A week back from Anaheim, I am again itching for SoCal’s summerlike weather, delicious food treats and fabulous friends.
I ran the inaugural Star Wars Half Marathon at Disneyland last week and – to my surprise – ran like I was being chased by imperial fighters. Swift feet and a fast course took me to a new PR at 1:55. The weather was perfect and I was thrilled. Here’s my race recap on my work blog.
The weekend was about so much more than running, as I went to Anaheim to spend a few days with friends. We laughed, we ate (everything) and had an incredible time.
So here’s a virtual photo album of my trip:
The course was strong with this one. My medal at the finish line of the half marathon. I wore it at the park Sunday night and someone actually offered to buy it from me. I declined, but curiosity has me wondering how much the fan would’ve offered.
We went to the Wookiee Welcome Party in Tomorrowland Thursday night. The event featured amazing desserts (like these-I ate them all and then some), drinks and a meet-and-greet with many Star Wars characters.
CHARACTERS!
We also rode a few popular rides – sans any lines. Plus this was my first time on Disneyland’s Space Mountain. I went on a few rides for the first time on this trip – the Paradise Pier coaster, DCA Tower of Terror and Mickey’s Fun Wheel all included. I still haven’t recovered from that last one.
Heather and I spent much of Friday in and around the parks thanks to extra magic hours.
4 1/4 friends! We met up with Laurie, Anya and their handsome little guy Finley!
Of course we got Minnie ears. Pluto dug them.
I spent a few hours working at the PRO Compression booth at the expo. Loved chatting with so many runners!
Saturday brought the Star Wars 10K and I watched the winner cross the finish line! Way to go Jacob!
Imperial motivators
Spent some time with these lovelies – Dani and Linzie
I stopped for a few pics mid-run and this one with Boba Fett was one of my faves! I’ve got my awesome Sparkle Athletic skirt and tank on, with an Oiselle base layer and PRO socks.
A stunning sunrise stopped me mid-stride on the streets of Anaheim.
After our run, we went out to celebrate at Club 33.
This pic of Cam says it all! We had a blast together all weekend long!
The gang’s all here – from left Cam, Heather, me, Jillian and Mike. Happy racing everyone!
Cam and Heather both ran the half – and Cam PRed! Click here for her recap.
Did you attend the Star Wars half weekend? What was your favorite part of the course? What did you like best about the weekend? What would you change? Tell me in the comments!
Looks like such an awesome weekend – I am definitely missing the warm weather (especially at the moment) and this makes me feel like I am *almost* there.
So the ferris wheel was scary??? I haven’t ever been on that – actually, I don’t think I’ve done much of California Adventure. I guess I’ll have to visit again!
The wheel was CRAZY scary! Heather and I took to calling it Mickey’s Wheel of Death. I think I actually lost my voice screaming! I’m still glad we rode it, but never again!
Seriously love this! What a truly magical and fun weekend, oh and the half was good too. All kidding aside, for a course that on paper looked extremely boring and long and on a morning I really wasn’t feeling like running, it was a super fun and fast course…there is just something about Anaheim in January. Great times, we must do this again, and again.
Heather, love! I always have an amazing time with you. Thank you for everything and I am so glad we were able to make this weekend happen! There IS something about Anaheim in January! The best! And yes, it’s a date!