde3qZ8dy4GOZlzfTaXBlHIY-ZdmQpcdY6puKIxP0QOYxkWkaHkl7JsgUJW1VJsNmmLmRulPj9GQKeYpI3gVuYwu0gUJHUzHFZfXQr7XFVrlD12FMch38ufOhueR8oarPxHD2v/s1600/IMG_0913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAzrQ9IXde3qZ8dy4GOZlzfTaXBlHIY-ZdmQpcdY6puKIxP0QOYxkWkaHkl7JsgUJW1VJsNmmLmRulPj9GQKeYpI3gVuYwu0gUJHUzHFZfXQr7XFVrlD12FMch38ufOhueR8oarPxHD2v/s320/IMG_0913.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Another fun thing was at the Beach Club we were having dinner at Cape May and I ran into a guy wearing a runDisney Marathon shirt and I commented. We ended up talking about Dopey, Marathon weekend, Coast to Coast and the Glass Slipper Challenge!!! It was fun!<br />
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Finally on my last day, I was wearing my pink I DID IT T-Shirt from Princess and while checking out at the Emporium the lady checking me out said she was doing the Glass Slipper Challenge and was trying to work out how to do Tinkerbell!<br />
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I know it sounds cheesy but it was almost like a club. I loved being down there, seeing the race route and dreaming ahead to next year!<br />
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I cannot wait.ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399144989356303357.post-14953112948296462742013-06-13T22:21:00.001-04:002013-06-13T22:21:18.981-04:00Get Out and Run (a June Stridebox Review)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLB81UrP_-sCWzQhN6HmEm7hHZvsMfTtpuJAYfGrE22Ewc7mNTUMOV-wE5qLLWvS1_LHqh5I-MqNcIJeJbJysCoA8j9gIvBljU3cjtCQ0ExJ2P1SnSO2h5bpDhoHJdVMplVP8HLWZaZO5d/s1600/DSCN4749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLB81UrP_-sCWzQhN6HmEm7hHZvsMfTtpuJAYfGrE22Ewc7mNTUMOV-wE5qLLWvS1_LHqh5I-MqNcIJeJbJysCoA8j9gIvBljU3cjtCQ0ExJ2P1SnSO2h5bpDhoHJdVMplVP8HLWZaZO5d/s200/DSCN4749.JPG" width="132" /></a></div>
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This month I was excited to see what Stridebox had to offer me. My cute little brown box could not have come on a better day. I had had a long day and it gave me something to look forward to.<br />
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I opened my cute box with the blue paper just makes me smile. I loved opening it up and seeing all the surprises.<br />
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First thing that I noticed was the Get Out and Run sticker. It set the whole vibe for some reason.<br />
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This box actually contained less food stuff this month which was a nice change from the other boxes from other places. First there was a set of locking laces by Lock Laces. I don't have trouble with my laces but I am going to put them in my back up shoes and give them a try. If I love them, I will get another pair for my training/race shoes!<br />
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Next thing that I pulled out was the Foot Rubz ball. The little green ball has the little nubby things all over and is a hard ball that is perfect for those nights when your feet are hurting. The kids even had run trying this one out.<br />
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The other none food/fuel thing was from Blue Steel Sports--It is an Anti-Chade Cream with Tea Tree Oil. I will be saving this to try out soon.<br />
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Now for the foods/fuels.<br />
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<li>Skratch Labs included an Exercise Hydration Mix. I have not had good luck with these but I will give it a shot.</li>
<li>Pocket Fuel had Almond Butter with a Kick in Banana and Blueberry in a neat squeeze pouch. Looks good</li>
<li>Electro Delytes Citrus Bars for before or during activity also look really tasty.</li>
<li>Finally, the thing I think I am most excited for. PowerIce Frozen Refreshing Ice Bar with Electrolytes! I but these in the freezer immediately since with the temperatures increasing I know I am going to love these "frozen things". </li>
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After this month, Stridebox has moved into the lead as my FAVORITE subscription box. I am so excited for next month!</div>
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<br />ErinFhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349168949094718199noreply@blogger.com0