tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30005474686232046922024-03-13T14:29:57.728-07:00Makeup, Cupcakes & RunningKara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-89097533897779189552017-02-09T10:53:00.001-08:002017-02-09T10:54:37.755-08:00Tips on Getting Back to the Grind.......<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So since today is a snow day here on good old Cape Cod and I am stuck in the house and not going out for a run I have decided to write about how I got back on the wagon and started running again giving you all some tips to get back at it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Part of the reason I stopped blogging was because I stopped running. For those of you who read my blog before, running was pretty much my life and what I wrote about most of the time. Without getting into the nitty gritty I had a few things going on in my life and had to take a step back from some things in order to focus on other things....running being the biggest thing I stopped doing, I just didn't have the time. Anyway moving forward I am back at it and wanted to give you some tips and tricks that have helped me! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Schedule and schedule far out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am someone who needs to know workout wise what my week looks like. In the past and currently I print out a calendar of the year and just schedule out my runs months in advance. I like to use the website <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/" target="_blank">Cool Running</a> to get my mileage back up to where I want it. They have training schedules for all distances as well as for all levels beginner, intermediate or advanced, the website also offers many other great tools! I highly recommend it! If you are not into running schedule what you are doing on what days! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Set a goal! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For me I set a goal race. I will schedule shorter races in here and there but I will always set a specific race that I am training for. Once I get to the race date from there I will re-evaluate my running calendar and set a new goal race. This just keeps you on track and your mind in the state that you need to keep up your training in order to finish what you have set your mind to! If running isn't for you set a goal as to something you want to finish. Whether it is a specific workout schedule that is a month long your goal would be to finish that month or four week program. I just find I need something that I am working towards.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Know what works for you and your body.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Know what work out is for you. If you are doing something that your not enjoying or you aren't finding are best for you then change it. For myself I know that if I do something that is strictly aerobic it is not for me. I bulk up too much and that is not what I am looking for. I want my body to be lean, still muscular but lean muscle. For me running does this. I will mix in some abs and arms but doing any type of leg work outs or squats are just not for me. Once you find out what works best for you working out will become more fun! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Get in the right mind set.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Set your mind to it and you will be able to do it. Yes this sounds corny however if you are mentally not there the workout is going to stink. Its all mental so tell yourself you can do it and you will! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. A bad day is only one bad day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Working out isn't always fun I will admit sometimes when I am running it sucks! I want to give up but it's only one day. I know the next days run will not be that way, well it might but odds are it will be better. Remind yourself that if one day it is hard it is only making you stronger. If every workout was easy you probably wouldn't be getting much out of it right? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lastly.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. HAVE FUN! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have fun during your workouts! Listen to your favorite music, or go outside and do your workout if you always do it inside. Ask a friend if they want to join you, change a running route. Make changes in your workout so its fun and different! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope I have inspired you to set a goal and get back at it! Leave a comment down below of what gets you motivated! </span></div>
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Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-67455978735722372682017-02-07T10:13:00.001-08:002017-02-07T10:13:56.246-08:00I am back......<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hello all, I am back after almost a two year hiatus I have decided to get back to my blogging (roaring applause </span><span class="emoji" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", NotoColorEmoji, "Segoe UI Symbol", "Android Emoji", EmojiSymbols; font-size: 28px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">👏</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 28px;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">) I know I know you have missed me but a lot had happened/changed in my life in the last few years. I am happy that I still have a small following, thanks for those who have stuck around I know the silence has been deafening however I am back and ready to BLOG! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the past I was primarily a product/race/running blogger, things are going to change a bit. I am still going to do both, fewer race recaps but there will still be some in there. Some product reviews for runners/athletes/makeup junkies (Anyone want to send me something to review send it along!) I will also be blogging about getting back into working out/ getting married/ changing careers and much much more. I am even going to start doing cupcake/dessert blogs! Things are getting wild people!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bare with me as I get back into the grove, I am thinking of starting on a schedule of three times a week starting with Tuesdays, Thursday and Sundays and maybe a few random posts in between! So for all of you that are still reading, buckle up it is going to be a fun ride! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In true fashion I will now leave you with a an adorable photo of my two fur babies! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Leave a comment below if there is anything you would love me to blog about and if you are still reading! Bueller......Bueller....</span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-63406169100254360302015-04-27T14:19:00.003-07:002015-04-27T14:19:49.082-07:00The Magic Pads....They really are Magic!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to try out a product called The <a href="https://www.themagicpads.com/" target="_blank">Magic Pads</a>. I had heard a bit about these and they seemed to be amazing and I was incredibly eager to try them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is just a little bit about them straight from their website...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> "The Magic Pads are the world's newest and most revolutionary product illuminating the road to more perfect skin! The pads are designed to organically destroy acne, clear blemishes, smooth and tighten skin, shrink pores, exfoliate, tone, clarify and hydrate in one swift swoop of a swipe"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now that is a lot to live up to! Theses pads are also full of great ingredients and are 100% cruelty free, 100% vegan, and 99% organic. They are also the #1 selling glycolic product on </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Magic-Pads-Glycolic-Certified-Extracts/dp/B00NMOS058/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1430168659&sr=8-1&keywords=the+magic+pads" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">Amazon</a><span style="font-size: large;">! All of this information you can learn from the website however. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now for the elephant in the room, how did I like them you ask....Well I LOVED them! After researching the website and reading all of the testimonials on them I thought no way these are as good as they say. Let me tell you they lived up to the hype. They are absolutely</span><span style="font-size: large;"> amazing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lets talk about my skin a little. I have some what oily skin, I wouldn't say I get many pimples just a few here and there around my chin area. I also sometimes have redness on my cheeks and they are not as smooth as I would like them to be. Once I started using these pads all of that went away. After only a few days of using these all of that cleared up and not one blemish popped up anywhere. I am talking no zits, no pimples, NOTHING my skin was just incredibly smooth. The bumpiness on my cheeks completely gone, everything cleared up that was there. It was amazing and my face felt great! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for how I used them, just one a day at night after I took a shower and washed my face. You can use two a day, one in the morning and one at night or one every other day, whatever works best for you. They never made my face sting or feel uncomfortable they just made it feel clean. The big thing for me was when I got out of the shower and used them they got even more makeup off my face which I thought was incredible. I use an all natural face wash that is great at getting all my makeup off but somehow these pads found more makeup in my pores and got it out! I honestly can't live without them now!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The pads come 50 to a container and they are only $19.95! Do yourself a favor and hurry up and buy some I am telling you, you won't regret it! Right now through May 10th you can get FREE US shipping through </span><a href="https://www.themagicpads.com/shop/the-magic-pads-1-bottle/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">The Magic Pads</a><span style="font-size: large;"> website and HALF OFF international shipping! I can promise you will be hooked!</span></div>
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<i>"Dislcaimer: Although I was provided with this product all opinions are my own"</i></div>
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Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-45251977029437346852015-02-03T06:35:00.001-08:002015-02-03T06:36:21.482-08:00Zooma Cape Cod!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So during my blogging hiatus I found out some very exciting news! I was accepted to be an ambassador for </span><a href="http://zoomarun.com/capecod/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">Zooma Cape Cod</a><span style="font-size: large;">! This is a race that I had found out about a few years ago and had eagerly wanted to be a part of it! The year I first learned about it, it just wasn't going to fit into my race schedule but I am very excited that this year I will be running! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A little bit about this race series...first off this is an all women's race series! The race locations include Cape Cod, Texas, Napa Valley, Annapolis and Florida. They have varying race distances half marathons being the longest and some have 12k's, 10k's and 5k's. Check the location you are interested in to see what is offered. These races are sponsored by some great companies as well! All in all these races are amazing and you should check them out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have a special code for you all to receive 10% off any of the <a href="http://zoomarun.com/register/" target="_blank">Zooma races</a>! Use code KARA15! These races have a cap and fill up fast so make sure to register soon! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you have any questions regarding the race feel free to leave a comment below! Also if you are registered let me know!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I can't wait to see some of you there!!!</span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-46203414810549128572015-01-30T04:49:00.000-08:002015-01-30T14:04:25.522-08:00Top Ten Tips for Running Princess Marathon Weekend!!!!!<span style="font-size: large;">Last year was my first year running during Princess Half Marathon weekend however was not y first RunDisney weekend. Here are my top ten tips/thing I wish I had done to make the best of your race weekend!!!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Plan your days ahead of time!- For me this was key! Don't just wing it, my Mom and I had an idea of where we were going at all times whether we were going to the expo, restaurants, rides, parks everything we knew where we were going even before we got to Florida. This seems like a no brainer but it helps so much especially when you are not staying for a long period of time. Also when planning don't cram too much into one day. I was running the Glass Slipper Challenge but still wanted to get as much park time in as I could as well as resting as much as I needed. We made sure we knew exactly where we were going and when we were going so that we could make the most of the trip. The magic bands really help with this now as you can make all your restaurant reservations ahead of time as well as get all of your fast passes, and changes thing on the app as needed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Leave enough time at the expo- If this is your first runDisney race in Florida make sure your have enough time to go through the expo thoroughly. We had certain booths we wanted to go to but we also wanted to see what else there was. We had only been to expos in Disneyland and we knew this one was going to be larger so we wanted to take our time going through. We went to the expo the day we arrived and left that entire day open to relax do the expo and not be rushed. Keep in mind if you are with people who are not running or interested in running don't make the expo a main priority unless they will be doing something else while you are there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Bring your bib around to the parks!- I didn't do this but so wish I had! Bring your bib around to the parks and have the princesses sign it! I saw so may pictures of this after I ran and was so jealous that I didn't do this. It is such a great idea especially if you are going to frame it after or make a shadow box with your medal and pictures! Do it I promise you will not regret it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. Buy a Tiara!- Bring a tiara with you to wear! I didn't think I would want to wear a tiara during the weekend in fact I am pretty such my Mom and I had talked about it and decided there was no way we were wearing one. Yeah as soon as we got there and everyone had them on we couldn't even stand how cute they were and wanted to have one so badly! We were constantly looking at them in the stores in the parks but they were so expensive we decided next time we were there during that weekend we would wear them! So just buy a cheap one before you go and stick it in your bag I can assure you that you will be wearing it in no time!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. Go to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique!- Go and ask for some pixie dust they will sprinkle pixie dust (AKA Glitter) all over your head if you are a runner or ran. We went after the half marathon and even though it took days and I mean days to get off my scalp I would do it again! This is another thing just do it, its such a special weekend and so girly and filled with magic just add a little pixie dust ok!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Don't Pack Anything but Running Clothes!- We have done runDisney weekends where we packed normal clothes and dresses and all that business but wearing running clothes and sneakers or comfortable sandals is the way to go. We packed cute running clothes and maybe one sun dress for this weekend and I will tell you it made things so much easier and more comfortable. After running so much during the weekend and having such a jam packed weekend of park hopping and such I just wanted to be comfortable. Everyone else is going to be wearing the same thing so don't think you will look out of place. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Where your Medals with Pride!- Wear your medals for as long as you are there! When else are you going to wear that amount of bling around! Where it with pride whether you run the 5k, 10k, Half or all three! You earned it show it off!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. Don't go for a PR!- Unless you want to! These races are so much fun and have so many things going on take it all in. If you want to stop to take a picture stop to take a picture don't worry about your time. Also you pay so much to run them get your moneys worth! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10 Lastly HAVE FUN!- Don't let anything bring you down during this race weekend enjoy yourself and have a blast! The weekend will go by so quickly so take it all in and embrace your inner Princess!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To read my race recap from last years Princess Half Marathon Weekend <a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/03/princess-half-marathon-expo-recap.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a>, <a href="http://princess%20half%20marathon-%20inaugural%20enchanted%2010k%20recap%21%21%21%21/" target="_blank">Part 2 </a>and <a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/03/princess-half-marathon-recap.html" target="_blank">Part 3</a>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>QOTD: Do you have any tips you would like to add? Comment down below!</i></span>Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-74732594918124358122015-01-28T07:45:00.004-08:002015-01-28T07:55:02.336-08:00Big Changes!!!<span style="font-size: large;">Hello everyone! I know if has been sometime since I last posted but I have been making some big changes in my life and needed to take a small break from blogging to figure some things out with myself! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I started this blog about two years ago, I had always wanted to write a blog but never knew what to write about or even if anyone would read it. I started off with reviewing makeup and then I slowly turned it into pretty much just a running blog and it took off from there. Over the last few months I was getting bored with it. I found it more of a job to write posts instead of something I was enjoying doing. I was feeling like the posts were sounding all the same as well and I didn't like that. I wanted to post more and on a more regular basic then I was but I was having trouble coming up with content that were strictly running related so I just kind of stopped posting. Lets just say I got burnt out! However I am back now with new ideas and ways to make my blog more personal and exciting! I want to go into more of my life rather then just my running life! There will still be workout and running related content but I will be adding in some makeup and beauty things along the way maybe even some cupcake recipes! I will also be posting hopefully two to three times a week maybe more!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you to those who are still reading and stuck with me during my long hiatus! I have some exciting things going on that I want you all to know about! </span><span style="font-size: large;">If there is anything you are interested in me writing about leave me a comment below I love to hear from you all!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next up I will be a post about tips for running during Princess Half Marathon weekend, I know running related but it will be a bit more then that! So I hope you will stick around and keep reading! But for now I am back and excited to take this blog to higher levels!</span>Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-76208357223073502082014-10-02T10:41:00.003-07:002014-10-02T10:42:31.978-07:00The Fitness Game Review!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A few weeks ago I was given the opportunity through <a href="http://www.fitapproach.com/sweat-pink/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sweat Pink</span></a> to try out and review the new app called <a href="http://www.tfgapp.com/" target="_blank">The Fitness Game</a>. I was eager and excited to try this out as I had a feeling it was going to be fun. I am still playing with it and don't know all the ins and outs of the app but I have a pretty good idea of the basics and I am really loving this app so far. Let me first give you a little run down on the app....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So this app basically takes working out and social media and turns it into a game for you. You can connect with people and challenge them to do workouts with you or dare I say against you. You have the ability to create your own work out or you can choose from workouts that are on the app. You can choose from cardio to strength training to full body training and cross training. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now like I said I am still playing and messing around with this app but I will share with you some of the major things in it I liked. I chose to do several of the cross training workouts. From just looking at the list of things you needed to do during the workouts you thought "oh this isn't going to be that bad"...yeah I couldn't walk for two days after doing some of them. So what the workout looks like is it give you a list of the exercises you have to do and how many to do and how many reps to do. When you start it starts a timer, you can pick to challenge one of your friends, challenge someone near by, challenge yourself or challenge worldwide. This is the game aspect of it and then you get to work. The other thing that is great is if you are not sure of what something is you tap it and it gives you a few pictures of that specific move and a short few second video demonstrating. See pictures below.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The next things I really liked about this app was the full body workout section. I didn't have a chance to use it but it will come in handy when day light savings comes around and I am back at the gym. This gives you a full body workout using gym equipment with photos and videos of each move as well. This part alone would make people want to get this app. I mean how many times have you gone to the gym and been completely intimidated by all the machines perhaps staring at them thinking how on earth am I going to use that. And we all know those pictures that are on the side of the machines sometimes trying to explain what to do don't help at all. This section of the app will be great to help people concur their fear of gym equipment and get a full body workout in as well!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Also in this app you can post pictures of your workout or gym selfies for your friends to see. You can also see how other people you have connected with are doing and challenge them to an activity. Really the things in this app are endless. The more I play with it the more I find out. I encourage you all to go and download this and try it out for yourself!</span></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: large;">QOTD: Do you have this app? If so what is your favorite part of it????</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: large;">Disclaimer: I was given the opportunity to try this app out through Sweat Pink Fit Approach, however all opinions are my own.</span></em> </div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-74202697788544752802014-09-29T10:38:00.001-07:002014-09-29T10:51:25.787-07:00Disneyland Half Marathon 2014 Recap!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I am finally getting around to finishing my recap of the Disneyland Half Marathon and the Dumbo Double Dare Challenge! Lets first start off with the half marathon....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I set my alarm to wake up Sunday morning to wake up at 4:00. last year for some reason I set it for 3:10 and I am just not sure why I would wake up so early when I didn't have to be at the start line until 5:30 but oh well. Anyway I was dead asleep when my alarm went off which totally freaked me out. The night before a race I am normally excited and anxious and I can't sleep a wink but for some reason slept like a baby and was in a deep sleep when my alarm started blaring. I jumped up turned my alarm off and tried to get in the game. At this point I was totally freaked out feeling as if I was going to do horrible in the race because of my sleep the night before. As if getting a great night of sleep was going to make me run awful ha-ha! I met my Mom in her room to tape up her feet and then we headed down to the race around 4:45. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once we got to the corrals it was a bit confusing there were people everywhere and the chutes to go into the corrals were very crowded. I was in C and my Mom was in E so we had to go separate ways once we got to that point. When I got to my corral I couldn't even get in, the line was going down the side of the outside of the corral. I finally pushed my way in and was in the very back. I was fine with this I just wanted to make sure I got in. Pretty soon they were starting the race, and letting two corrals off at a time which was great because things moved very quickly. About ten minutes after the first corrals went off I was crossing the start line.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I started off feeling great running at a great pace which I wanted to keep throughout the race. My main goal was to just finish around the same time as last year. I wasn't trying to beat any records. This year was a little different for me because I knew what to expect and what was coming up next. I knew about how long I would be in the parks and when the vintage cars were going to be coming and then when we were going to go into the stadium so I felt like I was almost waiting for things to happen which was good for me. The race literally flew by! As usual running through the parks was amazing! I just love that no one is there except people cheering you on and runner also that it's dark and all the lights of the rides are on and some are going, it is truly magical! Once I had left the parks this year I made sure to grab water at every water stop. I knew it was going to be a hot one and I didn't want to chance getting dehydrated which has happened in past races. It was very hot last year and I am not sure I hydrated enough so wanted to make this a priority. I also stayed fueled with sports beans eating one every few miles which really keeps me going. The vintage cars came up very quickly, I tried to really look around this year as I feel these were a blur last year and before I knew it I was running into the stadium! This is my favorite part of the race it give you chills! The fans screaming the announcers calling out runners as they enter and you can see yourself running up on the big screen it is just awesome! Something I think everyone should experience! Once I got out of the stadium you only have three miles left and you are done! Those three miles fly by and in an instant you are running past the Disneyland hotel and through the finish line high-fiving Minnie! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was so happy when I finished I felt amazing through out the race and felt like I could continue running (in fact I did run more after the race to find my boyfriend waiting a bit away from the finish line) I ended up coming in almost exactly the same time as last year so I was really pumped about that and felt much better then last year. I didn't have any pains or problems! We then waited for my mom for a little while and pretty soon saw her charging in and met her in the family meet up. She </span><span style="font-size: large;">had a great race as well and mentioned running through the stadium might have been her favorite part as well! All in all it was an amazing race for both of us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for my thoughts on the race between this year and last year they were all together different, as were my trips to Disneyland. Last year I was a ball of nerves, it was really hot and humid and I just didn't know what to expect. I was excited but scared all at the same time. I knew it was going to be amazing but I just wanted to know everything I was going to see and everything that was going to happen before it did. This year I was much more relaxed and went with the flow and honestly had a much better time. I knew what was coming up next and had a general familiarity with where I was going which was nice. Don't get me wrong my first time was awesome but it makes me feel better to know what and when things are going to happen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for the Dumbo Double Dare Challenge, I am so glad I signed up for it. I felt great after running the half marathon and the 10k the day before as well. I was not sore at any point during or after either race and I wasn't nearly as tired the days following the race as </span><span style="font-size: large;">I</span></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: large;">QOTD: Do you like to be surprised during races or like to know what is going to happen?</span></em><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Click </span><a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/09/disneyland-half-marathon-weekend-expo.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">here</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> for my recap on the Disneyland Half Marathon Expo and </span><a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/09/disneyland-10k-recap.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">here</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> for my thoughts on the Disneyland 10k!</span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-18683119894538475082014-09-09T05:14:00.000-07:002014-09-09T05:14:07.842-07:00Disneyland 10k Recap!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I can't believe it has already been over a week since the Disneyland 10k! It seems like just yesterday my alarm was going off at 4am to get ready for the race! So lets flash back to that then....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last year I ran the half only and didn't sign up for the Dumbo Double year so this year I signed up for Challenge. I was very eager to run this race as I had heard the course was great with a majority of it in the park. I was the only person in my family running this so I told them all to sleep in, I would run and wake them all up after when I was done. As I had mentioned I woke up at 4am well 3:45 I was very excited to run and couldn't sleep anymore. I wanted to be in my corral by 5 so this gave me plenty of time it was only about a ten minute walk to the race start so I headed down at around 4:40.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I got over to the start line just as they were opening up the corrals. I was in A and was really excited about that because I was right up in the front and could see everything that was going on with the announcers. The theme of the race was Stitch. As you may know Stitch is a big fan of Elvis so that was a big part of the theme as well. Before I knew it "Elvis" was singing the national anthem and we were off and running. My plan for this race was to take it easy not go for a PR and have fun after all I had a half to run the next morning. As soon as I took off I knew I wasn't going to run this one slow. I was feeling really good it was not humid at all like Cape Cod and it was actually quite cool. The first two miles or so were outside the parks and then we headed inside with the remainder of the race weaving in and out of the parks. One of the interesting parts of the race was running behind the scenes of Disneyland. It was kind of cool to see whats behind the park and through all the doors that block of certain areas. Also there were so many twist and turns and things going on the miles just flew by. Before I knew it I was heading out of the park hitting the six mile mark and flying through Downtown Disney to the finish! As soon as I crossed the finish line I got a text from my mom and found out I had PR'ed! She had been getting my alerts texted to her through out the race, so I guess I ended up waking her up pretty early. I was very happy about my time and was feeling great body wise! I grabbed my finisher medal and my DDD wristband and headed back to the hotel to change and get ready for the day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My overall thoughts on the race and the course were I loved it! I liked it much better then the 10k course during Princess. I know they are different places and what not but I liked that we were in the parks so much, and two different parks at that! I also liked that the course was not super flat. There were some slight uphills and downhills that made it a bit more interesting too. Also the crowd support was great! There where people all through the parks and through Downtown Disney. I can't tell you how much I love when people are lining the course screaming for complete strangers it just really keeps you going. Another thing I liked about the 10k and this applies to Disney World races too is there aren't as many runners which sometimes is nice. runDisney does a great job with corrals and not having everyone start at once so it is very spread out however there is just something about the 10k. If you have not run a runDisney 10k do it! All in all I loved every minute of this race! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For those wondering about the amount of characters throughout the race. In Disneyland the characters are only allowed to be in the parks so there are normally many more in Disney World races because they are along the course. I don't stop for character photos so didn't notice many of them just a few. This didn't bother me though because there is so much going on. I did hear people commenting on how they were disappointed by this though. The amount of characters out didn't alter my thoughts on the race.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Also check out my expo review <a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/09/disneyland-half-marathon-weekend-expo.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">here</span></a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>QOTD: Which runDisney race course is your favorite?!?</i></span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-59006445660751126622014-09-07T08:36:00.000-07:002014-09-07T08:36:27.007-07:00Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Expo Recap!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This week has completely flown by and not in a good way! Last week I went to California....Disneyland to be exact to run in the Disneyland Half Marathon! This is one of my all time favorite races, not only was it my first runDisney race last year but it also takes place in Disneyland and it just doesn't get much better then that! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am going to recap the race in three parts so bare with me on this haha! First being the expo, next the 10k and finally the half with my final thoughts between this year and last year. If you want to read my reviews from last year here is </span><a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2013/09/disneyland-half-marathon-recap-part-1.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">part 1</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2013/09/disneyland-half-marathon-recap-part-2.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">part 2</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2013/09/disneyland-half-marathon-recap-part-3.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">part 3</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> oh and don't forget </span><a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2013/09/disneyland-half-marathon-recap-part-4.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">part 4</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">! That should hold you over while I get these next three up! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ok where do I start......We left Boston on Friday morning, our flight ended up being delayed an hour which I was not happy about but was so excited to get there that I didn't let it bring me down! We landed in LA around 11:30 and headed straight for Disneyland! While we were in the cab I realized that I hadn't signed my Mom and I up for the virtual que to get our Minnie shoes so did that quickly! This was something I might have been stressing about just a bit since at Princess it was very challenging to get the shoes! The que filled up in about 5 seconds. I was on right at 6am during Princess and it filled up minutes later. This time 6am PST I was mid flight so just hoped for the best. After I signed us up I received our text messages that we should report to the new balance booth at 2pm! I was pumped, perfect time since that was around the time we were going to be at the expo and they still had our size in Minnie's! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We got to our hotel, Paradise Pier and checked in. We stayed at the Disneyland Hotel last year and I think I would say I prefer that one over Paradise Pier but was full when I ended up finally booking a room. All the hotels are very close to the park and downtown Disney and are all great hotels, but I think I just liked the location a bit better at the Disneyland hotel. More on that in a bit! Once we started checking in the rooms somehow got all messed up and they ended up sending us to a room that was still dirty. It was a bit of a hassle checking in, I guess the problem was that rooms kept coming up in the system as clean and they were actually dirty. We ended up having to wait about an hour for our room, which was fine since my Mom's room was ready we were able store our luggage in there and headed to the expo. We were told we would get a call when our room was ready but that we didn't have to hurry back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As soon as we headed to the expo I got the phone call our room was all set but we decided to go back after we were finished there. We went down and got our numbers and park tickets first. That was smooth sailing. Last year we went the first day and it was completely insane! People everywhere, lines super long. I will never do that again! We had the boys come with us to get our park tickets to make sure they didn't need to see their ID's and then they left us to go to ESPN for some food or beer (ha-ha!). My mom and I had certain things we wanted to get so we had somewhat of a plan of attack. We grabbed our numbers checked out the Dooneys to make sure we didn't want one of those. Went upstairs grabbed our race shirts (thank god they were in women's sizes this year) then we headed over to the runDisney booth. I wanted to get a few Dumbo things a key chain, sweaty band and a magnet for my car. I really wanted the sweaty band and was nervous I wouldn't get one since they sold out super fast at Princess but luckily they had maybe five left when I got there! I grabbed that and the other things I wanted and went to check out. My Mom also got some half marathon stuff, we were out of there in no time. No lines no waiting! Next we headed over to the Raw Threads booth and grabbed a few shirts and stickers. That booth was very busy but I also ended up getting everything I had wanted there! I was really making out at the expo. I also scored one of their 19.3 stickers which I was happy about because I am always afraid to put the runDisney magnets on my car as everyone says they get stolen, so a magnet for the fridge, sticker for the car! Enough with the rambling......Next we grabbed our lasting commemorative cards and it was about time to go to the New Balance booth!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once arriving at the New Balance booth we had to wait in line to show our text message saying what time to come back. Once you got through that part you got a sticker that said "I survived the NB Virtual Que" you then waited in another line for a NB employee to meet with you and grab your size shoe and start the fitting process. This whole waiting in line process took about 15 minutes there were a lot of people so it seemed like it would take forever but it was fast. We were then in trying on our Minnie's! The NB guy that helped us was from Boston how weird! My Mom and I both have Cindy's and really wanted to get the Minnie's so we were glad we were able to snag some! Once we got our shoes we went to check out and they were having a deal on water bottles ones that matched the color of the Disney shoes for $5 each. We both grabbed one which ended up saving us a TON of money in the park buying waters because all the food stands will fill your water bottle for you! I spent a small fortune on water last year so this was awesome! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once we were done with the NB booth we were out of there. We didn't go through the entire expo just hit the booths that we knew we wanted things at. Plus the boys were waiting and we still wanted to get to the park that day. We spent about an hour in total getting everything and waiting in any lines we had to. All in all it was a very successful expo. It went much smoother then last year it wasn't so crazy and I didn't feel over whelmed. I am glad I had a plan of attack that way I didn't waist time moseying around and buying things I didn't need.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After the expo we went and found the guys and headed back to the hotel to get everything squared away with our room. The cast members were great once we checked in and everything was all set and they even gave us some fast passes to use on any ride we wanted! This was a really nice bonus and made up for all the confusion we had gone through in the beginning. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tomorrow Part 2 the 10k will be up so stay tuned!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em>QOTD: Do you make a plan when going to the expo or do you just like to take your time and walk around or does it depend on the race?!?!?</em></span> </div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-89119103334841224132014-09-04T06:49:00.002-07:002014-09-05T05:25:09.388-07:00Summer....Where have you gone!?!!?<span style="font-size: large;">Summer is over...... and let me just say this summer flew by and I am not sure where it went or how I feel about it going by so fast. I feel like May was just here and now it is September. Even though technically summer is still going on and it feels like summer, here on Cape Cod it is now Fall. Great things come with Fall though, the coolness in the air, boots and sweaters and fall race PR's. As much as I am sad to see another summer pass us by I do enjoy the more relaxed mood in the air that fall brings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Over the past few months I have been more then busy as you can tell with the lack of blog posting. First off I've become a travel agent! So please contact me for a free quote on any type travel! I am specializing in Disney travel but of course can book just about anything your heart would desire! You can <a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">click</span></a> the travel button on the banner of my blog for a bit more information, also please go <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fairytalejourneysbykara" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Like</span></a> my facebook page! Second I have had such a busy race schedule this summer. Some of them I have reviewed and some of them are still on the list to be reviewed but I will work on getting those up as soon as possible. I had the opportunity to run some pretty awesome races this summer and want you to hear all about them!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before I get into anything else though I will review my Dumbo Double Dare experience! I just came home from Disneyland and while that is fresh in my mind I will tell you how I felt about it! I ran the half last year and decided on the Dumbo this year and will let you know which I liked better. Hang tight everyone there will be many more blog posts, reviews and giveaways!!!!</span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-41400275437590880292014-08-01T10:05:00.001-07:002014-08-01T10:05:05.489-07:00Exciting News To Come & Shipyard Old Port Half Recap!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hello everyone! As you can see I have changed a few things on the blog, updated some things and the color is looking a little different! If there is anything you think I should change please let me know I am always open to suggestions! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have some exciting things going on right now, and once I finalize everything I will fill all of you in! New adventures are always fun right! But in running news I wanted to recap the Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon I ran a few weeks ago in Portland Maine! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to run this race with my Mom, this was her first Half (She did great and loved it!) and I will say a few days before the race we both weren't feeling it. She was nervous of the distance and I just wasn't feeling great. Even the morning we were suppose to leave we were still up in the air. We decided we were going to go. We had signed up and we weren't backing out. We drove from the Cape to Portland about a three hour drive make that three and a half there is a sonic on the way so you know we had to stop there on the way and also coming home haha! There slushies' are delicious!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once we got to Portland we went straight to get our numbers the expo closed at 6 and we were kind of cutting it close with time so we went straight there instead of checking into our hotel. Parking was not super convenient for this, We ended up parking in some lot for $20 which we thought was a bit steep but there was really no other place to park. It was about a five minute walk to number pick up. We went and grabbed our numbers and they told my mom about the beer garden not me though I must not look 21 haha and then we walked around the expo a little. There were not a ton of vendors maybe a handful and nothing I was too interested in. One thing about the number pick up and race that I am not sure if I liked or not was t-shirts were not included. You could pre-pay for one with your registration or chance getting on at the expo. I got one there it was only $12 and it was a nice form fitting tech shirt but I don't know I almost felt like it should have been included. They were also offering for $30 or $35 a really nice singlet that you pre ordered and then it was shipped to your house at a later date. Had they had those there without them getting shipped later I would have bought one they were really nice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyways moving right along we walked around old port for a bit hitting some shops, they have some very cool shopping and TONS of restaurants and then we headed over to our hotel to check in. We stayed at the comfort inn, it was about 10 minutes from the start line and had a shuttle the next morning to and from the race which was great. I do wish they had an expo shuttle too that way we wouldn't have had to pay so much to park but that's ok. We checked in went and grabbed something small to eat and then headed to bed we had an early wake up time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We woke up around 4:30 our shuttle was leaving for the race at 5:30. The hotel was great they had coffee and granola bars and such for the runners down in the lobby so we didn't have to worry about getting anything the day before for breakfast. We then headed down to the start line. We were probably one of the first people there but it was nice we were able to use the port-o-potties without waiting in line forever and relax before the start of the race. Pretty soon it was time to go! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Corrals lined up down this pier which was very neat, I was scared I was going to fall in the water though so I stayed away form the edge. They had pulse starts which was great and fast and pretty soon we were running. The route is kind of like an out and back but a little different. You head out and then weave your way back through. The first three miles are pretty hilly I mean there were some huge hills but there was also significant downhill's with every terrible uphill so you had time to recover. We passed the start line around mile 6 which was a bit of a tease and then we headed up a GIANT hill, it was not fun. After that it was a very flat course, just a few small inclines but nothing like before. Around mile 8 you head around this big lake, it might have been the ocean, I am not sure, it was a large body of water haha! That was nice and flat but a little dusty because parts of it were dirt, once you went around that you then headed back towards the finish but first you went by this sewerage plant that smelled awful, not something you want to be smelling 11 miles into the run. The last mile is down a bike bath and then you head into the finish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This race was a great race a bit challenging but not hard enough that you felt you couldn't finish. There were a few things I didn't like about the race however. First thing being there was a serious lack of water at the finish. This should NEVER happen! Water and Gatorade are the most important parts of a race I think so there should be more then enough. I was able to get one water bottle but they were gone once my mom finished about 20 minutes after me. In saying that there were a good amount of water stops along the way. Next and this comes from my Mom, there were not enough port-o-potties around the race course. There were only a few and the lines seems to be long at them. Hey when you gotta go you gotta go. Lastly the finish was very crowded, I felt like I couldn't move around and just wanted to get out of there as soon as possible. It was a small area but I think the area the bathrooms were in was larger, maybe a different set up would help with this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all I enjoyed the race, it was a beautiful course and like I said challenging but not too bad. The medals were very nice and the t-shirts were nice even though you had to pay for them. I do think I would put this race on my race calendar again.</span></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: large;">QOTD:Did you run the Shipyard Old Port Half and did you like it??!?!</span></em></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-58860350379369651722014-07-23T05:44:00.003-07:002014-07-23T05:44:23.194-07:00It's been a while.....<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">First off let me just say I can't believe it is almost August! Where has the summer gone?? For some reason in my head I feel as if it is still the beginning of June and then I am quickly reminded it is nearly August! Only good thing about it almost being August means we are that much closer to Dumbo Double Dare!!! That being said I have been more busy then I ever thought I would, lets just say I moved in May and I am still moving in (haha!) With work, racing, training, eating and sleeping (and trying to move and organize) I haven't had a lot of free time! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Over the next few weeks I am going to be updating my blog a bit as you can see it is starting to look a little different! I am also struggling with a possible name change if you have any ideas please comment below! I want to thank all my followers for sticking around also you guys are the best! Don't worry I will be back soon with more race reviews, giveaways and much much more! </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">QOTD: Do you have any blog name ideas for me?!?!???!!!</span></i></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-43103790730559508302014-06-23T07:02:00.001-07:002014-06-30T12:29:10.628-07:00Old Sandwich Road Race Half Marathon Recap!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So sorry it has been a week since I have written a post, I was away for a bit and have just gotten around to catching up on things! Thank you for all of you who entered my giveaway on the pro compression socks. I am always so blown away on how many people enter so thank you for visiting my blog and for taking the time to enter my giveaway! There are more to come I promise! The winner of the pro compression socks was Liz D.! Congratulations!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Moving right alone a few weeks ago I was given the opportunity to run in the Old Sandwich Road Race Half Marathon. I had written a blog about this three race event which you can read <a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/05/old-sandwich-road-race.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">here</span></a>. This race consists of a half marathon, a 10k and a 5k. I ran the half. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just a short recap of the race, it is run in Plymouth, MA and runs along Old Sandwich Road, one of the oldest roads in Plymouth. Most of it a dirt road the winds through farms and fields throughout Plymouth. A very scenic route if I must say so. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This was my first time running this race so was unsure of what to expect. You park at the finish line and you are bused out to the start for the half. (This will be primarily about the half because I did not run the others.) The start line is the beginning of Old Sandwich Road, which you have to take the highway several exits to get to. Something that can be a bit intimidating especially if it is your first half. We were dropped off and there was place to use the bathroom and get some water. They also had portable lockers where you could store your stuff if you wanted to and then those were driven back to the finish line. It was a pretty warm day so I didn't have anything that I needed to get a locker for such as extra clothes. The race started a little bit later because some people were late getting to the bus so we ended up starting about 10 minutes late which bothered me a bit. I want everyone who is signed up to be able to run but get there with enough time to spare. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once the last bus arrived we crossed the street to Old Sandwich Road and we were off. The first 5 miles were dirt road and pretty flat. The one thing that did bother me was when cars drove by us it got very dusty around you. You then were breathing in dirt for a bit. Also there were little rocks throughout so you really had to be careful where you stepped. We came out of the dirt road and were then on pavement for the remainder of the race. This was a bit of an adjustment on your legs since the dirt was so soft to run on. The mile markers at this point got a little screwy which you will later find out why. It was starting to get very hot so I had to slow the pace down it seemed like the rest of the race was in the bright sun too little to no shade. At the first mile I had team up with a girl who was running her first half marathon and paced with her for the remainder of the race which was really nice because I am telling you the heat was getting to me and I wanted to stop. We chugged along and got to a water stop and they said your at mile 10. My watch only said 9 and I knew my watch was not that off since it had been right on with every mile when I started. We kept going and then stopped at another water stop and the guy said just around the corner and you are done. I said my watch only says 11 miles and the man said they messed up the half route so it is short. We finished running and it ended up totaling about 11.5 miles, not quite a half marathon.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now I understand things go wrong at races and I get it, there are a lot of people doing all different things but a race distance is something that should be right on point. It was getting hot and I will admit I wasn't pissed I didn't get the last mile and a half in but if I hadn't raced the day before and it had been my first half marathon I would have been so aggravated!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A few days after the race I did receive an email from the race director offering all of the half marathoners a spot for next years race or if they wanted a free entry into any of the other races the company puts on they could do that . I was happy they were trying to make good on this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all the race was a nice it had beautiful scenery through out but was very hilly in spots. Everyone got a medal no matter the distance and everyone got a tech shirt. I would recommend this race for intermediate runners. Not sure I would want this race to be my first half but those who have been running a while and are familiar with halves will enjoy the small challenge and the beautiful scenery.</span></div>
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<em>Disclaimer: Although I was provided a race entry all opinions are my own.</em></div>
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Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-24532031329847427452014-06-06T07:19:00.000-07:002014-06-08T06:19:25.340-07:00Pro Compression Sock Review and GIVEAWAY!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Several weeks ago I was given the opportunity to try out <a href="http://www.procompression.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Pro Compression</span></a> socks. I have wanted to try theses for a while but was always afraid they would be super uncomfortable or restraining on my legs and calves so when Pro compression extended this offer to me I was all over it and couldn't wait to try these out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As some of you may know compression socks can be worn during and after a workout. They speed up recovery and enhance performance. Who doesn't want that right!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A little about the sizing they come in XS, S/M and L/XL. I recieved a pair of the S/M and they fit great! I wear a size 8.5 shoe so I was right in the middle of the S/M size. Below is a size chart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I found the size to be just a tiny bit big on me but the XS would have been too small. I have pretty short legs so the biggest concern was how long they were but they felt great. I will say I was nervous that they were going to be incredibly hard to get on. I have heard stories of it taking up to ten minutes to get your socks on and to me that sounds insane and like something I DO NOT want to be part of. Not to mention that has to be wicked comfortable right?! If it takes that long it must be incredibly tight which sounds AWFUL! Pro Compression socks are not like that at all. I literally pulled them on like a sock,maybe took a little more effort but nothing serious. I didn't have a workout before my workout putting these socks on that's for sure! The material of these socks is awesome as well. They are smooth and soft and feel great on your feet! I have also washed them and hung dried them and also by mistake thrown them in the dryer and both ways they came out fine and didn't shrink at all when put in the dryer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for the colors of these socks you can pretty much get them in any color and pattern. I got marathon pink of course and I love them. I also bought the Ragnar ones during Ragnar Cape Cod which are pink but hey I can't get enough! They also make sleeves too if you don't want the full sock. You may have a lucky pair of socks you need to wear so don't worry you can still wear them and get the sleeve.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Moving right along to performance,The first time I wore them I felt great and had an amazing run. My legs didn't feel tired and my calves didn't feel constricted like I thought. I was hooked. Since them I have been wearing them off and on and still love them! I like them when it is kind of cold but you want to wear shorts and not capri's too because they really do keep your legs warm. I have worn them for short three mile runs and longer nine mile runs and they are equally great each time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all I highly recommend them for all runners. My mom finally bought a pair and will not run with out them now. I haven't worn them yet for recovery but might try that out this weekend as I have back to back races in the same day! YIKES! But I will let you know how that goes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.procompression.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Pro compression</span></a> has been nice enough to let one of my readers win a pair for themselves! Enter to win below!!!!! Also go check out their website they have lots of choices for compression socks!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8df2632/" id="rc-8df2632" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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<i>"Disclaimer: I was provided a pair of Pro Compression socks to review however all opinions are my own"</i></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-14545046562711992162014-06-03T05:30:00.001-07:002014-06-03T06:40:16.390-07:00Warrior Dash Recap!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">On Saturday my Mom and I had the opportunity to run the Warrior Dash up in Amesbury, MA.Originally the location for the race was Bridgewater, Ma but got switched last minute. A bit of an inconvenience and about an hour and a half difference in travel time but I will tell you it was definitely worth it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">First off I have wanted to run one of these races for some time now. I knew it would be a blast and a bit challenging but so much fun. I have only heard great things about them so needed to get in on the fun!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> A little background on the race each warrior dash is around 3 miles long and it can be through trails or woods and there are roughly 12 obstacles through out the race ranging from climbing over 20 feet structures, crawling through the mud and swimming through mud pools. Beware there is a lot of mud involved and I mean a lot. They have the races all over the country and in my opinion you get a lot for your money.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The race cost around $40 if you sign up when the race is announced and the price increase the closer it gets to the race like all others but you get a lot for that. A t-shirt, a warrior helmet, a kilt coozy, a bottle opener medal, free beer (for those that are 21 and over), pictures through out the race and a finishers picture that can be uploaded right to your facebook after taking it. Not to mention an awesome 3 mile course of mud, obstacles and fun!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We got to the race around 8:45am checked in got our bib numbers, shirts and warrior helmets, then got ready for the race. Our start time was at 9:30am, They have start times every 15 minutes. We started off up a steep, steep rock filled hill. At first it was slow getting started a lot of stopping and walking and I thought is it going to be like this the whole time. I think the guys in front of me were feeling the same way because they kept saying things like "Just jumped a rock, must be the first obstacle" but then things got interesting. We curved around and up and down hills in the woods for a while and then hit our first two obstacles crawling over things and climbing up big dirt piles. We then headed back into the woods down an incredibly steep hill jumped over some trees that had fallen down and through TONS of mud puddles (beware of the mud sucking in your shoe!) Some people were going around the mud, I was running straight through my goal was to get as muddy as possible, hey that's why I was there right! This continued for a little bit making us extra tired then we hit some more obstacles, ones where you had to climb up and then swing your body over and climb down. I am afraid of heights so the biggest thing for me was not looking down but I still got freaked out a bit. There were lots of obstacles like this but the end ones were my favorite! Before the last few obstacles we had to jump over this line of fire, which dummy me stops in front and says to the guy "Are we suppose to jump this?" He said yes patiently, had I been him I would have answered to myself "No idiot walk through it see how that goes" but legally I think maybe they aren't suppose to say that. Anyway I backed up a bit and ran and jumped over it screaming while they took my pictures and then headed toward the mud pool. Everyone seemed to be swimming through so that is what I did. I crawled out covered in more mud then I have ever had on me in my life and then climbed up the last obstacle where you then slide down this pretty large slide into a pool of muddy water. This is where all the mud from swimming in the mud pool gets washed off. Once you finish with the you then run down a steep hill that I almost face planted on thank god it flattened out and then you are finished and soaking wet with mud in areas you really didn't want there to be mud. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My mom and I stuck together the whole race and finished pretty much the same time.It was by far the most interesting and fun race I have run. I literally laughed through the whole thing. Not to mention the people who were out on the course running with you were so nice and helpful. I had gotten to the top of an obstacle and was unsure of how to get down so a runner ahead of me climbed back up to assist me down. I love when I run races and have awesome strangers around me! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Following the race you can go get your picture taken on the warrior dash cut out that they upload straight to your facebook. This I thought was very cool I had not encountered this at a race before and I really liked the idea. Following that we went and changed into clean clothes, you can rinse off but we just changed our clothes and stayed muddy. We then went over to the merchandise table which was also great, all registrants got a free kilt coozy and we also bought tank tops which were only $12! What race can you buy a cute shirt for $12....none of them $25 maybe but not $12! We headed over got our free beer, bought some food again which was really reasonably priced and they had a pretty wide variety of things ranging from veggie burgers to pulled pork, hot dogs and cheese burgers. We sat on the AstroTurf field for a bit in the sun then headed home in desperate need of a shower....I also had to wash my hair several times to get all the mud out! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This to me is a race that even if you are not a runner you can do. If you can walk three miles and handle some obstacles you will have an absolute blast. I am definitely going to sign up for this next year hopefully with a group because it is a race that everyone will enjoy. Well done Warrior Dash I can not wait for next year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Disclaimer: Although I was given a race entry for free all opinions are my own.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>QOTD: Have you done an obstacle race if so which one and did you like it?</b></i></span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-46889892018822488452014-05-28T13:48:00.002-07:002014-05-28T13:48:17.474-07:00Heartbreak Hill Half Marathon and Festival<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Heartbreak Hill Half Marathon and Festival is coming up in just a week! This race consists of a 5k, 10k and a half marathon and a few challenges being run all three for the hat trick challenge or run the 5k and 10k five and dime challenge! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This race is sure to be an amazing event it is being put on by Runners World Magazine and takes place around Newton,Ma with a bit of a challenging course! I was lucky enough to get an entry into the 10k and can't wait to run it! The 5k and 10k will run Saturday June 7th and the half will be run on the 8th. There is also a kids race on Friday! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This race weekend is sure to be a great one with lots of races and running seminars so do not miss out! <a href="http://rw.runnersworld.com/hhhalf/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Click Here</span></a> to find out more about the races and events going on that weekend!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was given the opportunity to get an entry through <a href="http://www.swirlgear.com/" target="_blank">Swirlgear</a> and <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.bibrave.com/" target="_blank">BibRave</a> </span>go on over there and become and member! It is a great place to learn about races around the world! You can also write your own reviews on races you have run! Also Swirlgear has amazing women's running clothes so make sure to check them out and also they are having a huge sale right now so load upon some amazing apparel!</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Disclaimer: Although I was comped an entry all opinions are my own.</span></i></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-78119030525885394692014-05-20T18:05:00.003-07:002014-05-20T18:05:23.433-07:00Vega Sport Energy Bar Review!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A few weeks ago I was given the opportunity through Sweat Pink to try out Vega Sport Energy Bars. I was super excited about this. I have tried Vega products before but had never tried these before. I am always up to try new things that will help sustain my energy during runs and couldn't wait for these to come!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For those of you that are not familiar with the Vega brand all of their products are plant based, gluten free and non GMO. They have many products for sport but also for everyday use. They have smoothie mixes, energy bars things to prepare for a sporting event, to having during and to help you recover after and many many more products I am failing to mention. All their products are good for you and for the environment so I encourage you to go and check them out! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Moving onto the energy sports bars....When they came in the mail I was eager to try them, the flavor Chocolate Coconut Almond they also come in Apple Cherry!! I had one the next day for breakfast, I wanted to taste it first before I had it before running and I was pleasantly surprised. It tasted like a brownie, but a brownie that was good for you. You could see the coconut in it and the almonds which I liked. It had a bit of a crunch to it which was nice and was very moist. It is however very sweet. I love sweets so I was fine with this. My mom also had one and said she couldn't finish it because it was too sweet. So if you like sweets you will love this but if you don't then you might not like it so much but I thought it was delicious </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Moving onto the energy factor of this...After having this bar in the morning I did feel like I had a bit more energy then normal and it kept me full longer then my usual breakfast, but that is not exactly the point of this bar. I did eat a few of them while I was running Ragnar Cape Cod (stay tuned for my recap!). I had one before my first leg of the race which was just over 6 miles. I felt good during this leg and found I had more energy then normal. I had been up for several hours and had to get up super early and expected to be a bit tired while running but after eating this I didn't. I checked my time after running and I ran a bit faster then normal. I had planned on taking it slow so that was a nice surprise and I felt good when I was done not like I had over worked myself. I will credit this bar to that! I also had one before my second leg which was only four miles and felt the same way. I cruised through this leg and felt awesome. I will credit this feeling to the bar! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Final thoughts....I really liked this bar, I have a couple left and will most likely get them again! They were delicious helped my performance and made me feel good. I highly recommend these bars!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To learn more about these bars <a href="http://vegasport.com/product/energy-bar/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Click Here</a> and to learn more about Vega Sport and Fuel Your Better <a href="http://vegasport.com/fuelyourbetter/?utm_campaign=FItAppFuelBetter&utm_medium=link&utm_source=blogger&utm_content=FItAppFuelBetter0" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Click Here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Disclaimer: Although this product was given to me all opinions are my own.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>QOTD: Have you tried any Vega products if so how do you like them? </i></span></div>
<br />Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-49615694606941635852014-05-16T06:08:00.001-07:002014-05-16T06:36:38.225-07:00Old Sandwich Road Race <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I was recently given the opportunity to get a number for the Old Sandwich Road Race and wanted to tell you guys a little bit about this awesome race! First of all it is coming up fast (June 1st) so <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Plymouth/OldSandwichRoadRace" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Click Here</a> to sign up for the 5k, 10k or half marathon you will not regret it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A little bit about the race, it takes place in historic Plymouth, Massachusetts. Not only is Plymouth an incredibly beautiful town full of amazing scenery but it is also home to the famous Plymouth Rock, Plimoth Plantation and is where the Pilgrims first landed in America. The race takes place on Sunday June 1st at Plymouth South High School promptly at 10AM. There are three races taking place a 5k, 10k and half marathon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The 5k course is slightly hilly taking place along Mast Road and Long Pond Road <a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/us/white-island-shores-ma/old-sandwich-road-race-5k-route-32079762" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Click Here</a> for exact route. The 10k is flat in the beginning and then more uphill towards the end. It starts at the historic Plimoth Plantation it crosses Old Sandwich Road and runs along the Eel river basin preserve through several horse farms and finishes on South Plymouth high school's track. A stadium finish you do not want to miss! The stands will be full of people cheering with music playing. <a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/us/plymouth-ma/old-sandwich-road-race-10k-www-oldsandwi-route-12435102" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Click Here</a> to see the exact route. Lastly the half marathon starts off with ocean cliff views and runs about 6 miles down Old Sandwich road which is flat and fast which is always nice during a half marathon. You then travel along horse farms where you encounter a few hills and finished again with a stadium finish at South Plymouth High School.<span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/us/sagamore-ma/old-sandwich-road-race-1-2-marathon-www-route-12438438" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Click Here</a> to see the route.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All three races are not to be missed! The races are full of beautiful sites with lots of history! Don't miss out! Make sure to sign up before this race fills up, It is sure to be an amazing day!</span></div>
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<br />Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-12088442927581774082014-04-30T19:30:00.003-07:002014-04-30T19:50:55.004-07:00B.A.A. 5k Recap!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">About a week ago I ran the B.A.A. 5k the first part of the B.A.A. Distance Medley. For those who are unfamiliar with the B.A.A. Distance Medley this is a three race series through out the year a 5k, 10k and half. If you complete them all you get a special distance medley medal at the end of the half in the fall. You can sign up for all three in January or you can hope you are lucky and get into the races when registration opens. I have chosen to try my luck!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Moving right along My Mom and I signed up for the 5k a few months ago which took place the Saturday of Marathon weekend. I had been looking forward to this race since I signed up. I knew the city would be buzzing with the excitement of the marathon and I was also looking forward to going to the marathon expo! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you read my blog on the <a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2013/10/baa-half-marathon-recap.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">B.A.A. Half</a> (click the link if you haven't!) The numbers were sent out to you the same way a few weeks before the race. Like I had mentioned then and still feel the same way I love this part of the B.A.A. races. I love running expos but picking up your number the day before a race when the venue is not super close can sometimes be a pain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The race started at 8am so we headed up pretty early, leaving the cape around 5. We got there around 6:30 parked in the Copley parking lot and walked down Boylston to the start of the race which was near the common on Charles street. We got there around 7 and it was a bit more chilly then I had expected it to be, so we hung around in our warm clothes a bit. It was already super crowded when we arrived so we headed straight to get our t shirts and then to check our bag. For those signing up for the 10k or the half the race shirts are awesome but they run really big. I was going to get a small but it fits like a medium so I ended up getting and XS and its a little big but fits pretty good so make sure you go a size down.
We got our bag for bag check which were supplied and you were only allowed to use their clear bags. All other bags were not allowed which was not the case for the half in the fall you could have used a backpack if you wanted but security was definitely heightened for this event which was understandable. More on that to come. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We waited as long as possible to take our warm clothes off and then headed over to the start around 7:45. I was still so shocked by the number of people around. The way that corrals are set up for this event like the half you just go where you feel your pace is so we went in the 8:30 to 9 minute pace. A little fast for us but I wanted to get out as quick as possible. I wasn't holding anything back in this race. The corrals started to get super crowded as the race start grew closer and I will admit I was getting stressed about getting out. I was using this race to see where I was at speed wise. This did end up being a problem. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The race got underway and it was just way too crowded they had let a lot more runners register this year then last year and I think this was a mistake. There were almost 10,000 runners and there was just no where to go when you started, lots of pushing and shoving... I may have done a bit of this myself</span><span style="font-size: large;">(Sorry to anyone I might have elbowed.)</span><span style="font-size: large;"> Thankfully all the streets of the race were closed so people could spread out a bit but I felt so closed in until we hit about mile 2-2.5, then I kicked it into full on sprint mode. The route is super flat except for a little on ramp but I really wanted to break out and run faster but I couldn't move. This is my biggest complaint for the race. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One of the best part of the races was running down Boylston through the Marathon finish line. The city was just so alive that this part gave you chills. Lots of people stopping and taking pictures it was just really neat. Once you crossed that you didn't have much further to go. The race started and ended in the same spot which was nice. Once you crossed the finish line you got your medal and then headed to grab your food bag. They gave out a lot of food and drinks which is always nice to get. I grabbed my swag and waited for my mom to come in a few minutes after me. We both had good races and loved the course.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for the added security, there were police officers EVERYWHERE and you could tell people were a bit on edge. Every loud noise or scream you heard your heart did stop for a second. Everyone knew that everything would be ok but you could tell people were more aware of their surroundings, and praying that everything was going to go smoothly not only that day but for the remainder of the weekend. All of the race volunteers, security and police officers were great at keeping everything as normal as possible but still making sure everything was going to go according to plan. I will say I have never felt so safe in the City as I did this weekend. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all I did love the race the energy and excitement that filled the city definitely added to that. I liked the course it was very fast and flat. There were several water stops, I did not stop at any of them but if you needed them there was one at every mile with water and gatorade. These races are always super organized with getting your shirts and bag check and the finish line too with getting your medal and food which is always a plus. The one thing I am hoping for come next year is they cut down the number of entrants, but I highly recommend running this race and will be signing up again next year! Also the added bonus of going to the marathon expo is another reason to sign up for this. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Shout out to the amazing girls of <a href="http://www.swirlgear.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Swirlgear</a> it was awesome finally meeting you in person. For those who don't know about Swirlgear go check them out they have amazing running clothes that are super cute! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Also sign up for the B.A.A. 10k is tomorrow morning at 10am EST don't miss out this race will fill up within minutes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-85510014133454872602014-04-20T12:49:00.002-07:002014-04-20T13:03:15.910-07:00Happy Easter and a Giveaway!!!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I hope everyone is having a very Happy Easter! Remember calories don't count on holidays so eat up! Candy is great for training right?!?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway on a side note, in honor of Marathon Monday Energy bits has given me the opportunity to give away an Energy Bits Swag Bag!!!! Also they are offering a 20% discount online when you use the promo code MARATHON so go over and order some bits! </span></div>
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<a id="rc-8df2631" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8df2631/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">ENERGYbits are only available at <a href="http://energybits.com/" target="_blank">ENERGYbits.com</a>,
and Jonathan (their Community Manager) has shared with me that he'd be
happy to connect anyone with a current ambassador to share a discount on
a bag of bits, or more info on their sample program - you can email him
at <a href="mailto:jlevitt@energybits.com" target="_blank">jlevitt@energybits.com</a></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Easter everyone and Good Luck to all you runners tomorrow it is going to be a great day! </span><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-27861922329393249782014-04-15T08:50:00.002-07:002014-04-15T13:41:52.500-07:00Boston Strong 4*15*13 We Will Never Forget <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I am having a hard time finding the words for today's blog but felt I needed to write about this......</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Boston marathon is a day I look forward to every year. I am from Massachusetts and Patriots day is one of the biggest holidays of the year for us. Whether you watch the marathon on TV or line the 26.2 route, it is a big day. I do not typically go into the city but am glued to the tv, last year being no different. I had stopped watching when I heard what happened I was on my way to an appointment but I immediately started texting everyone I knew that was at the race or running. Thankfully all my family and friends were ok, but this city and state will be changed forever. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today is a day to be remembered not by the tragedy that happened but how a city came together as one to help out one another. We will forever grow from this and show whoever wants to mess with us that we will not back down and we will stand as one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today and forever we are all Boston Strong <3</span></div>
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Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-10428295966434223662014-04-11T20:36:00.002-07:002014-04-11T20:36:31.429-07:00My Oatmeal Review!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I was recently given the opportunity to review some products from <a href="http://www.myoatmeal.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">My Oatmeal</a> a company that specializes in <a href="http://www.myoatmeal.com/create-a-custom-blend.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">customized oatmeal</a>, as well as <a href="http://www.myoatmeal.com/customized-peanut-butter-powder.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">customizable dehydrated powdered peanut butter</a>. I was immediately drawn to this company because the sound of making your own flavored peanut butter and oatmeal sounds amazing! I couldn't wait to try it! Also everything is made to order so you know it is super fresh and made exactly how you want it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As soon as I found out I was given the opportunity to review it I went straight to the website to concoct my special flavor! I had thought I was going to get some peanut butter and some oatmeal but the more I thought about it and the more I looked at what flavors of PB there were I knew that is what I was going to order. I love the idea of oatmeal but it is just not my favorite thing. I try it and try it and want to like it but eat half of it and am all set. Peanut butter on the other hand that I could eat all day everyday!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I started looking through all the flavors and saw that they had a cake flavor and I knew that was going to be the first one! I used light roasted peanuts, cake batter, vanilla frosting and sweet icing flavors and some brown cane sugar granules. I knew I wanted to bake with it so I didn't want to add any fruit or anything crunchy. I named this one CAKE PB!!!!! Creative I know, feel free to come to me if you need an awesome name for your PB creation! The next flavor creation I came up with was.....wait for it.....Caramel Smores PB!!!!! (yes this is what I called it..I know I know best name ever don't be jealous!) Anyway this one consisted of light roasted peanuts as well, smores, dark caramel and graham cracker flavor. I also added the same sugar and no fruit or crunchy stuff. I played with my order a few times before I came to the final result and then eagerly awaited it's arrival!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My PB came in about a week maybe a few days less. I was headed out but needed to open it ASAP and smell it! As soon as I opened CAKE PB!!!! it instantly smelled like cake batter and I knew it was going to be delicious. Same with the Smores PB the smell was just amazing and really smelled like the flavors! The following day I made pancakes with the different flavors. I couldn't wait to try them! The PB came with a little recipe card on how to make these so I couldn't wait and whipped up two small batches. My boyfriend and I ate them and they were pretty good, a little dense but I liked the flavor. Even my boyfriend like them which was surprising he doesn't normally like the healthier food I try, however he said he could taste the protein in them....I beg to differ. I can't say whether I liked the Cake or the Smores better they were both so delicious!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also made chocolate chip cookies with the PB too with both flavors and these were super good as well. I just goggled a dehydrated PB cookie recipe and went from there. I think I liked these better than the pancakes but I will make both of them again to truly be the judge!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One thing I will say though is that I made this into regular PB and was not a fan. I needed it to have more of a nutty, sweeter flavor. I am completely fine with this though I would rather bake with it. It is much easier then using sticky peanut butter. You all know what I am talking about they ask for a 1/4 cup of pb and you are totally unsure if you have filled the measuring cup up completely and then you can't get that last bit out either so you just add an extra spoonful. Well ladies and gents this powdered stuff....much easier!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All and all I am super happy with the flavors I picked. I can't wait to try new recipes and create new things with this stuff! Also I feel better about eating pancakes and cookies when I know they have extra protein in them! I would absolutely recommend you go check out <a href="http://www.myoatmeal.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">My Oatmeal</a> and make some of your own creations!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Disclosure: I was provided this product via Fit Approach for my original thoughts and opinions on My Oatmeal </i></span></span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-30168413238782130882014-03-17T10:28:00.001-07:002014-03-17T10:29:44.297-07:00Final Thoughts on Princess Half Marathon Weekend 2014!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So after reviewing the expo and the races I wanted to give you all my final thoughts on the weekend. There were so many things I like and something I didn't but for the most part I had an absolute blast! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The Pros of the weekend.......</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. The new balance runners que made getting the sneakers a bit easier! I will admit I was totally stressed out about this for.....weeks (I am blushing...theses are only sneakers right!) and I will admit when I entered the que at 6 am the day I was leaving to go to Florida and got an assigned time of 9 am I was even more stressed knowing I wasn't going to get there until at least noon! However it ended up being fine and I was able to get my sneakers as soon as I got to the expo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. The new runDisney pins! I loved that they had these at the expo! I for one am obsessed with those dumb pins and make sure I get one as soon as I get into the parks so I was really excited to see a runDisney one I could ad to my purse strap! Now lets get them for the different races!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. The layout of the expo was great. I never felt like the expo was too crowded. There were many, many people there but it was set up in such a way that I was able to get and do everything I wanted without feeling rushed or that I would be waiting in line for hours.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. The start line being so close to where the bus drops you off for the 10k. I loved that we didn't have to go far for the corrals and start line during the 10k It was not overly crowded so you were able to hang out use the bathroom and still have time to get in your corral instead of walking a mile to the start line. I really liked that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. The crowd support and entertainment during the half marathon. I was disappointed during the 10k (see cons) with the lack of crowd support but the half made up for it. I even felt the runners during the half were more supportive then during the 10k.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. The ease of getting a bus too and from the races. I know some people had a problem with this but I never waited for a bus long to get to the race or to get back to my hotel. I was pleasantly surprised and I always got a seat on the bus not having to stand which was also great!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. The volunteers on and off the course were awesome during the race. Everyone I encountered that was volunteering was exceptionally nice and super positive. It may have just been someone helping you with your bag or placing a medal over your head instead of handing it to you. Those little details are what really stand out for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">And for the cons......</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. The new balance shoes!! Now I know this was a pro but Disney why do you need to make us freak out about them! I wish we had been able to pre-order what we wanted in advance like the Dooneys. However in saying that I did think I wanted the Minnies and then fell in love with the Cindy's so that might not have worked in my favor, but can we make this a little easier so I don't lose sleep over them next time!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. More runDisney merchandise. I was disappointed when I got the expo that so many things had already sold out in one day. I was really hoping to get a head band and they were of course all gone by the time I was there. Also the "live like a beauty, run like a beast" shirts...now I was confused on these. I heard some people went back to the expo after the half and got "princess (then your name)" on the back of them. I wish I had known about those, can someone comment below and explain this better to me because I was and still am confused by that, was there more going on at the expo after the races? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. The lack of Glass Slipper challenge merchandise. I wanted there to be more not only in the runDisney booth but in other booths as well. I wanted more 19.3 stuff!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. The lack of crowd support during the 10k. I really hoped there was going to be more going on. My Mom and I had a great time but I think she was a little disappointed and so was I by the lack of characters that were outside the park and then the lack of people cheering inside the park. I had hoped for more cast members to be out cheering us on, but thank you to the ones that were! Good crowd support can really make a race amazing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. The distance from where they drop you off to the start line for the half marathon. I was there in plenty of time but felt totally rushed getting to the bathroom and then to the start line. I think maybe there should have been a few more port-o-potties and a slightly shorter walk to the start line.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">All in all however we had an AMAZING weekend it flew by before our eyes but we had a blast, and can't wait to do it again in the future! Even with the few cons they did not take away from our awesome Princess Weekend! We loved every magical mile we ran through out the races and then walked through out the parks!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In case you missed my <a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/03/princess-half-marathon-expo-recap.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Expo</span></a>, <a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/03/princess-half-marathon-inaugural.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">10k</span></a> and <a href="http://www.makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/03/princess-half-marathon-recap.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">half</span></a> reviews check them out by clicking the link!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>QOTD: Tell me about the "Live like a beauty, run like a beast" shirts!</i></span></div>
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Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3000547468623204692.post-65314511512632530512014-03-09T08:49:00.003-07:002014-03-09T08:49:49.333-07:00Princess Half Marathon Recap!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Finally the day of the half marathon! I had been really excited about this and not at all nervous until I went to bed. I don't know why but runDisney half marathons makes me insane! I ended up not really sleeping much at all that night, After trying and trying I just finally decided to lay there and relax. My alarm went off around 3:20 but I was up before then getting things ready. I showered dressed quickly and tried to calm down for a quick minute while my Mom got dressed. She wanted to make sure she got a good spot at the finish line so just decided to come on the bus with me to the race. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We got on the bus at around four a little later then the day before and it was still a breeze. There were a few more people on the bus but it was not a problem at all. We got to Epcot pretty quickly headed through bag check and then on in to find a bathroom. I noticed that New Balance had put a wall up of everyone's name that was doing the Glass Slipper Challenge. They only had the names of the runners for the half and the 10k at the expo so I was happy to see this when we got to the race. Anyway moving right along...the lines for the bathroom were insane so after waiting for a while I bagged it because we were being told to head to the start line. My Mom and I parted ways and I headed that way. I didn't realize how far away the start line was it seemed as if we walked a mile to get there. I really wanted to use the bathroom before we started to I waited in line at the start line. Not the best idea these lines were not moving either and I was getting super stressed about not getting to my corral on time. By the time I got to my corral I ended up in E, I was suppose to be in D but couldn't get there because they were moving the corrals up, A and B had already started. A few minutes later I was stating!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I started off the race at a great pace and I was feeling good. My knee was not hurting and I was just trying to enjoy everything around me. Already only a few miles in the entertainment and crowd support were great. I was very eager to get into magic kingdom though so kept focusing on that. I also didn't stop for any character pictures because the lines seemed to be very long. We finally went under the sign that said welcome to Magic Kingdom but seemed like forever until we actually entered the park. Once we got in it was amazing! we ran around Magic Kingdom and then through the castle!!!!! I had heard that this can be a bit crowded and that waiting to get your picture taken in front of the castle can be a bit of a wait but that was not the case. I flew through the castle and luckily there was not wait for a castle picture. I ran over had my picture taken and was off again. The picture didn't come out as good as I had hoped but it was ok. Heading out of the castle I stopped and walked at one of the water stops. I wanted to have a few sports beans and drink some water and running and doing this can be a bit challenging. I continued on and was still feeling great then came mile 8.........</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At mile 8 I felt as if someone came over to me and stabbed me in the knee with a knife. GREAT! I told myself slow it down a bit and chug along you only have five miles left you are more then half way done and you can do this! I stopped once again to try to stretch my knee out but it was just not working. I decided at the next medical tent I would grab some Tylenol hopefully that would work, but the next medical tent literally was like a million miles away! I kept running and running thinking there has to be one soon and then finally there it was! I ran ove grabbed some Tylenol and then was off again telling myself your feeling better your feeling better....I wasn't. At around mile 11 things got just a bit worse, we headed up a banked on ramp which was not my friend! A couple of girls around me said "I am going to go run on the grass I think it might be a bit more even" I really should have listened to this advice. Midway up there was an army man yelling at us to get up the hill, and stopping people to do push ups. If my knee hadn't been feeling awful I might have stopped and done some, but instead I just chugged up the hill. I knew the race would be over soon and that is what I was focusing on. I kept running and then finally saw the finish line and Mickey! I sped up gave him a high five and crossed the finish line. My time was not my best but that was ok. I knew my knee was going to be an issue from the beginning so I was just happy I was able to finish the 19.3 miles. Even with all the knee pain I loved every minute of the Glass Slipper Challenge!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After I crossed the finish line I heard my Mom calling my name I yelled to her that I needed to get my medals and I would meet her over by the buses. I grabbed my beautiful medals, took my finishers picture then headed out to find her. One thing I forgot to mention was the mesh bag they gave you after finishing. I loved them and it really came in handy after the race to carry my water and Powerade and then during the day in the park carrying my medals! Also thank you so much to the nice lady that saw my struggling to get my stuff in the bag and helped me out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once I found my Mom we took some pictures and then headed to the bus. I wanted to stick around a little bit but also really wanted to get in a hot shower to stretch out my knee. The bus ride back seemed like it took five seconds thankfully. I headed to our room and then straight into the shower. I also wanted to get back to Magic Kingdom and spend the day care free with my medals eating all the bad food I wanted and trying to score a reservation at Be Our Guest for dinner (Which we ended up getting!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My overall thoughts of the race, knee pain aside...I loved it! Crowd support and runner support was AMAZING! There was a lot more going on than during the 10k also I just love running through Magic Kingdom and the Castle, it is truly an experience that gives you chills. The course was also great and pretty flat with the exception of the on ramp at the end of the race, but you have an army man there "encouraging" you to get up that hill with no walking! All in all it was awesome race day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In case you missed it here are my recaps of the <a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/03/princess-half-marathon-expo-recap.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Expo</a> and the <a href="http://makeupcupcakesandrunning.blogspot.com/2014/03/princess-half-marathon-inaugural.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Enchanted 10k</a></span></div>
Kara Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741084603929250090noreply@blogger.com0