Official 2011 Princess Half Thread Part II!!!

[Jeannekay]

That is my issue too. I use to be a morning runner but then my sister wanted to start running with me and she liked to run later in the day and since we have 6 kids between the 2 of us child care was an issue and she ended up winning. As the runs got longer I have tried to do them in the morning but then I have been struggling with getting up and getting enough to eat before I head out.

It was nice running early! I could shower and dress up nicely and be free for the rest of the day! I like that change!

I have a nike BB hat for runner's that would be good to keep the rain off of me/or protection from the sun. I was thinking of attaching my tiara to it with a needle and thread. How warm would a nike bb hat vs. a regular winter hat that I could throw to the road later on?

 

[saysay]

I am so honored to be in this race with you all. So many amazing stories, since you shared, I will share mine.

My mom died when she was 55 or a heart attack..I was 20. My oldest brother died of a heart attack on the job 5 years ago at 53. Both were smokers and didn't lead very active lifestyles and ate horribly because they could...had that amazing metabolism where they could eat anything and stay thin.

Anyhoo, at 46 decided to give running a try again...its been 10 years. I have never been fast, but did complete 2 1/2 marathons when I was dating a running doing the galloway method. I wanted to do something for cardio to get my heart strong so I can be around for my DD who is 4...it was hard to lose my mom so young and so suddenly. I started with C25k and found it reminded me of my dad who passed away 2 years ago at 82. He was a walking and walked everyday until about 6 months before he passed. He would get up early and go around the hood...as he got older, when the weather was cold or rainy he would walk the halls in the building he lived in. I think of him often when I am out - esp early in the morning as that was when he exercised. I have some songs that remind me of all the family members that have passed and enjoy remembering them and the good times when I am out.

The PF that hit my foot after my 10.5 run last month totally bummed me out. I was really depressed, but finally think I came full circle. I stopped feeling sorry for myself because I have so much to be thankful for its stupid for me to be depressed because I might not be able to finish this race. I am also ashamed of hot down I got...I mean I am still going on a girls trip to Disney. I am going to try the race and hoping to finish, but if I make it to the Castle I will be thrilled....every step after that will be gravy.

I had a good bike workout yesterday but was dizzy when I got off....umm, this afternoon, have a low fever right and aches and chest congestion. At least I know its not because I have lost my cardio capability. I laughed when I got up this morning feeling a little sick....its gotten worse during the day...but it will pass. I have not been able to train really for a month....its pretty painful on my foot. But thanks to the support of friends and you all, I am just going to go for it and enjoy every second whatever the outcome...though lately I am envisioning myself crossing the finish line!

Those of you who train in the freezing cold, or on an indoor track, or on a treadmill....you amaze me. I love running as its connected me with how much I love being outside. I don't know if I would have the perseverance if I had to train inside. Thanks for all you have done for me. This race is going to be a blast.

and yeah, the 4 year old has NO idea I am going to WDW without her. She is well aware of what that park is also as we went last year and went to Disneyland 2 times. I don't want to hear that whining. And I deserve a fun weekend!

 

[v22wifey]

wonderful, beautiful and inspiring stories from you all!!! What an accomplishment to work so hard and know that at the end of this, you will have their memories, your milestones there.
I don't have a story really. It's superficial for me. A year and a 1/2 ago I got the reality check that I was overweight, on the wrong track and needed a life change fast before something terrible pushed me to the point of no return. My husband had come home from another deployment, I gained 20+lbs and was depressed. I decided with this current deployment that I was going to change. I'm now 25lbs lighter (only 10lbs to go!), my hair is longer and he's going to be in for such a surprise when he sees the change in ME at the end of spring when he returns and my own accomplishments of setting a goal and STICKING with it!!! (I'm notorious for caving in). I'm not just doing this 1/2, but I'm doing one in March too (VA beach Shamrock) and signed up for a 10k in May.
I've started something fun, healthy (that I NEVER thought I could do) and it's so wonderful to be able to do with such inspiring women

 

[haleofafamily]

Thanks so much for all the kind words after I shared my story.

I have been wanting to tell y'all about it but didn't know where to start. When SharBear4 opened up it gave me the courage to as well. I have been inspired by everyone else's stories.

Even though I don't really know y'all, I feel a kinship because of this journey we are on together. I have appreciated the advice, encouragement and struggles you all have shared.

I hope to get a chance to meet some of you over the weekend. I will be getting our shirts next week and will try to post a picture. If you see me please say hi!

Merci

 

[slp1650]

All these stories have been quite inspiring!

When I was 13 I was diagnosed with a simple knee issue; I have a membrane connecting my knee cap to my knee. While I can't give you the name of what it's called, apparently it happens to 15% of people. My muscles then attached to the membrane and with all of my physical activities (swimming, horseback riding, cycling), they started pulling and inflaming the membrane. My doctor told me I would never be able to run or swim breaststroke again unless I got a surgery to take the membrane out. My swim coach didn't accept the answer (nor did my parents or I) and so he had me see a chiropractor who was linked to the team. Through physical therapy I was able to begin running again, although I never did swim breaststroke again.

A year after the initial diagnosis I was competing in triathlons. Although I never really got very good at running I was able to start enjoying it. After quitting swimming 2 years into college I got back into Triathlons. I started enjoying running again and decided to sign up for the Disneyland Half Marathon as a challenge.

Of course in March I competed in my school's triathlon and tightened the muscle behind my knee so much I could barely run a mile. My new coach had me call a physical therapist who was an alumni of the team. After one appointment I was able to run again. I am still seeing my PT and he helps me with all my problems (I have since had ankle and calf problems as well) as well as working on strength training.

I was never supposed to be able to run, but I'm not the type of person to lay down and let someone tell me I can't do something. I really want to go back to the knee specialist, show him my medals and tell him he should be careful in telling people that there's no chance in doing something when there is.

I know my story isn't as dramatic as some of the others (which I applaud and cheer everyone on for), but it's still my inspiration for running these races. So ladies (and those gentleman in the race) let's go out there and run it for our loved ones and ourselves!

 

[queen mimi]

wow! you guys! those were some really amazing stories. thank you for sharing. i will think of them when i'm doing the race for sure!

my reason for doing the princess half is not as romantic or inspiring of a story. i just needed a reason to get off my butt and stop being so lazy. plus, it let me go to disney again! lol!

i ran 4 freezing cold miles yesterday. the wind was SO strong along the water and under the throgs neck bridge that i was literally sprinting for a good part of it and going nowhere! it was awful. the tears were flying out of my eyes. i got home and my girlfriend's 13 year old daughter who came over to watch my little guy asked me if i had been crying! lol!

i checked the weather and the temp said 23 but it said the windchill 2! yeah, no kidding!

I was out today in the wind, also. I am not a fast runner. At one point, the wind was so strong that I realized I was jogging in place!!! But I did get my 11 miles done. hooray!! One more long run next week, then the Princess. Hope it's not windy...

Meg

 

[queen mimi]

Supportive thoughts for all of you who have shared such meaningful stories. You are an inspiration to all of us.

Meg

 

[sabnrob06]

I am 14546. My friend is in the 7000's. I think she may start in my corral just so we can start together but we do not run at the same pace. What is your pace? I am between 12:45-13:15 minute mile. Slow but steady! If you are running at this pace - I'd love to have a buddy to run with!

Thanks for taking the time to post that.

Is there anyone out there with a high bib number (I'm 14863), who's still looking for a race buddy? I know it's getting close, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Hopefully there's still someone out there who's like me and doesn't want to run alone!

I have a large number also- 14874 and my two friends I am going with are in the 8000 and 9000. We will start together but I am sure they will leave me in their dust.

I am really touched by the amazing stoies some of you have shared. You truly are inspirational. I don't have a story to tell. I just decided I needed to lose some weight, get healthy and move my butt! I turn 40 this year, not unitil December, but doing a 1/2 marathon is on my "bucket list". I have been slacking on the training and am just hoping I can finish it!

 

[ingefan]

I wish I could do all running! I'm planning to do 3 minutes of walking with either 1 minute of running, or 2 minutes. I'm not exactly sure yet.[/QUOTE]

That is exactly my plan too! Send me a message . . .

 

[mikamah]

Good evening fellow princesses. I don't post here very often, but have been following along since I signed up for the princess.

I am so touched by the stories you all have shared and the obstacles you've overcome, and I know that the loved ones you've lost will be in your hearts and watching over you as you run the princess.

I lost my mom in june of 2009, and last winter was having a tough time with depression, tried some meds that didn't help, and I decided to try the c25k program and see if I the regular exercise could help with it. I know they say time does heal, and the running was a big focus for me as I reached her one year anniversary, and I ran my first 5k that month. Having the princess as a goal truly helped to keep me going. I didn't grow up in a very active family, and I want to be around for my son for a long time, and be an active and healthy mom. I know my mom would have probably rolled her eyes at me when I told her I was doing a half marathon, but I also know she will be watching over me with pride.

I'm still over 200#, and run/walking 2/1 or 3/1 intervals for my long runs, and averaging a 15min/mile pace. My bib is 13,648 and I'll be seeing some of you at the back of the race.

Remember slow and steady, and we can do anything we set our minds to.

Thank you for all that you share. This is truly an inspiring group.

 

[Jeannekay]

Wow, thanks for sharing the touching stories, guys. Isn't it amazing how one can find so much strength in the face of sorrow? So amazing that you guys were able to channel that energy into something so positive and healthy.

When I will look at all of the women running alongside me at the Princess half, I take comfort in knowing we are all sensitive and caring women. That we have had struggles to overcome and are trying our best to be happy and healthy women.

 

[SharBear4]

We all have a story and it brings tears to my eyes reading these. I have never felt like a princess, but feel I am transforming from preparing for this race. It doesn't matter how fast or slow we are; it is such an accomplishment!

I hope everyone running/walking feels like a princess that day and forever! Women rock! And we can accomplish wonderful things together!

 

[Swmr359]

I was never supposed to be able to run, but I'm not the type of person to lay down and let someone tell me I can't do something. I really want to go back to the knee specialist, show him my medals and tell him he should be careful in telling people that there's no chance in doing something when there is.

I know how you feel; I was told to stop swimming a few years ago....yeah didn't happen I'm back on the team I swam for in high school swimming with high schoolers again! (I did stop for a bit, and then discovered I had asthma, and the swimming was keeping it from being a problem)

I too am enjoying everyone's stories (well not enjoying, but I hope you know what I mean). You guys have pressed through some tough stuff.
I don't have a story, just want to go back to WDW and get another pretty medal!

 

[SharBear4]

That medal! Very pretty girly bling! I'm wearing mine all day!

 

[Bookwood]

My plan for the race is in the toilet! I still plan to start but my run 8 walk 2 is gone! I was just getting back into reasonable shape from the cruise and broke my pinky toe a week ago tuesday. I'm going to try to actually run again for the first time today- wore shoes for the first time all day yesterday (old running shoes). I have been doing a bit of cardio on an elliptical (one without a wide step so my toe didn't have to bend). This weekend I plan to do 8 hoping I can run at least as much as I walk.

 

[Saylan]

I'm trying to order a spibelt (which may or may not arrive in time) and I'm not sure which one to get, but I remembered a few of you Princesses have experience with them.

It's really a toss up between the original one, the one with a pocket on each side, and the energy one. For anyone using one now, how did you decide? I saw you can also get a water bottle attachment but from the picture I can't figure out how it attaches in a way that would allow you to use the bottle.

 

[Jeannekay]

My plan for the race is in the toilet! I still plan to start but my run 8 walk 2 is gone! I was just getting back into reasonable shape from the cruise and broke my pinky toe a week ago tuesday. I'm going to try to actually run again for the first time today- wore shoes for the first time all day yesterday (old running shoes). I have been doing a bit of cardio on an elliptical (one without a wide step so my toe didn't have to bend). This weekend I plan to do 8 hoping I can run at least as much as I walk.

Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry! That toe must hurt a lot!! Maybe by the 27th it will be okay. Maybe Google can find ways professional athletes handle stuff like that.
My big toe is a little swollen. Maybe from running the 12 last Sunday? On a scale of 1-10, I'd say it's a 1. I'll ice it and rest today. I have so many shows to watch on my DVR thing and a Netflix.

When I took my son to school this morning at 7:30, the cold air took my breath away!! I don't know how people run or even walk in this weather! The temp says -4 with a windchill of -10. I saw two walkers!

Jogged my 5 this morning on the (TM). I skipped Monday and Tuesday's workouts.

I bought a belt at Dick's that holds two water bottles. It has a small zippered pocket for a few things. I like it because the belt is a little stretchy and I put it around my hips. When it's around my waist, it interfers with my comfort and breathing.

I can't wait to go on vacation!!

 

[HockeyKat]

I'm trying to order a spibelt (which may or may not arrive in time) and I'm not sure which one to get, but I remembered a few of you Princesses have experience with them.

It's really a toss up between the original one, the one with a pocket on each side, and the energy one. For anyone using one now, how did you decide? I saw you can also get a water bottle attachment but from the picture I can't figure out how it attaches in a way that would allow you to use the bottle.

I have the original one, water resistant. I bought mine at the Princess expo last year, so you may want to wait until the expo? That way you can try them on, plus you will save shipping.

 

[crystalight33]

I'm trying to order a spibelt (which may or may not arrive in time) and I'm not sure which one to get, but I remembered a few of you Princesses have experience with them.

It's really a toss up between the original one, the one with a pocket on each side, and the energy one. For anyone using one now, how did you decide? I saw you can also get a water bottle attachment but from the picture I can't figure out how it attaches in a way that would allow you to use the bottle.

According to the race program, SPIbelt will be at the expo, so you could wait until you get there to decide which one you want (plus you won't be worrying if it will get there in time). I'm planning to look at them at the expo and decide if I want one as well. I just don't want to feel like a pack mule during the race...

I had my first race dream last night! I'd just finished the race and was feeling great and when they gave me my medal they said that they had run out! So, they gave me a little kiddie necklace (where it is just a piece of rainbow colored string) with a little plastic disc as the medal with Piglet's head on it. I was soooo disappointed, lol. So, apparently, it is ALL about the bling in my sub-conscience

 

[haleofafamily]

I had my first race dream last night! I'd just finished the race and was feeling great and when they gave me my medal they said that they had run out! So, they gave me a little kiddie necklace (where it is just a piece of rainbow colored string) with a little plastic disc as the medal with Piglet's head on it. I was soooo disappointed, lol. So, apparently, it is ALL about the bling in my sub-conscience

My race dream was about the shirt. I dreamed we got to the expo and when we got the shirts they were sooo ugly. I probably dreamed it because at our 10k the shirts they gave out were possibly the ugliest I have ever seen. The medal was also pretty pathetic.

So I am apparently more concerned with the shirt than with finishing...

Merci