I DID IT!

So the Half Marathon has come and gone, and I DID IT!!! 2 hours and 20 minutes of stress, sweat, and pure exhilaration! It was one of the best challenges of personal endurance, will power and fun that I have ever experienced. My sister Denise and I drove over on Sunday morning at about 5:30 AM. We made excellent time, 5 hours (thanks to cruise control, fun conversations, and good tunes). Once there we went to church at a nearby ward building. Then we checked into our hotel and then went to the health and wellness expo held in the Disneyland hotel lobby. This was where we checked in, got our numbers, time chips, and our goody bag. They gave us this awesome long sleeve dri shirt with the half marathon logo on it and lots of free stuff. We walked around downtown Disney and did some shopping for the babes, then we went to Tony Roma's and got some pasta (for the carbs). After an early dinner, we went back the the hotel where we got all ready for the race. After about a couple of hours, we heard this knock at our door. Denise opened it and there stood Ryan. He had flown over as a complete surprise. I screamed and ran to the door! He had managed to get some of his family members to take time to babysit the girls. Thanks everyone who helped. It was the best to have him there and have his support! We crashed shortly after his arrival. The morning started at 4:00 AM. We got up, dressed, and then headed out. The best, was that we had Ryan there to hold our stuff and take photos! What a great equipment manager. The race began at 6:00AM. They started with a countdown and fireworks, and then Denise, myself and 13,000 other participants began a great adventure. For the first 5 miles, we ran through the parks conversing with characters, etc. It was seriously the fastest 5 miles ever. Besides having to worry about tripping people, there was this great energy among the racers. You couldn't help being excited. After the 5 miles, we left the parks and had more room to get into a pace. We ran around the perimeter of the field of Angel stadium and through some other parts of Anaheim. It was really hot (100 degrees) and high humidity which made it difficult, but they had water stops every 2 miles. Overall, it was tough, but it was so great. If anyone wants to have a 1/2 marathon goal, this is the one to train for. Many people did a walk run combo and did great. What can I say running and Disneyland... sounds like a perfect combination! So here are the photos to prove it.

All the gear, ready to go for the big day. Yes, that is my pink shuffle. The BEST invention EVER! Thanks again Ryan, it was a great birthday present.

Prior to the race in the gathering area. Yes, it is dark because it is around 4:30 AM!

This is the start line. Before we ran, they shot off fireworks and Minnie and Mickey Mouse were there to send us off. Only at Disneyland!!!
Denise and I saying hi before we went under the start sign.
The "Green Men" from Andy's tool box. I asked it we could get a photo, and he said of course, with the arm motion!!! The green men gave directions and were the host in the gathering area. They led stretching, etc. So fun.

Taken shortly after the mile 12 marker. Ryan found me and caught these action shots.

In front of the finish line with the coolest medals. They gave us these after we crossed the finish line. I wonder what the winner got? Yes, we look tired and sweaty, we just finished 13.1 miles in 100 degree whether and humidity!!!! We are such tough mamas.

Post race photos in front of California Adventure!

The BEST equipment manager EVER! The ice cream looks good, I am happy that you enjoyed yourself while we suffered!!! Thanks again Ryan for the support through all the training and the fun surprise of you coming to the race. I love you!

Denise and I in front of the princess castle. Check out the metals!!! We had a great time eating pineapple dole whips without babies wanting bites and going on some rides! Thanks for such great memories Denise. I had so much fun. You were a great support in training and the actual race (even if I did slow you down after mile 5). Can't wait till we come back and do it again! Because we WILL do it again! After the race, we went back the hotel and cleaned up, checked out and then we went to Disneyland and California Adventure. This is us under the gate bridge in CA adventure after riding the raft ride. Ryan got soaked (lucky) and Denise and I came out completely dry!