I have tried to sit down and write this post about 4 or 5 times at this point. I do not know what is wrong with me this week. I want to share with you so badly about my awesome trip to Disneyland, and I just couldn't figure out how to get it all in without sounding too boring or droning on and on and on about everything that happened. And trust me, there are so many fantastic things that happened! The idea finally hit me while using the ladies room. Wouldn't you agree that that is the place where our best ideas come from? I have had many an a-ha moment while sitting on the potty...that's right. I said it. Anyway, I will begin my fairytale.
Once upon a time, I signed up for the Tinker Bell Half Marathon last summer, and convinced a very dear aunt, Aunt Sue, to join me on this endeavor. We thought we were going to run in the Disney Princess Half this year, but upon hearing that we would be among the first to run this race, as it was the inaugural year, we could not pass up this golden opportunity!
And so, we trained in two separate states, made plans, booked flights and hotels, planned outfits, and before we knew it, we, along with Patrick, were off to the magical land of Anaheim, California, where dreams really do come true. Upon arriving, we checked into our hotel and then dashed over to the Tinker Bell Expo where my aunt and I picked up our race packets and some souvenir merchandise. Oh for those of you who were wondering about my outfit, I did not wear the Under Armour shirt...I found a better one!
Aunt Sue and I began our enchanted adventure on the Tinker Bell carpet.
Then I flew, like Tink, into the Expo. Race day packet here I come! I can fly, I can fly, I can FLY!!!!!
While at the Expo, I just had to get another Sweaty Bands in sparkly green. Mirror, Mirror, on the stand, who is the fastest pixie in Disneyland? (not me...but I think the headband is cute)
Upon leaving the Expo, the trio of us travelers grabbed a bite to eat at Outback Steakhouse, and then we went straight to bed, for we had a long and wonderful day ahead of us...a day at Disneyland! This was my first time EVER, and I couldn't wait to see what the park was like.
The very next morning, I woke up bright and early (5 a.m. what? I was still on East Coast time) to get ready for the day. Our first stop was to get some delicious beignets and coffee at the Jazz Kitchen Express. We chowed down on the melt-in-your-mouth fried dough covered in powdered sugar and strolled over to the theme park. I was feeling quite elated, but I had to keep reminding myself that the castle wasn't that big and I might not like "land" as much as "world." When I finally laid eyes on Sleeping Beauty's Castle, I burst out in laughter at its minuscule size! I could not get over how ridiculous it looked in comparison to Cindarella's massive fortress. However, for those of you who love Disneyland, do not get too upset with me yet! I have to say that Disneyland soon won me over in its charm and character, and I found out that many of the rides are WAY better than the ones found in Orlando. Both Disneyland and California Adventure packed a lot of punch, and I will admit that I love Disneyland as much as I love Disney World!
Patrick, Aunt Sue, and I posing in front of the castle. It may be small, but it is mighty!
After riding all of the classics at Disneyland, including but not limited to, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Pirates of the Carribean, and the Haunted Mansion, we trekked over to California Adventure. Our first ride was the Grizzly River Run, where we got a little wet, which was a nice respite from the midday sun. We also journeyed to Paradise Pier and rode California Screamin' and Toy story Midway Mania.
Paradise Pier reminded me a lot of the Jersey Shore. It was like a piece of home!
Although we waited in line for ever so long, Toy Story Midway Mania was worth every minute once we stepped into our carts. This may be my favorite interactive ride in the whole wide world!
My handsome prince in front of Mickey's Fun Wheel, which had swinging carts just like the Wonder Wheel in Coney Island!
The three of us were spent of all energy at this point so we headed over to the Grand Californian Resort where we sat in the lobby and awaited Patrick's mom's arrival. Once she found us, our next scheduled event was to eat dinner at the Naples Restaurant in Downtown Disney so that we could carb-load before the big race! We sat outside and enjoyed some live entertainment of a violinist and a guitarist. It was a delightful meal, but I was ready to have a good night's sleep before I had to endure the Tinker Bell Half the very next morning.
I had about 4-5 hours of sleep before I woke up, bright eyed and bushy tailed yet again, and got into my race day outfit!
Here is my new, and more beautiful, shirt that has sparkle and shine! I was anxious to get the party started!
As I ran along the course, I took in all the amazing sights and characters along the way. I remember running down Main Street USA towards the castle, and I couldn't help but feel so happy and so blessed to have the strength to run this race. A small prayer of thanks to God welled up in my soul, for He is the one who allows me to run every step, breathe every breath, and experience true joy in this life. Yes, running can be a spiritual connection, and it definitely was for me in this particular race.
Around mile marker 4, I found my darling and my mother in law, and the two of them encouraged me to keep doing well. They promised they would see me soon enough at the finish line.
From that point on, I focused on keeping pace and trying to beat my previous records. The characters along the way and all the local high school bands and cheerleading squads kept up my spirits when the miles seemed long and endless. My goal was to finish the race under 2 hours and 30 minutes. I knew it was going to happen for me. In fact, I knew I was going to blow that time out of the water! My finishing time was 2 hours 16 minutes and 6 seconds. I came in 1500th out of about 7000 that finished. Filled with pride and excitement at completing this race, I realized I could not have done it without the amazing support of my friends and family, especially my husband. I thanked God once again for his strength which enabled me to push beyond my limits and capabilities. Needless to say, it was an awesome race!
At the finish line, all the runners were greeted with music, Daisy Duck, and lots of fans! It felt great!
I received my Tinker Bell finishing medal shortly after I crossed the finish line. Then I was off to gather lots of goodies and hydration and finally I met up with Patrick and his mom. It felt so good to see them waiting with hugs and congratulations.
When we met up with Aunt Sue, we found out she had hurt her ankle and was unable to continue after completing half of the race. She inspired me immensely because she was not defeated by her injury. In fact, she was excited because it was the most she had ever run at once to date. She even asked me what race we were going to sign up for next! Aunt Sue had a better idea of how she can train more effectively with her ankle (she had surgery on it just a year and a half ago...she is strong!) and also came to the realization that she is able to run a half marathon and will complete one someday! Truly amazing.
So, to celebrate our victories, we ate an amazing breakfast at Goofy's Kitchen! I wanted to congratulate myself with some Mickey waffles, the best waffles in all the land. We were greeted by many characters (9 in total...take that Disney World! I usually only see 3 or 4 during a meal), and chatted with some princesses. It was a lovely way to end the race.
Mulan joined in a picture with Aunt Sue and I, and she left us with encouragement and some smiles.
Finally, I got to show of my best curtsey with Princess Aurora. I hope that next race will be as lovely and as adventurous as this one was. Because, when you wish upon a star, your dreams do come true.
