Princess Minda

Dramatic weekend with last minute bailouts and failboat room cancellations - thank goodness my friend Teresa and her husband came to the rescue and let me crash in their room the night before the race!
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Once I made it to Disney it was absolute chaos -- the parking people were militant with passes and BS. - There was so much shuffling back and forth from hotel to shuttle parking lot -to expo -back to car- then finally to the GD HOTEL.
- I was so frustrated and stressed - when I saw Teresa I could feel tears in my eyes-  not only from seeing a familiar face from a time in my life that is unforgettable (AFA) - but also the relief that I am THERE.

The lines for shopping were MASSIVE!!! -- But I did get a bunch of Tinkerbell and Aurora items to bring home with me!

The shirt is actually really pretty - and the mesh bag an added bonus of cute usefulness.

After settling down and actually breathing - the three of us went to Downtown Disney - where I had never been and it was really a lot of fun! So many shops and trinkets tops pjs candies keychains ---- everything Disney you can imagine! LOL
Of course I had to get a picture with my favorite  -- Princess Aurora

We walked around there for a while before making it back to the room pretty worn out and ready to crash.
- The alarm went off at 2:15 and another at 2:30 when Teresa and I finally sprung into full on Glitter Tutu action!!!! After both feeling suitably Princessed out - we headed down to catch the shuttle to the race start.

It was a foggy and over cast day that did actually end up feeling really warm.

With my asthma inhaler tucked away into one of the back pockets of my long sports bra - I headed off into the darkness. - My pace was 3-4 mins slower than my previous half marathon - which I knew would happen since I can't really run. IT was more of a light jog with brisk walking and a few all out sprints.

I only had time for one photo op - as the lines for all the photos with the Characters are about 15 mins long!!!

But it was my favorite guy - the life size Army Man from Toy Story! - I loved how he was in Drill Sergeant  character the entire time --- unfortunately I was in such a rush to get back on the road I lost my Pink Iron Girl hat I've had for years =(.

For some reason miles 6-9 are total black outs for me -- I couldn't tell you where I was - what I was seeing or doing . . . only that I was in motion. - when I see 10 mark - I snap out of it because I know its just a 5k left and I can slog it through any 5k --- even crawling.

I could feel my chest starting to tighten up a lot and I was worried as I am in a much weaker state than my usual - since I had been so ill with the flu and upper respiratory blah blah blah for over a month and a half of no working out.

But it was all worth it - I made it!!!
Though stressful - painful and extremely difficult to cover the miles with a full month and a half of sickness. . .  I did it.
I wanted it - and I got it.
- For some reason this was a very emotional finish line for me. - I've seen people cry as they cross the finish line but I really never felt that way. - I always felt like YAYAYAYAYAY!!! But this time was different.
There was a lot going on for me - life stress- just getting to the race stress-asthma stress -amongst other things.
- Needless to say it was very personally rewarding.

Not my best photo - but I felt really overwhelmed. This was just after they put the medal around my neck.

- As much as I enjoyed this race - for the fun of Princesses and Glitter and the gorgeous medal!!!-- I really enjoyed the Wine and Dine race more. It was a night time race where we spent less time on the highway and more time in the theme parks.  from Wide World of Sports to Animal Kingdom to Hollywood Studios and back to finish at Epcot.
- The Princess had us leave Epcot - run down a long ass road - through the Magic Kingdom which was beautiful , but annoying because there was a standstill at the castle because everyone wanted photos in front of the castle. -- Then running through some back lots and ending up running back down that long ass road to Epcot.

-I suppose I just enjoyed the night time aspect of the Wine and Dine more because everything was just lit up and felt like MAGIC!!!!!!!

I'd really like to do the DisneyLAND half Marathon in Cali - so I can get my Coast to Coast medal!!! But it looks sold out already! - I'll surf around the site to see the rules about coast to coast. - okay hope you are all well and happy =)

much love,
Minda

Back at the Barre!

After being hit terribly by that nasty flu over the holidays - I was also aggressively afflicted by a very debilitating asthma.
- I've been depressed not being able to work out - much less climb one flight of stairs without being winded.
But --- I am recovering slowly and have decided I needed to start a low impact non cardio workout again just to get myself moving. - I've been so physically weak it is just shocking!!
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I've had two classes so far at the Pure Barre Lakewood Ranch location - which I am absolutely delighted with!! The people working there have such a positive energy and it really lifts my spirits!
- Also the clientele seem to be more down to earth.
- I was very put off by the SRQ location with the icy and snarky owners as well as several pretentious ladies who work out there. -- NOT everyone - but enough to just put a damper on things.

Either way - the first class was impossibly difficult --  I felt myself getting breathless a few times and would just back off a bit, but this second class I felt MUCH stronger.

I am by no means where I used to be but it feels so good to be moving my body again. - That flu then upper respiratory - and asthma took me out from just after Christmas through the entire month of January and a good chunk of February has been just the asthma bothering me.

On top of it all -- I went BLONDE!!!!! and lost 35 lbs so far by changing my diet completely.

I am feeling vibrant and loving all of the personal changes.
-
The only thing I"m worried about is the princess half marathon NEXT WEEKEND!!!
I can not run. Just can NOT.
The slowest mark point before being picked up by the busses for a DNF (did not finish) is a 16 min mile.

I think I can walk think. I want this medal so bad - I'm going to go. I will do the best I can and make sure that I can stay out of range of those buses!!!!! -
I haven't had to use my inhaler in quite some time now- so that is a good thing. . . I will still carry it with me in my arm pocket where I keep my Iphone - but I'm determined to complete this!!


I will keep you posted - hope all is well
best,
Minda

Ruby Brick Road

I always loved The Wizard of Oz. It was so delightful - the entire picture - just delightful. I watched this over and over!!  - And I always wondered . . . .where does the red brick road go?

I suppose I will admit to secretly envisioning myself peeling off the yellow brick road to take the red brick road while Dorothy and friends kept skipping along the way! I would make up in my mind a completely different set of adventures for the red brick road to present!! (hours of entertainment)

So this is why - I'm here writing on a blog oddly titled . . .Ruby Road. It has turned into the adventures of real time.

- It is just a path
magical - frightening - exciting!

I don't know what is around the next corner - only that it is bound to be fantastic =)

New Year Rocky Start!

So here it is - all of my high flying goals of improving 5k and half marathon times are stifled as I am recovering from one of the nastiest illnesses I've endured to date.  It has been several days of complete delirium and the inability to breathe due to this asthma that has come on with this flu.  I am very grateful for a childhood friend who is now a doc - who has rescued me with this inhaler - and tomorrow will see me at the doorstep of a new doc in hopes that I will figure out if this will be something I need to constantly be babying.

My fever has finally broken but unfortunately there has been no partying to ring in the new year as I am hunkered down and willing myself better. The Princess Half Marathon is quickly approaching and I NEED AIR! I NEED TO BREATHE!

My faithful dog Tuscan has not left my side- nor has my darling husband Matt. (not in order of gratitude!)
- I need to recalibrate my plan of attack. I want so much to run - to be better. To be at the race! To feel the excitement and adrenaline! Not a lot of people know that I have breathing issues but it comes to attack me now and then.
 -Its unfortunate that now is one of those times.

Taking things one day at a time  and hoping that tomorrow brings a little more comfort and air.
 - My dreams were tormented lastnight by wild nightmares of running down aisles of multicolored scarves that were leaping out to bind around my neck, choking me in big satin lead bows. People would bump into me in these endless aisles of scarves but there was no way out! They would hug me and adjust my bow and send me back down the aisle whirling between the slippery and deadly  accessories! I woke drenched in sweat and feeling like hands were just closing in around my neck - I had to get up and distract myself for a little while by sitting in the dark living room, on a cool black chair -  until the remnants of the night mare cleared away with the morning fog of January 1, 2013 - this new years day.

Many people take this time to reflect upon the happenings of the last year-  but I admit I have not. I am simply living within this moment - this heartbeat - this very intake of precious air.
It is very hard to describe this asthmatic sensation to someone who has not experienced it first hand. Pretty much - I believe it is as if someone were sitting upon your chest and trying to choke you at the same time . . . all the time. It is extremely unsettling and of course it throws the workouts out of whack! I haven't worked out in 4 days! yikes!
-
crossing fingers and hoping that tomorrows dawn will not see me dead- but instead glowing peacefully with vitality and health.
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All the best to you and the ones you love.
Minda



ps -
this was not meant to sound so gloomy -
but when air is in question, my eyelashes are on the table and all bets are off.
- seriously
i just want to breathe and workout again =(

The Jingle 5k Run!

What a blast!!! I will just start out of the gate by saying I beat my last 5k time by 5 minutes!!!!

YAY!!!!
It was an odd race day for me, I did my normal Agility workout in the morning - and on any other race day in the past I would have been taking the day off because it was RACE DAY. Well this was RACE NIGHT!  
-
Things have somewhat changed. Though I am by no means Speedy Gonzalez, I am in fact no longer terrified of a 5k. I KNOW. . . there are worse things than a 5k out there!*shiver*

-Speaking of shivering it was COLD last night! Cold at least for a Floridian! Low 50's high 40's!
I think it added to the excitement of the event! There were a total of 1600 runners and the course was out and back within the lovely Lakewood Ranch community. There were so many people zipping around in neon shoes and glow in the dark laces! As the sun set someone fired up a grill and the scent of smoke and hotdogs filled the air as the High School band drummed a sharp march.
I could feel myself ramping up with the drum beat as I walked in cadence closer and closer to the action! The action being several Fit2Run tents as well as free spinal exams, beer, and massage stations! I'm actually really starting to enjoy night races. I feel less self aware. I'm just in my zone doing my thing and not distracted by everything.

I was regretting the fact I didn't have a jacket and was wishing I had some friends to run this with me - but I suppose deep down I always like to experience these things alone. . . I mean. I like someone out there but not the pressure of feeling like I might be holding someone back from their race pace.
That thought stresses me out too much I end up running a lot worse LOL.

So I hung out near a warmish tent and reported via text to my friends the scene!

I will say it was very well appointed for a local race. There were elf course attendants and several water stops . . . more than I think necessary for a 5k but HEY! cool! There were police stopping traffic and a nice bright and cheery well lit finish line.

Not my best look - perhaps a bit too cat burglar LOL - But I was comfortable once the race started!
I need to adjust the arms on my glasses as they press painfully behind my ears - I COULD run without them but I love to see whats happening around me!!!!
 -
I did run with my earphones in this time --- it WAS a JINGLE run. . .  EVERYONE had these loud jingle bells as well as the course attendants. I can't stand Jingle Bells. I know it sounds bad, but I can barely rush past those Salvation Army bell ringers that descend every year in front of our grocery store, Publix. I would feel more inclined to give if they just stood there smiling and well wishing. BUT ANYWAY!!!
- I had to walk to the start once the gun went off because it was quite a crowded race, once I passed the start it was a nice brisk jog with my girls Britney JLO and Pink blissfully drowning out all bells. =)

I notice I always start off feeling great and then in mile two I slow down a lot with a pick up towards the end. I need to work on maintaining a decent speed in mile 2. Something I did notice this race was my strength. I had so much more physical strength than in the past. I felt more surges of energy to push forward - and I will admit it was not for myself really -but just to kind of hang in with the group of people who were around me.

I had a lot of fun on this race because it was super festive and the mood of the crowd was really energized. I would definitely run this race again in the future and the T-shirt is pretty cool too.

Alright whats next?? - Setting my sights on the next race!! Thinking about the Ringling Bridge Run! Jan 19, 2013. 4 miles.
hrmm - well I guess I need to work on bridges now!
See you at the next race!
<3
Min

FLAT TIRE

I've busted a wheel =(
Right foot heel. I kind of jammed it hard while trying stop too fast when sprinting.
I don't know why I stopped so awkwardly - but it felt like my leg just pegged straight into the ground without any bend or roll. and BLAM - pain radiating up the outside of my leg to the hip.
I spent about an hour soaking in Epsom Salt yesterday and then blasting it with Biofreeze -- which I ADORE!!!

I was lucky to have my friend who owns Agility take a look at my ankle this morning and he agrees its jammed and needs to chill out for a bit!
-
It already feels a lot better tonight - but I am not sure I will be running in the Frosty 5k this saturday.
Just walking my pups down the road a short while is very uncomfortable.

Anyway -

Even though I didn't get to work out today with Kimberly, I DID hang out and cheer the ladies on! - Also I took a few photos of Anna doing a few of the moves we do in class!!
Doesn't she look awesome?!  =D

 You know whats funny? -
I could hear the workout starting -and see everyone getting going and my whole body started heating up like crazy!! I could feel the sweat just running down my back and my whole core was hot hot hot - like it was expecting me to get going and work out!!!
It was so uncomfortable and I felt ridiculous talking to people and feeling my head burning up like some kind of freakshow - because I wasn't moving!!!!
- Anna says this happens to her too! - The body is prepping to WORK!
We googled it! - It must be TRUE! LOL

Anyway - I'm not sure if I should go to Agility tomorrow and do abs or just hang out at home? BLAH! I mean - I can do abs again and ride the bike right?

It just feels so bad to be weight bearing.

Anyway - more soon - I'm going to the frosty 5k no matter what! EIther as a runner or a spectator cheering my friends on!

1 mile stiff slog

Everything felt stiff and tired and puffy today. Just not comfortable- not finding anything that made me want to keep going because I knew in just a little while I will be inside doing my Agility workout.
- I find it way to difficult to get the most out of Agility after running 2-3 miles.
-
I need to get more miles under my feet.
- Some days I"m full of beans - others just flatline.
- I'm going to blame the fact I didn't get to have my usual morning cup of coffee!! - This is what usually gets me GOING!!!!

 random blackberries pic - just for some color . . . and they are my fav. =)
okay I will fill you in on more as the week unrolls!
week 4 using nike app! loving it!

I see Burpees~!

Oh yes - super tough day.
It was intense in a cardio - UP UP way.

Each one with a * star * next to it was done for 6 minutes each.
YIKES!

That little unassuming word right there after  warm up 2un 2x around -- yes . . yes that one right there! that says SPRINT!
hahahahaah
Talk about a WAKE UP! Usually we just jog our half mile out - get the body flowing, it is the holy time - the quiet time of preparing the mind and soul for what is about to happen - yes I am speaking of the Agility CORE FIT class!
- One must prepare!
-
So here I am returning from my nice easy going warm up to find the class instructor outside and yelling SPRINT SPRINT!!!
So -- Sprint I must! - For she is the commander - and the voice I hear through the thick haze of fatigue and self downtalk.
- Up and down the parking lot lanes we sprinted - we the core fit team.
It felt good to see the finish line. When I can see the finish line - I can give you 510% of my capacity. Its when there is no finish line - when there is no hope - hahhaa that I wilt.
-I dig in and hang on until it all comes to a horrible halt.

I like to think of this morning as the SURPRISE SPRINTS.
- It woke me up and I came to life - I was ready to play!

These workouts are challenging - but I really go at my capacity - and I am mindful of my body and do what I know is really working my body well - with the intent of being able to do it daily.

Backing off my 3 mile runs the last two days BEFORE agility has upped my enjoyment again for the classes I love so much!

So anyway -Here I was thinking 1 minute activities were crazy - the reality is . ..  6 minute activities are CRAZY!!!  But even so- I will post my post it thought on how time has come to mean very different things to me lately LOL! See you later =D
Min

AFX and Running

HI Party PEOPLE!!! I am in the works of being a part of a  new running club with Agility! Here I am rockin' my new AFX shirt - which stands for Agility Fitness Experience.

As you can see - Teddy Bear is super excited about this shirt too! =D
DOWN BOY!!! lol

Sooooo - I'm all about my new Nike Plus Running app for my iPhone. I was using the Sportstracker app previously, but got annoyed with the frequent glitching and incorrect data. I've been running in the Morning Tues and Thurs with my friend and the other running club person -- yes I said OTHER- as I think its just the two of us - perhaps two others but we aren't that organized yet.  Also Weds and Sat I'm running.
- I'm not fast at all. . . but! -
I'm getting faster =D
This is what is so neat about the app- it shows you on a map your run and it travels the route in a line that changes colors. Green and yellow mean you are zooming!! orange is like sloooooow jog and red is flat out walking. It also alerts you to your pace nad will play whatever playlist you have lined up!!

I'm so excited about my friend at Agility who is designing our team shirt!!! SO far it has the AFX logo - with a running figure behind it - and under says -- I RUN with AGILITY!
So COOL!!

Well- as you can see below we had a great time at the last 5k! - Now for the NEXT 5k!!! The FROSTY 5k !!!
Here is the design for the shirt! - because . . you know me and shirts . . lol.

Annnnnd finally for the last race of the year -
The Jingle 5k !! Which will be an evening race.

There is so much going on - I'm pretty much having a blast and soaking up all the fun races while the weather is nice!! As soon as spring arrives we will sink back into that horrid Floridian FUG of heat and humidity. Yuck!

So - Running tues weds thurs and sat has proven to be more challenging than expected. As you know - I adore my Agility classes. It took me some time to build up enough OOMPH to withstand 4 days of Agility. I tried for 5 but I just felt broken . LOL
So 4 it is.. . . As all the races are happening well . .. I need to get my ass on the ROAD!!!! When do I run? YEP - BEFORE AGILITY CLASS.
YIKES!

Now- I wasn't originally planning for that schedule - actually I'm hardly planning much - just kind of going with the flow. . . but here it is.
-
I was going to only run on the days I'm not doing Agility because I thought OHHH a 5k run would be a perfect workout and I will be too tired for much else .. . then comes the TURKEY BURN.
- Remember in my previous post? 5k run followed by hard and brain melting CORE FIT !

Well after completing that day of pure energy - I realized that HEY I can run and do Agility back to back. . . .
And so the journey began. I run walk jog sprint my way through 2.24-3.16 miles  - followed by .50 of a mile and then full Core Fit or Cardio Sculpt.
Its mind blastingly difficult. I lasted up til today. TODAY WAS THE FLAKE OUT.
- And it is because of yesterday.
Yesterdays Core Fit felt like dragging my body through mud. It felt like every single activity was asking me to use my legs . I mean OMG - how can I use my legs when I blasted myself out sprinting?
-
Yeah- It just wasn't happening this morning so I went to Agility with full on freshness and actually really enjoyed the class again! - I think mostly because I was RESTED! Even the .50 mile warm up I did much faster than usual.

Running really is a metaphor for life - you really do get out what you put into it. I think Oprah said that .. I agree. It is the great leveler of the ego! It is my quiet time- and dreaming time. I have said all of my sorries and forgiven myself of regrats and mistakes never to be repeated. It all is left on the pavement and washed away. - From MY Psyche.

Either way - I need to find a balance of Running and Agility.
I want to run but not feel broken for my Agi class. I want to improve - without breaking my body.
- I can feel that I need to back off. I'm basically bathed in biofreeze and spend each late afternoon stiffly hobbling around my home.
No one but Matt sees this part - but its seeping more and more into my morning classes as the total shock to the system of run/corefit is representing itself in the fact that I can barely do several activities- especially anything that is asking me to do tuck jumps or deep knee bending. I need to REST this weekend.
- I will keep you posted.
There is a balance.
I will find it.
<3

5k for KICKS!

Had a blast this morning at the 5k for Kicks! It supported the local high school soccer team. But you know me - I do things mostly for the shirt. ..  and sadly -- they didn't have a Ladies cut Large. I ended up going home with a mens medium.
TRAGEDY! lol.
- yeah.
I know it sounds awful but its so true!! I join these things for the shirts and I guess the world thinks that everyone belongs in a ladies medium or small =( I did actually hear a lot of ladies saying they wished they had a Large.  -
OK - enough griping about the shirt - The rest of the morning was really pleasant. It was a nice cool morning and perfect for a 5k!
-It was great to be there with my friends from Agility --

also that Anna decided to go last minute was another bonus!!

 A fun time was had by all and after we hit up the local farmers market to see what was happening down town!

Judging by the times on my nike app- my times are improving with each run. I'm looking forward to the Frosty 5k on December 15th!

Evolution

Hi there! - Posting this pic because it feels like I spend most of my life in a sweaty ponytail!!!!
LOL
Anyway - I hope your Thanksgiving was fantastic I know mine was!! I started off the day with my favorite people at Agility. We did a TURKEY BURN!!!!
I arrived at 6:00 am where several others were also gathering for some pre-feasting damage control!
We started the morning off with a 5k run through lovely Venice Florida back neighborhoods and arrived back to begin what I can only describe as - INTENSE!!!!!
- About 72 people showed up - perhaps 40ish for the run but over all 72 arrived! What a great turn out for a holiday! - It was free but donation for local shelter appreciated. I brought several cans of butternut squash soup and tins of chunk chicken.

SO anyway -after 5k we had a short yoga session with a series of stretches and breathing. Then our entire group was broken into 3 major stations. At each station we had 6 activities and those stations were broken into 3 groups. 2, 2 and 2. Each activity was 40 seconds ON and 10 seconds transition/recover. Finish with abs. It was hilarious because the last 10 seconds of the abs the ENTIRE ROOM was doing a countdown like it was New Years Eve!!!! We had SUCH a GREAT TIME! The flow and energy of the room was fantastic.I hope they do this again next year!!!

The above photo is much like my daily workout. It varies daily. Sometimes more arms other days more legs. Some days more cardio other days more strength. But it is always a good mix up that kicks my ass!!! Usually its a half mile warm up run. This past week I've increased my intensity by arriving early to go for a run with my friend Jen - it is a 2.22 mile run. I don't think I would normally be UP for this but after the Turkey Burn I see it can be done!! - I just need to adjust and adapt a few things.

I'm not much for eating before working out because I don't like that feeling of food or liquid sloshing around inside me - especially since we do so many up and down jumpy things. But I've learned that I need - NEED the fuel. I was a ZOMBIE tuesday trying to make it through my Agility workout after the running. So Weds and Thurs I made sure to get some scrambled eggs in about an hour before run - and felt like I had more gas in the tank.
I really want to focus on increasing my speed for the Princess half marathon feb 24. I think in the past I would have done a 3 mile run and felt like it was a great workout and I'm all done for the day . .. . but something has changed!!! - Now I don't feel like things are complete unless I add in a total body workout that addresses each of the following : core conditioning - endurance - speed-and strength. I listen to my body more now. - Like today. Instead of working out hard I'm taking it easy. I have a kind of dead leg feel and know that I need to chill. . . Tomorrow is a 5k race  and I don't want to be zombie for that!  Sunday I'll chill then Monday-Thurs go back in and kill it.

Who knows though - some times I take weds off - other days a mon. Its never two days back to back though. There must always be a NOTHING day followed by a lighter day. Then I don't tweak out and feel like I'm running on empty or about to snap.
-I mean the whole idea is to feel great and look great right?! I'm so happy doing all this. I don't know where I'm going - I only know that I'm ON THE WAY!!!!

Alright - I will post after the 5k tomorrow! take care
~.^
Min

To be a PRINCESS!

Here is a photo I found online of the Disney World Princess Half Marathon!
I couldn't be more delighted - excited and *JAZZ HANDS* thrilled to be officially registered for this race! Not only am I running it - my Mom and Cousin will be in the 5k and my besties Anna and Shaun are in for the HALF!

I LOVE being surrounded by friends and family! - Especially when I'm doing something I just love to hate LOL!

Now that there are 94 days left - I've decided that my plan is to switch up from 4 days of Agility over to 3 days. The rest of the time will be dedicated to interval runs and long runs.
I really need to SPEED UP and be CONSISTENT.
- I'm not naturally a RUNNER - in fact . .  I can't stand running! It is something that is so alien to my being and over my head that I feel I MUST include it in my life. I love completing and conquering challenges that scare me!

Now that I know I can at least cover the half marathon distance . . not once but TWICE!!  It is time to really just up the ante.
I think I have it in my head that I must must conserve - because I dont know how I'll make it. ..  truth is - I've got more gas in the tank than I'm giving myself credit for.

I'm enjoying playing with my app SportsTracker as it tells me which miles i'm running fastest and slowest and is a nice little map and timer.  Okay thats all for now! see ya

15k mark

This is the hardest part of the race for me because I know I still have a ways to go.
This is EXHIBIT A!
Time of Death.
If I raise my right arm up - this would very much resemble a chalk outline! LOL

2012 Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend!!!!

Hello Everyone!!!! What an EXCITING weekend! I've just returned from Orlando and riding the high of such a fun weekend!
Disney World really knows how to move people efficiently and in a comfortable manner. There were 14 THOUSAND runners - with women being 66% of the field!

So Friday - we have an easy smooth drive to Orlando and arrive right to the Health and Fitness Expo - which is a requirement to attend in order to run in the race. It is the place you turn in your signed waiver and pick up your Bib Number and race info packet. Then you go over to another building and pick up gear bag and Race T-shirt.

 After a super easy packet pick up - I enjoyed walking up and down every nook and cranny at the Expo - looking at all the running gear and gadgets. It was literally a shoppers heaven! Especially if you love workout gear!!!!! I got a Wine and Dine 2012 Running hat - an armpocket to hold my iphone and some snugbudds ear buds for the tunes . ..  which I never listened to because the race was just SO ENTERTAINING!! - But I will get to that!

We stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge -Jambo House. This is an African style Themed Hotel - with African inspired restaurants. It also was listed as one of the Host Hotels for the race - meaning there was a shuttle running to and from the race start and finish all night which is just AWESOME. One of my constant headaches with big events is parking and arriving and leaving lol. - This factor was completely removed from the equation. Our room at the hotel had a savanna view of Giraffe!!!- Ostrich!! Wildebeast!! Antelope! Zebra!! Impala!! OMG - everytime I looked out the window we saw a new animal!!! It was really nice to sit on the balcony and just watch all of the different animals in person.

I also had fun trying on hats in true - Disney Fashion at the hotel gift shop!

We had an easygoing first night- and enjoyed a meal at Jiko, which means The Cooking Place. African style food. I was worried about eating anything too funky -before racing so just kept it light.
-To be honest the first night I slept horribly as I always do the first night of any new and strange place -- also I felt some nerves as the excitement ramped higher and higher!

Saturday seemed to blaze by as I tried my best to lay low and take a nap to be fresh for the evenings events. A 10pm race start for a half marathon is SO alien to me!!
-I ended up catching a solid 30 mins of afternoon shut eye and then began getting ready!!
Disney wants you to have so much crap! I really dislike running with items - and also dislike the checking of bags! anywhere! including airports LOL.
BUT- I had my ID and some cash - my wrist band -my room key etc. .. thankfully it all fit compactly into my arm pocket arm band!! Handy thing I'm glad I got it as I refuse to wear a fanny pack!

OKAY finally dressed and pinned - for those of you who are interested I had a few different outfits- in the end I went with what I feel the most comfortable in. Long sleeve black nike shirt- polocrosse lululemon crop leggings, nike airborne running sports bra, and my trusty nike pegasus running shoes- WITH iron girl run cap!

As you can see by my sourgrapes expression - I was kind of nervy LOL Just wanting to get out and on the way!!

So I leave the room walk out the front door of the hotel and hop directly onto a waiting bus to take me to the race start. They requested I take the 8 pm bus as the LAST option . . I left around 7:15ish. We arrive to the ESPN Wide World of sports and are directed to huge open soccer type fields that have all of the Corral Letters lit up in sections - surrounded by a zillion portopotties. There was music blasting and a guy dancing and pumping the crowd up - as well as every type of strange costume present worn by runners.
Runners really are ODD CATS!! I saw a couple dressed as bacon and eggs! - Another as Thing 1 and Thing 2! There were several Tinkerbells and Minnies!
It was a really fun atmosphere! I didn't like that I had to wait so long before the event - as I felt like wilting as the time ticked by to 10:15 which was my corral D race start. But everything went off with an exciting fireworks display start!!
- The miles seemed to just melt into each other as we raced down the Parkway toward Animal Kingdom. As we entered the park there were photographers all over the place capturing everyones photos at prime locations! lol - I made sure to perk up and try to appear... effortlessly springy as I passed these guys HAHA!!
- Only to slump back into my hang on for dear life unattractive left right left right go go go go sheer will hitch in my git a-long a moment later!
- The Tree of Life was completely lit up - It really looked fantastic! I had this sensation of being somewhere completely exotic and foreign. As we exited the park and headed back down the parkway to HOllywood Studios, I noticed that I seemed to be keeping pace with this girl. I don't know who she is- all i knew was that she is consistent! No speeding and wilting speeding and wilting - she just sticks in there and hangs on. - This girl became my ANCHOR lol. If I felt myself straggling behind I would force myself to stay with her. I was able to stick it out with her until Mile 10. Then she stopped for water or something .. . just vanished into thin air! NOooooo lol.
- But eitherway - I silently thank her for helping me stay paced. I was MUCH faster this time around and more consistent. My body is much stronger too.
- Alright Hollywood Studios!! Talk about a light show!! Every Square inch of the buildings were lit up. Darth Vader was LOOMING - Indiana Jones music was soaring us along down the rock n roll 50's style streets! - There were more photographers hanging out on corners taking pics lol which I also made a grand effort to perk up for.
I know it sounds ridiculous - but its like anything else .. . if you know someone is watching you just try harder. ..  is that bad? like I dont have my own will? - Things run through my head on long runs like this-  crazy things like - Why am I doing this? I'm not a runner! Why am I torturing myself? I have this crazy pressured thought in my head that my mind and body must be cleansed and purged in fire twice a year at least- to keep me humble and not let me think I'm anything I am not.
There is nothing that humbles me faster than running.
It is what it is!! - And it isn't what it isn't!
 - ANYWAY -
 MOVING ALONG!! lol.
-
Each mile Marker was lit up with bands and dancers - disney characters that people were actually stopping to take photos with!! I was like WHAATT!! There is no time for waiting in lines to grab pics with Goofy!!!
But now that its over - I do wish  I grabbed a pic or two along the way!
My favorite Cast Character was the Toy Story Green Army man who was at the base of a hill - lol I know its florida- no hills here but okay INCLINE. . .
He was yelling in this big Army style voice MOVE CIVILIAN!! YOu GIT UP THAT HILL!!! YOU OWN THAT HILL!! HEY THAR SWEET PEA -  MOVE MOVE MOVE MOVE MOVE!!
- He totally cracked me up!! Love that guy!!

So the end is near!! We are running along and I see this table with HUGE pump bottles of Biofreeze!! I stopped for a second and this woman pumped ALOT into both my hands which I just slathered all over my shins calves and ankles. IT was just HEAVEN. With a zinging new icy spring to my legs- I took off again into the cool night air! ZOoming around boardwalks and receiving HIGH FIVES from volunteers and spectators!
I rounded one of the last corners and was immediately FLOODED by some kind of Fog machine ! LOL Everything around me was shrouded in a dense foggy mist- and these laser lines shot out over my head like a lit ceiling of light surrounded by trees and night.
I could hear the MC in the distance getting louder and louder as he called out peoples names crossing the finishline. My heart was pounding - I couldn't feel any pain anymore and I thought about my Core Fit coach Alicia driving me along the sleds saying this is it Minda!! your last 100 yards of that half marathon!! this is it! dig in now! I could see the Epcot Ball Looming around me as I pushed forward.

- From somewhere I found an awesome surge of energy and came around the corner and across the finish line with a good kick ---the finish line was surrounded by stands of cheering spectators as well as runners who were relaxing and waiting for friends to finish as well! - I felt this intense wave of relief and joy as my feet crossed the mats!!! A super energized guy ran up to me saying PRINCESS!!! PRINCESS!! Here is your medal!! Congrats!! You earned it!!  It was so much fun.
- It was such a personally rewarding experience - and there was so much entertainment provided along the way. I highly suggest adding this race to your list of fun half marathons!!
I came home and immediately registered for the Princess Half Marathon in Feb 2013!!!!! So-- the training continues!!
Below is a close up of the medal -then Dad and myself in front of the Epcot Ball, and finally me back at the hotel showered and resting with glassy eyes showing off my hardware!!

First Core Fit Experience

Since the schedule change for Booty Barre- I went ahead and tried out the MWF morning class offered at Agility Physical Therapy . YEAHHH I would have never thought to look at a Physical Therapy center for an awesome workout!!! - When I think Physical Therapy, I think Rehabilitating! Or Senior Citizens who are getting used to new replacements etc!
-
This class is called CORE FIT. I had thought it was just identical to the Tues Thurs class that I was taking there - but that one is called Cardio Sculpt.
- I know it seems like I'm all over the place with so many different workouts ! But hang with me! It does streamline. I'm just trying to find what works best for mt body and my wallet!

Core fit is HARD CORE. I knew this the moment I looked at what was written on the board for the days workout. . . it starts with a warm up for sprinting then 6 burpees then sprinting then 20 mountain climbers then sprinting . ..  rinse repeat 4 times. It doesn't SOUND too bad - it doesn't even look like a lot of writing on the board. . but this is HARD.

We moved through a fast paced ciruit of jumping squatting lunging and more jumping!! It was all out GO GO GO. Compared to the tues thurs class . . . this was the same workout but HIGH OCTANE. And I thought Tues Thurs was insane!! OH NO. I just wasn't conditioned for it!!!

Bursts of cardio with deep strength - It really is the best workout I've ever had.
I'm not saying Cardio Sculpt is bad-- its AMAZING and I don't think I could do Core Fit 5 days a week. This is an awesome schedule of high and low.
 All in one place that isn't too far from home, and for a great price - with SUPER people. I mean really NICE people. They have just a deep kindness to them - it is a wonderful environment.

I will let you know how next week goes. It will be my first week of doing this 5 days a week.
This is a no joke workout. - I think this is exactly what is done if you want the body of your dreams. LOL I look at my instructors and ask - what do you do?? They say . This! 5 days a week. BUT They also eat clean and are pretty obsessed with it. LOLOL - but i'm pretty obsessed too! I mean . ..  I just want a flat tummy!!IT IS GOING TO HAPPEN!!

one day.

- Anyway I did attend Booty Barre and Mat Pilates on Saturday and I love it so much. I'm realizing after the hard workouts during the week I would really like to have a pilates or yoga class to help with just peace of mind I guess. Between all the crazed up up up cardio - and the papers I have to write for my University classes and homework . . lol I want peaceful yoga too!!!
- OKAY - Guess I'm hunting that one down too LOL

talk to you soon - hope all is well
Min

Oh NO!

I just got a email yesterday from the owner of the studio that does my Booty Barre class. . . . She has changed October schedule all around and  not offering the time slots that are available to me or any of my friends anymore!
She said it would just be for October but - A whole month of nothing??? Can't do that.
Actually it would be just a month of Mondays. - Which is still not the routine I was signing up for Which is MWSat. In the end it comes down to schedules and money. The 99$ unlimited month long special - is really only worth it if there was a consistent schedule of options. If Booty Barre was offered MWF 9:30-10:30 and again 5:30 -6:30 I could help her rake in a LOT of customers, as well as have some kind of constant workout morning schedule.. . or if something happened hop in the afternoon class.
- Right now the schedule offered is too much all over the place, so I've made the decision to stop going to Booty Barre when my package runs out after this month.

I will instead go to Agility 5 days a week. - it happens like clockwork, it is a lot closer to where I live - and in the end is cheaper since I'm not paying to go to different places.
-
I know people might think - PAYING for workouts isn't the way they would do it- but honestly, Having a location and a destination and knowing that I'm scheduled and signed up and that someone is expecting me there -- HELPS me stay on track LOL.
- I used to need more motivation for working out - but its not like that anymore, now it is of COURSE I will work out - I just need to find the right workout and the right location.

The reason I think Agility will work out for my main M-F schedule is because it is challenging cardio bursts with strength training as well.

Who know - but that will be October for me.
-Monday through Friday one hour total body. The feel of this workout is somewhat cross fit P90X Insanity type - but not violently brutal on the body lol. I don't leave with torn oozing blistered hands or bleeding shins - or any of that. It is more geared for whipping yourself into shape intensely but not the kind where you are hulking around body bags or throwing tractor tires. ..

I really will miss the dance cardio aspect of my workouts- and I really think I need to fit some kind of pilates into the mix. I REALLY love that overall well being feeling I get from Pilates and yoga type classes.

Ok - update more soon

Barre Min

ALRIGHT!
 Hi there! I know its been a couple weeks since my last update! (Thanks Tracy for the nudge!)
- Basically I have been settling into my new workout schedule of Booty Barre  MWand SAT. Followed by Pilates - and Agility Tues and Thurs.  I even did two booty barre classes last weds. - I felt it had reached my limit! Talk about ab killer!
- With all these different types of workouts, I feel so alive and happy! I really REALLY love Booty Barre. The energy and music and ladies in the class really make it such a FUN time!

This is a CHALLENGING schedule - My body is changing as each week passes! Mostly I've noticed an increased stamina for for the cardio blasts. 30 seconds on 10 seconds transition is the agility cardio blast and in booty barre it kind of feels like the whole thing is cardio LOL . . .though I am starting to see the rolling wave to it, allowing me to hang in there. Knowing what comes next really helps me to stick in there and give it all I've got. . . I keep thinking . You can do ANYTHING for 30 seconds!! And that 10 second transition comes QUICK!

Saturday was my last workout. I had caught a strange entire body ache flu type thing. Slept from saturday afternoon until this morning actually! My whole body was in an ache. It isn't a workout thing. My friends son caught something at school - and she got it . .. . and then of course me. BLAH!!
- I would say I feel 80% I'm going to go light today. I don't want too many days to pass between cardio workouts because it is just too easy to lose that cardio stamina!!
 - I don't know if its true. ..  but I heard if you don't work on cardio for an entire week you lose a good chunk of the capability. . .Now I'm sure it pops back fast . . but I can't afford to regress!!!!
-
In other news!!!! I know it sounds ridiculous but I tried getting a spray tan and LOL it made the soles of my feet BROWN!! I was in my pilates class and I noticed the instructor take note of my overly brown soles! I felt like that girl with the dirty feet OH NO! hahhaha!

I know - I know BARRIER CREAM!!!!!! Also You might be thinking WHY are you spray tanning?! You live in FLORIDA!
Well. .  . It just looks so even! And I don't have to worry about skin cancer from over exposure to the sun! I don't know! - It is fun to try out!
I've tried a few different settings so far from ULTRA bronze - to mild! lol

Alright - gotta head down the road to Agility .
Hope you are all well and happy - update you more soon! There is much more to talk about with regards to foods and workouts lol!