Pumpkin to Princess

My Disney Experience Magic Bands

2013-05-21T20:00:00.002-04:00

This is how the bands will be shipped out to guests!

While in Walt Disney World last week, I got a special sneak peek of the brand new, not yet released, My Disney Experience Magic Bands! This is a brand new, state of the art technology that Disney is pioneering. This band has a RFID chip in it. It's your park ticket, your room key, your fast pass, your meal plan ticket, your credit card, your photo pass, and child ID system--that right its, well, magic!

Getting to check the bands out before they are released was so cool! I got to ask the Cast Members lots of questions. My first questions was "when are they coming out?" I did not get a straight forward date, but I did get a "in about two months." The CM explained Disney wants to hold off on release until they are certain all the kinks are worked out. With the bands doing so much, there is alot that can go wrong. I, for one, am happy to see them wait rather an hype up something that does not work very well. Each family member will get to choose their own color band. The first one will be free, but there will be a fee if the first one it is lost and need to be replaced. Disney also has plans to introduce themed bands based on characters, movies, themes ect. for purchase.

When I was wearing the band, it felt comfortable--just like wearing a watch. Disney devised a genius way to
ensure that one band can will fit everyone. See the outer dark gray part? That part can be separated from the main band, making just the brightly colored part perfect for a child. The bands are water proof, so they can be worn at the pool and water parks too. The bands are meant to enhance your Disney experience. Does your child love Mickey? How magical would it be for your child to walk up to Mickey and be greeted by name? This would make them feel so special. How much do you hate carrying a park ticket, your room key, your fast passes, your photo pass, your credit cards ect all though the parks? This band makes it so much easier to go hands free. If you band can carry that much info, security must be a big concern, right? Disney has thought of that one too. First of all, no guest will be forced into the MagicBands system. If you prefer, you can get an old fashion ticket, room key ect. Each band is protected by a four digit PIN, just like a debit card, so someone else using it will not be a concern. What your child's privacy? Again, you can add or omit as much or as little info about your child as you would like. I like the band features for child safety. If your child get separated from your group, their band can be scanned by a CM and your emergency phone number can be called, rejoining them with the group quickly.

What do you think about the MagicBands? What is your favorite feature?

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Running Hiatus

2013-05-07T22:29:00.000-04:00

I just finished up week one of my running hiatus! At the suggestion of my Team in Training running coach, I am taking a six week running hiatus. I have been running for over two year, at least three times a week. Lately, I have been getting lots of running related aches and pains--sore knees, sore feet, sore hips...I feel like an old lady! I was telling my coach about this at the last long run before the Nike Women's Half, and I
told her I was thinking about taking a break from running. She told me she thought it was a great idea. We agreed on six weeks.

My running hiatus is not a complete exercise hiatus! Instead of hitting the treadmill and running around the track four to five times a week, I tried out some stuff I have not done in a long time. I did a few workouts on the elliptical. My speed on the elliptical was much faster than the treadmill--is that normal? I also went back to spin class and yoga.

My TNT team before the Nike half!

Is my running hiatus working? I am really not sure. Mentally, it has been wonderful! I forgot how much I enjoy a good, exhausting spin class with friends. I forgot how much I like to do elliptical. I am still not a huge fan of yoga, but the variety has been really nice. I am still feeling sore though. I guess after one week,
the hiatus has done wonders for me mentally, but I think its to soon to call it physically. I tell you, it feels great to have the freedom to wake up and do what ever work out I want to! But I do feel a bit jealous when I see a girl running down the road...

Have you ever taken a planned running hiatus? How did it work out for you?

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Nike Women's Half Marathon DC 2013

2013-04-30T22:50:00.000-04:00

This past weekend was the inaugural Nike Women's Half Marathon in Washington, DC. Since I participated in and absolutely loved the Nike Women's Half Marathon in San Francisco last year, this event had big shoes to fill! After the Expotique was just as cool, I had high hopes for the event.

I woke up very early race morning, got ready, and met my team in the lobby of our hotel. After some chatting and a group picture, the team walked to the metro together. After a few stops, we got off the metro. There it was--race village just as the sun was rising over the DC skyline. The team separated as we all headed to assigned corrals. Joan Benoit Samuelson and Shalane Flanagan gave runners a quick peep talk. Looking down Pennsylvania Avenue, past the start line, at the Capital Building was an amazing way to start the race. It was the most breath taking start line I have ever experienced.

As beautiful as the sights at the start was, the corral system was equally as bad. At the Expotique, each runner is given a bracelet with a corresponding corral based on their estimated pace per mile. As it turns out, the corrals were to small. All the runners could not fit into the corrals. Those of us who did not get to the corrals early, were stuck waiting on the sidewalks. Race directors allowed farther back corrals to start before the runners on the sidewalk in the closer up corrals get to the start. It was quite a mess!

Aside from the disorganization at the start, it was an amazing race! The course felt crowded the entire time, so it felt hard to hit my stride. I decided early on to stay with friends, take it slow and enjoy the scenic course. The course was the perfect running tour of DC. We hit all the highlights--the Washington
Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Capital Building, the cherry blossoms, the beautiful Potomac River. The course was interesting for the entire race--the beginning was in the city. Then we ran past the DC mall, then across the Arlington Bridge and back, and along the Potomac. The last mile was through the heart of DC--right past the United States Capital Building. Then it was on to the finish line and to that beautiful little blue box waiting just for me!

Instead of firemen in tuxedos, we were treated to ROTC boys in tuxedos! I got my Tiffany necklace medal, my finisher shirt, some snacks and some water. My friends and could not wait to pull the ribbons off those boxes and see our finishers medals. Nike and Tiffany did an awesome job, don't you think! This was an amazing race. If you ever get the chance to do a Nike race--do it!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Runner Inspiration From Joan Benoit Samuelson

2013-04-29T20:53:00.000-04:00

The night before the big event, each Team in Training participant is invited to a big "Inspiration Dinner". They treat us like celebrities at this event! Coaches, family, and staff cheer participants on as they enter the event on a red carpet. We eat dinner together, and then are treated to some amazing speakers. The inspiration dinner for the Nike Women's half marathon in DC was amazing!

Among the speakers was the President of the Leukemia and Lymphoma society. She told us we raised over $6 million to fight cancer! She also told us about some amazing advances the LLS is helping to fund. Another speaker was an leukemia survivor, Anna Lynn. I have heard her speak before at another TNT inspiration dinner. She is a great speaker, very motivating and entertaining. I was happy to hear her speak again. The headliner of the night was Joan Benoit Samuelson!

Joan Benoit Samuelson and Shalane Flanagan

I am a bit embarrassed to say that I did not know who Joan was until that evening. As much as I love to run, I don't know much about the history of women runners. Joan gave us a quick list of her running accomplishment--wow! She is amazing! Joan entered the Boston Marathon as an unknown in 1979 and won! She was the first ever women to win a gold medal as an Olympic Marathoner in Los Angeles 1984. She has won her age group at the Boston Marathon in five different decades. I could go on and on! Joan is also a wife, mom, running coach and author.

What I liked best about Joan and her speech was how supportive she was to women runners of all ages. She told us the best way to share our love for running and for life was to share our stories. She said "Your stories move us all...Keep telling them for miles and miles to come". I love this! This is why I started this blog in the first place. I though I had a story to tell. I hoped that telling my story would move someone else to run, to get healthy. I would like to thank Joan for inspiring me, and I would like to thank Team in Training for giving me the opportunity to hear her speak!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Nike Women's Half Marathon DC Expotique

2013-04-29T18:59:00.000-04:00

Nike always has the best expo, or Expotique as they call it. The Expotique at the inaugural Nike Women's

Half Marathon in DC stood up to that standard!

I was lucky enough to hit DC Friday morning this some friends. It is about a two hour drive for us. We put our kiddos on the school bus and we hit the road! We got to DC around 11 am, check into our hotel and hopped the metro to Georgetown. After a 10 minute walk, there it was--the Nike Expotique. First stop was the packet pickup line. Actually, there was no line. We walked right up got our packets. I was a bit disappointing that the bag check bag was plastic, unlike at the Nike San Francisco Expotique where we got nice drawstring back packs--but the rest of the goody bag was very nice! We got our bib, lots of coupons, some Paul Mitchell shampoo, Bare Escentials samples and an elastic bracelet that said "We Run DC". We also got this cool little credit card thing to swipe at the Expotique with the chance to win some Nike prizes.

Next stop--the Expotique! Since I had an amazing experience at the Nike Expotique in San Francisco, I was worried the DC Expotique could not live up to it. I wanted my friends to experience as good as an event as I did. I think Nike lived up to my high standards! What makes the Nike Expotique different than other expos is there is nothing for sale. Everything is free for runners to enjoy! It's a nice thank you for the runners, and a great way to relax before the big event.

When we entered the Expotique tent, the first stands we came upon were the Team in Training booth, and the booth of a local massage agency. They were giving runners quick massages. I turned the corner and saw the booth I was waiting for-the bareMinerals makeovers! I am a big fan of the brand, so I was so excited when they announced they were a race sponsor. bareMinerals was giving free 5 minute makeovers. It was so much

After our makeovers!

fun! After my makeover, I had the opportunity to tweet a message about my experience and receive a free, full size product. I got a mascara. So cool!

Up next was the Paul Mitchell stand. They were giving free hair up-do's. I did not participate in this one, but a few of my friends did. They looked so cute--and ready for the prom when they were done. Paul Mitchell was giving out dry shampoo spray. I love the stuff, so I was so happy to snag one.

After makeovers, we checked out the Nike fashion area. There were so many fun clothes and shoes to try on. Next, we tried our luck to see if our

My name on the wall!

swipe cards would win us anything. Sadly, none of us won. After refueling with a Luna Bar and some Nuun, we were done with the Expotique. Next, it was time to shop! We made the short walk to the Niketown to check out the Nike Women's Half Marathon race merchandise. They had lots of cute stuff this year. A friend even snagged the exclusive Tiffany blue shoes!

I was so happy that Nike did a great job with the DC Expotique. My friends and I loved it. Nike really does through the best expos in the business!

The Tiffany shoes!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Hershey 10k 2013

2013-04-24T22:52:00.000-04:00

I had planned to post this last Monday, but in light of what happened in Boston, I decided to wait a while to post it. On Sunday April 14th I ran the second annual Hershey 10k. I did the first one last year, so I guess that makes this a legacy event for me. Not only was this a great race, but I got to do it with my Team in Training teammates, so it was a great race!

My pre race preparation for this race was very different for most races. My daughter and I had the stomach flu the day before the Hershey 10k! All day before, and all night--up till the time I left for the race I considered not doing it. I was not actively sick anymore, but I still did not feel well and I knew I was dehydrated. I did not want to miss out on the event or cheering on my teammates--so I decided to go. I went into it promising myself I would not push myself too hard--just to do what I could.

My running buddy Lish and I got to the event early, got our packets and went to the Team tent to meet up with our teammates. The Hershey characters were there for a meet and greet exclusively for TNT members at first. The start of the race was sort of awkward--it was hard to even find the start line. It was not well marked, and the race started in the opposite direction as last year. That was not the only thing they changed course wise!

I enjoyed the race last year--but my only complaint was that we spent very, very little in Hershey Park. The course change this year ensured a lot more time in the park. Like all of Central Pennsylvania, this course was very hilly. The race started out in front of Hershey Park Stadium. We ran out the parking lot, around Giant Stadium, then out Hershey Park Drive. Next we ran behind the Hershey outlets and into the park! We ran through the Hershey Boardwalk, then past the new roller coasters, through most of the park, and then back to Hershey Park Stadium for the finish!

At the finish I got my finisher medal, some water and a snack bag--complete with Hershey's chocolate. I felt okay for most of the race, although I could feel I was dehydrated. I did not drink anything until the first water stop at mile two, but then I drank two cups of Gatorade and a cup of water. This was a big mistake!
All the water sloshing around in my tummy did not make it feel all that great. This meant it was time to slow down! By this time, the TNT walking team caught up with me. Usually, this would be an insulting--walkers had passed me...--not with the TNT walking team. They typically walk 12-13 minute miles. The walking coach is very inspiring, so I decided to hang with them for the next few miles--all the way though the park. Less bouncing helped my tummy. By the last mile, I started to run hard again for a strong finish. I finished four minutes slower than last year--not bad considering how awful I felt the night before the race!

I would like to thank the Hershey folks for putting on a great event. They took the not so great parts of the race from last year and made it a better race. The Hershey 10k is a

great event that I can't wait to do again!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Runners for Boston

2013-04-22T23:00:00.001-04:00

This evening I attending our local "Runners for Boston" event at 6:30 PM. This event was held locally at our running store--Flying Feet in York, PA. The event was also held all over the county. It was set up for runners to show solidarity with each other, but also to raise money for One Fund Boston.

The York PA event was very moving. I met several friends there--all from my Team in Training team. Everyone who donated $20 or more got a shirt. The owner of Flying Feet gave a little speech at the beginning. He got chocked up when he was speaking about the victims. He said " I have an eight year old grandson..." I could hear him holding back the tears. Half of the crowd was tearing up. It was a very moving experience.

We had three local runners in the crowd who were at the Boston Marathon last weekend. On the course, I

got to interview one of them. He was telling me he finished the race about 15 minutes before the bombs went off. He also told me he will be going back to Boston for sure next year.

After a quick speech and a ready, set, go--we were off. This was not a real race. The store owners was joking about not having the permits. No official start or finish line. No bibs. Runners did not get competitive on the 2 mile out and back course. Some people ran the course two or three times. It was so nice to just be out there together--supporting other runners.

I would like to that Susquehanna Printing for donating the shirts! I would also like to thank Flying Feet for getting this event

together with such short notice, and for the yummy snacks at the finish. We runners are a strong, tough, supportive group. The best part of the evening was who I spent it with. I hate the reason we were there, but I am so proud to be part of such a wonderful community of people.

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Runners Unite!

2013-04-16T21:47:00.000-04:00

All over social media in the past 30 or so hours, lots of people are sharing ways to support and pay tribute to all those in Boston--the runners, the spectators, the residents...anyone affected by the tragedies. The two most popular ways were to wear a race shirt today in support of runners everywhere, and to run today in honor of those who no longer can.

There were many distances that runners pledged to run today--the most popular being 4.09 miles or km in honor of the time on the clock when the explosions happened. Some chose to run 2.62 miles to symbolize the length of the marathon. My running friend and I dedicated our run for this evening to Boston.

I took to Twitter this morning and asked people to Tweet me their pictures of support! I was amazed by the response we got. The rest of the page is filled with pictures friends have sent me. Fellow runners--you are amazing! The support everyone is showing to Boston proves that there is so much more good in this world than evil. Thank you so much for sending these in! I will leave you with a quote. "We all may be perfect stranger...But we run, therefore we are friends."

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Prayers to Boston...

2013-04-15T17:07:00.001-04:00

My plan for today's post was to tell you about the awesome race I did yesterday. Then the world of running was changed forever...

I am sure by now, everyone has heard about the tragedy at the Boston Marathon. As a runner, this is personal! No, I will never, ever in my wildest dreams qualify to run the Boston Marathon--but these are my people. These are the people we pass on the trail, the people we wave to as we run past each other on the road when its still dark in the morning. These are the people we wait in port a potty lines with. The ones
who cheer us on and high five us as we cross the finish line--even though they have been finished for hours. These are my people.

The people who qualify for this event have literally been training for this for years. You have to submit a crazy good time from another full marathon that you completed. To runners, the Boston Marathon is the Super Bowl, the World Series. These are the best of the best, the elite. These are the people we look up to, the runners we learn from. I personally know several people who ran the Boston Marathon this morning. All but one of them has been accounted for. The last one is in my prayers.

Runners are some of the most supportive group of people you will ever meet. They welcome everyone, no matter your ability. You don't have to have a runner's body to be included--you just have to have a runners heart. The Boston Marathon is a celebration of life.

Please keep runners, spectators and volunteers in your prayers today.

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Sparkly Soul Headbands

2013-04-10T23:16:00.002-04:00

Hello, my name is Amy and I am a headband junky...

In all seriousness, I love, love, love headbands. I wear one every single day. Blair Waldorf stole the headband thing from me. I hate having hair in my face. All day, every day I am wearing a headband. When I heard of a new headband brand, I had to try it out.

Sparkly Soul headbands are based in New York City. They were founded by a triathlete and a marathoner--women who know what it means to play hard! Who better to design a headband for athletes?

I have tried out every headband brand out there that I know of. I have to report--these headbands rock! Not only are they super cute (who does not love to sparkle?), but they are super effective. I have had my Sparkly Soul headband for about two weeks now. I wanted to try it out doing as many activities as possible so I could give you a complete review. I have ran in it--outside and treadmill, taken spin class, yoga, strength training, HIIT workouts videos, grocery shopped, chased after a bunch of kids and a lot more boring stuff...my Sparkly Soul did not slip once! It stayed put and kept my hair out of my face, all while looking cute at the same time.

The thing I like best about my Sparkly Soul headband is that it is solid all the way around. The other sparkly

headbands I have tried have about a three inch stretchy section that goes in the back of your head and the rest is a non-stretchy fabric. My Sparkly Soul headband is stretchy all the way around! The other headbands I have get stretched out pretty quickly when I wear it as often as I have my Sparkly Soul over the past two weeks. After two weeks of abuse by me and my little girl, my Sparkly Soul looks just as good as it did when I pulled it out of the package.

Not only did the lovely ladies at Sparkly Soul give me a hot pink headband to try out--they want to give one to one of you too! It's Sparkly Soul giveaway time! There are lots of options to enter. You can entry each way once per day! The entries must be made with the below Rafflecopter app. Also, please click to the right and be a follower of this blog before you enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Follow Sparkly Soul at:

Facebook (www.facebook.com/sparklysoulinc)

Twitter (@SPARKLYSOULINC)

Instagram/Pinterest/Tumblr (SPARKLYSOULINC)

Google + (Sparkly Soul)

LinkedIn (Sparkly Soul, Inc.)

Thanks for checking out my new running headband obsession! I hope you like Sparkly Soul as much as I do! Good luck everyone!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Kona Kase Review

2013-04-08T17:01:00.001-04:00

As part of being a Sweat Pink/Fit Approach Ambassador, I was given the opportunity to check out a Kona Kase and tell you what I tough of it. Kona Kase is a nutrition delivery subscription box. I am such a product junky that this was right up my alley!

Each month Kona Kase will send you box full of nutritional products. Past boxes have included GU, Clif Crunch bars, Clif Blox, Honey Stingers Waffles, GU Brew, Balance Bars, Gatorade blocks, and lots of other lesser known products like nut butters, pure dark chocolate bars, and various other snacks. I am always on the look out for new and exciting products to enhance my runs. Still to this day, after countless races, I do not have my race nutrition down. Trying out the new products is so much fun!

The boxes cost $15 per month. This can be a great value is you add up the prices of all various items you get to try out, plus

shipping. I know that I can walk down the nutrition aisle of my local running store and spend alot more than that on a month's supply of nutritional products. Kona Kase and I have teamed up to give you a chance to try our your very own. Use the code "pumpkintoprincess" to get your first box at half price! Check out their website for more info about Kona Kase. I can't wait to check out next months box for more goodies!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

New runDisney Corral Placement Requirments

2013-04-02T22:26:00.002-04:00

runDisney has released new proof of time guidelines that go into effect for the 2014 racing season. Check them out below.

There has been lots of opinions about this today in the blog world and all over Facebook. Some love the change, some hate it. I, for one, welcome the change. At all of the runDisney events, people complain about slow people in the corrals ahead of them. People complain about runners "lying" about their expected finish time, to get in an earlier corral. Maybe some do. I would not accuse anyone of doing this, but I am not saying it does not happen either. This new method keeps everything a little more official. Now you have to show proof of a time under 3:15 for a half. The one group this could adversely effect is first timers. If you are a first timer, you may be much faster than 3:15, but with no time to show you will be in the last corral. That is really the only down side of this new announcement I see.

What do you think of this new announcement? How will it effect you?

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

If you believe you will finish the Half Marathon in less than 3:15 hours or the Marathon in less than 6:30 hours, proof of time is required for start corral placement. Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge and Dopey Challenge participants should adhere to Full Marathon proof of time requirements. Please reference the Race Pacing Chart below for finish times and associated pacing per mile.

A Proof of time must be provided from a certified race reflecting results after January 1, 2012.

Half Marathon - 10K or longer

Full Marathon - 10 Miles or longer

A valid proof of time provided at the time of registration must include the following*:

Name of Race

Distance

City

State

Date

Finish time

*For example, Walt Disney World Marathon, 26.2, Orlando, FL, 1/13/13, - 3:35

If you do not have a proof of time to submit, list "N/A" at the point of registration. If proof of time is not provided by November 1, 2013 you will be placed in the last start corral. If your proof of time data is incomplete or cannot be verified, you will be placed in the last start corral. To provide or update your proof of time, you must email all proof of time data requested above to disneysports@trackshack.com. No corral changes will be made after November 1, 2013.

As a reminder, you will no longer be able to bring proof of your estimated finish time to the Runner Relations booth during the Expo and have your start corral placement changed.

Exploring the Disney's Port Orleans Royal Rooms

2013-03-26T16:52:00.000-04:00

Over the runDisney Princess Half Marathon weekend, I had the chance to check out Disney's Port Orleans Riverside. I had a big group of clients staying at this resort in the Royal Rooms, so headed over to the resort to make sure everything was ready for them.

Port Orleans is a charming resort that transports visitors to the land of the beautiful Mississippi. The main building holds the registration area and resort's quick service restaurant. Outside of the main area is a giant water wheel that actually works. The building is right on the Port Orleans water way. A key highlight of Port Orleans is that along the water way travels boats to and from Down Town Disney. How perfect is that with the theme of the Mississippi!

My clients were staying in my travel agency's room block at the new and beautifully themed Royal Rooms. These rooms are Princess themed! All of the classic princesses are represented. No detail is over looked--from the bedspreads, the carpeting, the light--it was all perfectly themed. The fixtures are trimmed in gold. "Chip", the teacup from "The Beauty and the Beast" lines the ceiling on a beautiful boarder. Around the room are framed portraits of all of your favorite Disney Princesses

These rooms are fit for royalty. The headboards light up! Going with the theme of the Mississippi, Princess Tiana from Disney's "The Princess and the Frog" is the featured princess on the headboard. The bedspread represents all of the Disney princesses, with little hint of each woven in--an apple, a glass slipper, a rose, a mirror, and a lamp.

The bathroom faucet is a golden magic lamp. The clothing rack is a magic pumpkin. The shower curtain is "The Little Mermaid" themed, complete with dingle-hoppers, snarfblats, star fish and glowing jewels. The carpeting is royal blue, with Aladdin's magic carpet mixed in.

Anything princess is usually pink, frilly, and flamboyant. These rooms were none of those. Disney really had families in mind when they designed these rooms. There is no way I could talk my husband or son into staying at a "princess" room, but these Royal Rooms even he would love. The Disney touches are very subtle but still there. We had so much fun walking around the room and looking for all the princess references, and a hidden Mickey or two.

To say I was impressed with the resort and the Royal Rooms is an understatement. These rooms are perfect! I can't wait to take my little prince and princess to stay in them. Even if I wasn't a self described Disney nerd, I would love these rooms. They are amazing.

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

If you are planning a Disney trip--please contact me! My services are free! amy@mousekeplanner.com

The runDisney Rumors Are True!

2013-03-22T22:13:00.000-04:00

It has been confirmed--runDisney IS adding a 10k to Marathon Weekend, and they are sanctioning an official Dopey race series.

Here is a screen cap with the details about the Dopey Challenge. Wow! Six medals, six race shirts and 48.6 miles through Disney World! What an incredible weekend!

For years, runDisney enthusiastic have called an unsanctioned event "Dopey". This used to be a 5k on Friday, the half on Saturday, and the full marathon on Sunday of the Disney Marathon weekend. runDisney has uped the anti a bit here by moving the 5k to Thursday morning and adding a 10k Friday morning. The sanctioned Dopey event will include the 5k, the 10k, the half marathon and the full marathon.

While I love a good challenge, I have to ask myself if this is going to far. If it safe for a person to run a race four day in a row? Especially with the heat wave of last year, is it dangerous for a person to run this many miles in so few days? Not to mention waking up at 3 am four days in a row!

Would I ever take this challenge? I honestly can not say no. Some day, after I am in much better shape than I am today-- then maybe....as I said, I love a good challenge.

Would you ever consider taking on the brand new Dopey Challenge?

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Another runDisney rumor!

2013-03-20T21:32:00.003-04:00

A friend alerted me to yet another runDisney rumor! This link was shared in a Facebook running group page. Could it be? Is runDisney actually going to sanction "Dopey"?

runDisney fans affectionately call this unsanctioned event Dopey because that's what you have to be to do it! The unsanctioned Dopey Challenge is a 5k on Friday morning, the half marathon on Saturday morning and the full marathon on Sunday morning of runDisney's Marathon Weekend. So far, runDisney has been reluctant to sanction this event--but they were reluctant to sanction Goofy too. With this rumored to become a sanctioned event, I bet runDisney will see a jump in registrations.

According to the above link, it looks like a 10k is also being added to Marathon Weekend too. I am guessing with the success of the Disneyland 10k, how could they not. A 10k is a great goal for someone who can easily do a 5k, but is not yet ready for a half marathon. My question now is will the official runDisney sanctioned Dopey Challenge include the 5k, 10k or both? I look forward to hearing all the official details!

What do you think of these rumors? Does this make you more likely to participate in the runDisney Marathon Weekend?

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

An Old Memory...

2013-03-19T22:30:00.001-04:00

Have you ever been day dreaming and an old memory pops into your head? It hits you out of no where. It's not a bad memory, just very random. Something you have not thought about in years. I was driving home from my run this morning and an old memory popped into my head out of no where. I wonder what made me think of it?

About five and a half years ago, I was working as an accountant for a hospital group. This was the first time I had really become interested in fitness and losing weight. We had a gym in the basement at work. It was a really nice gym with the latest fitness equipment and cardio machines. Every single day, I would sneak down to the gym around 11 am and do 45 minutes on the elliptical. I would go down at 11 am because the place was completely empty at that time. Other people did not start to trickle in until 11:45, so I usually had the place all to myself. Back them, I hated working out around other people. There was this group of runners, men and women, who would meet outside the gym and usually run outside together. I did not know any of them, other than what I overheard from them. Sometimes they would run on the treadmills. I was always in awe of them! They seemed to me like the most fit people I had ever met in real life.

One day in October, they ran inside because it was pouring outside. I remember them chatting about how the day before they did the Baltimore Marathon together. I remember hearing them talk about mile markers, hills, water stops. I was even more awe of them after hearing they did a marathon. I did not know how long was marathon even was at this point in time! This did not make me want to do one though. To me, a marathon was something only super human people did. It was not something that I ever, ever would even consider doing. Marathon's were meant for super fit, super skilled, super people. I certainly was not one of them.

I don't know what made me think of that moment on my drive today, but wow! It would be years until I decided that I would do a half marathon. How far I had come from when I was that person. The thing is, looking back--I really was in decent shape back then. I was in a lot better shape than I gave myself credit for at the time. I guess the lesson to me from that flash back it to believe in myself. I was in such awe of that group of runners. They were marathoners for goodness sake! I would see them running on the tread mills and think--wow, I never could do that! I would hear them talk about running a marathon and be completely mesmerized. The only difference between the me I was back then and the me I am now is confidence.

Do you remember the first time you heard of someone doing a marathon? What were your thoughts on it?

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

runDisney Disneyland Paris Half Marathon?

2013-03-13T21:44:00.000-04:00

runDisney rumor alert!!!

Is a "continent to continent" challenge in the works?

runDisney sent participants of the Princess Half a survey asking the following question:

"runDisney is considering hosting a Half Marathon event in Paris, France in the Fall of 2014 (between late September and early November). The Disneyland® Paris Half Marathon race course would wind through both Disneyland Paris theme parks and Disney® Village, with the last 8–9 miles running through the countryside surrounding the Disneyland Paris parks."

I had heard a similar rumor a while back, but this seems to indicate that the event is more than in the "rumor" stage. Could it be--a continent to continent medal? According to the survey, the half marathon price is listed at $70 while a package including hotel, theme park tickets, and race registration is priced at $1,100. That price is really not that bad, depending on how many nights this would provide in a hotel. The thing that concerns me is the price of airfare.

Hopefully we'll get more information from runDisney soon! What do you think? Are you getting your passport ready?

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

runDisney Princess Half Marathon 2013

2013-03-11T23:51:00.000-04:00

This was a special race for me because one year ago, the runDisney Princess Half Marathon was my first ever half marathon. I trained for over a year for the 2012 runDisney Princess Half Marathon. I worked so hard to achieve that goal, it was so cool to go back as a runDisney four time veteran. I did not have to deal with any of the first timer worries--would I be able to find my corral, would I be fast enough, on no--what about the sweeper, ect. This time, I got to just take it all in an enjoy the experience.

I stayed at the Beach Club this trip. I woke up at 3 am and tip toed around my room so I would not wake my husband or my kids up. I put on my Cinderella inspired race day outfit, got all of my gear and I was off to catch the bus. It was not until I was on the bus that I noticed I left my breakfast on the bathroom counter in the room...huge bummer! I texted all my running friends but no one had anything extra. Oh well, I would have to make the best of it. I got off the bus at the Epcot parking lot and meet up with a few friends. We walked to the corrals together. After no time, it was time for the race to start!

In true runDisney style, each corral got there very own Ready! Set! Go! followed by fireworks. Cinderella's Fairy Godmother gave each corral their very own "Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo"! I started in corral C, so I did not have to wait very long to start running. For the first mile, I could hear the corrals behind me set off. Their fireworks lite the sky. After no time, I could see the arch way to the Magic Kingdom! That is one of my favorites parts of the race.

Race day was so hot! For those of us from up North, the heat was a huge change from what we were used to training in. Combined with the 97% humidity, this was one of toughest race for me yet. With no breakfast, combined with the heat and humidity--I knew I would have to take this one easy. At a runDisney race--this means lots of pictures!!!

The first place on the course we had a lot of spectators was at the Ticket and Transportation Center. There were so many people there! This was mile 4, but I was having a tough time. It was so great to have all the spectators there cheering us on. It was just what I needed to keep me going. After the TTC, we ran under the water bridge. This always fascinates my kids--cars go underneath a water way for boats. There was a really fun DJ on top of the water bridge with HUGE mickey hands on. He was so funny and a great distraction!

It was time! Time to run through the Magic Kingdom! We entered the MK from a backstage area, then turned a corner onto Main Street USA. I glanced up, and there it was--Cinderella's castle! I always get a little emotional when I see the castle. At the top of Main Street, we made a right into Tomorrowland. I was hoping we would run through the new Fantasyland but we did not. One more turn and I was at the castle! This year, they had trumpet players standing on the castle balcony. This was a really cool touch. Everyone was so busy taking pictures and videos that we came to a standstill and then walk inside the castle. Of course I stopped for several pictures at the end of the bridge. After I was sure I had enough castle shots, we ran toward Frontierland. This is where I ran into my friend Malina. We did alot of training runs together, so it was great to see her on the course.

After a few more picture stops in the MK, it was time to be on my way. We exited the Magic Kingdom and headed back toward Epcot to the finish. There were lots of spectators as we passed the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian and Shades of Green resorts. After this is the toughest part of the course for me--the two miles of highway before we get near Epcot. Disney did a great job at keeping us entertained with some characters, a huge princess balloon and music. Before I knew it, I was at the dreaded overpass. This is the part of the course most people consider the toughest. For me, its not that bad. The hills is my neighborhood at tougher, but if you are not used to hills I can see it being tough. Sarge from Toy Story was there, along with his soldiers to "motivate" runners.

After the overpass, I could see it--I could see the big "golf ball" inside Epcot. It was about mile 10, but knowing the end was getting close always gives me a second wind. It was getting very hot and sunny by this time, so I was ready to be done. We entered Epcot from a back stage area, then we ran right past the big ball. I knew the only thing between me and the finish was a jog to the entrance to World's Showcase and back. I usually hate the word jog, but that is really all I had left in me. The last half mile felt like forever! I left Epcot and could hear the choir singing. At the PHM that means you are almost done!

The finish felt so surreal this time. I was so ready for it to be over, but I wanted to take it all in. The first time I was so proud I had actually done it. This time, I just wanted to hear the crowd, feel the excitement. I looked around and could see huge smiles. I saw lots of women crying. It was amazing to be part of something like this. I crossed the finish and went for my medal! This years medal is so pretty--I could not wait to have one in my hands that was all mine. After getting my PHM medal, I went to get my Coast to Coast medal (for doing a runDisney half on each coast in one calendar year.) After getting my medals, I got some water, some snacks and meet up with some friends.

My second runDisney Princess Half Marathon was everything I had hoped it would be. I was afraid that this being my second, it would some how lose some of it's magic. I am so glad I was wrong! All the Disney magic was still there. I can't wait to run the Princess Half Marathon again next year.

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Tips to get into a runDisney Meet Up

2013-02-28T22:30:00.002-05:00

For runDisney fans, the ultimate experience is an "official meetup". These events are held by runDisney staff as a thank you the most loyal fans and bloggers. They are typically the Friday before a big runDisney event. The Meetups are often attended by celebrities and always attended by the famous Jeff Galloway. They always start with a 2-3 mile run through a Disney park, followed by breakfast and some talks by the attendees. There are surprises galore! They could be park tickets, rides, giveaways such as race entries and the famous New Balance running shoes. I was lucky enough to be invited to the Tinkerbell Half meetup. Check it out here!

I have been asked so many time--Amy, how do I get in? I put together a list of tips to help you get into one of these super cool events.

Follow @runDisney on Twitter. They tweet "teasers" a few days before the official announcement.

Write an email containing your full name. Have it ready to send to one of these email address, depending on which coast the race is at:

Disneyland: DLR.SportsMeetUps@disney.com

Disney World: WDW.SportsMeetUps@disney.com

Have the email open and ready to send at a seconds notice.

Stalk the Disney Parks Blog at http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/. This is where the official meetup information will be posted first. When it does, act! You typically only have seconds to get your email in before the event is full.

Follow runDisney on Facebook. The announcement is not usually made there, but you never know--they may decide to change things up.

Start watching the above media sites beginning two week prior to the race for announcements. Announcements are typically made between Wednesday and Friday, but again this is subject to change.

Good luck getting in!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

runDisney Royal Family 5k 2013

2013-02-28T18:17:00.000-05:00

On Saturday morning, my daughter and I participated in the runDisney Minnie and Mickey Royal Family 5k. She loves Minnie and Princesses, so I knew she would love this event! She was not happy to wake up at 5 am, but she was much more happy when I told her we were going to wear our Minnie dresses. We got to the Epcot parking lot where the event started. Right away, we got in line for a picture with Princess Minnie and Prince Micky. Then it was time to go to our corrals!

The corral system is a very new thing for a runDisney 5k. From what I gathered, the corrals were assigned based on when you registered for the event rather than speed, but no one official has confirmed this. Since we were in the stroller division, we were in the last corral--corral E. As usual, runDisney did there best to keep the time waiting in the corral as fun as possible. There was music, jokes, and lots of fun banter by the announcers. Each corral got there very own special send off, complete with fireworks!

We waited about 45 minutes to start the race! Half of the runners had completed the race before we got to start. It was crazy waiting for so long. My daughter, along with lots of other kids, had fallen asleep in her stroller. But finally, we were off! The course was the same as last year. We ran (walked) the outer perimeter of the Epcot parking lot for about a mile before entering a back stage area of World Showcase, just behind the Mexican pavilion. This was when the fun started!

Once we were in the park is when we started to see characters. We saw Mulan, Snow White and Dopey, Belle in her blue dress, Marie the cat, and Princess Daisy with Prince Donald. We were also fortunate enough to get a preview of sorts of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. We saw topiary's of Hook, Peter Pan, Tick Tock the croc, most of the princesses with their prince's, and some Toy Story characters. It was beautiful to see them in the early morning sun light.

I very much enjoyed doing this race with my daughter. She had so much fun! She was a little scared of the character at first, but then she really got into it. We crossed the finish line and a volunteer put a medal around her neck. She was so proud! I loved seeing her like that. Some friends from home were waiting for us at the finish. They are a fellow NICU grad family. We have got to know them over the past few years, so it was so nice to see them that the finish. I can't wait to do another event with my daughter.

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Be Our Guest

2013-02-27T21:40:00.000-05:00

With the opening of the all new Fantasyland in the Magic Kingdom, "Be Our Guest" is the hardest reservation to get right now in Walt Disney World. If you do not make a reservation 180 day out at 6 am, you will not get in. The restaurant is Beauty and the Beast themed. The Beast is there for pictures after your meal. I loved the character meal hybrid. It was not crazy busy like a character meal, but you still get to see a hard to catch character with almost no line. I hope they do something like this again with another restaurant

My family got to Be Our Guest and checked in. We were asked to wait on the bridge for our name to be called. It was amazing beautiful. The sun was just setting in the distance behind the Beast's castle. It was a perfect way to wait for our turn. We asked to be seating in the "west wing" section. We had to wait a bit for it, but the wait so so worth it. The west wing was perfect--so life like and true to the movie. In the West Wing dining room is the rose! It looked just as it would when Belle snuck in to see what the Beast was hiding. Pure Disney magic!

When my family was seated I could not help but notice all the attention to detail that Disney is famous for. At each setting was a rose made from a napkin. My kids and I raved about how cute it was. The waitress stopped what she was doing and gave a lesson on how to make the roses. This gave the kids something to do while we waited for our food. After we ordered, my husband and I wondered around the dining room to take it all the magic. We were so impressed. Every few minutes, it would thunder and the lights would dim. The room was quiet and had an eerie feeling to it.

Our meals came in no time. I got the pork chop, my husband got the steak and french onion soup. The food was very good. The service was good too. I doubt this restaurant is ever know for its food or service. No matter how good they may be, its ability to take you right inside a Disney movie is what Be Our Guest will be famous for. My family loved our experience at Be Our Guest. Don't forget to ask for the Grey Stuff--its delicious!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

runDisney Princess Half Marathon Expo 2013

2013-02-26T22:18:00.001-05:00

On Friday, I went to the runDisney Princess Half Marathon expo. I had been to a few runDisney expos, but I knew this one would be different because it was at a different location. Thanks to opening day for the Atlanta Brave's baseball, we could not have our expo at the usual ESPN Wide World of Sports complex. This year's expo was held at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort.

I caught the runDisney transportation bus outside the resort. I was excited to see Coronado Springs because it's one of the few Disney resorts I have not been to. The resort looks like what you would expect to see on the Mexican Rivera. It is Spanish style, like a different world. After I got off the bus I meet up with my friends. We got in line to pick up our bibs. The lines were not too bad. In little time, I had my half bib and my 5k bib.

New Balance runDisney shoes!

Then the shock--we were astounded in how packed the expo was! To me, the building did not feel any smaller than the WWoS building, but it felt SO much more crowded. I am guessing that the 10K+ more runners this year what what made it feel so much more crowded. The tables to pick up race shirts and goody bags was on the opposite side of the building as bib pick up. As we made our way through the expo, we could believe how packed it was.

The lines at shirt pick up was unbelievable. We waited quite a while, but we eventually got them. As all the runDisney races in the past, the "goody bag" was pretty empty. We got our shirt, a Luna Bar sample, and a really cool mesh Princess Half logo mesh bag. Instead of the usual flyers and samples, runDisney emails race participants a "virtual" goody bad. runDisney outdid themselves on the shirt this year! I love it! It's a royal purple color with a castle printed on it. The fit is perfect. I just love it!

runDisney Princess Half shirt and goody bag

After packet pick up, it was time to shop! My friends and I very quickly got overwhelmed with how crowded each booth was. They went to get in the 1+ hour official merchandise booth line, while I went to get the scoop in the highly coveted New Balance runDisney shoes. The shoe line was crazy, but I hear it was so much worse a few hours earlier. A sort of hoovered around to hear what sizes were left. Why wait in line if my size was sold out? I heard a NB rep tell someone that they had over two thousand pairs, so I figured I would take the chance. After about 20 minutes, it was my turn. I asked for a size 9.5, but all they had left was a 9. I put them on and walked around in them for a few minutes. Sadly, they were to tight. The stars aligned for me because just as I was going to give the shoes back to the NB rep, another runner gave her a 9.5, asking for a 9. We quickly traded. The 9.5 fit me perfectly!

Royal Family 5k shirt and pin

After all the shoe drama, my friends were still in line for the official merchandise. They were after the "I did it" shirts. I had one of them pick me up a pin that looks like the medal. After that, we planned to walk around again, but it was just to crowded. We decided to go back to the resort for lunch instead.

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

runDisney Princess Half Marathon Question and Answer

2013-02-12T22:57:00.000-05:00

With the runDisney Princess Half Marathon quickly approaching, lots of readers, Facebook friends and Twitter followers have been asking me lots of questions about the race. I thought I would write a post with all the questions I have been asked and share them with everyone!

Any good Expo Tips?

This questions seems to be asked all the time. My answer for this one would depend on what you are expecting of the expo. Are you looking for the least crowded time to hit the expo? Then I would say to go late Friday morning. That is when it will be the least crowded. Are you looking for the hot item of the year? (the Dooney and Burke purse last year, the New Balance shoes this year). If you are after one of the hot items, then get there early! People start lining up super early. The expo can get crowded on Saturday, especially in the afternoon. Most importantly--have fun, enjoy the expo, and get some cool free stuff!

How much do you estimate the entire trip costs?

I am a good person to ask this question to--I am a Disney Travel agent! A specific number is tough to say, but there are lots of ways to make it possible on almost any budget. The trip can cost an arm and a leg, or not all the much. My number one tip to cut costs is to go with friends and share the cost of a room. Disney offers onsite rooms as low as $150 per night. Divide that by four and that's pretty cheap! My friends and I like to go deluxe when we go to runDisney events together. We stay at the nicest, most expensive hotels. Because 4 of us split the cost, we can easily afford a nice resort. Another tip to save money would be to stalk the airline websites. It is not uncommon for a $200+ swing in the cost of round trip flights from one day to the next. What about paying yourself per mile you run? If you set aside $1 for each training mile you run, you could have a nice stash by the time training is over. You could also ask for Disney gift cards for your birthday/holidays and use them for the trip.

How early should I get there? I have heard people leave their resort at 3 am?

Disney races start early! They have to close the roads and parks for runners, and then have them open again on time for park guests. Because of this, runDisney runs the resort buses picking up runners from 3-4 am. They ask runners to get to the race by 4 am so they have time to close the roads. It sounds terrible to have to be at the start so early, but it is actually really fun. You can meet up with friends, take pictures, meet new friends, dance, warm up, get excited, and take the all important bathroom trip before you head to your corral. My advice would be to get on the resort bus early. A line forms and it can get crowded. Waiting at the start is so much more fun than waiting in line at your resort. So to answer, yes you do really have to leave your resort at 3 am.

I am wondering when I have to leave the staging area for the walk to corrals. How long is this walk?

Don't worry--if you are at the staging area in time, you will not miss when you should walk to your corral. There will be a DJ there pumping up the crowd, along with characters and lots of port-a potties. The DJ will tell you when to get moving to your corral. The walk to the corrals feels like forever, but its really not that far. It walk is really slow though, making it feel much farther than it really is.

How long do the lines take to get pictures with characters? I have heard "they go fast" but like 5/10 min fast?

This one really depends on the character. Last year, the most crowded characters were Minnie just outside the castle, Belle and Beast and Sleeping Beauty with her Princess and the good fairies. I would say I waited about 7-8 minutes each for those pictures. Less popular characters can take 2-3 minutes. One picture tip I would give would be that on the highway leading to and from the Magic Kingdom, wait to hit the picture stops till the way back. You will have a better judgement of your time, plus they will be less crowded on the way back. Be sure to stop for a picture outside the castle, even if you stop for no others. You will regret it is you don't.

Where/when should I stop at the bathrooms?

My advice on this one is easy and simple. I hate port-a potties! I go in the staging area, and then I wait until the second set of bathrooms in the Magic Kingdom. By now, lots of people know to wait till the Magic Kingdom. Nothing beat a real, flushing bathroom. The first set of bathrooms will be very crowded. Pass it and go to the second set. The line will be shorter, plus no port-a potties!

My main concern is getting swept off the course. I've been training at an average 15 minute miles for my longer runs but still am terrified I will get taken off. Especially if I try and stop for photos. Advice?

My biggest piece of advice would be to trust in your training, and trust in yourself. By now you should know what corral you are in. Being in an earlier corral will give you a time cushion for pictures. Either wear a running watch, or know the clock time when you cross the start. At each mile you can do the math and know how fast you are going. If you stay at about a 16 minute mile, you have nothing to be worried about. If you are concerned about sweepers, don't worry--you will have plenty of warning if you are in jeopardy of being swept. The infamous "balloon ladies" will pass you, giving you warning that you are behind the time limit. This means its time to speed up! If you are still behind them at the next check point, you will be taken off the course. Don't let the threat of being swept ruin the experience for you. You will cross the finish line and receive your medal! Trust.

Any good places for runners to meet family/friends after the race?

After you cross the finish line, there will be tons of volunteers moving you through the finisher chute. First, and most importantly, you will get your medal! You will then get water, Power Aide, snacks, your Coast to Coast if applicable, and your official finisher photo. This will leave you to pick up your back from bag check. You will them be at the family reunion area. There will be big letter about ten feet in the air. Meet at a specific letter--maybe the first letter of your last name. This makes it easy to find friends or family after the race.

Do you have any more questions to add? Post them as a comment and I will add them with an edit. Have a great race everyone!

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Great Advice After a Very Tough Week

2013-02-09T14:33:00.000-05:00

This was a very tough week for me. On Sunday evening, my grandfather past away. My grandfather, better know as Pop by his adorning grandkids, was one of the best men to ever walk this Earth. He was kind, compassionate, faithful, fair, loving, hard working and a total crack up too. My family is very close. I don't know what was harder--saying good bye to him myself or watching the pain in my families eyes as they said good bye.

As I was going through this very tough week, a friend e-mailed me this article. As I read it, I kept thinking about how my week was similar to that of the author. After I finished the article, I went to the gym for a long run on the treadmill. I can't say it made me feel better, but I did enjoy the clarity that running brings to me. That little break felt good.

A dream is a wish...

--Amy

Strength for Climbing

Thank you for hills and strength for climbing.

By: Kristin Armstrong

Published

January 31, 2013

This week the unspeakable happened.
A friend lost her son.
You know the kind of moment where you hear news and you have to sit down for a few minutes, your equilibrium gone? It wasn't even my news, but the shock waves reverberating from her heart through the concentric circles of friendship that brought word to me were high enough on the emotional Richter scale to sink me slowly into a chair, head in my hands. Breathe. In. Out.
The unspeakable. The unplanned. The unimaginable. The sucker punches thrown by life, when we don’t even get a breath to squeeze and brace for it. How do we fathom news like this? How do we go on with the routine of life, aware of someone’s devastation? How do we muster the courage to love deeply when love can cause so much pain? How do we best share our strength to ease another’s burden?
There was no mistake that our training yesterday morning was a hill workout. I arrived early and parked my car at the base of the hill. I warmed up, occasionally glancing at the hill, not really feeling it but wanting to give myself time to make peace with the effort ahead – 5-7 climbs. This particular hill is such a beast, the kind you love to hate, hate to love. Hills, when properly recognized and tended to, can be like good friends - spending time together simply makes you better.
Since I was early, I ran the first 5 alone - just me, God, and the trashcans.
When I am alone on a hill, without the banter or panting of my comrades to distract me, I need a mantra. I need to find my zone, my rhythm. I need to distract myself from the suffering, but not from the effort. The effort I need to feel. One of my favorite hill mantras is, “Thank you for hills and strength for climbing.” The syllables are just right, the rhythm works, and it gives me the dose of gratitude I need to find pleasure (sort of) in my purpose. Five ascents, I said it over and over and over. Then I ran it twice more with comrades, still grateful, perhaps even more so because I had good company.
Later when I got the news, sitting in my kitchen with my head in my hands, the same words came to me, like I was having a flashback. Thank you for hills and strength for climbing.
No, we can never prepare for sucker punches. No, we will never be ready when a left hook jabs us out of nowhere and renders us windless and reeling. But we can make a deliberate decision to get stronger. We can choose the challenging route. We can choose friends who call us higher. We can surround ourselves with growth minded people, seekers, try-ers, lovers, and adventurers. We can choose to nurture and nourish our spirits. We can fix our minds on worthy thoughts and pursuits. We can take steps in the direction of fortitude, even before we are called to endure. Our resulting strength can offer shelter and respite for others.
Training is never in vain.
Thank you God for hills, and strength for climbing.

Valentine's Day Virtual Run to benefit the LLS

2013-02-01T16:14:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!

I am once again raising money to fight cancer. I am fundraising with Team in Training for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. My goal is to raise $2000 by April 1st, 2013. To do this, I am holding another virtual race! This time, you get to choose your distance. Some of us are training for half marathons, some of us run a few miles at a time. You can do your run when ever is convenient for you--anytime in the month of February.

Welcome to the Valentine's Day / Princess in training virtual run! Since February is the month of love, why not register to run with someone you love--a spouse, a friend, your child--anyone you love. As a thank you, I will send each person register a finisher medal! No proof of time is necessary -honor system here. The event is less about your time or distance, but getting moving with people you love!

To register, visit my TNT donation page at here.

A picture of the medal!

To register one person: donate $20

To register two people: donate $35

To register three people: donate $50

To register four people: donate $60

All funds go directly to the LLS to fight cancer! Thanks so much for you support!

--Amy

If you have questions, please feel free to contact me at amysmith7@comcast.net