Life is too short for self-hatred and celery sticks: final update 12/29, p.98

[DrMomof3]

Thank you all for the lovely Welcome Home messages! This was long overdue as my 5 year old has been to Disney 12 times... And I fear that if/when the Poly DVC is built, addonitis may strike but we shall see.

Amanda

 

[DrMomof3]

Hi! I wanted to share a write up about Loren from the local paper.

Wow! What a nice article.

Amanda

 

[kaoden39]

Wow! What a nice article.

Amanda

Thank you. I am very pleased with it. We are very proud of him.

 

[eandesmom]

Hi! I wanted to share a write up about Loren from the local paper.

what a lovely article!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[rentayenta]

Crazy fun day on the water and so silly busy yesterday. The one day I don't post everyone comes out to play. ​

Oh there is plenty that is soft I love food (wine too lol!), exercise does at least allow for that

Indeed it does. ​

And this is how it starts.... seriously though it is a motivator for me and I have a feeling it could be an annual thing. We will see. I'm not motivated to run locally in races at all but throw Disney in there and it's a totally different ballgame!

I hear ya! Theres a race here called Ragnar and everyone is into it. I'm totally uninterested but throw me into a race inside Disneyland or Epcot and I'm all over it.​

And...more girls trips there is a huge community out there, it's pretty cool. Another DISer inspired me to go for it. Well that and the fact that I was losing my mind on the elliptical at the gym but didn't want to work out less than I was. Seriously though....think about it! Jeff is a runner and has been very supportive. Although he tried running at "my" pace yesterday and couldn't hack it lol, had to take off. Which frankly, I'd rather, it's nice alone zen time with my music and thoughts.

Do you have any links to the communities, the Disney running ones? Cool chicks like us? Michael rarely does more than weights with me. He's like a freaking gazelle.​

if you go to runDisney, you can see all the different events. Many of them have 5 and 10K's. Some have half marathons, some fulls and then there is the Tower of Terror 10 miler. I'd love to do that one, it's an evening race which is WAY more my speed (not an early am girl), or the Wine and Dine Half which is also an evening one but the timing is off.

runDisney.com? Our friend does a lot of those runs....I could see him and thats fun motivation too. A girls' trip though trumps all. I'll run just to get another trip. Michael would be very supportive too if it benefited my health in any way. He's very good, always has been, about taking over so I can have ME time.​

Here's how they lay out I think.

Jan: WDW Marathon Weekend (10K, 1/2, full, Goofy, Dopey). DL Tinkberbell Half (family 5K, 1/2..rumor is they may add a 10K this year)
Feb (presidents day weekend): WDW Princess Half (Family 5K, 10K, 1/2, Glass Slipper)
May: WDW Expedition Everest Challenge (5K with obstacles)
August (labor day weekend): DL 1/2 marathon (family 5K, 10K, 1/2, dumbo double)
Oct: WDW Tower of Terror 10 miler (haunted 5K, 10 miler)
Nov: Wine and Dine Half (5k, 1/2)

The Princess Half looks fun! Can we run in tutus? When is the EE one in May? Do you know dates? If it overlapped with the girls' trip that would be amazing! MEK is runner too.​

LOTS of folks walk any and all of these. There are some great programs out there to get you up to the distance either walking, running or a walk/run combo. General couch to 5K or 10K programs but also race specific ones for these with Jeff Galloway that you can download from the runDisney site.

Chloe's dance teacher is doing the couch to 5K right now. She's doing great and runs right past my house. I'll look into the runDisney site.​

I was SO tempted to sign up for the WDW 10K. It is literally days after we come back...I could have just stayed. But I couldn't, kids have to get to school, Jeff can't manage that on his own especially if it includes herding nephews. Now, if there is a 10K at the Tink...I'd love to do that too but....can't justify a trip that close as we will likely be at DL in April. I just have to be patient till next labor day I think. It's the best fit timing wise.

Delete my question above. Darn!!! That would have perfect if they overlapped. Seriously. Michael would have NO issues canceling anything for me to go to Disney to run. OMG, this is my golden ticket!​

To not get "swept" on the races, if walking, you need to be at a 16 minute mile pace I think.

What does swept mean? I can walk that fast so I'd be okay but I'd really like to try to run, ya know?​

The walk/run combo plan is amazing for lots of folks and very successful and doable.

A half is 13.1 miles.

That'd be me and heck I'll finish I'm sure.​

Right now, yes, I could. That's basically my normal run right now 3x a week, give or take a mile. But not much more lol. I could probably manage a 10K without dying but it'd be slow. Farthest I've gone so far is about 4.5 miles lol. Hopefully by the end of summer though a 10K is pretty doable. I'd be walking a lot I think to try a 1/2 given where I am at right now. I've only been doing this for 2 months. I bounced around a bunch trying to find a training plan that worked for me and think I've figured it out. I like goals, targets and schedules but needed it to be challenging enough, but not overly so as really my first race is most likely over a year away at the DL 1/2. I had thought that I'd do a Disney 10K first but 2 months in I admit I am leaning towards the 1/2.

The DL half in August? I'm in! I'm serious. Is your whole family going?

I don't do well with targets or schedules or any of that. Eating and drinking are more motivators and the way my clothes fit. I am the least competitive person you'll ever meet. I don't have that gene that makes me want to test or push myself. I think after years of emotional testing and pushing, I'm good. I always ask Michael how he finds that certain thing within himself that makes him preserver through an ironman when the winds are 40 mph and he's riding sideways? He says if I have to ask, I'll never know. I think he's right.


I'm glad you found a plan you enjoy. ​

The plans start slow, I found them too slow so hence the bouncing around or just kind of doing my own thing but with some good input from real runners I branched out and looked at some things I wouldn't have considered. I like the one I have now and it seems to fit with where I want to be by next August. Of course we will see how that holds true once I start running further than 4 miles...which will be either this week or next.

I am so proud of you for being able to run that far. What do you think about when you're running like that? I'm so puzzled by it.​

What is nice about the plans is literally they do take folks from the couch to a 5K in a very doable way. For me it's the learning how to breathe right that is the hardest part and then finding the right shoes. I hope someday to be at the point where I'm just out there running and enjoying it versus thinking about my pace but in the 2 months I have seen improvement for sure. Maybe not as much as I'd like but still, I have to confess, it actually doesn't totally suck. And for me, that's a HUGE admission and change on the subject of running.

Thats a huge step truly. I think you're right about the breathing and shoes. Its funny, I can do 90 minutes of bikram yoga in 105* heat and breathe fine but put me on the open road in a pair of runners and I'm dead.​

Here's the thing, if your heart is pounding that much after 2 blocks, you are going too fast. That's why the Galloway method is so good as he really starts you out with a run/walk ratio that can get the cardio up slowly. You should be able to have a conversation. Maybe not the easiest one or non stop but still able to talk for sure.

If I go any slower, I'd be walking. A conversation, really? What's this method called?​

 

[rentayenta]

I had to do a double take when I saw this pic because I thought that was a fairy wing coming off your back.

Great idea for an impromptu lunch. I haven't eaten there in a while, but wouldn't mind trying it for lunch.

Great parade spot and timing!

How could you possibly pass on the pool on a hot sunny day like that? I would have to be passing out before I would trade a nap for the pool.

I'm probably not all the way caught up yet, but I will get there - eventually.

Glad you're back. Note the runDisney conversation above. I think we need to do a girls' run/walk/pass out trip.​

Now I can see them, not sure what my iPad was doing to me... Too funny, that CM must love his job! Calling the boy was priceless!

Oh, and definitely not too many groceries. You guys NEEDED that food

We totally needed that food. I'm glad someone gets that. But we really did. Admittedly I ordered too much of some stuff and not enough of others. I did enjoy the mix of delivery services though. Kelly and GG both did great!​

Ok, must stop now, I'm in sensory overload! Your birthday Club 33 lunch looked AMAZING!!!! And how super cool were those guys offering their membership cards for pictures. They must have been confident they could chase you down if you ran away with them. Yes, I admit, I would probably think about it for a fleeting second

MNSSHP looked like so much fun. Loved the ghost pictures.The parade looks great too.

You left the tri tip at the treehouse? You didn't want to make it at AKV?

The guys who offered up their Club 33 cards were darling. They offered us their shirts too. They were great sports, very chatty. It was an amazing afternoon truly.

We didn't have plans to cook the try tip anytime soon and it was thawed so it was better to leave it on the off chance someone would use it than take it and for sure throw it out and have to deal with a piece of meat. ​

I always manage to get SO far behind!

News from me: We're now DVC members!!! We bought 160 points at the new Villas at the Grand Floridian. I already know that 160 points won't be enough but at least we're in.

Amanda

Congrats Amanda and home! What finally made you take the plunge?​

Welcome Home! Learn the powers of banking and borrowing...and then the temptation of "addonitis!"

Jill in CO

I've got addonitis so badly right now and the only sure is some DVC at the GCV. ​

Congratulations!!

Congrats.

Hi girls. ​

I'm all caught up and enjoyed every minute of it

I'm so glad you enjoyed and now have a pretty good idea of your tablemates on the cruise. Still want to sit with us? ​

Sorry about the not so cold groceries. I'm surprised they let something like that happen, glad nothing spoiled.

Yeah, I was a little peeved but there wasn't anything I could do. I was surprised too. They were very busy I'm guessing. Knowing that, I was glad I left the meat. There was no way I would have cooked it after that as we like ir rare. ​

Your AKV view is gorgeous! How dud you get a text the room was ready when you didn't go check in? Is that part of online check-in? Or did I miss someone going over there?

I really don't remember. We must have done online check in. We didn't go over, I know that.​

Everyone raves about that holiday sandwich! I'm surprised it didn't live up to the hype.

It had too much mayo, the cheese was odd, not enough cranberry which I love, and too dry, not enough gravy. It was okay but next time, I'll totally church it up with more of the good stuff.​

Your BB day sounded very nice. What did the girls think of Summit Plummet? I don't think I could ever do that one.

Great quality dad time doing the beads

I used the links so missed most of the chatting but I did see Joshua graduated. Congratulations to Joshua!!!

The boys and girls each had our own great days. That's what I love about Disney, plans can change, we can split, and meet again to share in each other's experiences, and have a great time.​

Hi! I wanted to share a write up about Loren from the local paper.

That is awesome Michele! ​

Thank you all for the lovely Welcome Home messages! This was long overdue as my 5 year old has been to Disney 12 times... And I fear that if/when the Poly DVC is built, addonitis may strike but we shall see.

Amanda

I would be tempted by the Poly DVC as well. ​

Thank you. I am very pleased with it. We are very proud of him.

As you should be. What an amazing kid.​

 

[Pinkocto]

I'm so glad you enjoyed and now have a pretty good idea of your tablemates on the cruise. Still want to sit with us? ​

Absolutely! We're going to have fun!

 

[DrMomof3]

Why did we finally join DVC?
I tried to buy resale but Disney exercised ROFR and bought the contract. Then we had a ton of unexpected expenses related to my MIL (don't get me started. don't get me started.) which made cash flow a little tighter. With resale it's pretty much a cash deal so that became more difficult.
We really like the idea of a villa at the Grand Floridian. It's such an elegant resort and I think it's someplace we'll enjoy in our older years. Then there is the fact that a family of 5 can stay in a studio. It's the only DVC where that is the case. So we can take a one week trip annually using our points without borrowing. A studio will be a little bit cozy with 5 people but it's still nice that we have enough points for an annual trip. Although I'm generally against financing a luxury purchase, we did choose to finance with the intention of paying it off quickly. We've already put 20+% down (and paid of the credit card) and I'm intending to pay another 20% or so when we get the closing documents. We will then pay off the remaining loan in the next 6-12 months. From a cash flow point of view this protects our savings but still allows us to buy in.

Amanda

 

[eandesmom]

Do you have any links to the communities, the Disney running ones? Cool chicks like us? Michael rarely does more than weights with me. He's like a freaking gazelle.​

There is a FB group I am part of, it's an offshoot of a DVC group so is specifically DVC runs Disney lol! I can send you an add. That's about it. Given how far away and new anythng really is that's about my level for now. Lots of cool chicks though...and a few guys too!

The Princess Half looks fun! Can we run in tutus? When is the EE one in May? Do you know dates? If it overlapped with the girls' trip that would be amazing! MEK is runner too.​

I REALLY want to do the Princess. And yes, wear a tutu or a sparkly skirt! But it's over President's weekend. The 2014 one is simply too close to our NYE trip to be possible, plus it looks like I'll have an April DL trip for Evan's band and then our May trip. Even for me that's a bit much. Not to mention it's been sold out for quite some time. Add in work trips and fall in San Fran and I just can't make it work. 2015 Princesss is possible but I'm hoping to do family trip to Aulani then. I can maybe move that to spring break but it's a lot more points. 2016 Princess though, and Tink both...may be totally doable and both around the big birthday which could be cool. BUT that's also the year both kids will have their Ireland band trip so the $$ might not be there. So basically, realistically, the Labor Day 2014 DL 1/2 is the first one that works, timing wise. Not my first choice but it is easier to pop down there for it and not have it be a big trip so that's a plus, it will cost less overall though I'll have to pay cash for rooms for sure, no way will there be availability at 7m.

No clue if everyone will go, definitely not something we are actively talking about right now. Part of me wants to do it on my own, part of me wants them there, it will come down to $$. It is likely at least 3 of will have been there in April but I'm not sure if Jeff will go on that trip if it happens or not and my suspicion is that he will decide he wants to go and cheer me on, just not run. I also firmly believe that once I do one...there will be more but I have NO desire to do anything longer than a 1/2. Then again I never had a desire to do a half so...

As for the EE challenge, I believe it is May 3rd for 2014 but it's not announced yet. We will have state cup prelims that weekend so it's crappy timing. That would be fun. It's more scavenger hunt than run and sounds like a blast! I would LOVE to time our trip around it but am just not sure how I can make it work. Never know though...I'll keep an eye on it plus it's not like the state cup schedule is really out yet anyway.

Chloe's dance teacher is doing the couch to 5K right now. She's doing great and runs right past my house. I'll look into the runDisney site.​

Check the site and check the app store too. There are some nice free couch to 5K programs and then the Galloway one.

Delete my question above. Darn!!! That would have perfect if they overlapped. Seriously. Michael would have NO issues canceling anything for me to go to Disney to run. OMG, this is my golden ticket!​

Mine too. Jeff wants to run the princess with me if I can figure out a way to pull that one off. He has NO interest in the DL half though lol. I'm a bit leery of that, he is significantly faster without any training and if he started really training...all I'd do is hold him back. That said, for the princess (and I think Tink) the highest corral a guy can be in is C so we could potentially end up in different corals and then he could catch up which would be a riot. It would really really bug me to feel like I am holding him back pace wise and the reality is that our strides are different so it's awkward for him to go at my pace anyway. I do totally see it as an excuse for more Disney trips for sure!

What does swept mean? I can walk that fast so I'd be okay but I'd really like to try to run, ya know?​

Basically they will pick up folks that are going too slow. There are starting corals that let folks go in a certain order, assigned by your pace time that you turn in. The pace time has to be from a certified race within 2 years I think. If you don't turn in a time, or don't have one to turn in, you go to the last corral. Generally speaking the last ones will be mostly or all walkers I think. Obviously the higher corral you are in, the less congested it will be and theoretically, the faster you can make your way to the end, even with picture stops. The lines for pictures can be long (with characters) and that can really impact time.

I don't do well with targets or schedules or any of that. Eating and drinking are more motivators and the way my clothes fit. I am the least competitive person you'll ever meet. I don't have that gene that makes me want to test or push myself. I think after years of emotional testing and pushing, I'm good. I always ask Michael how he finds that certain thing within himself that makes him preserver through an ironman when the winds are 40 mph and he's riding sideways? He says if I have to ask, I'll never know. I think he's right.

I don't have that gene either, though I do at work for sure. I do well with schedules in the sense that if I have a regular set workout schedule, I am more likely to actually go. With the running, if I have a plan, I am more likely to stick to it than just wandering along. I'll push myself...but only to a point. I know I "could" be training harder. I could be trying to run faster. I'm not pushing myself more than really a nudge at a time. I don't want to burn out and hate it and if I get too aggressive with it, that could happen. I am hoping the turtle approach will generate improvement over time but even if all it does is generate the ability to go the distance at my current pace, that will be acceptable.

I'm glad you found a plan you enjoy. [/CENTER]

We will see. I think I have a lot of baggage in this area. Combo of not thinking of myself as athletic, having lots of friends and family who are real runners and generally feeling like a poser or fraud. I work out to be fit, not to be faster or better than anyone but did find myself super frustrated with the couch to 5K but also trying very hard to "be good" and follow a plan as they say a big reason it doesn't take is that people try to do too much, too fast. After some great advice from another DISer who has gone from Couch to 5K to doing the ToT, last years Princess and is signed up for this years ToT and WDW 1/2...and does local race at least monthly as well as a person in my FB DVC runs Disney group I've found something, or at least a combo of something that works for me at least on paper. I won't really know until I get further in the plan but so far, so good.

I am so proud of you for being able to run that far. What do you think about when you're running like that? I'm so puzzled by it.​

oh probably a lot of the same things you think about during yoga! Unless of course you are one of those people who can empty their mind. I am SO not that person. You name it it's running through my head.

What am I making for dinner? What is that idiot doing without a helmet? Don't ride your bike and talk on a cell phone dude! Yep, that's what happens, you fall off. Ugh there are gnats in my teeth! Mmmn A margarita will be lovely after this. Man I wish that light would change. I really need to go to the bathroom. I need to put a reminder in my phone for ADR's, look how pretty the lake is tonight. Darn my gps signal dropped. That rain feels good. I need to take this song off my playlist. What time does Erc/Evan need to be wherever? Did I update our calendar? I need to make a new playlist. I need to plan some routes for the longer runs. Only 3 more minutes till I am done. I feel pretty good, maybe I shouldn't stop. Only .25 miles to the bathroom!



It is seriously a constant stream of thought (for me) but set to music and is processing time. I'll think about the kids and more often than not an idea for something will come to me during the run.

Thats a huge step truly. I think you're right about the breathing and shoes. Its funny, I can do 90 minutes of bikram yoga in 105* heat and breathe fine but put me on the open road in a pair of runners and I'm dead.​

and I would DIE during 90 minutes of hot yoga. Seriously.

If I go any slower, I'd be walking. A conversation, really? What's this method called?​

A lot of folks will call it the Galloway method but it's not just "his". He is a trainer that does the Disney plans so a ton of folks use his plan. He advocates walk to run ratio's based on pace with the theory that you are faster running with ample walk breaks. So it could be 1:1 ratios, 4:1, whatever. He has suggestions for them but also notes to adjust as works best for you. The couch to 5K or 10K plans build those in from the start. A good thing, and a bad thing, is if I do set my sights on something and committ...I get a bit obsessive about the research and this is no exception. A good piece of advice I got was that if ultimately a half or a 10K is your goal, skip the couch to 5K plan and just get the couch to 10K.

I am actually using his Tower of Terror training plan but I'm using one of the "experienced" versions. Which I find a bit ridiculous given how new this it to me but I'm also incredibly grateful for the advice to even look at it as I dismissed all of those given that I've never actually run a race. While there isn't anything keeping me from doing a true 1/2 training plan, I don't "need" to run that far yet so really don't want to. LOL! My BFP (and we will see how well this actually works) is to do the ToT "finish in the upright position" plan I'm on now, then do the ToT time improvement plan and then go into a 1/2 plan, either a "finish in the upright position" or time improvement. Timing wise it lays out pretty well for the DL half in 2014 and I do have a goal. I do have my sights set on decent corral placement so that if I want to stop for a picture or two, I can without feeling it will be a huge time issue. I want it to be fun. I want to enjoy the experience and my hope is if I put this year in, I'll truly be there.

Sounds good on paper anyway.... Jeff says I think too much. I say, what else is new!

 

[kaoden39]

what a lovely article!!!!!!!!!!!!

Glad you're back. Note the runDisney conversation above. I think we need to do a girls' run/walk/pass out trip.




We totally needed that food. I'm glad someone gets that. But we really did. Admittedly I ordered too much of some stuff and not enough of others. I did enjoy the mix of delivery services though. Kelly and GG both did great!




The guys who offered up their Club 33 cards were darling. They offered us their shirts too. They were great sports, very chatty. It was an amazing afternoon truly.

We didn't have plans to cook the try tip anytime soon and it was thawed so it was better to leave it on the off chance someone would use it than take it and for sure throw it out and have to deal with a piece of meat.





Congrats Amanda and home! What finally made you take the plunge?




I've got addonitis so badly right now and the only sure is some DVC at the GCV.






Hi girls.



I'm so glad you enjoyed and now have a pretty good idea of your tablemates on the cruise. Still want to sit with us? ​

Yeah, I was a little peeved but there wasn't anything I could do. I was surprised too. They were very busy I'm guessing. Knowing that, I was glad I left the meat. There was no way I would have cooked it after that as we like ir rare.



I really don't remember. We must have done online check in. We didn't go over, I know that.




It had too much mayo, the cheese was odd, not enough cranberry which I love, and too dry, not enough gravy. It was okay but next time, I'll totally church it up with more of the good stuff.



The boys and girls each had our own great days. That's what I love about Disney, plans can change, we can split, and meet again to share in each other's experiences, and have a great time.





That is awesome Michele!



I would be tempted by the Poly DVC as well.



As you should be. What an amazing kid.​

Thank you!

 

[rentayenta]

Absolutely! We're going to have fun!

I am so sorry it has taken me so embarrassingly long to reply. I am writing an update and realized I didn't respond. ​

Why did we finally join DVC?
I tried to buy resale but Disney exercised ROFR and bought the contract. Then we had a ton of unexpected expenses related to my MIL (don't get me started. don't get me started.) which made cash flow a little tighter. With resale it's pretty much a cash deal so that became more difficult.
We really like the idea of a villa at the Grand Floridian. It's such an elegant resort and I think it's someplace we'll enjoy in our older years. Then there is the fact that a family of 5 can stay in a studio. It's the only DVC where that is the case. So we can take a one week trip annually using our points without borrowing. A studio will be a little bit cozy with 5 people but it's still nice that we have enough points for an annual trip. Although I'm generally against financing a luxury purchase, we did choose to finance with the intention of paying it off quickly. We've already put 20+% down (and paid of the credit card) and I'm intending to pay another 20% or so when we get the closing documents. We will then pay off the remaining loan in the next 6-12 months. From a cash flow point of view this protects our savings but still allows us to buy in.

Amanda

Congrats Amanda, I am so happy for you. I don't judge how someone makes their purchases. Its impossible to compare families and circumstances etc....I'm so happy for you guys. The VGF look amazing and I can't wait to see real reports from some of us here.


Sorry about the MIL. I won't ask....​

There is a FB group I am part of, it's an offshoot of a DVC group so is specifically DVC runs Disney lol! I can send you an add. That's about it. Given how far away and new anythng really is that's about my level for now. Lots of cool chicks though...and a few guys too!

Thanks for the add. I have been reading like crazy. There is so much great info out there.​

I REALLY want to do the Princess. And yes, wear a tutu or a sparkly skirt! But it's over President's weekend. The 2014 one is simply too close to our NYE trip to be possible, plus it looks like I'll have an April DL trip for Evan's band and then our May trip. Even for me that's a bit much. Not to mention it's been sold out for quite some time. Add in work trips and fall in San Fran and I just can't make it work. 2015 Princesss is possible but I'm hoping to do family trip to Aulani then. I can maybe move that to spring break but it's a lot more points. 2016 Princess though, and Tink both...may be totally doable and both around the big birthday which could be cool. BUT that's also the year both kids will have their Ireland band trip so the $$ might not be there. So basically, realistically, the Labor Day 2014 DL 1/2 is the first one that works, timing wise. Not my first choice but it is easier to pop down there for it and not have it be a big trip so that's a plus, it will cost less overall though I'll have to pay cash for rooms for sure, no way will there be availability at 7m.

President's weekend won't work for me either but I wish it would. We've got Mexico the week before and Gabby's birthday is the 20th.

You may be surprised about the villa situation. There was room at 7 months and even almost a week in for my trip over Christmas this year (that's not going to happen). We've had good luck twice at the 7 month mark.​

No clue if everyone will go, definitely not something we are actively talking about right now. Part of me wants to do it on my own, part of me wants them there, it will come down to $$. It is likely at least 3 of will have been there in April but I'm not sure if Jeff will go on that trip if it happens or not and my suspicion is that he will decide he wants to go and cheer me on, just not run. I also firmly believe that once I do one...there will be more but I have NO desire to do anything longer than a 1/2. Then again I never had a desire to do a half so...

It always comes down to money. Sigh. I have no idea if my family will join me but I'm sure they'd like to. I have to figure in the May trip though and all of Michael's travels. Just found out today he'll be in Miami for a week this month. All of his stuff is so last minute. He wonders why I plan 18 months in advance. ​

As for the EE challenge, I believe it is May 3rd for 2014 but it's not announced yet. We will have state cup prelims that weekend so it's crappy timing. That would be fun. It's more scavenger hunt than run and sounds like a blast! I would LOVE to time our trip around it but am just not sure how I can make it work. Never know though...I'll keep an eye on it plus it's not like the state cup schedule is really out yet anyway.

Gosh, we'll barely miss it. I have no idea what Spring tournaments we'll play. Our club is huge but far less organized than yours.​

Check the site and check the app store too. There are some nice free couch to 5K programs and then the Galloway one.

​

Mine too. Jeff wants to run the princess with me if I can figure out a way to pull that one off. He has NO interest in the DL half though lol. I'm a bit leery of that, he is significantly faster without any training and if he started really training...all I'd do is hold him back. That said, for the princess (and I think Tink) the highest corral a guy can be in is C so we could potentially end up in different corals and then he could catch up which would be a riot. It would really really bug me to feel like I am holding him back pace wise and the reality is that our strides are different so it's awkward for him to go at my pace anyway. I do totally see it as an excuse for more Disney trips for sure!

Michael would walk with me to get me to do something like this. Seriously. Poor guy has tried to get me running for years. He said of course it took Disney but he's 100% supportive.

I can understand not wanting to hold Jeff back pace wise.​

Basically they will pick up folks that are going too slow. There are starting corals that let folks go in a certain order, assigned by your pace time that you turn in. The pace time has to be from a certified race within 2 years I think. If you don't turn in a time, or don't have one to turn in, you go to the last corral. Generally speaking the last ones will be mostly or all walkers I think. Obviously the higher corral you are in, the less congested it will be and theoretically, the faster you can make your way to the end, even with picture stops. The lines for pictures can be long (with characters) and that can really impact time.

Looks like I'll be in the last corral as I don;t see me doing one before this one. What's your pace?​

I don't have that gene either, though I do at work for sure. I do well with schedules in the sense that if I have a regular set workout schedule, I am more likely to actually go. With the running, if I have a plan, I am more likely to stick to it than just wandering along. I'll push myself...but only to a point. I know I "could" be training harder. I could be trying to run faster. I'm not pushing myself more than really a nudge at a time. I don't want to burn out and hate it and if I get too aggressive with it, that could happen. I am hoping the turtle approach will generate improvement over time but even if all it does is generate the ability to go the distance at my current pace, that will be acceptable.

You're outlook is so good. Its inspiring. You make it seem not so impossible.​

oh probably a lot of the same things you think about during yoga! Unless of course you are one of those people who can empty their mind. I am SO not that person. You name it it's running through my head.

What am I making for dinner? What is that idiot doing without a helmet? Don't ride your bike and talk on a cell phone dude! Yep, that's what happens, you fall off. Ugh there are gnats in my teeth! Mmmn A margarita will be lovely after this. Man I wish that light would change. I really need to go to the bathroom. I need to put a reminder in my phone for ADR's, look how pretty the lake is tonight. Darn my gps signal dropped. That rain feels good. I need to take this song off my playlist. What time does Erc/Evan need to be wherever? Did I update our calendar? I need to make a new playlist. I need to plan some routes for the longer runs. Only 3 more minutes till I am done. I feel pretty good, maybe I shouldn't stop. Only .25 miles to the bathroom!



It is seriously a constant stream of thought (for me) but set to music and is processing time. I'll think about the kids and more often than not an idea for something will come to me during the run.

I basically try not to fart during hot yoga and think about not farting. No really. Hot yoga moves everything around and farting in a stuffy sweaty 105* isn't fun. I also think a lot what posture I'm in.


In yoga I don;t clear my mind but more accept what thoughts come in and out of my mind. Trying to clear my mind actually stresses me out.​

Sounds good on paper anyway.... Jeff says I think too much. I say, what else is new![/QUOTE]

You are a planner and I say whatever works WORKS!​

Thank you!

Hope the rebuild is going smoothly. ​

 

[eandesmom]

Thanks for the add. I have been reading like crazy. There is so much great info out there.

It's a good group and full of a nice mix of experience, super supportive!

President's weekend won't work for me either but I wish it would. We've got Mexico the week before and Gabby's birthday is the 20th.

Yah, I would really love to do the Princess but I think the DL 1/2 will be fabulous! It's a much better time of year for me.

You may be surprised about the villa situation. There was room at 7 months and even almost a week in for my trip over Christmas this year (that's not going to happen). We've had good luck twice at the 7 month mark.

I am not worried about getting it for the April trip since our spring break is later than most (could have gotten it this year, I checked lol) but marathon weekend goes fast and early, I don't think anyone in the FB running group was successful, so it will either be using points at one of the resorts or cash, we will see. Part of it will depend on how many nights and what type of room we do in April as that will determine what I actually have avail!

It always comes down to money. Sigh. I have no idea if my family will join me but I'm sure they'd like to. I have to figure in the May trip though and all of Michael's travels. Just found out today he'll be in Miami for a week this month. All of his stuff is so last minute. He wonders why I plan 18 months in advance.

That and it helps to have it to look forward to!

Gosh, we'll barely miss it. I have no idea what Spring tournaments we'll play. Our club is huge but far less organized than yours.

Oh I don't know about tournaments yet, this is the State Cup one so its a pretty set thing every year.

Michael would walk with me to get me to do something like this. Seriously. Poor guy has tried to get me running for years. He said of course it took Disney but he's 100% supportive.

I can understand not wanting to hold Jeff back pace wise.

Jeff never tries as he and his ex used to fight a lot while running but I am pretty sure it is because she would get made when/if he didn't run at her pace. Me, I'm like GO! Lol. We start and end together, it works out.

Looks like I'll be in the last corral as I don;t see me doing one before this one. What's your pace?

Right now about 9:45 but I've never gone further than about 4.3 miles. I would like it to be faster. Will it? I have no idea, I am trying very hard not to focus on that right now but just enjoy and slowly amp up distance/time and add in some hills.

My sister wants to do a 5k in the fall with my brother and I so I will probably do that and then look for a 10k at some point. Not in a rush that's for sure!

You're outlook is so good. Its inspiring. You make it seem not so impossible.

Well I figure, heck I know, both of us could walk it and not get swept so anything better is gravy! I never ever thought I'd do this but plenty of others inspired me, annmarieda in particular, that it was possible. More than anything it was about figuring out a way to stay fit without losing my mind and it I could turn it into more Disney trips it definitely added to the motivation. Wanting to be able to wear swimsuits helped too, at least in spring and summer, we will see what happens when then weather gets nasty.

I basically try not to fart during hot yoga and think about not farting. No really. Hot yoga moves everything around and farting in a stuffy sweaty 105* isn't fun. I also think a lot what posture I'm in.

In yoga I don;t clear my mind but more accept what thoughts come in and out of my mind. Trying to clear my mind actually stresses me out.

I try not to fart while running. Or I used to, now I'm like whatever, lol! Actually that seems to not happen, now it's more about my nose running, bit I'm getting over that one too. I hear you, it was an issue in Pilates in certain positions. Thinking about your position is important, that helps avoid injuries! I have a few friends who have really injured themselves with hot yoga. My eyes can't take that heat so it's not something I'd do anyways but it seems so intense!

 

[rentayenta]

Before I continue, I wanted to add a few photos I found that sum up the hotness of the day and some that I plain missed (in no order or maybe even reverse order):





Looks like the girls ordered lemonade, I thought we all got waters but I was mistaken.









Back to AKV.......After we swam, we got back to the villa to find the girls sound asleep. We let the girls sleep for a while and found ourselves starving. Cereal time on the balcony:



Joshua was making some sort of goofy face in this photo. Michael must have taken it. I look atrocious but I think it’s funny. Basically you’ll find me in my robe, either at home or on vacation, when it’s downtime. No need for the sun to be down. I love my robes.

Tonight’s sunset was gorgeous:





Heading back to MK:



And back in MK:



Continued in next post....​

 

[rentayenta]

The only goal for the night was to see the fireworks and take about 200 castle photos. Mission accomplished!

These are all from my cell. I pretty much held my phone and clicked away. Michael offered to take photos with the big camera but I declined. I wanted him to enjoy the fireworks too.









































That’s only about 1/10 of the photos I took.

After the fireworks we headed to Space Mountain. I swear these never get old:





After Space, the big kids wanted to go on Splash. Joshua isn’t a fan of getting soaked at night.



On the way out we did a little bit of shopping. While I didn’t buy this, I think it’s hilaripus:



Continued in next post....​

 

[rentayenta]

And of course this would be our last night for fireworks and MK. Its always so bittersweet. Glad to have had an amazing trip but sad for that final castle kiss goodnight.



I honestly can’t tell if this is coming or going so I’m going to pretend it’s from our way out.



We took the bus back to AKV. We were all pretty beat at this time but not too tired for cookies.





It was another WDW day for the books.





I wasn’t sure whether or not to add this to the beginning of this update or the end. At AKV they have Kingpin who trades pins. I thought those of you who pin trade or who have kids who trade might appreciate these. He was at Jambo House.

He layed out the red carpet and the kids all took turns trading. I think the carpet keeps the kids in line. They said it was really fun.



















Up next: Disney’s YES program and our last park day.


​

 

[PrincessInOz]

Great memories. Love the one of the mob down main street.

Last day?

 

[MEK]

Beautiful sunset at Kidani! I love that!

Love you goofy pictures from that afternoon. I guess it was hot out, huh?

Nice phone pictures and the castle and fireworks. I remember that Cynthia's turned out really well too. I was kind of disappointed that I never took any. Sigh!

Last visit to MK is always hard. Great groups shots on Main Street.

 

[DrMomof3]

Great family pictures!
Love the fireworks photos!!!!
Last day of vacation is terribly sad.

Amanda

 

[franandaj]

I know what you mean on the whole bittersweet part of the end of vacation. Love the picturws on Main street! You guys have had an amazing trip so far. This is the point where regardless of how great the trip has been, I start to miss our kitties.

I'm looking forward to see how you make the most of your last day.

 

[Pinkocto]

I am so sorry it has taken me so embarrassingly long to reply. I am writing an update and realized I didn't respond. ​

No worries! I don't expect people to respond to everything



That looked like a HOT day! Gorgeous castle pictures. Late night cookies at the villa, life doesn't get any better than that