Back on Track: My Return to Running with Run Disney
When I found out I was expecting Evelyn, I was determined to be that unstoppable pregnant lady who kept going at full speed. Running was a big part of my life, and I was eager to keep up with my routine throughout the pregnancy. I'd seen many inspiring stories in the running community—women running right up until their due dates. But, as they say, life had other plans for me. Severe morning sickness and constant breakthrough bleeding brought my running aspirations to a halt much earlier than I anticipated. The Star Wars Half Marathon, around my fourth month with Evelyn, marked my last race, and let me tell you, it was tough. I knew then that I had to hang up my running shoes for a while.
Between navigating the whirlwind of new motherhood, the unexpected challenges of a global pandemic, and the joyful arrival of another little one, finding the time and energy to lace up my running shoes again took a backseat... until last year. When the news broke that Run Disney would be reviving their iconic races through Disneyland, it was like a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. I was determined to reclaim that exhilarating experience once more. So, without hesitation, I registered both Drew and myself for the half marathon, and of course, signed up our little girls for the Kid Races too.
Like many families, juggling the demands of everyday life— from nursing the girls through multiple school-induced illnesses to managing my business while being a full-time mom—left little room for training. Time seemed to slip through our fingers, until suddenly, it was race packet pickup day at the Disneyland Hotel. To say I was apprehensive and battling a crisis of confidence would be putting it mildly. Let's be real here: the lead-up to the race saw me wrestling with countless sleepless nights and wrestling with a few anxiety attacks I'd rather not admit to.
Stepping into a Run Disney expo for packet pickup is an experience like no other, especially if it's your first time. You'll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant mix of Disney enthusiasts, avid runners, newcomers eager to try something new, and a whole array of people from all walks of life. Before the kids came along, I used to spend time helping out at my friends' booth, Sparkle Athletic, turning the expo into a lively social gathering and a mini-reunion of sorts. But returning after such a long hiatus felt like stepping into a different world. I couldn't shake the feeling of being 'out of the loop' and completely out of my comfort zone. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, feeling so awkward in a space where I once felt so confident and at ease. Despite all that, I was excited to introduce the girls to the excitement of the expo and get them pumped up for their race the next day.
The next morning, bright and early, we escorted the girls to their races. The setup was in a completely different area from what I remembered before my running break, and I had never participated in the kids' races previously, lacking little ones to sign up. The atmosphere was bustling with a mix of excitement and chaos, as even the Run Disney crew seemed to be adjusting to the new arrangements. While the girls could have run independently, the scene felt a bit overwhelming, so we opted to run alongside them.
The girls were absolutely thrilled by the whole experience! Once we got to the starting area, they were greeted by a lively DJ, lawn games, and an infectious sense of anticipation. As the races were about to kick off, the energy spiked even higher. Families turned out in droves to cheer on their young racers, creating a vibrant but crowded spectacle at the finish line. Drew paired up with Hazel, and I accompanied Evelyn. Hazel, upon crossing the finish line, was disappointed it was over and expressed a very strong desire to keep going! On the other hand, Evelyn, running alongside me, was anxious not to be slowed down. And boy, did she set a pace! I found myself struggling to keep up with her as she dashed ahead like lightning.
After the races, we made our way back to the expo to catch up with my friends at the Sparkle Athletic booth. In the past, I had modeled for their running skirts and accessories, and Drew had even taken some of their marketing photos. As we chatted and reminisced, Evelyn spotted some flyers and banners featuring yours truly. Witnessing her excitement at seeing her mom showcased in such a way was such an amazing feeling. There's nothing quite like the feeling of your child thinking you're cool. It left a lasting impression on Evelyn, who now keeps a marketing postcard of me on her nightstand and proudly refers to my friends at Sparkle Athletic as 'HER friends, the Sparkle Girls.'
It's moments like these that make the journey all the more worthwhile.
We hit the sack early that evening, knowing we had to rise at the ungodly hour of 3:30 AM to make it to the race on time. Sticking to tradition, we enjoyed a pasta dinner the night before, and I indulged in a glass of wine in an attempt to ease my nerves. However, sleep eluded me, and I tossed and turned, anxiously awaiting the day ahead. Before I knew it, we were trudging through the chilly morning air, bundled up in layers to combat the cold. This race was shaping up to be one of the chilliest I'd ever experienced. Wrapped in my 'throw away jacket,' ear muffs, gloves, and layers of clothing, I braced myself for the challenge ahead. Through all of the excitement and anticipation pulsating through the crowd, I couldn't shake the nerves gnawing at me. Fear of not completing the half and the biting cold weighed heavily on my mind as we awaited the starting signal in our corral.
Our strategy for this race boiled down to one simple motto: 'Leave something in the tank to finish strong.' Aware that fatigue would inevitably set in, we aimed to maintain a steady pace, reserving enough energy and stamina to power through to the end. As we hit the pavement, especially weaving through Disneyland and California Adventure, I found my rhythm surprisingly quickly. The mile markers whizzed by, bolstering my confidence that we could actually finish this race.
However, around mile 10, a searing pain flared up in my hips, prompting more frequent walk breaks and casting doubt that I would actually finish. Thankfully, with the encouragement of my cheer squad—via calls and texts—I found renewed determination to press on, their unwavering support reminding me of my resilience.
The last three miles tested every ounce of my endurance, but the roaring cheers of the crowd propelled me forward, filling me with a much needed sense of exhilaration. Summoning a burst of energy, I quickened my pace, and as we approached the finish line, Drew and I held hands as we always did when we crossed a finish line. Gratitude washed over me as closed in on the finish line. Despite the biting cold of the 40-degree weather, our faces and hands numb from the chill, and our training far from adequate, we defied the mountains of self-doubt and crossed the finish line together. Having my steadfast cheerleader by my side every step of the way meant the world to me. Drew's unwavering support has always been my rock, and I owe this accomplishment to him. Crossing yet another finish line together filled me with immense gratitude.
Experiencing that post-run euphoria was like rediscovering an old friend—I had almost forgotten about the rush of endorphins and overwhelming sense of achievement that accompanies completing such a challenging race. It's a feeling like no other!
Reacquainting myself with running after a hiatus wasn't as effortless as I had hoped. It required dedication and perseverance, but the journey has been incredibly rewarding. With the girls growing older, I'm eager to share my love for running with them and demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the human body when determination meets action.
This weekend was truly special for our family. We forged unforgettable memories, celebrated remarkable achievements, and strengthened our bonds through this shared experience.
Looking ahead, we've already committed to participating in the next Disneyland Half Marathon weekend, and Drew and I are excited to embark on additional non-Disney runs in the coming months.
I’m back!
