Finally ready for some recaps!

On Friday, my brother flew in and we met him at the Expo after picking Ralph up at work. There was almost no traffic (shocker!) and we made it from downtown to Anaheim in about 40 minutes. This Expo was a bit different, usually the Expo opens at 9 but this one opened at 12. We arrived around 1 to a mad house, the craziest Expo I have ever seen. There were people everywhere, and the merchandise line was in the hallway-no bueno!

I was able to go try on the Donald shoes-SO ADORABLE! However they were completely out of the small sizes (junior 7 and mens 6.5) so I was try again at wine and dine and Avengers. We got our bibs and took pictures.

The expo was crowded but I was able to stop at Sparkle Athletic (got a red visor and pink sparkle sleeves). After that, we decided to have lunch at Stir Fry in DCA. Well imagine our surprise when it was CLOSED! Ahh-so we had lunch at Boardwalk Pizza and Paradise Grill. After that, we went to the hotel to check in and unpack and relax.

At 5, we went back to the Expo and got to finally shop merchandise (I got 2 sweaty bands and a magnet) and my brother and I got KT taped. I learned I had been taping incorrectly (I had been taping my shin bone when I actually need to tape the muscle that gets sore when I go out too fast), which will be so helpful in the future! After that, we headed back to get stir fry and found a crazy insane park. Ralph and Jake went over to DL to ride things while I grabbed food and ate it while I walked back to the hotel.

This is definitely where I messed up! I should have gotten food before going back to the Expo (but I was not hungry because we had such a late lunch). The food took forever (and the horror stories that I heard of trying to get into the park) and I was so full when I finally got back to the room around 8.

I doubt that I will go to the Expo so early in Friday afternoon again (unless my brother comes out again) so I should not have to worry about it. I think it is important to eat early so I can get to the room and try to get as much sleep as possible. Many other races I am also running the 5k so I will need to go on Thursday and most likely go to the Expo in the middle/late afternoon to avoid the heavy crowds.

As always, if you really want something, make sure to go the first day of the Expo. Things were pretty picked over on Friday and I was shocked I was able to get sweatybands and a magnet. They even had some of the jackets left! I am hoping that means they are ordering more merchandise, which would be great for everyone!

The Expo was pretty typical with the booths and stores. I do still enjoy going to Expos!  What did you think of the DL Half Expo? 

Another Tuesday, another Tuesday on the Run hosted by our favorites: 
April from Run the Great Wide Somewhere, Erika from MCM Mama Runs, and Patty from No-Guilt Life.  This week's topic is I Can't Run Without...

For me,  I can't run without my training plan!

As I briefly touched on last week, I just signed up for a personalized training plan for the first time! I am hoping putting an emphasis on speed work and pace, I will be able to get faster and improve! 

This weekend was the start of the plan. I already had 20 miles on the docket to prep for the Long Beach Marathon and NYC Marathon. My coach suggested to try it at :30/:30 and go no faster than a 13:30 pace. Well I originally thought that was slow but it was SO HOT yesterday so it worked out to my benefit and I actually went slower than that.

I didn't start my run until 8am and just took it easy. The :30/:30 was very difficult for me because as I got started, it was time to stop again. I took liberal walk breaks while I drank water and fueled and also stopped often for bathroom breaks and water refills. Overall I finished feeling strong and was proud of how I felt since it was 93 degrees outside! 

And how about today? Well I just returned from my first Magic Mile and it was AMAZING.  I was super nervous because my legs are still pretty sore from 20 miles. I warmed up for about one mile until I got to the track and IT WAS CLOSED! ugh! But the neighborhood around it was quiet (it is next to a private high school and also Cal Tech) so I decided to loop a block that turned out to be about .5 miles. I pushed as hard as I could go and ended up with a 8:20 magic mile! I am so happy with this-I was hoping to get at least 9 something. 

I am excited to continue on with this new training plan. On Thursday I will try out acceleration and cadence drills. 

Has anyone else tried a training plan like this before? 

It is Monday so we are linking up with another Magical Mickey with John at run.geek.rundisney and Katie from Adventures by Katie. 

As announced at D23, Seasons of the Force to celebrate Star Wars is coming and has been announced for starting on Monday, November 16th! Here is the official post from the Disney Parks Blog but here is what to expect:

• Star Wars Launch Bay – This new area will offer opportunities to visit with favorite Star Wars characters, special exhibits, peeks at the upcoming Star Wars: The Force Awakens and much more.
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue – This popular attraction will feature a new scene inspired by the upcoming film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
• Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple – Coming in December, a twist on the Jedi Training experience will introduce new characters and a new villain from the popular Disney XD series, Star Wars Rebels.
• Hyperspace Mountain – For a limited time, guests will join an X-wing starfighter battle in this reimagining of the classic Space Mountain attraction.
• Other limited-time experiences include:
  • An opportunity to revisit favorite scenes from classic Star Wars films at Tomorrowland Theater.
  • Special themed food and beverage, merchandise and entertainment.

HYPERSPACE MOUNTAIN!??!?!!? YAYAYAYAYY! 
As of right now, my cousin and I were planning on going to Disneyland on Nov 21st anyway as we have a fun run that evening in Irvine, which is close to DL. We are now planning on getting a hotel so we can shower after the race and head back to Disneyland to experience more of the fun! 

Now onto more sad news, here is what will be officially closing and what will be temporarily closing on Jan 10th: 
OFFICIAL: Big Thunder Ranch – including Big Thunder Ranch Barbecue, Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm and Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree

TEMPORARY

• The Disneyland Railroad, including all stations
• Attractions along the Rivers of America, including:
  • “Fantasmic!”
  • Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia
  • Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
  • Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes

Is anyone else excited for Seasons of the Force? 

It is very unlike me to not plan out my races way in advnace,  but I just added another race, a big one: the Long Beach Marathon!

I had been tossing the idea around in my head for 2 months now but decided to register over the weekend. Why? Well it is exactly 3 weeks from the NYC Marathon and I think it will be a great race rehearsal for me. Also it is insanely flat! 

As much as the NYCM is my goal race for the season, I have seen too often first hand how weather and other uncontrollable factors can send a race off the rails. i do not want to walk away from what could be a once in a lifetime experience disappointed. I am still shooting for sub 5 at NYCM and as close to 4:30 as I can but I also want to take some of the pressure off. 

By signing up for the LBM, I can work on going sub-5 which would be an 11:27 pace. Since this will basically be my last long run before NYC, I will not be full out racing. My goal is to try and keep a pace between 10:30-11:00 min (which is 30-60 sec slower than my half marathon PR)  and try and conserve as much as I can until the end. The course is pretty flat and runs along the beach, so I am hoping this is doable. 

I had a fantastic long run on Saturday of 10 miles. I was able to keep a sub-11 min pace for the first few miles (before the elevation gains kicked in). Towards the end, it was flatter and I really let myself fly with 9:55 final mile and a strong finish. 

I am so super excited for this race, now to prep for it with a 20 miler on Saturday and also getting ahead on my schoolwork since that will be most of my Sunday that week! 

When is your next race? Anyone else running the Long Beach Marathon? 

I have been selected to be a Jeff Galloway blogger and could not be more excited for the opportunity. Incase you aren't familiar with him, he is AMAZING, a former Olympian and the official rundisney training consultant and probably one of the most down to earth people you could ever meet. 
Here are past tips: here, here , here ,  here, here and here.   

Another Tuesday, another Tuesday on the Run hosted by our favorites: 
April from Run the Great Wide Somewhere, Erika from MCM Mama Runs, and Patty from No-Guilt Life.  This week's topic is free topic! 


 The reason I have saved posting this for a week is that I have officially signed up for the Galloway custom training plans! It is 49 dollars for 6 months and I am hoping that it will help me with all of the races I have coming up. I have been going off adopted Galloway plans (3 days a week of running standard, up to 4 days is all I can do) but really need help with speedwork and paces. I am worried that I am not getting as fast I would like and that I may be doing something wrong. Hopefully this process will help me figure that out! 

THE TRAINING PLAN
 
WHY SHOULD I HAVE A TRAINING PLAN?  When using a proven strategy, a runner gains control over fatigue while improving motivation.  Those who follow the right training plan, for the individual,  tend to improve more, with less injury risk.
 
WOULD BEGINNERS BENEFIT MORE FROM A PLAN  Unfortunately, most beginners “run as they feel” or follow conflicting advice.  This leads to confusion and more aches and pains.  The right schedule will systematically increase the type of running needed for a goal, with strategic rest for rebuilding.
 
KEY TRAINING ELEMENTS:1)       A longer run builds endurance, 2) a hilly run builds strength, 3) Scenic or social runs insert fun and keep you coming back for more.
 
WHAT IS ADDED TO A PLAN IF THE GOAL IS TO RUN FASTER?  The right training plan will gradually increase the speed repetitions needed for the individual goal.  Easier days and rest days must be inserted before and after speed workouts.  To avoid injury, the pace and the increase must be realistic for the individual.    
 
EVERY OTHER DAY!  Most runners—especially beginners—run best when they run every other day.  This allows for the “weak links” to heal.  The very slow long run is usually on the weekend, when there is more time available. Hills and fun days can be run on the short runs during the week (for example,Tuesday and Thursday)
 
SHOULD I EXERCISE ON NON-RUNNING DAYS? While you don't have to exert yourself on non running days to improve your running, exercise will energize your mind, and improve your attitude and vitality—while burning some fat.  So I recommend any exercise that does not fatigue the calf muscle, such as recreational walking.  
 
DOES VARIETY HELP?  Changing things a bit can improve motivation.   You don't have to change the “mission” on specific days, but alternating some of the courses or running with different groups can make each day more interesting.
 
WHAT ARE VARIOUS MISSIONS, FOR VARIOUS DAYS? Each type of run bestows a different benefit.  Hill runs build strength.  Drills that work on cadence, gentle acceleration and gliding will improve your running form.  Long runs produce stamina and endurance.  
 
WHAT SHOULD I DO THE DAY BEFORE AND THE DAY AFTER LONG OR FASTER RUNS?  Take it easy on these days.  Do little or no exercise, don't over-eat, drink 8 glasses of water/sports drinks, and focus on how you will enjoy the next run.
 
SHOULD I SKIP THE REST DAYS—TO IMPROVE MORE QUICKLY.  Not Recommended!  It is during the days off from running that the running body rebuilds and improves.  While some runners can get away with running short and slow runs on rest days for a while, these “junk miles” can compromise recovery and lead to injuries.  
 

IF I DON’T LIKE A WORKOUT CAN I SUBSTITUTE? Following a consistent plan is more likely to lead to success and improve motivation.  Those who pick various elements from different schedules experience  more burnout and injury.  


Register now for the Jeff Galloway 13.1 Half Marathon weekend fromDecember 11-13th. 

• Jeff Galloway 13.1 - Sunday, Dec. 13th
• Barb's 5K Presented byBeeCause - Saturday, Dec. 12th
• NEW Fit Kids Run/Walk -Saturday, Dec. 12th

Register now!

NEW Jeff Galloway's Customized Training Plan!

Let Jeff customize a plan that allows you to "have a life" while achieving your goals!  Your 6 month plan includes:

• customized training schedule
• daily email reminders for your workouts
• drills to improve your running form and efficiency

For for runners of all levels, from beginning to ultra, with busy schedules or without a local Galloway training program.

Learn more now!
Jeff’s proven method has helped hundreds of thousands to achieve their goals, injury-free. Whether you’re a beginner or a Boston Qualifier, let us customize a plan that allows you to “have a life” while achieving your goals.


Your 6-month Custom Training Plan includes –
• A customized training schedule to your target race over the next season
• Daily email reminders of upcoming workouts
• Based upon your current conditioning
• Drills to improve running form, efficiency, and speed
• For runners at every fitness level, from beginning runners to ultra-runners
• Perfect for those without a local Galloway Program or with busy schedules - See more at:http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/customized-training/#sthash.2bhhrWdT.dpuf
Jeff’s proven method has helped hundreds of thousands to achieve their goals, injury-free. Whether you’re a beginner or a Boston Qualifier, let us customize a plan that allows you to “have a life” while achieving your goals.

A few days late but still great. I was worried about the craziness of registration but I was able to get in for all 3 Star Wars: Dark side races! woo-hoo! I will be running the 5k on Friday, 10k on Saturday and half on Sunday. Running the 10k and Half will get me the Dark side challenge medal. Running the Star Wars Half (as part of Rebel Challenge) will get me the special Coast to Coast Kessel run medal! 

So why all 3? Mainly because I am doing all 3 races at Tinkerbell Half weekend 3 weeks later and need to get in a good taper. I figure the races plus walking around the parks will be a good enough training and then I can get back home and wrap up the school year strong.

The plan right now is to fly out on Wednesday night on a red eye and get to Orlando early Thursday morning. Head to the hotel and then decide if I want to go a park (Epcot of course for Flower and Garden!) or go to the Expo. I did the Expo at opening for Dopey and it really was not that bad. It helped that we went to get our bibs first, did shopping there and then went to the Expo where we got KT taped and shirts before heading to the main area. Basically I would just want my typical magnets and sweatybands and maybe a mug which I think I can easily find. 

I plan on flying back either Monday night or Tuesday morning. I am leaning towards Tuesday morning so I can get home decently early and get home and run errands and relax before going back to work and class. Usually I don't take that extra day and things are HECTIC. 


Right now we have a room booked at All-Star Movies just to save space and we will most likely move to another resort when travel agents get their rates out. Hopefully we can save some money that way. 209 days until I arrive. Dining reservations will have to be made so soon! 


But those are the basics right now, things can always change. 


How about you? Anyone else get in through AP/DVC Reg? Anyone going to try and register next week? 

Traveling sure is CRAZY! I got back into town late Monday night and have been on the go since at work, with school and at home not to mention the crazy jet lag effects I have been experiencing! I have been trying to get back on the healthy eating, sleeping and working out train and it is definitely coming along but it is pretty slow! I will give a full wrap-up next week and am trying to write posts about all of the great things I have experienced lately. 

But onto the regularly scheduled Fridays, Friday Five! Hi all! Linkup Friday!! Thanks to our amazing hostesses: the DC Trifecta Bloggers (Courtney from Eat Pray Run DC, Mar from Mar on the Run, and Cynthia from You Signed Up For What?!). 
This week is all about running songs that get you pumped and motivated. As I have written about before, I basically listen to EDM (electronic dance music) almost exclusively as I ran. The high beats per minute of the song help me with my cadence and turn over. 

Here are my top 5 songs right now with their links to Youtube. 

1. Addicted to a Memory-Zedd

This song I feel like is 4-5 songs in one, which I love. The beats and feelings change as it goes on. It is currently my Powersong in Nike+

2. Lean On-Major Lazer, DJ Snake, MO

This song is so fun and always makes me want to dance. It usually is towards the beginning of my playlists

3. Dirty Vibe- Skrillex

This is a former song that I used to end my playlists too but it has been bumped back a few. However, when this song comes on, it signals it is definitely time to do some work

4. Beats Knockin-jack u (aka Skrillex and Diplo)

This is the song at the end of my playlists because the beats are fast and it gets my turnover so I can have a fast finish

5. Shave It Up-Zedd

An oldie but goodie-the beats are great and it really gets me moving. 




How about you? what songs do you use to get pumped up for a workout? 

Hi all! Just a quick check in here. I am down in St Petes Beach for a conference for work and have been swamped and busy since dumbo wrapped. After my conference, I will be heading to Walt Disney World for the quickest 2 day trip ever! I also had the best universal day I have ever had and will write a mini trip report on it.

I will most likely get to posting on the plane ride home so make sure to follow me on Social media!

How was everyone's Labor Day?

Hi all! I will be down at Disneyland all weekend running the Dumbo Double Dare with many of my friends and family (my brother's first half!). Follow me on  Social Media  :) Facebook , Twitter, Instagram, ,Pinterest


Linkup Friday!! Thanks to our amazing hostesses: the DC Trifecta Bloggers (Courtney from Eat Pray Run DC, Mar from Mar on the Run, and Cynthia from You Signed Up For What?!). This week's topic is 5 Fall Races. 

I already wrote a full post on all of the races I have planned for the Fall but I am going to talk about the 5 races I am looking forward to the most (in order of them happening!)

1. Dumbo Double Dare
Yes it is technically two races but I am so excited for the race this weekend as it will be my 5 year runinversary!!

2. NYC Marathon
The big one of them all and I could not be more excited. I am gunning for a PR and a sub 5:00 marathon for my 4th marathon.

3. Wine and Dine Half Marathon
Last year's Wine and Dine Half Marathon was insane with my sciatica/periformis syndrome flare up and the rain. However it was the best half marathon I have ever run (and 2nd only to the WDW marathon) and cannot wait to revisit with 3 friends that will be running at WDW for their first time!

4. Avengers half
I want redemption. After dealing with the leftover of the injury AND the insane winds and not so great course at the Inaugural Avengers Half, I want to really do well at this course (hopefully it will be a new route!)

5. Blacklight Run 5k
I have been wanting to do a fun run like this for awhile so I am so pumped to be running this in November with my cousin. We plan on wearing lots of getting really neon for the blacklight! 


How about you? What races are you most looking forward to?  

I usually don't do these things but on Saturday it will be exactly 5 years since my first race which is crazy! I wrote a whole recap of it here and I learned A LOT. I was overtrained (I did a 13 mile training run the week before my race-so dumb!), wore cotton shorts and did not know about fueling (first time I had ever had fuel was during the race in the form of Clif shots that I got for free at the Expo and I am still a Clif girl). I suffered from IT band syndrome and had to walk so much of the race at the end and ended up with ice on both knees (that I had cut out of the picture to send my family so they would not freak out). 

Now I am about to tackle the same race after 5 years with so many more races under my belt. I remember finishing that race and thinking-I could NEVER do a marathon and now I have done 3 of them and am in the middle of training for my 4th. 

I thought the idea of Goofy challenge and running races back to back was crazy (those people that did a 5k and half were crazy!) but yet I have a Goofy challenge as part of Dopey, along with about to complete my 3rd Dumbo Double Dare, 2 Glass Slipper challenges, 1 Pixie Dust Challenge, 1 Rebel challenge, and own 5 coast to coast medals! I am currently signed up for Infinity Gauntlet, Rebel Challenge, Pixie Dust challenge and will sign up for the Dark Side challenge and that is just the Disney challenge, not counting the 5k/10k for the Turkey Trot and the New Years Challenge. 

When I finish the Disneyland half (the 10th anniversary), it will be my 40th rundisney medal ever and I can't think of a better race to celebrate that milestone. It will be my 27th rundisney race and my 48th race ever (52nd if you count my virtual runs!). INSANE!!! 

But you know what this means? I HAVE to stick with my tradition of doing the 5th year and 10th year of every race and go from there. I have run the 5th anniversary of: DL half, Princess half, wine and dine half, and will run tink half (couldn't do the others). I will have now run the 10th DL half and 10th goofy challenge. LOVE anniversary medals! 

Overall, I am so excited to run and celebrate this weekend. So many friends are running with me, including my brother flying out to race, and it should be a good celebration. There will probably be some happy tears shed because if you had ever told me I would have done all I have 5 years ago, I would have thought you were crazy. It truly is amazing what an be accomplished! 

What was your first race? When is your runiversary?