*RECAP* The "Moderately Challenging" Boston Prep 16-Miler

You know a race is going to kick your butt when it is humorously called "moderately challenging."

The Great Derry Track Club (New Hampshire) has put on the Boston Prep 16-Miler for the past 20 years.

My friend and Tedy's Team teammate Page brought the race up to me late in 2014 as a great "confidence boosting run" in prep for Boston.

Read as: It is wicked hilly. You will hate me while it is happening, but will feel better about yourself and Heartbreak Hill afterwards.

Spoiler Alert: She was 100% right!

Since I am a race pusher ;) I convinced my friend Lori to also sign up for the race. Lori is running her first Boston Marathon so I thought this would be a great race for her too. It would be her longest distance to date. Might as well go big, right? :P

I made sure to get the knees ready for a tough run with my trusty KT Tape!

Page, Lori and I took the drive from Boston to Derry, NH to tackle the hills. It was great to have some built-in support.

We easily parked at a local school and took the quick 2-minute walk to race HQ - aka West Running Brook Middle School.

The gym was a buzz with excitement, while my stomach was a buzz with nerves.

Now I know that I can stop running and walk at any point in a race, but for some reason I was freakin' out on this particular morning. I think I had built the challenge up in my head that I was psyching myself out.

I tried to distract myself by chatting with Lynn the race director and meeting some new friends. Okay "meeting new friends" isn't the right term. I basically went over and talked to two people that I had recognized from a handful of previous races I had done in the NH/Maine area over the last few months. Not sure where my confidence came from to go introduce myself, but I had to do it. I had seen them so many times I felt like I knew them. Sooo thanks Beth for at least not calling me a creeper to my face. ;)

We opted to toss our sweet swag - long-sleeved tech t-shirt and fleece neck warmer - in the car before heading to the Start. The Start was actually around the corner from the school on Humphrey Street. You could totally tell the folks that drove up from Boston since we all oohhed and ahhhed over the horse next to the Start. Oh city folk.

The field had 350 runners, which seemed to be smaller than year's past, but we did have poor weather that weekend so a lower turnout was expected.

Lori, Page and I were as ready as we could be for the run. There was a group of runners near us proclaiming loudly about how charity runners don't believe in Boston. As three charity runners, we scowled at him, but didn't let him steal our thunder.

The race had a small horn to signify the Start and we were off. We wished Lori a good run and Page and I headed off. I love finding someone that I can easily run with. Page is exactly that way. We fall into an easy rhythm and don't have to worry about pace. Especially on this day. It wasn't a race, but a really hilly training run. ;)

If you are going to have a tough training run, it's awesome when it is scenic... and New Hampshire does NOT disappoint.

Mile 1: 9:47 Mile 2: 8:32

While enjoying a few rolling hills in New Hampshire, we ran into our friend Julia!

She is prepping for the LA Marathon, which goes down March 15.

Mile 3: 8:35 Mile 4: 8:32

The roads were open to the traffic and with a recent snowfall the roads were tight. I can tell you there were quite a few cars taking the turns waaayyy too fast for the conditions and the amount of runners on the road. You would think with this being the 20th time this race was put on that the residents would be used to it. I guess not everyone was.

At least the hills were always visible so you could mentally prep for the next while coming off the current one. ;)

As much as I mention how almost every race in New England is compiled of "rolling hills," they create some glorious views.

Mile 5: 9:06 Mile 6: 8:39

I was really encouraged with how strong I was feeling on the run. The hills weren't putting up as much of a fight as I expected. Well I was being cautious since the rumor was the worst hill was near the end.

Prior to the race, my goal was to not walk up any of the hills. I didn't care how slow I jogged/ran up the hill I wanted to keep running/jogging. It was a much-needed pact with myself since many folks around us started walking. When I see others walking there is something in my brain saying that it's okay for me to do that too - even if I don't want to or feel amazing.

So this picture captures how awesome I felt after each hill was conquered. Grrrrr-eat!!

Mile 7: 9:48 Mile 8: 8:42

After we reached the halfway mark, I wanted to tell myself it was all downhill from there... but I'd be lying to myself. Oh I crack me up. :P

I couldn't believe we were halfway through the race already. It hadn't felt like 8 miles had come and gone. That is a good thing, right? It must mean all this training is paying off.

Mile 9: 8:46

Just after the Mile 9 water stop, we took a second to stretch, re-tie the shoes and have snack break (GU for Page and KIND bar for me). It was a nice little break before the rougher part of the course started.

Mile 10: 10:26

During the run, we started chatting with a local woman, who kindly let me know the worst inclines would be during Miles 10 and 12-13. Oh joy! I kind of liked living in the world of the unknowing and just waiting to see when the worst would hit.

But I was mentally prepped.

Page opted to listen to music during this stretch as her way to "get pumped." I opted to quietly curse while plugging along. I thought of good things like beer and my amazing Stroke Heroes to try and make the hill a little less daunting.

In reality? It was tough. I kept repeating: "Just F&*#kin' Move Forward." I am not one to wax poetically during a run so I kept it simple. :P

Plus the sun was shining and I was healthy. I really couldn't complain.

Mile 11: 8:55

Mile 12: 10:36 Mile 13: 10:25

Hellz yeah!! I did it! I was wicked proud of myself for tackling and owning Warner Hill Road. I may or may not have done a fist pump when I finally reached the top. :)

My left hamstring was sore, but no sorer than any other run I have done since injuring it in May. I do believe the strength training is finally working it's magic.

I'm not going to lie when we hit the half marathon mark I wanted to be done. Haha. I was ready to be in post-race mode. But Page and I agreed it was a good chance to get in a nice 3-mile recovery run. ;)

Page was having some side stitch and hamstring issues of her own so we opted for a little run/walk during the next 2 miles to stretch it out. She told me to go ahead. Ummm gurl I wasn't winning the race NOR would I leave her after rocking 14 miles together. I don't play that way. She was stuck with me.

Mile 14: 9:07 Mile 15: 9:27

I started talking about my possible Run Disney Princess weekend costumes to try and distract her from the pain. And you know what? It worked for almost 3/4 of a mile before she realized I was distracting her. Go me!

She was ready to finish strong and we did. We hustled our way up that final incline to the Finish!

Mile 16: 8:39

There wasn't a huge crowd at the Finish, but the announcer did announce our names and where we were from when we crossed. Yay! I liked the personal touch.

The official time would be slower than my Garmin as the race was a GUN time not a Chip time.

In my mind I am taking the Garmin time as official since it did take us at least 30+ seconds to actually cross the Start line.

Once over the Finish Line, we shot right in to the School cafeteria to get food. The race offered Domino's Pizza, sandwich wraps, Dunkin Donuts munchkins, bananas, chili and soup. Lots of food. Sadly no beer, but I didn't expect it in a middle school. The only thing that looked mildly appealing was the pizza and we both went for that before taking some laps around the cafeteria to keep the legs moving.

We decided to walk to the car to get Lori's clothes so she could change before the ride back. Man the little incline back from the parking lot felt a lot worse post-run. :P

Lori did an awesome job coming in right around 2 hours and 51 minutes. I was so proud of her.

We watched a little of the awards ceremony before making our way back home to get a celebratory beer at Slumbrew! :)

***

Overall, the race had a great fun local feel and it was cool to chat with a bunch of other runners training for the same race. Many around us were also charity runners so it was great swapping fundraising ideas and tips.

I was also happy to hear race proceeds benefited the Greater Derry Track Club Kids Summer Fun Run Program.

I do wish the roads were a little more closed or additional precautions were taken to ensure runner safety. I know it is par for the course in smaller local races, but there were some occasions where the cars were a little too close for comfort. Thankfully cops and volunteers were stationed at major intersections and turns.

I was surprised to not see any EMTs on bikes. Now I don't know if they were in any of the cars passing us or not, but I didn't notice any medical personnel along the course.

There were four water stops and 2 GU spots during the 16-mile course, which felt like enough on that day.

***

So the big question is: would I recommend this race to someone else running Boston? AB-so-lutely!! It really was the confidence booster that Page claimed it would be. So yes if you are ever training for Boston, I highly recommend signing up for this run AND supporting a local running club. Just be sure to bring your phone with you!!

Disneyland Part 4: Star Wars Half Marathon

It was finally time for the third and final installment of the Run Disney Star Wars race weekend - the Star Wars Half Marathon. If you are looking to catch up, here are the first three recaps: LA Sun & Expo Fun, 5k and 10k.

All caught up?

Yes?

Are you sure?

I can wait.

Nevermind. I can't! :P

Once again the race was set to start at 5:30am so the alarm trilled off at 4am for a third-straight morning. Thank goodness that 4am felt like 7am to these East Coasters. :P

I went through the normal routine: scroll through social media, drink some water, eat part of my KIND bar, put costume on and take pre-race photo.

The black eye worked the best with the Vader costume in my opinion. So I was freaking out about this costume because guess who left their black tank top at home? Oh yes this girl. So the black tank top I have on in this photo was bought for $10 at the ABC mart around the corner from our hotel the previous afternoon. It is actually inside out as the other side said "California" in block letters.

I know I know. No new gear on race day, but this was life or death. Well not really life or death, but a necessity. I was just hoping it would work. *Fingers Crossed*

We left the hotel at 4:45am, I dropped the nervous wife off at Corral E and made my way up to Corral A. I actually ran into a friend who was ALSO dressed as Vader. Why hello photo op! ;)

She went off to Corral B and I continued the trek to Corral A. So much space in between each corral. :P

I shimmied my way up to the Start Announcer area again and hung out waiting for the fun to start.

Carissa and Rudy apparently had enough of the costumes by the time the Half rolled around. ;)

It took some energy to drown out the people around me trying to one up each other with their finishing times. I'm not a fan of braggy people. Can't we all just celebrate being healthy enough to be participating?

I was trying to stay in a fully positive, I am lucky to be here frame of mind. I know everyone races for different reasons so I wanted to wish them well, but they were being a little pushy with trying to get up to the very front of the Start Line. So I focused on taking pictures. :)

And before I knew it... it was time to tackle the final adventure!

Here's the course for the Star Wars Half.

The plan for the race? Stop for all the character pics. I figured they would mostly be inside the parks (and that is what others alluded to) then I would be able to just kind of run once out in the streets.

The race opened the same way as the other two: with a nice incline up a ramp.

Mile 1: 8:45

It was dark out, but I was still super impressed by some of the costumes folks put together for the race. I also realized a lot of folks in the first corral were looking to really race the Half and possibly PR. Now I hoped that would lead to shorter character pic lines.

I would be proven very very wrong. :P

Since running in the road in the dark isn't all that exciting I am lacking pics from the first couple of miles.

Mile 2: 8:53

I try to take pics of every mile marker to remind me which characters/parks I was at when.

Here was my first instance of running past a photo op and having to back track to it. I didn't notice you could take a Castle pic so I snapped my Mile 2 photo than ran back to the Castle.

Good thing I don't mind extra running. ;)

Not sure where the official photo is (didn't see it online), but here is the iPhone version. I was starting to test out ways to hold the Cape to show off it's awesomeness.

As we came up to the first character stop - Luke and Leia - the line looked short. Until I went to turn into it and realized it was already twisting and turning - like a ride. Ooohhh k. This is how the morning would go. I'm ready for it.

Yes this was worth the wait. Also do you like my "I'm trying to look serious" face?

As we passed my the carousel in Fantasyland, I spotted a few Storm Troopers. You weren't supposed to stop and take photos, but I couldn't pass up a selfie moment with my guys.

Then I spotted a guy running in a FULL Chewie costume. I tried to take a mid-run selfie with him, but then I liked the blurriness of this action photo too much to shoot another.

And just after taking this photo, the next character op - Chewie! :)

While heading from Fantasyland to Tomorrowland, we had another opportunity to take a Castle pic. Which do you like better?

Yeah I'm going with #1 as well. :P Haha.

Just after we entered Tomorrowland, there he was and there the line was. Vader and his crew was set up in front of Star Tours and I entered the longest character line I have ever seen during a Run Disney race. This would be awhile. I started chatting with the folks near me, cheering on my fellow runners and texting with friends while we waited. I would wait as long as I needed.

It was worth it! Vader met Vader. :)

As we headed out of Disneyland, I stopped to take one last iconic photo. I do wish Marathon Foto was there since my phone didn't offer enough light to capture the awesomeness.

We said adios to Disneyland and made our way to California Adventure.

Mile 3: 36:22 (oh yeah baby - you are reading that correctly)

5k Split: 1:00:43

Made sure to say hi to the Jedis before snapping a selfie with my two favorite Storm Trooper Tinks!

While waiting in line for the Gamorean Guard photo, I was chatting with one of the cast members who actually remembered me from the previous day. He had taken my photo at another stop during the 10k. I'm guessing the black eye made me memorable.

The sun was starting to come up now and I was able to snap a pic while waiting in line for a pic with the Storm Troopers. Doesn't this look like it could be a backdrop on a set? Like Disneyland painted it?

I also thought it was time to grab a selfie with the folks kicking some booty!

Mess with me... mess with my troopers.

Thankfully all the stopping and standing around hadn't gotten to my legs yet. I made sure to continue to move and stretch while in all of the photo lines. Especially since I had a lot of miles left.

I mean how can I get angry at getting up at 4am to run when this view is part of the course?

Hello from Paradise Pier!

I mean hello.

It was at this moment that I ran into Ivie, AJ and Kara. This was a great chance to finally meet Kara in real life! We have been twitter friends, but missed connecting earlier in the weekend. She is a fellow AOII (Alpha Omicron Pi) and an all-around amazing person.

Photo swiped from Kara who may have swiped from Ivie.

My name is Dani and I am unable to look normal in a photo!

After chatting with them, we remembered we were in the middle of a race and should probably keep moving. Love seeing friends. I get sidetracked. So off we went. :)

Another stop for Jedis before...

Mile 4: 23:29

Now I knew our park time would be coming to a close soon so I tried to soak up as much Disneyland magic before heading to the streets of Anaheim.

Thankfully we had Cars Land up next.

Just before we exited the park, I saw one of the best signs so far.

It made me think of my wife and wonder how she was doing. Her legs were tired pre-race, but I hoped she would be able to dig deep and finish the Rebel Challenge.

It was finally time to hit the streets of Anaheim. I had no idea what to expect from this point on. I knew the course would be flat the rest of the way so I was appreciative of that.

While running down Harbor Boulevard, you could see the leaders making their way back towards Disneyland and the Finish. I love out and back courses like that. I was cheering loudly for them as they effortlessly (at least it looked that way) ran towards their medals. :)

Mile 5: 10:26

The first band looked awesome.

They were lively, energetic and playing some great tunes.

They also happened to have a bathroom. So I took the opportunity to stop, drop and port-o-potty!

<<Patting self on back>> perfect decision

Mile 6: 11:58

With a little spring in my step, I soldiered on.

10k Split: 1:46:02

The road was nice and wide so I spent some time bobbing and weaving through the crowd to find a nice hole where I could get into a nice running rhythm. I had spent so much time in line I was now way back in the crowds, which was fun to see everyone costumes. :)

The energy along the street was contagious.

I just wanted to jump in and attempt my own flag flying... but opted not to since these girls were rocking it!

Mile 7: 9:01

Ahhh how could the race be over halfway over. But I was having too much fun out there for it to end.

Apparently I was having so much fun that I forgot to take a pic of the Mile 8 marker. Whhaa?? How do you all know I saw it and passed it if I didn't take a pic. <>

The Mile 8 area also doubled as a water stop/Clif Gu stop. Don't worry I have pics of that.

Remember to hydrate folks!

Mile 8: 8:38

Now I had heard a rumor from past Avengers half participants that there may be some Cosplayers would be out during Mile 9. I was ready and freakin' impressed. Their costumes were ah-may-zing. They were happily taking photos with everyone.

It was a great photo opp especially for those folks that didn't have the luxury or didn't want to wait for pics inside the parks.

Additionally during Mile 9, I got to meet Elvis,

Trying to make an Uh Huh face

take candy from strangers,

and take a selfie with my friend Chris!

Also! How awesome are these signs?

Mile 9: 11:49

15k Split: 2:22:46

How could there only be 4 miles left in the fun?

We made our way through the residential neighborhoods and had some great spectators out on Chapman Avenue.

Mile 10: 14:23

**Note since I had gone back and forth in previous miles, my Garmin was ahead of the mile markers. Hi tangents! Therefore my Garmin had the character stops also on my Mile 10. Does that make sense? It will make more sense when I show my actual mileage at the end. :)

It was inspiring seeing how many folks out on the course were completing their Coast 2 Coast already! There were a number of folks that had their Dopey Challenge bibs from the previous week on their backs. Absolutely amazing and motivating.

I had to kick it up a notch.

My legs were feeling great. I was pleased I wore my Zensah compression sleeves for the race. They really kept my legs feeling fresh.

The high school and college cheerleaders and bands were doing an amazing job. Big ups to them for staying so positive and energetic for as long as they were out there!

Sometimes I think spectating can be harder than running.

Mile 11: 8:32

Oh a third Chewie to take a picture with during the same race? Yes please.

Mile 12: 9:04

And here we were. The final mile of the weekend.

I wasn't ready for the fun to be over.

Just before turning from Katelaa to Disneyland Drive and the Finish Area, I spotted a few folks and donuts I needed to take pics with.

I regret not eating a donut at the time. Thanks Sparkle Athletic for fueling the participants!!

Mile 13: 8:04

With being that close to the Finish, I was focusing on making a cool Finish Line photo and not snapping the Mile 13 marker. I had my cape flowing behind me ready to get that awesome photo when...

... I spotted Darth Goofy and lost my shit! :P I had to scramble to get my phone out and the photog caught this lovely pic. Oof!

... I had to snap a selfie with him right before the Finish Line.

And his hand is on my shoulder since that is apparently not allowed and he was guiding me towards the Finish. ;) It was worth it.

Even if this is the Finish photo I ended up with.

Finish Time: 2:55:11 Clock Time: 2:55:17

So again I started 6 seconds after the clock started. Cool!

Now you can see why my Garmin numbers were off of official Mile Markers as I added in about 0.6 miles of fun! :)

Yay the bling!

Oh and the Rebel Challenge medal. Just gorgeous.

I grabbed my water, snack box, banana and headed to the Party Area. But it wasn't my final destination.

Our plan was I would finish the race, head to Disneyland, grab us Fantasmic Fast Passes for later that night and then come back to see Tori finish her race.

Well I got to Disneyland 10 minutes before it opened so I spent the time explaining to folks coming up to me why I was dressed as Darth Vader, why I was wearing a bib and why I had medals. :)

Then found out the Fast Passes we wanted weren't available yet.

Sooo I grabbed a Castle selfie, got coffee and made my way back to the Finish Line.

Tori was texting me that she was hurting and getting close to the Finish Line. So I hustled myself back just in time to see her cross! Ahhh I was so proud. I was crying for her.

We went right to First Aid to get her some ice before heading back to our hotel to clean up before Park time.

***

Overall the race for me was amazing. It was worth the wait in lines even though it was pretty much the same characters all three days. I DO wish they had Disney characters dressed up as Star Wars characters along the course.

The Cosplayers during Mile 9 more than made up for a lack of characters at the beginning of the race. This was also a great opportunity for people to snap photos that didn't have the luxury of waiting earlier in the race due to time restraints for Finishing.

The water stops were plentiful and full of energy. The streets of Anaheim were alive and not boring as I had anticipated.

The bling was out of this world.

Do I wish there was more time spent in the parks? Of course. But Disneyland doesn't have as much park space to work with as Disney World.

I loved that you could easily walk to the corrals without having to take shuttles.

I was disappointed with lack of useable action shots from the Marathon Foto folks. Hence most of my pics in the recap were selfies outside of character stops.

I wish the Finishers' snack box had more edible treats. Of everything in there I only found the tortilla chips appealing.

The course was mainly flat outside of some inclines at the beginning.

***

Next up? #RebelTweetup.

Disneyland Part 3: Star Wars 10k

After an amazing time at the Star Wars 5k, I couldn't wait to tackle the 10k course! On Saturday, January 17, I woke up again at 4am to prep for the 5:30am start. I chugged some water (so glad I got the 24 case of water from CVS), enjoyed the first half of my Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt KIND Bar (6PPV for whole thing) and prep my costume!

Oh and of course the pre-run photo. Didn't my wife do an AMAZING job with my Chewbacca costume? It is absolutely amazing!!

Like the 5k, we headed out to the Start Area at 4:45am. This time the wife would be running as well. She was bracing herself for Race 1 of the Rebel Challenge. While I made my way to Corral A, I dropped the wife in Corral E (last corral).

The Star Wars 10k offered a similar set-up to the 5k.

Rudy and Carissa did another great job entertaining the crowd.

I couldn't get over how close to the front I was. Oh hi Start Line. I get giddy every time I find out I am lucky enough to be in Corral A.

Oh no! Vader came and took Rudy to the Dark Side...

But after a quick sneak peek at the new Star Wars movie hitting theatres in December 2015, Rudy escaped the Dark Side!

What was funny was Rudy got a little excited to come back on stage and almost went up before he was officially "returned" to the Light Side! Ha. A funny thing to catch where I was watching from. :)

After another entertaining pre-race set, it was time to get the 10k party started!

Since we started from the same place as the 5k I knew we had some on ramps/inclines off the bat.

As you can see by the course map, we started out on the streets outside of the park and with it being 5:30am there wasn't much to look at. I will thank the few spectators out there for making some NOISE for us! :)

Mile 1: 7:57

I actually spotted a fellow Team Chocolate Milk member Jesus while out on the streets so I had fun catching up with him before we made our way to Disneyland.

I had to stop and get a picture with some Rebels on Main Street.

Mile 2: 8:06

They actually had a Marathon Foto rep at the Mile 2 marker sign, which is rare.

As I ran away from the Mile Marker, I snapped a quick picture of the Castle as I headed towards Frontierland before realizing there was a photo opp.

Frontierland was dark while we ran through so I once again used my trusty flashlight app on my phone to help my course. I did see a few people also rocking headlamps because of the early morning start.

I was surprised there weren't more park lights on through this section of the course.

From Frontierland we made our way to Fantasyland

Ummm maybe I was getting ready to raise the roof??

There he was... my Chewie!

Now at the few Disney World races I have done while in Corral A, I never waited in character lines (very lucky). Disneyland at this themed run - lines everywhere. I was happy to wait since I was lucky enough to have the time, but it was just an interesting thing to note.

After a quick photo opp in front of the Castle, it was time to make out way through the other side of Fantasyland before exiting the park.

Fantasyland was pretty well lit compared to Frontierland.

Mine Mine Mine

Oh hey It's A Small World... selfie time!

And then we were out of Disneyland and on to some backlot running. It isn't the best views, but the cast members sure bring their A-game when it comes to cheering you on in these parts.

Mile 3: 13:28 (yes you read that correctly - Chewie was worth it)

The backlot had some light displays on the building which you weren't supposed to photograph.

Umm... my finger slipped! ;)

There aren't too many exciting shots on the backlot portion of the run so my phone had nada until the Mile 4 marker.

Mile 4: 8:25

Now it was California Adventures time! Woo!

The lighting was awesome in the park as we came down Buena Vista Street.

There were some Rebels waiting for us at the end of the Street before turning towards the mighty Tower of Terror.

Oh don't worry Cars Land we will see you shortly, but Hi for now!

As we made our way towards Pacific Pier, I took a moment to check in with my body. Everything was feeling okay - the breaks for photos actually gave my legs mini recoveries throughout the run. Since it was early, I didn't feel too much intensity from the weather. I was actually happy and lucky that it was cooler so early in the morning. ;)

Just when I had a inner convo with my body, it was time for another photo opp - Boba Fett.

My Phone

Official Photo

I had a great time passing time in the line while chatting with the other runners and the cast members. Also I like that I look tanner in the official photo. :P

I made sure to get Boba Fett's photo since that is one of the wife's favorite characters. I thought if nothing else we could photo shop her into the photo. ;)

After that photo stop, it was finally time to get the shot of the iconic ferris wheel.

I mean how beautiful is it? I hear the ride itself is scary, but I like looking at it just fine.

Our tour of Paradise Pier continued...

It had to have a stop at Toy Story Mania. I love Mr. Potato Head.

And of course I stopped for an impromptu photo with some Jedis.

After finishing up in Paradise Pier, we officially headed into Cars Land ... right after passing the Mile 5 marker.

Mile 5: 12:54

And now a close run through Cars Land.

I definitely had better Cars Land pics during the 5k.

Yeah no idea what I was doing in this pic. Making sure they could see my bib number maybe? #Awkward

Once through Cars Land we were out of the park and doing backlot running until we hit the parking lot for Downtown Disney and straight down the street along Disneyland Hotel to the Finish.

Mile 6: 8:05

While the final mile wasn't all that exciting Disney-wise, there was amazing crowd support!! Lots of amazing CHEARleeders out there. :)

Official Time: 1:01:34 (my Garmin was only off by 5 seconds since I didn't stop it immediately)

Now 9.3 miles down and 13.1 to go. But first, medal time!

Then the Marathon Foto guy got artsy: Do a jump in celebration.

I kinda love it despite my shorts really showing.

And how awesome is the medal??

Seriously great bling!

I took myself, my medal and my snack box back to the Finish Area to try and catch some friends crossing.

I saw Justin (fellow WW member) who was also tackling the Rebel Challenge.

My Selfie

His "Normal" Photo

Aaannnnd I got to see the wife Finish. I may have started crying. Okay I was already crying. I love watching Finish Lines and seeing all of the emotion!

Once the wife visited the med tent for some ice for her knee, we headed to Earl of Sandwich for some breakfast before heading back to the hotel to get ready for a day of park seeing and tweeting up! ;)

***

Overall the Star Wars 10k was another great Disney race. I wish there was more light in the Frontierland section as it was the darkest part of the course.

Water stops and spectators were well staffed and full of energy.

I also picked up on the fact that there would ONLY be Star Wars characters for the races. I was hoping maybe a Disney character dressed up as a Star Wars character, but alas no go. Apparently they were at the Wookie Party, which we didn't want to pay for. Boo! But something I didn't know in advance for the theme races. Now I know!

I was happy with how I ran and used the water stops to walk and the character stops to stretch!

***

Next up: Star Wars Half Marathon!

Disneyland Part 2: Star Wars 5k

Oh I don't have to wake up at 2:30am. Oh I don't have to take a shuttle from my hotel to the Race Area.

Oh I don't have to walk a mile from the Pre-Race Party Area to the Start Area.

Folks - I am NOT in Disney World anymore! :)

Now I love all of the things I listed above as they are part of the Run Disney experience. BUT I can say it was sort of sweet to sleep in until 4am for the 5:30am 5k Start.

Once I was up, had some water, made sure I had everything for my costume and of course took a pre-race pic!

Ewok

We headed out at 4:45am to walk to the Start area... which was less than 1/2 a mile from our hotel (Alpine Inn).

I was lucky enough to be in Corral A so I headed to the front. I cannot tell you how exciting and an honor it is to be up in that Corral. I know I work hard at other races to be able to thoroughly enjoy the Run Disney experience.

Marathon Foto was out in full effect and since I buy the photos I make sure to pause for every photog. ;)

Since I was in my corral by 5am I was able to work my way up to the Start platform where Carissa and Rudy would be announcing from.

While Carissa and Rudy entertained the crowd and honored the sponsors, they were joined by two adorable droids.

Selfie Time!

Hi Guys!!

To entertain the corral before we went off, the race played on the scrolling text that happens at the beginning of the Star Wars movie.

It may be hard to read from my pics.

Now the Star Wars 5k is an untimed race that weaves through the parks.

I brought my Garmin with me just because I was interested in how long it would take including any character stops I did.

Oh and I forgot my goal for the weekend - like Dopey Challenge - was to stop at every character stop I saw. Time or pace mean nothing to me at Disney since I do have the pleasure of starting in the first corral. I have more time to work with.

I was so swept up in the pre-race entertainment that all of a sudden Rudy was counting us down... and we were off.

Ahhh yay! I love the start of any race, but especially Run Disney with the confetti. I want to start every training run with confetti. :P

Again this was my first time at Disneyland so the course and parks would all be new to me.

I saw the Rebels and had to stop - of course. They didn't have an official MarathonFoto photog, but there was a Disney cast member to take photos. I appreciate that Disney does have cast members at each official stop to take photos for participants with their personal phone or camera.

Since it is so early and dark my photos aren't always the greatest, but I like having something to post instead of waiting for official photos to upload.

Mile 1: 7:59

Even though the Castle is smaller than in Disney World, it is still an amazing sight.

With fewer people running the 5k, which means fewer people in each corral - I felt as if I was running through the parks alone. I mean it was truly magical.

Then I saw him... Chewie!

My Phone

Official Photo

Yeah worth the $$.

Vader and the Storm Troopers

My Phone

Official Photo

As we ran down Main Street in Disneyland, I couldn't help but smile.

We headed down Main Street and out of the Disneyland.

One last photo in front of Disneyland.

Once out of the park, we made our way to California Adventures via a backlot street.

Mile 2: 9:20

After Mile 2, we made our way into California Adventures via "A Bug's Land" then on to Cars Land.

Even in the dark, Cars Land is an amazing sight.

Since we were running out of miles, we made our way through the entrance of California Adventures towards Downtown Disney.

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But first - more rebels.

Even though the race was wicked early, there was great crowd support through Downtown Disney.

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I actually had to ask a couple of folks to scooch over so I could take a pic of the Mile 3 marker. ;)

Mile 3: 8:45

I get wicked sad at the end of any race because the fun is over, but especially Disney races. I reminded myself I did have 19.3 more miles of fun ahead of me. ;)

Since I was still pretty much alone, I pretended as if I won the 5k when I was coming down the Finish chute. Carissa even announced my name. :)

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A girl can pretend right?

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And just like that the Star Wars 5k was over!

I know my distances are always longer than the race advertises since I go back and forth getting character photos, etc.

Time to collect my first piece of hardware of the weekend. Now the 5k is pegged as a Family Run by Disney so you are given a plastic medallion over a real medal. I am cool with that, but some others aren't.

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After collecting my medallion, water, banana and snack box, I scooted through what would be the Finish party Area!

Not so bumpin' after the 5k. :P

I headed to the Downtown Disney area (less than 1/4 a mile from the Finish) to meet Tori and grab some much-needed coffee.

Unfortunately no Dunkin Donuts in Anaheim, so I had to celebrate with Starbucks.

I know I know <<tiny violin>>

With coffee in hand, we headed back to the hotel - all the while cheering on everyone else finishing up the 5k - to prepare for the day ahead... the Parks!

***

Overall the 5k was a great race. A little dark in some places so I did use the flashlight app on my phone a couple of times, but it was a ton of fun as always!

Pretty flat besides some inclines due to on ramps at the beginning.

I would definitely do it again!

***

Next up: Star Wars 10k!

1st Run 5k To Ring In 2015

Happy New Year... now bundle up it will be a chilly one!

Not sure it is smart to look at the weather before a run when winter hits New England. It just chills me to the core and makes me want to roll over and stay in bed.

THEN I remember that I must train in any weather conditions AND I had convinced folks to register for the 1st Run 5k so I had to show up! Plus, it was a real feel of 6 degrees... down right balmy in my opinion! Did that sound convincing?

Well it worked enough for me.

The wife and I bundled into the car around 9:30am to make the 35 minute ride north to Lowell. The 1st Run 5k starts at 11am, which is nice for spectators and runners alike. Really for those that actually celebrate New Year's Eve. We did not so it didn't matter to us what time it started.

This was the third-consecutive year I'd be running the 1st Run 5k so we have directions, parking and packet pick-up down!

On the way to the VFW (race HQ), we bumped into Leah.

I met Leah through social media and she is an awesomely inspiring mom and runner. She would be taking on the 10k - two rounds of the windy 5k loop - and looked ready to crush the PR she was after. We snapped a quick pic before she went off to meet her friends and I went to find my bib.

I love the swag - winter knit hat and running clothes. :)

I took my time putting my bib on and having my pre-race snack while we were in the warmth of the VFW. With about 20 minutes to go before the race, I dragged my feet and finally headed back into the cold to hit up the port-o-potty.

It was awesome seeing some familiar faces before the run and meeting some of the wife's hockey teammates who were also taking on the 10k.

The announcer let us know there were 10 minutes til go time so I gave the wife a kiss and headed to the Start corral to get some stretching in. The 5k and 10k start together so I tried to get closer to the front since I know it can bottleneck when the gun goes off.

Look at that dynamic stretching in action. ;) I saw a race photog snapping pics when I was in the corral, but didn't notice this one until a friend pointed it out. :P

The corral starting filling up and it was time to go. I didn't know what the legs would do - I had run 6 the day before - but I was hoping for a course PR if nothing else.

The National Anthem was played by a local resident on the trumpet, the countdown counted and off went the gun - it was Go time!

We headed down the chute, which takes you out of the VFW parking lot, and took our first right on to Old Ferry Road. It is a brief stint on Old Ferry Road before a right on to Varnum Avenue.

I knew there was an incline at the turn, but forgot it continued to climb during the first mile. Apparently I blocked it from my memory. ;0)

Being in a neighborhood did shield us from the wind that would inevitably meet us later in the race.

I once again opted to run without music as I am slowly but surely getting used to training/racing without it (for the most part). However, listening to the breathing of the folks around me and the heavy steps were throwing me off mentally on this day in particular. So I made the decision to speed up a tad to get away from the distractions.

Mile 1: 7:17

Alright faster pace than I expected, but I felt strong through the first mile or so. I even felt up to a mid-run selfie.

I have been slacking in the mid-run selfie department of late so trying to step my game back up.

Plus it wasn't as icy and slippery as the previous year so there was that to celebrate!!

Just past the halfway point in the 5k, you take the downhill out of the neighborhood and a right on to Pawtucket Boulevard. Now you take Pawtucket Boulevard straight back to the Start Area. Pawtucket Boulevard however is where the wind decides to join the party. I tried to prep my friends for it. The wind just all of a sudden hits you and it's like you are running in place for the remainder of the race. Fun right?

As we made our way down Pawtucket Boulevard, we stay in the breakdown lane. Thankfully it is wide enough that you can avoid a single file line and stay in your own rhythm.

Just before Mile 2, there is a DJ blasting some tunes and calling out names of runners. Pretty sweet set-up.

There you also find the one water stop of the race.

Mile 2: 7:10

To distract from the wind, I focus on the beautiful Merrimack River across the way. It truly is a wonderful sight while running.

The wind picked up as if to say I needed more of a challenge on this run. FYI I didn't. :P

I saw the race photog, but wasn't in a good position to get a good shot - as you can see above. At least my Sparkle Athletic skirt (teal) looked good. ;)

As the tenths of miles clicked by, I felt for the 10kers who would have to do this twice. Good for them - I was happy with the 5k! :) Especially since the 10 folks have to run past the Finish chute for their second loop - no thanks.

Just before the Mile 3 marker, we take a right back on to Old Ferry Road to re-enter the VFW parking lot. The start chute doubles as the finishing chute. Make sense?

Mile 3: 7:28

How about that wind for killing my Mile 3 pace. Can I blame the wind?

I happily moved to the right of the 5k/10k sign and tried to give it everything I had into the Finish. I was wicked close to a course PR.

The wife took this awesome shot as I was about to cross the Finish Line.

DONE!

Yes 6 second course PR. Still 1 minute and 2 seconds slower than my 5k PR, but I was happy with how it went on such a windy course.

I grabbed my medal and went over to meet the wife.

The timing company - Yankee Timing - offers on-site results. You wave your race bib in front of a sensor and the info is displayed on a large TV. It's such a cool concept. Now placement results - at least for me - can change as more folks finish, but the time itself was confirmed. Woo!

We headed to a sunny spot to wait for friends to finish. It is so awesome going to a race and seeing so many friends start the New Year kicking some asphalt.

Antonette, Melissa (my WW member) and I

Heather (friend and fellow WW leader) and I

Susan (friend and fellow WW leader) and I

Plus I have the pleasure of meeting some amazing online friends and readers.

Instagram friend Michelle and I

Big thanks to readers Kathy and Becky for saying Hi post-race! It made my morning...

Since I was able to say Hi to everyone I knew that was going to be there, we headed inside to see what the race was offering post-race for runners: soup and Bud Light. Yeah I opted to pass on the Bud Light and have a good celebration beer at home!

Once safely warm at home, I checked my email and saw the official results were in.

It was funny that the results had 23:01, but the rankings had 23:02. I opted to take 23:01. :)

Second place in my division? Say whhaa?? I doubted that 100%. And here's why.

Two of the three top females overall actually belonged in my division too. It looks like the officials keep the Top 3 overall females separately from the division placements.

Really I was fourth in my division not second - but I will pretend along with second if that is what Yankee Timing wants to give me. ;)

***

Overall it was a great morning and a great race. I will continue to take part in the 1st Run 5k as long as I am able to and it is offered.

***

So my New Year’s Day races are:

1/1/11 – I had a herniated disc and had to walk the New Year’s Day 5k in Chicago so it took the wife and I finished in 48:37 (15:41 min/mile)

1/1/12 – I was healthy, besides a small knee injury and was able to run the New Year’s Day 5k in Chicago in 25:27 (8:13 min/mile)

1/1/13 – I ran in honor of my Grampa and hopefully made him proud in the 1st Run 5k finishing in 23:07 (7:27 min/mile)

1/1/14 - I had such a fun time at the 1st Run 5k in 2013 I came back for more finishing in 23:43.1 (7:39 min/mile)

1/1/15 - I went for a New Year's Day PR at 1st Run 5k and it happened in 23:01.2 (7:25 min/mile)

***

Did you run into the New Year?

Race #52 of 2014: Cambridge 5k Yulefest 5k Recap

52 races in 2014. It began with 1st Run on New Year's Day and ended with December 14's Cambridge 5k's Yulefest 5k with the Slumbrew Happy Soles!

Yulefest 5k takes place in Harvard Square and is my favorite of the Cambridge 5k series.

Since I signed up early enough I received the sweet winter hat plus the t-shirt. But everyone who registered received the warm hat.

With MBTA Red Line service switching to shuttle busses for the weekend, the wife and I opted to attempt to find parking in Harvard Square for the race. It ended up being shockingly easy to accomplish. Since meters are free on Sundays, we got free parking to boot! Hollah! I was hoping this would be setting the tone for a good day.

We waited in the car til just after 8:30 before braving the winter morning to head to the Start Area.

Thankfully it was a bright and sunny morning, but a tad chilly - low 30s according to the weather app. The party area/pre-race Slumbrew meet up spot had moved this year. It was slated as being a larger space than in previous years so I had high hopes it would be able to manage the large crowds.

The wife and I made our way to the Slumbrew tent to say hi to the rest of the Happy Soles and stash our bag before making our way to another part of Harvard Square to get our IDs checked and our bibs stamped to prove we were 21.

Around 9:15am we made our way over to the Start Line.

Instead of just passing the time by shivering, I was able to bust a move to the Start Line live DJ! Thanks for playing Jump Around sir - I needed the warmth. ;)

Being in line early gave me plenty of time to say hi to all my friends making their way to the Start Line.

Oh hey Amy!!

With the countdown on from Race Director, Eddie, I reminded myself to give it my all today, but to be okay with whatever the results would be. I was going on some tired legs - 6 mile run & 1 hour Spin class the day prior - and didn't want to walk away from the final race disappointed.

I love the Yulefest 5k course and since this was my third time running the race I was familiar with it.

The horn went off and we shot out of the Start shoot.

I love that this hot makes it look like I am the lead runner in the race. :P Thanks for the free photos Cambridge 5k! :)

As soon as I passed that start mat, I felt tired. I made the decision to not look at my Garmin unless it was at a Mile marker. I didn't want to get caught up in pace this race.

So I focused on the fun costumes around me and the Cambridge scenery.

Mile 1: 7:19

The race is flat for the most part, which was a treat for my legs.

I was proud to see a pace faster than say 9:00 min/mile on that first mile since that is what it felt like to my body. I didn't think I was moving as fast as I was. Anyone else ever experience that?

The streets were quiet for the most part when it came to spectators, but the volunteers were doing their best to keep the streets safe and the atmosphere lively.

Mile 2: 7:18

The final mile became a mental game. I wanted to just stop. My legs were feeling tired. I had to dig deep and shut down the voices in my head. I drummed up all the motivation I could. I thought about how I feel near the end of a marathon or how I kept going in the final miles of my Half Ironman this year. I could complete the final mile of a 5k. I had to give myself some perspective.

I also knew the final mile included the only hill of the race.

As I made my way up the final push, I could see a guy using the hill for hill repeats. Show off. ;) Ha! Okay I thought that in the moment because I was tired, but it gave me a little umph to push through up the incline. I knew I would be sailing down to the finish.

I wanted the Finish to be just over the crest of the hill, but alas there was .3 to go. I just kept my eye on the Finish Line. I may or may not have also picked a person in front of me and focused on finishing ahead of them for inspiration.

Mile 3: 7:20

Yeah I lost some steam on that hill. But worked my butt off to Finish strong.

I had the course a little long and apparently started my watch late or stopped it early.

Official Time: 23:08

Good for 316 out of 2,024 overall and 74 out of 1,048 females.

I am definitely proud of how I did relative to how I felt.

As soon as I crossed the Finish, I grabbed a water and turned right around to cheer folks into the Finish.

Folks had some amazing costumes.

I love cheering on runners and dishing out high-fives... especially when those high-fives go to fellow Slumbrew Happy Soles!

Unfortunately I don't have a shot of the wife crossing (40:12) because I was too busy jumping up and down. Ha. Oops. But I am so proud of how she did. It was her first race since the half in July!

After we saw the final racers cross the Finish, we headed back to JFK street for the post-race party.

And that is when it got crowded.

We had our bib stamped already to show we were 21 (in lieu of wristbands) so we headed in the corraled post-race party to a mass of folks. We needed to get from the front of the party to the back where the Slumbrew tent was. But the crowd was thick and wasn't moving. I'm not sure if people didn't know where to go or they just grabbed a beer and stopped in their tracks. But it was wicked hard to move from one end of the party to the other. I am claustrophobic so you can only imagine how my anxiety level was rising during this pushing fest.

The wife and I picked up other Happy Soles along the way and finally squeezed our way to the Slumbrew tent. I made the decision then and there to not move from the tent until I had to leave. So we had to cancel our team picture in front of the stage (which was at the front of the party) and opt for one near the tent. We squeezed as many of the 121 Happy Soles into one picture/video as we could.

I felt the post-race party was more cramped than in previous years. I was thankful to have the area behind the Slumbrew pouring station to hang out with the team and have some breathing room. The anxiety level definitely went down to normal once I was in that space.

I would love to hear what others at the post-race party thought of the congestion.

I want to give a big thanks to Slumbrew owners, Caitlin & Jeff, for being so generous with the Happy Soles by sending each team member home with a 4-pack of Happy Sol. Amazing, right?

It was great hanging out with Slumbrew friends and meeting new Happy Soles post-race.

But with the wife having a hockey game we had to call it early. We gave hugs to all and headed out. Thankfully the back of the party where we were had an exit we could leave to avoid going back through the massive crowd.

On the way out, I had the pleasure of meeting blog reader Christine! Thanks so much for recognizing me and saying hi! :)

***

Overall, Eddie puts on a great race with good swag, free race photos, lots of tasty local beer and good tunes. I was a little disappointed in massive back-up getting through the post-race party, which I didn't experience the previous years. I know when you move a party area there will be some growing pains and I think they were felt. At least by me.

I was proud that a teammate noticed and appreciated that I thanked every volunteer/cop on the course. Made me smile.

Will I be back next year? Of course. I know Eddie always tweaks the races to give the participants the best experience!!

***

Were you at Yulefest this year? What did you think of the post-race party area?

2014 Road Races

January 1 - 1st Run 5k - 23:43 (7:39 min/mile pace) - RECAP

January 9 - Disney Family Fun Run 5k - 32:05 (10:21 min/mile pace) - RECAP

January 10 - Walt Disney World 10k - 1:05:40 (10:35 min/mile pace) - RECAP

January 11 - Walt Disney World Half Marathon - 2:22:31 (10:53 min/mile pace) - RECAP

January 12 - Walt Disney World Marathon - 4:45:57 (10:55 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

February 2 - Rock 'n' Roll New Orleans Half Marathon - 1:55:43 (8:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP

February 14 - Stop Stroke Shuffle 5k *Virtual* - 26:18 (8:29 min/mile pace) - RECAP

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March 1 - Black Cat 20-Miler - 2:57:59 (8:54 min/mile pace) - RECAP

March 16 - Craicfest 5k - 24:17 (7:49 min/mile pace) - RECAP

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April 19 - BAA 5k - 25:08 (8:06 min/mile pace) - RECAP

April 21 - 118th Boston Marathon - 5:31:18 (12:39 min/mile pace) - RECAP

April 26 - Rock 'n' Roll Nashville Marathon - 4:42:12 (10:46 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

May 11 - M.O.M.'s Run 5k - 24:14 (7:48 min/mile pace) - RECAP

May 13 - Strides Against Stroke 5k *Virtual* - 26:16 (8:28 min/mile pace) - RECAP

May 18 - 18th Annual Mystic River Herring Run & Paddle 5k - 24:39 (7:57 min/mile pace) - RECAP

May 25 - Boston's Run To Remember Half Marathon - 1:50:58 (8:28 min/mile pace) - RECAP

May 29 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #1 - 23:29 (7:34 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

June 1 - Freedom Run 5k - 23:55 (7:43 min/mile pace) - RECAP

June 7 - Runner's World 5k - 28:28 (9:11 min/mile pace) - RECAP

June 7 - Runner's World 10k - 58:49 (9:29 min/mile pace) - RECAP

June 8 - Runner's World Heartbreak Hill Half Marathon - 2:08:52 (9:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP

June 21 - Rock and Run Boston (Obstacle 5k) - 45:32 (14:38 min/mile pace) - RECAP

June 22 - BAA 10k - 51:37 (8:19 min/mile pace) - RECAP

June 30 - Summer Sizzler *Virtual* 5k - 25:21 (8:10 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

July 3 - Finish At The 50 (10k for me) - 53:01 (8:32 min/mile pace) - RECAP

July 13 - Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon - 1:57:44 (8:59 min/mile pace) - RECAP

July 17 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #3 - 24:19 (7:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP

July 20 - Iron GirlWebster Sprint Triathlon - 1:26:54 - RECAP

July 30 - F.A.S.T. (Fighting Against Stroke Together) *Virtual* 5k -27:44 (8:57 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

August 14 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #4 - 24:57 (8:03 min/mile pace) - RECAP

August 17 - Falmouth Road Race (7 miles) -1:00:49 (8:41 min/mile pace) - RECAP

August 24 - Race To The Row 5k - 23:46 (7:39 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

September 4 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #5 - 22:39 (7:18 min/mile) - RECAP

September 7 - Pumpkinman Half Ironman - 6:06:03 - RECAP

September 13 - Big Bad Wolf 5 Mile Trail Race - 41:41 (8:21 min/mile pace) - RECAP

September 14 - Buzzards Bay Sprint Triathlon - 1:27:01.3 - RECAP

September 17 - The Dani Ryan Holmes-Kirk 3rd Annual 30th Birthday 5k Run-Walk Ramble *VIRTUAL* - 26:03 (8:24 min/mile pace) - RECAP

September 27 - ZOOMA Women's Half Marathon (Cape Cod) - 1:54:17 (8:43 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

October 5 - Oktoberfest 5k - 24:16 (7:49 min/mile pace) - RECAP

October 12 - BAA Half Marathon - 1:52:58 (8:37 min/mile pace) - RECAP

October 18 - Runner's World 5k - 30:29 (9:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP

October 18- Runner's World 10k - 1:01:11 (9:52 min/mile pace) - RECAP

October 19 - Runner's World Half Marathon - 2:10:35 (9:58 min/mile pace) - RECAP

October 25 - *Virtual* Pug Run 5k - 25:29 (8:13 min/mile pace)

***

November 9 - Boston River Run 5k - 24:12 (7:47 min/mile pace) - RECAP

November 15 - Spartan Sprint Fenway Park - 58:54 - RECAP

November 16 - South Shore Half Marathon - 1:54:00 (8:42 min/mile pace) - RECAP

November 23 - Santa Hustle New England Half Marathon - 1:52:28 (8:36 min/mile pace) - RECAP

November 27 - Gobble Gobble Gobble 4-Miler - Garmin Time: 42:24 & Mass Start Time: 43:09 - RECAP

November 29 - The Ugly Sweater Run (2.5 miles) - *NOT TIMED* - Garmin: 20:43 (8:16 min/mile pace) - RECAP

***

December 6 - Jingle Bell Half Marathon - 1:51:37.2 (8:32 min/mile pace) - RECAP

December 14 - Yulefest 5k - 23:08 (7:27 min/mile pace) - RECAP

race

*RECAP* Jingle Bell Half 2014

You never know what the weather gods will throw at you when you sign up for a race in New England in December. But once again I rolled the dice with New Hampshire's Jingle Bell Half on December 6 (Race #51 of the year).

On a wild and crazy Friday night, I spent time working on my Jingle Bell Half outfit. It always calms me the night before a run to focus on what I will wear rather than the miles themselves.

The Jingle Bell Half would be my third-Christmas themed race of the year and I didn't want to duplicate. BUT we had heard that there was a potential for both rain and snow the day of the race so a game time decision on an outfit would be necessary.

Additionally we would be traveling to the race day of and how long it would take to get there seemed varied based on traffic. Therefore the alarm was set for 5:45am so I could check how long it would really take. With google maps telling me 39 minutes, I'd be able to go back to sleep for 45 min! Woo! :)

When the alarm went off for a second time, I checked the weather to make a final outfit decision. The weather app was calling for rain, cold and wind... umm YAY? ;)

We piled into the car, stopped at Dunkin' Donuts for the wife and hit the road.

The roads in New Hampshire were slick as it had snowed then rained so the police and race director would be making a call on the race - on time, delay or postpone - at 8am. We pulled into the parking lot of the Atkinson Country Club and Resort at 7:57am.

As we walked into the Country Club and down the stairs to bib pick-up, the announcement about the race going on ON TIME rang over the loudspeaker. Yahoo.

Bib and t-shirt pick-up was a breeze and we headed back to the car to warm up and drop off my t-shirt. We were able to park RIGHT outside of the Country Club, which was awesome.

Around 8:30am, we headed back inside so I could use a real bathroom and avoid a port-o-pottie. The lines were long, but really I had nothing else to do and preferred waiting inside in a line than outside at a port-o-pottie.

Just after 8:50am, I kissed the wife goodbye and headed outside. The Country Club let spectators hang out inside while we ran and the wife was very appreciative.

When I almost slipped on the way to the Start, I made the decision to take this race easy as Boston Marathon training would be starting in exactly one week and I don't have time to get injured (okay injured further) before that.

Now the Start line wasn't the most impressive one I have seen, but it served the purpose. :) The race director once again went over where water stops and port-o-potties and just after 9am we were off.

I wasn't feeling it. I didn't want to run in the cold and rain, but I had a discussion with myself during Mile 1. There was a lot of look how lucky you are to run, you were given a complimentary entry (thanks again Club LOCO) and you will love it once you are in it. Of course I was right and the other part of me quit the bitchin'!

I knew from the email that the race starts on a downhill goes to rolling hill and recommended keeping some umph in the tank for the final two miles.

The cool thing is the race would take place in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

The race did in fact start on a serious downhill, which reminded me of the Boston Marathon start.

I noticed right away I was going too fast and needed to tail it back.

Mile 1: 8:09 Mile 2: 8:11

As I mentioned the roads were slippery and covered in slush so I took the turns and downhills especially easy. I was too scared of falling and inuring myself.

We took a right onto Hovey Meadow Road and the start of the rolling hills. We were winding our way through some really quaint New Hampshire neighborhoods. It was nice getting lost in the houses and nature rather than the pace or miles.

Mile 3: 8:39 Mile 4: 8:36

I was also 100% caught up in costume envy. Before the race the wife turned to me and said "You are seriously outdone today." 1) Ouch and 2) I wasn't bringing my A-game I know.

This woman was!

Her shirt said: I Am Tall (For An Elf)

I was also wicked jealous of runner Pam. I don't know who she is, but she had quite a cheering section at one point. About 6-7 people under a tent in a driveway with music and a light-up sign. I mean A+ to that group.

Mile 5: 8:30

I hadn't looked at the course beforehand (shocker), but knowing there were rolling hills. I tried to take advantage of the flats and downs as much as possible.

Plus the scenery was pretty eye-catching.

Mile 6: 8:17

During Mile 7, we crossed over to Massachusetts. Oh hey home state! :P

Mile 7: 8:12

Just after the Mile 7 water stop, I opted to take a walk break to refuel with part of my KIND Snacks bar - dark chocolate & sea salt. This year I have really played around with fueling options for me and like using 1/2 a KIND bar pre-race and the other 1/4 or 1/2 during the race. This has been working pretty well during my recent half marathons. Might keep that plan going. :)

I appreciated the guy holding a "Make 8 Great" sign during this mile. It was my slowest mile by far, but I made the most of my walk break during it.

Mile 8: 9:27

The snow that had fallen earlier wasn't helping road conditions, but it was making some pretty scenic views.

As we hit Mile 9, I started playing the mind games. Okay four miles left, you can do that. Pretend the first 9 didn't happen. Haha!

My legs were tired from the rolling hills and I was ready to be done. I find miles 8-10 of a half are the toughest for me especially when running alone. I was super jealous of all the people around me running with a partner and I was out there just with my music.

Mile 9: 8:31

During Mile 10, we crossed back into New Hampshire.

Mile 10: 8:04

I cannot tell you what happened with that pace in Mile 10. I think I was wicked excited to get to the hot chocolate and chocolate station that would be happening during Mile 11.

Yes I grabbed my piece of Lindt chocolate (I didn't see the hot cocoa anywhere) and asked the kid handing them out to take a selfie with me. Kid was a natural. He was in position before I could even turn my camera around to selfie mode.

I decided to wait to eat the chocolate after how my stomach felt during the Santa Hustle Half.

Visions of the race email were whizzing through my head: save umph for the last two miles. Well they were upon me so it was time to buckle down and get to the Finish.

Oh hey incline I hadn't had enough of you yet. :P

Mile 11: 8:39

I wanted the climbing to be over... but there was more in store for us. I just kept thinking: Beer, Beer, Beer! I mentioned that to the guy next to me and it didn't seem to motivate him as much as me.

As we approached the Mile 12 marker, I thought the road looked familiar. Well it should've been as we were running on it at the beginning of the race. Yes I am slow on the uptake sometimes.

Mile 12: 9:05

Rough Mile 12 as you can see.

I focused on one foot in front of the other. I wanted to stop and just sit, but I had come too far. I knew it was all mental since my body kept moving forward.

We made our way back onto the Atkinson Country Club grounds and I could hear the Finish announcer.

Mile 13: 8:27

I gave it everything I had to get across the Finish Line in one piece. ;)

Final Time: 1:51:37.2

Good for 278th out of 887 overall and 36th out of 177 in my division.

How cool is this medal? It is real wood, made in Vermont and doubles as a Christmas Tree ornament! :)

I grabbed my medal/ornament, heat sheet and water and headed back into the Resort to meet up with Tori. Oh and grab my free post-race beer of course.

I haven't been so happy to sit down in a warm room in ages. The race offered participants free Smuttynose Bouncy House IPA, Hot Chocolate, Stonyfield Yogurt and soup. Pretty sweet spread in my opinion.

I warmed up, enjoyed my beer then headed out to make the trek back home.

Overall, the race was indeed fun and really challenging at the same time. The rain pouring down starting in the middle of the race was tough and the hills were felt. The volunteers and police were great and I made sure to thank each as I passed by. Having the Grand Ballroom at the resort was the perfect place to hide pre-race and spread out post-race.

Would I do this race again? Absolutely!!

***

Does the time of year make you weary of signing up for road races?

Ugly Sweater Run "Boston" Recap

Whhhyyyy do certain organizations claim their race is in a certain city when it is miles/hours away? Now I know that Boston is the major city in Massachusetts - Thank you Thank you! <<takes bow>> - but WHY must races lie to the participants about where the race is actually happening. Massachusetts residents know where Boston is and where say Brockton is (35 min South if no traffic) so just be honest with the people paying to take part in your race.

<<End Rant>>

This rant was fueled by the Ugly Sweater Run, which I took part in on Saturday, November 29.

Now I had the joy of winning a free entry through Sue Parke's blog. Thanks again lady! So neither the wife nor I paid the participate in the Ugly Sweater Run... and I am wicked happy about that after the experience we had. My wife ended up getting free entry after one of the other winners couldn't attend.

In case you aren't near a calendar, the race was on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. The day prior - Black Friday - I realized I had nothing to wear for said Ugly Sweater Run ... and promptly freaked. I don't like to miss an opportunity for a great theme. So the wife and I walked across the street to Assembly Row to try out luck at KMart. Well we found a cute snowman vest for $9 that we thought we could ugly up. After waiting in what felt like lines for hours (it was the afternoon of Black Friday) we headed to Christmas Tree Shops to get some Christmas decorations for the vest. Well it was there that I spotted it. An amazing tree skirt ($10) that I could turn into an ugly sweater with some safety pins. DONE AND DONE! :)

With a successful shopping trip, it was time to head home and put the whole ensemble together.

Now the race had sent out zero emails about the run so it wasn't until that night that I learned 1) they did have early pick up but only on Black Friday at the Arsenal Mall (a mall on Black Friday, really?) and 2) we would have to pay $10 for parking (Whhaaa??). The race was being held at the Brockton Fairgrounds, which had a ton of open space for parking so not sure why the charge.

The race was at Noon and we needed to pick up our packets so we headed out around 10:15am so we could hit Dunks first. I don't normally drink coffee before a run, but I knew this one was un-timed so I wouldn't be racing racing this one. We arrived, paid our $10 and parked with the masses. It was a chilly chilly morning! Brr... We opted to quickly run through packet pick-up and hide in the car for as long as possible. ;)

I loved the hat and bag they gave out at the race. Oh and a temporary mustache tattoo. Ha. Creative and different, which I appreciate.

The wife was going to be walking the race with our friends Beth and Aimee so we finally left the warm car just after 11:30 to find the crew. There was a great crowd on sight with awesome ugly sweaters! I felt underdressed compared to some. There were adults, kids, strollers and dogs. It truly was a family affair which was awesome and a great benefit of un-timed races. It takes some o the "pressure" off the race especially for first-timers. :)

The Start Area/party space featured some cornhole/bags/whatever you want to call it. The Start Line was right next to the Finish Line.

We made our way through the inflatable Christmas tree forest to the start corral. I left Tori with Beth and Aimee and tried to sneak my way up as close to the front as I could. The group would be let off in waves.

Now I had no idea what the course would be. After the race I looked up what they posted online. Here it is:

Yes a little confusing, but we basically did laps around the Brockton Fair Grounds.

The MC counted us down from 10 and Wave 1 was off. I just wanted to see how long the race was since it was being tagged as "approximately 3.1 miles." As I went under the Start arch, I started my Garmin.

We were off through the muddy Fair Grounds. It was like running through an uneven field. I didn't know it would be an offroading type race. ;) I should've worn an older pair of running shoes, but you live and learn.

As we came off the grass during Mile 1, we transitioned to paved road. When we went to pavement, I thought we would be heading out into the city streets ... nope! We continued in the Fair Grounds. It was at this time I finally put two and two together that the entire race would be happening within the Fair Grounds. Interesting.

Oh reindeer.

I couldn't pass up a selfie! The sign right before the inflatable reindeers said "Reindeer Crossing." Wicked cute.

Just passed the reindeers was the first water and hot cocoa stop.

I definitely took the time to stop and enjoy some hot cocoa.

Now you don't have to worry, I didn't burn my mouth - it wasn't really "hot" cocoa by the time we got to drink it. ;) But I enjoyed the thought.

Mile 1: 8:50

It was just after Mile 1 that I realized there was no way we could hit 3.1 miles within this Fair Ground.

We continued weaving through the Fair Grounds and along the parking lot.

I can't pass up a chance to get a good pic with the photographers... and The Ugly Sweater Run did provide free race photos, which was pretty sweet.

I wish I had pulled up my sock, but the tree skirt makes one sweet poncho!

Mile 2: 7:59

The benefit of weaving through such a small space was being able to see all the other participants and their kick ass costumes! Also hearing some of them contemplating whether the course would hit 3 miles or not. :P

Before I knew it, we were coming down the Finish Line chute.

I hit my Garmin just after the Finish at 2.50 miles. I could see the girls around me debating whether they would just go run through the parking lot until they hit 3.1 exactly.

I thought about it for a hot second and instead went to pick up my free post-race beer. :P

I was wicked happy to see the post-race beer was Sam Adams!

It was a tough choice, but I opted for Octoberfest! :)

I enjoyed my post-race beer, while cheering on others and waiting for my girls to finish.

I even spotted my friend Derly! That is one SWEET Ugly Sweater lady. :)

By the time the ladies finished, the beer line was wrapping around the Finish Area. The wife opted to skip the beer line and head out to find food. We snapped a quick group pic and headed out.

I was disappointed in how long the beer line had gotten. I hate when not all race participants have the same experience. You know what I mean?

We bundled back into the car, stopped at Dunks and headed home.

Overall I was disappointed in the Ugly Sweater Run. I really expected a better course - more scenic maybe - and a race actually in Boston. I entered the giveaway because it said Boston not Brockton.

I hope a good amount of money was raised for Save the Children.

The website claimed the following: "A closed course full of Hot Chocolate aide stations, snow blowers, and the biggest Santa inflatable around will await you."

There was 1 hot chocolate station, no snow blowers and one inflatable Santa near the Start... that was it.

I'm not sure if they misplaced some of their equipment or what, but I expected more Christmasy stuff or stuff in general during the race.

It did look like folks were having a lot of fun and hey I can make any race fun, but I just expected more from the organization with what they had written on the website.

Would I do it again? I would need to know how much of the money is going to charity before weighing in with a decision.

***

Have you ever done The Ugly Sweater Run?

Gobble Gobble Gobble 4-Miler Recap

Turkey Trot dread!

For years growing up my mom and I would bundle in the car early on a holiday to go cheer my dad on at some race or another. Ugh! So early and so cold. Why would ANYONE do this by choice.

Fast forward to Thanksgiving 2014 and I am bounding out of bed to run my third-straight Turkey Trot race.

Ohhhh how times change when you catch the running bug. :P

On Thanksgiving, I happily woke up at 7am to get in a little stretching, foam rolling and biking (darn hurt left hamstring) before my friend Heather was set to pick me up for the race.

We would be running the Gobble Gobble Gobble 4-Miler together in Somerville, MA for the second year. :)

I made sure to lay out #FlatDani the night before so I wouldn't leave anything at home when I inevitably rushed out of the house.

Heather had picked up our bib the day before at Marathon Sports so she had the bib and t-shirt with her. Yes I made sure to leave myself a post-it note as a reminder.

Love when we get a long-sleeved shirt as the swag.

Race was set to start at 9am so Heather picked me up at 8:30. Ahh I love races in my town. :)

Her husband dropped us off so we could avoid any parking hiccups as well. Score!

We arrived at 8:43 and headed straight to the Start Area. There isn't a specific start line it was more of a Start Area. The race was chip timed, but it went with the "mass start." This means everyone's Start Time was based on when the Gun went off NOT when you crossed the "start line."

Since this is a great local race I saw a ton of people I knew. Yay!

Slumbrew Happy Soles in the house

My awesome Weight Watchers member Melissa who was running her second official race and first 4-miler!

With awesome motivation in my heart, it was time to get the party started. Heather had to take a lot of the summer/fall off due to injury so she was setting the pace for the morning. My goal was to keep her moving forward. :)

Since I was too busy talking, I didn't realize that the race was off. Since there wasn't an actual marked Start Line I just started the Garmin where I thought it was. :P

We thought the weather would be MUCH colder than it was - real feel was expected to be 14 - but we really lucked out. Pretty morning and not nearly as chilly. I was happy I opted out of my vest when I got out of the car.

I love running through my hometown because at every corner there are fun memories to relive. Plus it is always fun to catch-up with a friend while running.

It was great focusing on Heather and her race since it took my mind off of anything else.

Mile 1: 10:23

As we passed through Ball Square, we saw our friend and fellow Happy Sole Lori. Great briefly catching up with her and getting her thoughts on the Ugly Sweater Run that I would be running a couple of days later.

Heather remembered me lying to her about the hills the previous year so I kept it real this time around. ;) Heather was feeling the heat as she overlayered so we took a break after a water stop to take off at least one layer to try and cool her off.

Mile 2: 11:02

It was great seeing so many folks out getting activity in before enjoying their Thanksgiving meals. 4 miles is better than none, right?

So many families were out being active together. And let me tell you people were bringing their A game in the costume department. I felt like I seriously slacked, but I thought it would be colder than it was.

We hit our final major hill on Central Street and Heather owned it. We both buckled down and powered up that sucker. It wasn't pretty, but it got OWNED. Plus the Mile 3 marker was just after the work was done.

Mile 3: 10:14

We were in the home stretch. The final mile down Summer Street featured a brief incline then went downhill to the Finish. I mean you can't ask for a better way to finish than on the down. Am I right?

I kept reminding Heather that coffee would meet her at the Finish. Oh yeah that put a little pep in her step. :) Now she wanted Starbucks, but because of my shirt I had to make sure we went to Dunkin'.

As we passed the VFW outside of Davis, we gave it everything we had in the tank.

Ouch! Need to work on my "I am almost done" face. Eek!

Mile 4: 10:15

Now my Garmin put us at 4.05 and a 42:24 Finish Time, but as I mentioned the Somerville Road Runners were working on a "mass start." Therefore, our official time was 43:09 - good for 1,605 out of 2,405 overall, 785 out of 1,334 females and 296 out of 486 in division.

I am listing both Finish times for my own record. :)

We beelined it for the Dunkin Donuts to get some iced coffees to celebrate before being picked back up by Heather's husband.

It was a great morning with a good friend. I loved running through Somerville and am happy to make the Gobble Gobble Gobble 4-Miler a tradition. Plus the race benefits Project Soup and Somerville Track PAC.

Also SUPER excited that Melissa finished the race and ran the entire thing - her main goal!! I was beaming when she shared that. :)

***

Do you have a Turkey Trot tradition?