Princess Half-Marathon 2016 Recap

Welcome to part 2 of this royal weekend! You can read about the Enchanted 10k and our first day here. A few facts about the runDisney Princess Half-Marathon. It is by far one of the most popular races in the country, there will be lots of crowds, plenty of runners and walkers, and one of the best times you will have on a race weekend! On that note, let's get to the start.

 

During race weekend I usually always opt for the challenges, I figure if I'm there then why not do both races? The Glass Slipper Challenge requires you to complete the 10k (6.1 miles) on Saturday followed by the half (13.1 miles) on Sunday for an exciting 19.2 mile journey. The morning started early as I *tried* to get ready quietly so I wouldn't wake everyone up in the room, but hey if you are going full costume then you need a few extra minutes! I chose Pocahontas as princess of choice this year complete with long, dark hair. I mean who has heard of a blonde Pocahontas? Going for accuracy here. Just like that cartoon Disney made (lol).   

My legs felt tired but better than expected. I was in the mode of wanting to get done so we could go back out to the parks before our flight. And maybe I really wanted a Dole Whip aka pineapple soft serve sold in Adeventureland at Magic Kingdom. My strategy was to have fun, follow my intervals and just enjoy my time on the course. After the first few waves, our corral was off!

This course is the same as the WDW Half that is held in January but overall I really like it. After you've done it a few times you kind of know the course and you can gage where you are. Lots of character stops the first few miles, one that everyone wants is the cast of Disney Princes including Hercules, Prince Eric, and Finn among others. It is a very popular stop but a fun one! I've gotten it the past couple of years and I would have stopped this time but the wait was super long so I opted out.  Soon we were going towards Magic Kingdom!

Another photo opp that is very fun and popular is Jack and Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas, they are usually about half a mile from this point on the right hand side so be on the lookout! You can feel the excitement as you begin to approach the Castle, this really is the moment you've been waiting for!

 

You enter the Magic Kingdom a little after the Mile 5 marker and my one advice is to have fun in this section. This is where the money is and why most of you paid to do this. This is the best part of the course and it's so inspiring to see all these people experiencing a dream coming true, there might even be a tear or two. You will see some exciting friends as you enter the castle...

 

 

Of course you need the castle pic!

 

Again I noticed the character stops were very long and I like them but it's not that big of a deal to me. I would rather just go ahead and finish to collect the bling. You can still make your own photo opps throughout the park even without the characters. I was trying to get a historically accurate shot of Pocahontas here.

Then like that you are out of the park and back on the roads. The bad news? The course is a tad boring in this section although there were more character stops than usual I noticed. The good news? You are over half-way done and you are headed to Epcot! The sun was beginning to shine and yes, the wig was hot on my head but luckily it was still pretty early in the day. I loved the feeling of sunshine after a cool morning!

 

The next few miles are kind of a blur, I hate miles 8 and 9 since you are so close to being done yet it still feels a little far. There is an overpass that leads you to Epcot that seems like it goes on forever but soon you see the end and are entering the park! The day was beautiful and during this moment I just felt so happy to be running and thankful I'm able to do something like this. I'm not going to lie the end of these races can get emotional!

The Fairy Godmother was moving everyone along with encouragement so I decided for a pic. My wig looks so crazy bad but I think it's really funny since it's clearly about to fall off. Hey, it lasted 13 miles though!

Lots of people's favorite moment is the Gospel choir that awaits you right before you turn to the finish line. I love this! A really, unique runDisney tradition. Praises we are finished! When you see them you know you are done.

After you finish the race your medals are placed around your neck and everyone takes a celebratory selfie haha jk but actually most people do so maybe not really jk? You must have your Glass Slipper Bib on as well as your picture on file (taken at expo during bib pick up) or a wristband (given to you at race day pick up) to collect your additional Glass Slipper medal. Remember this! Also, you must register for the challenge. You can't sign up for each race individually, even if you do both if you are not registered for the challenge you will not receive the extra medal! 

 

Hopping on the bus back to the hotel was a breeze and soon after a quick shower we were back at the park and yes, I got my Dole Whip. The hours flew by and soon it was time to head to the airport and back home. A fantastic two day trip was in the books!

 

Overall, I would highly recommend the Princess Half-Marathon! It is a fun weekend to do as a group, a family or even a girls weekend trip! It is all about the ladies, pink and sparkles so if that's not your cup of tea then it might not be for you but personally I think it's a great race for everyone! Beautiful medals, a flat and easy course, and you get to run through the castle. What's not to like?

Some will say it is overcrowded and yes at times it can be. My strongest advice to avoid this? Submit a good proof of time! Make a 10k or half your goal race to hit a certain number so you have a great time to submit to runDisney. If you do not submit any proof of time then you will automatically be placed in the last corral. There are lots of corrals like they extend from letter A to letter P. Keep up with the submission date and have your proof of time submitted by that day. No changes can be made at the expo or after the proof of time date has passed. RunDisney will not make changes so get that time in!

If you have always wanted to run a race then runDisney is the perfect first race, you can get the details on the Princess Half as well as all the other races at Walt Disney World and Disneyland right here!

Hope you enjoyed this recap and happy running!

xoxo,

Princess Enchanted 10k 2016 Recap

I can't believe that runDisney's Princess Half-Marathon weekend is over! What's even more unbelievable is that I have been doing this race and running these long distances for five years now. A quick summary for those who are new to the blog (welcome!) and a refresher for others, the Princess Half was one of the main reasons I started running. Yes, I wanted to stay in shape but getting to run through Disney World? That sounded pretty awesome.

 

The race is much different now than it was five years ago, at that time the race was only in its third year of existence and the running boom had not hit yet. I signed up in October now it is not uncommon for the race to sell out in an hour or less on the first day of registration. While there is some change, some good some bad, the theme remains the same and it is still one of my favorite if not my favorite race of all!

 

On late Friday afternoon, a few friends and I boarded the plane for the most magical place on earth and surprisingly there were no delays and we got to Orlando in a short hour and five minutes! Since it was later we were able to check into the hotel with ease.

 

We stayed at Disney's Polynesian Resort, which was a host hotel for the race as were most if not all of the on site properties. This hotel is beautiful and convenient, take a look at these "waterfalls". You feel like you are in Hawaii, right?

Totally in Hawaii. Well close enough. I like this hotel because it is on the monorail system of the resorts and it makes life so much easier especially if you are only there for a day or two. Quick tip, of you are a Florida resident or have an Disney World annual pass be sure to get the "Passholder Discount" which can usually save anywhere from $200-$300 on your room!

We were going to go to sleep but then we decided on a snack. Like this brownie. It's always so much fun to catch up and even better if chocolate is involved! The race has such an early start time that it's hard to sleep the night before races anyway.

3am wake-up call came quickly! One other little hint, runDisney doesn't advertise this but they do offer race day bib pick-up although they would much prefer you to attend the expo. In reality, the expo pick-up is much easier and you don't feel as rushed but for those of us not able to leave earlier in the day or perhaps have delayed flights and such, race day pick-up is a huge help!
 

I've felt a little blah on running lately but these races are always fun and I was kind of excited to be running these 6.2! The weather was actually quite cool, I could see my breath when I talked so a little unexpected for Florida but don't worry it definitely warmed up. In fact it became quite hot during the day. Making our way through the crowd, the clock slowly ticked down to 5:30am and the start was among us. We even had the fairy godmother there to help wish us off!
 

Soon the fireworks for corral A were off and running! I actually forgot my watch and my run/walk timer but I felt good and was able to find my pace pretty quickly. Ok, this is a Disney race and there are people of all paces there so just know there will be some congestion but remember where you are, take in the scenery and accept the fact you probably won't PR here. The races are all about fun as they should be plus at the prices stay out there as long as you can, get your money's worth!
 

Hey Elsa and Anna! Yes, there was SNOW in Florida well kind of but it looked pretty. There were lots of characters out on the course but wow the lines were LONG. That is one thing that is particularly good about being in the first few corrals is that the character lines are not quite as long but they aren't really short either.
 

I like to stop and get a few pictures with the lesser known or more obscure characters that are usually out on the race course. Meeko (the raccoon) was pretty much my favorite character in Pocahontas, he was always so cute and loved eating those cookies. Or maybe they were biscuits? Whatever they were he was always hungry so we all could relate. The photo stops will take up time so remember that but like I said before, make these races fun!
 

Soon we were entering Epcot! This area is really beautiful before sunrise and I love seeing all the "countries" lit up. If you don't want to spend time in line for characters there are some good opportunities around the park but be sure to have your flash on!
 

The final two miles takes you out by the Boardwalk area of Disney which I think is a fun little spot and there are lots of spectators to cheer you on as well as a character stop or two, the course then takes you back inside Epcot where the finish line awaits you.
 

I did my best Anna from Frozen impersonation, people say I'm more Elsa with my long blonde hair but my personality is very Anna, kind of awkward and hoping people think I'm funny so I even wore a wig to get the look down! I loved my costume and got so many compliments! If you aren't running in costume at a Disney race then you are doing it wrong. It might seem silly but once you see everyone else dressed up and some of the more elaborate costumes, you realize you will fit right in!
 

After the race, it was time for breakfast! If you are at the Polynesian then you have to try the Tonga Toast!! Fried dough stuffed with bananas? It is delicious! A definite favorite among all Disney travelers.
 

The rest of the day was super busy with the Expo (no pics since I'm not obsessed with it like some are) then we thought of relaxing but headed over to Hollywood Studios and Epcot. This is the perfect time to visit since they are prepping for the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot so we had fun taking in a few drinks "around the World" definitely visit "Italy", "France" and "Mexico" for some fun beverages! The time passes so fast on vacation so enjoy the time you have with friends and family but don't overwork yourself especially since many of you (like myself) plan on running the half-marathon the next morning. Still take time to enjoy!
 

The Princess Enchanted 10k is a great race whether it's your first race or 100th. The course is mostly flat and there are plenty of character stops and  park time along the way so you don't get bored. This race can be done alone or you can add it to your 13.1 mile journey to complete the Glass Slipper Challenge which was introduced two years ago and remains a hot commodity for runners. Sign up early! I'm talking the moment it opens because it will sell out.

This is a great goal race if you are just starting out running or maybe you just want to check something off your bucket list. A 10k is such an accomplishment but not as much commitment as a half or full marathon so it is a very do-able especially if you are new at running.

I'll give a recap of the half-marathon tomorrow and my thought on the challenge among other things so keep reading!

xoxo,


 

Grammy's Best Dressed 2016

Happy Tuesday! So, how about the Grammy's last night? My girl T-Swift taking home Album of the Year (and that slight diss to Yeezy in her acceptance speech), Kendrick Lamar shutting it down on stage and going home a big winner, everyone realizing Sam Hunt is really hot and Beyoncé slaying in my favorite gown of the night!

 

I will say the fashion wasn't quite as over the top as usual and I was a little sad about that. Usually the Grammy's are the cool award show and this year it was a little blah in regards to the red carpet. However, there were a few looks that I absolutely loved so I give you my top picks of the night!

 

 

 

1. Beyoncé

 

Just call her "Slayonce" haha ok I think I'm funny with the puns and let me just pretend I'm the first one to call her that. Queen Bey rarely disappoints on the red carpet and this beautiful white gown is no exception. Only she could get away with wearing a wedding dress on the red carpet and it look just like a normal outing. The dress is the focal point, I love the low ponytail and minimal make-up.

 

Like the look? Try this or this!

 

2. Taylor Swift

 

Ok, this was a bit of a mixed reviewed look. I personally thought it was a fun look perfect for the Grammy's! It had a bit of 90's nostalgia to it, remember when the hot look was the crop top and tulle skirts? I remember Sharon Stone, Jennifer Aniston and Sarah Jessica Parker with these looks. I loved my In Style Magazine when I was little, I knew my awards shows! She can pull off something like this and her haircut looked so sleek with the pop of lip color.

 

Like the look? Try this with this!

 

3. Adele

 

Even with the slight technical problem, Adele still sounded amazing! Her all black look was perfect from head to toe, love the touch of sparkle and her hair looked fabulous! She always looks so elegant and this look was spot on.

 

Like the look? Try this or this!

 

4. Tori Kelly

 

Emerald green color, old Hollywood waves and pure glamour is why Tori Kelly's look was one of my favorites! This dress might be more at home at the Oscars but she was nominated and performed so this was a big night for her and it deserves a big dress. The look just screams golden age of Hollywood and the dress is the true show stopper here!

 

Like the look? Try this or this!

 

5. Selena Gomez

 

Taylor Swift's bestie was rocking this dazzling blue number, I mean if you are going to run into your ex, Justin Bieber, then you need to look good! This dress reminds me of the 70's, a little touch of Studio 54 in today's time. Selena always has her hair on point, long waves are flattering on most face shapes and just add that look of glamour!

 

Like the look? Try this or this!

 

6. Kaley Cuoco

 

The Big Bang Theory actress likes to experiment on the red carpet and I loved this jumpsuit! Normally I don't care for pants much, but add some sparkle and flair, I'm all for them. When I think of Grammy's, I was hoping to see more fashion risks like this, it might not make every person's bes dressed list but at least it's unique! Great hair and make-up to go along with this fun piece.

 

Like the look? Try this or this!

 

7. Carrie Underwood

 

Did y'all catch her steamy duet with Sam Hunt? If you didn't find it on YouTube now just so you can introduce yourself to Sam Hunt if you don't know who he is. Carrie always looks flawless and I mean everything. from her hair and make-up to her shoes, her style is one of my all time favorites. This black dress is anything but basic!

 

Like the look? Try this or this!

 

8. Chrissy Teigen

 

Would you really expect less from a model? The pregnant beauty looked like a glowing mom-to-be in this white gown and can we talk about that cape? Love it! Capes are one of my favorite additions to gowns and dresses, it just adds that little bit of drama. The hair pulled away from the face looked sleek and neutral make-up went with the look, almost ethereal but still very chic!

 

Like the look? Try this or this!

 

Those are my picks for the night! What was your favorite look? Grammy moment? Let me know and keep checking back here for new posts coming this week!

 

xoxo,

 

 

Valentine's Day Date Night Picks

Hello everyone! Still sulking a bit after my Panther took that Super Bowl beating but will congratulate the Broncos and the legendary Peyton Manning on a great win. Ok, enough sports talk time to move to the next holiday on the list, Valentine's Day. Some of you love it, some loathe it, some are indifferent and just see it as a way to eat candy. A day that celebrates love? Count me in!

If your weekend plans include spending time with your date or maybe you are having a girl's night out, whatever the reason there is no excuse not to throw a little pink and red on! Here are a few of my favorite picks for every budget.

Look 1: Red? Check. Bow? Check. Love? Check! This dress just scream Valentine's Day and it is perfect for a romantic night out but something you can wear to dressier occasions during the year and the back simply makes the dress. Plus, it's on SALE!



Kate Spade Open Back Mini Dress

Look 2: Lulu's is one of my favorites because the provide cute pieces at great prices. This hot pink number is good for date night or a night on the town with your besties. I would throw on a black moto jacket to add a bit of edge



Lulu's Neon Pink Dress

Look 3: Maybe you are forgoing this whole going out thing and inviting some of your favorites to watch Nicholas Sparks movies. This cozy sweater dress is perfect for Valentine's and after. Plus, this one comes in at only $33!


Lulu's Blush Pink Dress
 

Look 4: Flattering wrap dress with a little bit of sparkle? And under $60? Thinking I'm going to have to add this one to my closet! This dress just look romantic, I would pair it with nude heels and loose waves for that Midsummer's Night Dream look.



Lulu's Pretty Blush Pink Dress
 

Look 5: I love dresses that have this style and fit! Cinched waist with a bit of a flair on the bottom create that hour glass look. This style looks good on everyone and fire engine red is sure to get attention!


Lulu's Pretty Red Dress

Look 6: This dress looks like icon Grace Kelly. Clean, Classic and Simple yet so beautiful! Love the scalloped neckline. A great under $50 option!


Lulu's Cute Red Dress

Look 7: Pink dress that you have to notice, love the color! Great dress to wear with short hair or an up do and can accessorize up or down. Under $40 option!

Shop Lucca Lane Pink Dress

Look 8: Ladies, we've all been there. All my single ladies (sorry had to throw in a Queen Bey lyric) can wear this shirt on the 14th and look as fashionable as ever. Wildfox has the cutest and softest tees!


Wildfox Blah Blah Blah Shirt
 

Look 9: Wine, pizza, and movie night? Low key V-Day's require low key outfits that still have that spark. Love this romper, so soft you just have to touch!

Wildfox Red Romper
 

Look 10: Maybe my favorite, it's no secret I love off the shoulder dresses and blush is one of my favorite colors so this is a win/win for me! Also a win? The under $60 price tag!

Chic Wish Pink Off the Shoulder Dress
 

Hope you all enjoyed my picks! Now go be romantic a pick a dress. Or two.

xoxo,

Super Bowl Sunday Looks

Happy Friday! Not only is it just a regular awesome Friday but we are only two days away from Super Bowl 50! You might be really into the game or this is the only time you watch sports all year but there is a good chance you are attending a party this coming Sunday, right? I threw together a few looks for my team (Go Panthers!) but I love me some Peyton Manning and Denver too.

 

Most of you will be attending or even throwing a Super Bowl party at your house. A great house party look is one that is comfortable, not over-dressed and of course allows room to eat chicken wings and pizza. Throw on a fun tee like this one and add a statement necklace like the Kendra Scott piece I'm wearing below plus a fun colorful vest in the team's colors. Pair with your favorite leggings and comfy shoes, you are good to go!

 

Maybe you are going to a sports bar to watch the game and since you are out in public you want to look a little more chic. I love paring this vintage looking tee from Junk Food with a faux fur vest with leggings and over the knee boots which are a real show stealer. The look is still comfortable but add just a little more edge!

 

Ok maybe you are going to no party. You just want to sit at home with your person and watch the game and eat your stuffed crust pizza in private. But then you decide you want to go to that party you see your friend is throwing once the Instagram pictures come rolling in. This look is perfect for lounging at home or going to a friend's big bash! Love this sweatshirt (it's been on repeat all week!) that goes easy with leggings, jeans or even shorts depending on the weather where you are. Throw on some converse, a little lip gloss, tousle your hair and you are out the door!

The final look includes one of the biggest trends of the season, boyfriend jeans! The look is a little slouchy but still stylish. I found this great pair of jeans at Forever 21 which are only $14! They are a replica of a designer pair that come in at a much more expensive price but these are super budget friendly! Toss on a vintage tee (this one is again from Junk Food) a fun necklace like the pearls I'm wearing and flats. Fun look that is so easy to create and even easier to pull off. Great for any place to watch the big game!

 

 

Those are my looks! Hope you enjoy them and have a blast at whatever you are doing Sunday!

 

Go Panthers and Broncos!

 

xoxo,