New Years Resolutions Review

Each year I make resolutions, and each year I review them.  Here are the 2015 resolutions, and the review.

ORIGINAL POST - with diagnosis written in, in Blue.
I think 2014 I fell off the Resolution Map.  2012 was one of my best years for making and keeping/being productive for resolutions. Then I went back to work full time and I lost it.  I tried to rekindle in 2013, and did one main thing - solved the full time job thing while unknowingly walking into a ridiculously stressful thing.  So that was it.  No resolutions and focus for 2014.  So, resolutions for 2015… make some?  Let's be bold and daring and put it all out there.  This is what I think I need to do for 2015:

1. Focus: Be as simple as possible in the execution of all things, and relax.  Not everything can get done, do the best I can with what needs to get done immediately.
I have to say, I have become more efficient.  I am really good at executing many things at once, and getting ahead of the game.  Unfortunately, this was not my original intention.  I think the intention was to do what needed to be done quicker so that we could focus on the good things in life.  Instead, I get what needed to be done quicker and then see how much else I can get done in the newfound time - still ignoring the more important things in life.  Note to self for 2016 resolutions...

2. Stop Eating Like a Big Fat Pig: In the past, my resolutions were not so aggressive, but they did say lose 10 pounds. I have a lot more than 10 to go now.  I need to stop the uncontrollable eating by figuring out why it happens.  I need to eat better in general, more fruits and veggies.  Less cheese and starch.  I need to remember I like fruits and veggies, and I like to cook.  I should cook.  When I go out to eat, I don't always have to get the worst thing on the menu, I like lots of stuff.  And, if I am full… Don't eat!  If I am not full, eat something small so I don't get ravenous and explode.  I know this.  I need to do this.  Good luck 2015 me.  We will start next week because I am tired this week and don't want to think about it...
I lost 10 pounds.  And it wasn't from less eating.  I still eat like a big fat pig.  See later resolutions, but again, a note for 2016.  No one wins when I shove my face with food.

3. Children, more: Less housework, less organizing, less ignoring the kids and more playing, being, talking, doing with them.  Having them help me with laundry, with dinner, with everything.  This is the same from 2013.  I need to do this.  My poor son has the stomach bug and today I did my nails while we watched a movie.  Then he pooped his pants, the couch, the bath mat, everything.  But my nails were wet so I passed the issue - which included a devastated and really sad and upset little boy who just wanted a hug from his mommy - off to my husband.  Who is this selfish being?  (well, to be fair to me I was up with said boy from 2:30am on…).  But still.  Stop it.  Go back to #1, and focus, dammit!
This continues to not happen with me. 

4. Less Party:  I have had many, many episodes of party lately.  The most recent one was epic in ridiculousness and inappropriateness and cannot be written on the web.  Nothing too terrible, but certainly nothing too smart either.  This is after an epic holiday partying session.  I have become known as the person who stays up late partying with other people's husbands, as inevitably all of the other ladies go to bed, and my husband with them (separate rooms people, and nothing funny happens with me and the men, get your mind out of the gutter!!!).  But, really.  I am now 35.  Not 20.  It is time to grow up.  & Drink lots of water, in between my wine.  I worry though that if I have less party, so will so many of our friends because I think I bring the party and ensure it continues…  Maybe I am wrong.  2015 experiment.  If we hear, wow - that was a comparatively tame evening to ones we had last year, I will know…  Or, maybe all of us are getting older so I am doing everyone a favor?  Or maybe it has nothing to do with me…  though I have been told I am an alcohol pusher.  Not for 2015 people!
Ok.  I drink water between wine, and since NYE of 2015, I have not stayed up later with a friend's husband at all!  I have learned to go to bed earlier! Yay, me.  But less party? Absolutely not.  More party.  I party harder, more controlled, and get more sleep and less hungover the next day.  I have mastered running long runs after a night of drinking.  I have found balance. Can I keep this going into 2016?  I HOPE SO!

5. Read:  I miss this, I did this well the past few years but have fallen off the wagon.  There are a ton of good books out there and so many that I have already purchased.  I also did not get rid of my audible membership and have like 10 book waiting so I better get on this!  Related to this - go to Book Club more and read the books this time!!!
Didn't happen, 2016 it will.  We had the best Book Club reunited event in December this year (the only book I read this year, and the only time ALL of us who went to book club actually read the book.  I love those guys.  I gave them all napkins that read: "My book club can drink your book club under the table."  We are continuing this, dammit.

6.  Stop Stressing:  My job has become very stressful, and I am not sure if I can do it all.  Things have reached a new level of stress and I have stopped sleeping.  I need to learn to shut it off (the stressful overall parts) and be able to jump back in and focus on them when I am physically there or needed.
Still working at this, will always work at this, but honestly -- it has gotten better.  I hope!

7. Be Mindful:  Kind of opposite of number 6, but I think it can work in tandem here…  I owe it to my job to be thinking about my job more, and in different and exciting ways which will invigorate me too.  I have become so stressed that when I am away I shut down and forget about work - but I cannot do that either.  In order for my job to do well I have to remember to tell everyone all about what I do, think outside the box about what we could be doing and meet and mingle with new people too.  
Also still working at this.  Need to not make this a NYResolution, but a life lesson for the boys, it is all about balance and enjoyment. 

8.  Purge:  Get rid of all of the baby things that we no longer need.  So someone else can use them before they are outdated or recalled. This is from all years, and this is the one thing I did really well in 2014.  I hope to continue this and I have a few ideas in mind of where things can go.  Once and for all I need to admit that there will be no more mini-me's and stop talking about that, focus on the kiddos I got and making room for their bigger boy toys.
OMG I got so good at this, this year!!!  I did, it was hard to let those little guys - who are now bigger guys, go..!  But now there is room for stuff, and new stuff which keeps them happy, and fancy stuff which they are old enough to know not to touch.  I am starting to embrace this.

9. Sleep: self explanatory. See #6.  Stop freaking myself out in the middle of the night.  
Except for last night, the last 3 months have been a "dream" for me.  I figured it out.  No ipad in the middle of the night, don't start thinking about work, there is nothing you can do about it anyway at that time.  I think the kicker was when someone broke into our house at 4am in June.  It set off weeks and weeks of me being unable to sleep, thinking there was someone in our home.  I stopped worrying about work and house stuff, and only worried about the psycho killer who I thought was again in my home.  Anyway, after figuring out the alarm, and starting to feel safe again, then came sleep (and perspective for previous ridicoulos things that woke me up).  Don't get my wrong I still wake up in the middle of the night and worry, but then I make myself go back to bed.  And do.  Or do I go back to be because of the upped alcohol intake?  See 2016 resolutions.  And, note, I will also be getting an awesome guard dog in 2016 too...

10. Relax: Take deep breaths.  Try yoga?  Find a new way to have something for me-time that is also productive.  No need for spa days.  Let's try this.  I have "verbally" committed to running a 1/2 marathon in 2015.  November.  Disney.  Should I write it down that I commit to it as well?  I ran one 5K and think I can do it…  Maybe I can?  Maybe running can help me to process, relax, be mindful, listen to books, think about eating better, etc.  Eh.  how could something so horrible sound like it might be the magic bandaid?  
I re-read this, and this is the whole reason why we make resolutions, people.  Sometimes they work.  In 2015, I ran 3 1/2 marathons, in as many months.  I ran 425 miles, 55 miles of which were in races.  One of my 1/2's ended up a 7miler, because of inclement weather - and instead of pouting I woke up at 5:30 two days later and ran 13.1 by doing circles around my hotel, wearing the original race bib.  I got back to the hotel room only to wake my boys up and still have the best look of surprised I have ever seen on my husband's face.  My last 1/2 of 2015, I shaved 10 minutes of my first 1/2 time, with only a difference of 2-1/2 months.  Productive, yes. A chance to process, relax, yes.  Cheaper than going to a spa a day or two here or there - not sure, really...  There are lots of hidden costs in shoes and race fees.  Am I more mindful?  Haven't listened to books, but listened to 100s of dirty rap songs.  Am I eating better - yes, and no.  But mostly, yes.  I eat more because I just ran 9 damn miles.  But I pick better things because tomorrow I have to run 10 damn miles.  How could I have called this something so horrible, just less than a year ago?  Make resolutions people - try something new.  You never know what will happen.

Having a Hard Time

With the new year almost upon us, there is really only one "semester" left before my Jamesy joins my Joelly in school.  At the same time, my job is getting more demanding and requiring one more work day a week.  Gone are the field trips to Boston practically, maybe James and I have 3-4 left in us, if we are lucky.  And, this summer, with all that will be going on - probably no field trips for the boys and I as I would have hoped, no beach days.  I'm kinda devastated.

It's always hard to go into work on Tuesday morning, it is like a Monday times 10.  This morning I would have burst into tears if anyone tried to speak with me in the time between James' drop off, and my first work phone call at 10.  I ate chocolate at my desk.

I'm trying to remember all the good things - it isn't like all the busy is bad.  It is really good -- vacation time from work is spent at the lake, or maybe this summer with friends in Montana.  I take a day for sanity here and there, to get the house in order and to get caught up on my running on those days, so I can be around when I am with the boys on weekends.  It's not the end of all.

I guess it is just hard to fathom that it is the end of an era.  I had a hard time when I was at home when the boys were little - but I had a great time taking them out and about.  We had some great adventures those guys and me.  We picnicked on the mall in DC, in central park, and on the Boston greenway.  We rode the swan boats, and have been to the aquarium, and many museums, many, many times.  I'll never forget the great nap time in the car rides home, or how it was always a good plan to take them to liquid fireworks after the Stone Zoo. Or how I would get together with all my Historic New England colleagues and their babies for a big zoo trip each year.  Or that time Joel Andrew asked the Aquarium lady if he could see the leafy seadragon and I was like - sorry he is making things up and she was like - no he is not, it is on the 3rd floor. I guess I should stop whining, and be happy I got out so many times with them, dammit!

Not to mention - this era maybe gone, but a new era comes in (I sound like the Lion King).  We will enjoy new things, like playing card games and dominos together; weekends away with friends where it is all about the family's doing something new together; more and more.

In the meantime, James and I technically still do have a bunch of Monday's left.  And, if I created a list of top 5's - must do this spring, they would be:

• Aquarium.  It's fun there. And, he will go out with me afterwards to eat seafood.  (or even better, food truck!).
• Big Zoo trip - with Historic New England, maybe we can make it happen one last time!
• LegoLand - This one I may need to do on a weekend, with Daddy.  Or, maybe Daddy and Joelly take a day and play hokey and we get it done in March sometime!
• Science Museum - though it would also be sad not to bring Joelly to this one.  

You know what, when I actually start to write this down, I realize that it is really only an Aquarium trip I am missing.  And, maybe another eye spy with my little eye visit to the MFA or another art museum with James and Ama and Grumpy, too.

Jingle Bell Half Marathon

This past weekend I rant the Jingle Bell Half Marathon in Atkinson, NH.  It certainly helped that it was about 48 degrees and a beautiful day out -- especially when I hear that in year's prior, it was a slushy cold mess.  Here are my thoughts on the race!

Results:
409 78/170 F3039 JULIE WILLIAMS Hampton Falls NH 36 F 859 2:01:29.5 9:17


Plusses: Super close to the house; easy parking; pretty setting; well-run; indoor bathrooms; not too many people; soup after the race!

Minuses: I didn't have any friends there with me!; the time of year is very busy and could be a weather disaster; the last 5k of this race is a B.

Big Points:

I Run Fast, But Not That Fast
This was the fastest I have run yet.  I shaved a full 10 minutes off of my time from Smuttynose, I did a good job!  I spent most of the race following very athletic people, and I was doing a great job at it too!  I finished in near the 2-hour mark!  Waa-hoo!  BUT - I was still only in the top 50% for both my age group and overall.  REALLY?  Who are all these crazy people who are super fast?

What's that Place Smell Like Now?
The setting for the run was awesome.  The country club was a nice facility, and there were indoor bathrooms with hardly ever a line.  No one seemed to trash the place, it was festive, there was plenty of close parking - and did I mention it was only 25 minutes from my house?  There were lots of flyers though to suggest that people better be on their best behavior in order for us to keep getting to run here.  And, I can totally understand why -- it is a fancy country club, really.  We were in the ballroom for registration.  And, for the after party.  I'm hoping no one was getting married in there later that evening, how do they get the gym smell out?  But, again - people were really nice, the volunteers for the race were picking up like crazy.  I'm hoping there were no incidents and they can do it again!

I Showed Up Too Early
I was probably in the top 20 first people there.  Whooops.

That last 3 miles was a B.
Like, a big B.  Lots of slow gradual hills flanked by big windy hills.  Even the road back was longer than I remembered on the way out -- and it was a slow gradual uphill.  Which leads me to the next point:

I Could Have Made it in Under 2 Hours
Not sure why I checked this, but the girls that I had been following the whole race, seriously, from mile 1 to mile 10.5 - finished 1 minute and 45 seconds sooner than me, because I lost it in the last 5k.  I slowed down to get my last water and then could not fast-up again.  I think I need to train for longer runs next time.

I Need Friends
I had no friends to run with, or to cheer with at the end.  It was just me.  I actually posted on two of my running facebook pages for people to look for me to cheers me, I was desperate.  It seems like this was a run where everyone knew about 10 other people.  I do like running alone - when I run with others I think all of us inevitably go slower.  But, not about speed - moreso it is a nice challenge to be able to do it alone.  But, when it is over - where is the party?  That's what I sorely missed!  I think I need to start going on the group runs with my running clubs.  Maybe that is what will get me through the winter?

Here's hoping this won't be my fastest time ever, or my last run until spring!  I'm not sure about either, but I'm proud for today!

Disney Wine and Dine 1/2 Marathon

Disney's Wine and Dine 1/2 Marathon
Saturday, November 7, 2015, 10:00pm
ENDED up being 7 miles, 11:00pm due to severe weather in the area.  What a bummer.

Place	Name	Bib	Age	Div Place	Gender Place	2.9 Mile Split			Clock Time	Net Time	Hometown
1215	JULIE WILLIAMS	2822	36	85	437	26:05			1:19:19	1:03:06	HAMPTON FALLS, NH

Men	4268
Women	8622
Total Finishers	12890

Things I Loved:

• That it was not a crazy running crowd.  There were people there who were never going to run for one second, they just wanted to be apart of the experience and meet the characters, etc.  There were corrals from A-L, and me, who just started running, was in E.  L was a 1/2 mile from the start line.  Took the pressure off.  
• The characters along the way.  I didn't stop.  I PR'd and kept running to get to the end as fast as I could (I was so upset about the distance change that I had decided I was just going to go).  BUT - if I do a Disney run again, it might be my first of the year, and I WILL take advantage of the stops, and I will enjoy it and have fun.  They had some awesome characters out and about.  I get so caught up sometimes about beating my old time that I won't even stop to drink water, I think a Disney race is a fun chance to get out there and do the distance and enjoy the fun.  Maybe this is my way of one day completing a marathon.
• The organization and the hype.  Everyone in the park would cheer for you if you had a medal the next day, or if they knew you were going to run that night. Before the start of the race there was a DJ who got everyone excited, fireworks, a spectacle.  It was incredible the work they put in and the finish line did not disappoint. The organization at the starting area, and the finish line was incredible.  The shuffled 13,000 people through there well.
• Having a friend to share the experience with, to take pictures with before hand and get to the venue with, and to meet up afterwards.  We both ran our own race (which I think is good!) and then we both enjoyed the fun of it together before and after.  I knew I missed this at Smuttynose.  I hope to have friends for more races moving forward. 

Things that were tough:

• UM, THE FACT IT DID NOT END UP BEING A 1/2 MARATHON!  I can't help but think that Disney just didn't want to deal with the hassle of keeping things open another 45 minutes, and it was a money decision that cut the 1/2 in 1/2.  But, I do recall standing with Heather in the field and jokingly telling her that she should duck, because she seemed to be the tallest of the 15,000 of us in an open field with lightning all around. I get why they delayed it, but I do not get why the halved it.  But, I still had fun.  It is done. 
• GETTING THE BIB!  We are on a Disney vacation with the family first and foremost, where I got to run my race for a small portion.  So, going to the ESPN place, which is far from all other Disney places, to pick up my bib at one table, wait in a line for my souveniers, then wait in another line for my tshirt, was crazy.  This alone will gobble about 4 hours of your vacation - if we did not expedite it with the cab from the airport waiting for me as I rushed as fast as I could.  I would have loved to instead of spending 45 minutes in the line to get my souveniers - which by the way, the necklace I ordered - because I am new to running and I think I thought that would be my medal when I signed up so many months ago - broke within two hours of owning it!  Anyway, instead of spending that wait time in line, I would have gone to the convention - but even those lines were crazy.  I met an event coordinator and told them if they had a VIP option with you just check in at your hotel and all your stuff is in your room I might have paid a million dollars for that!
• The Millions of People Who were not Runners.  I know, I say this is a plus in the first paragraph under things I loved, but I am giving the dark side of it now.  I was worried I would be pushing through everyone trying to get my PR I worked so hard for, while people were busy taking pictures with Mr. Incredible.  A selfie under the christmas lights or the Epcot ball.  In reality, this worry did not come to fruition for me - with the race being cut short and more likely, the fact that I got into a early corral the reason for my ability to not be hampered in the run.  Always submit your times and get into a corral serious runner people for your Disney race.  Always. 

PERSONAL AWESOME MOMENT

Yep, ran the race and finished in the top 10% of 13,000 people.  (forget that part above when I tell you about the fact that most of the people were not runners).  You think that would be the personal awesome achievement, but it was not.  I was pissed that I didn't get to run the half I wanted.  It bothered me.  So two days later I woke up at 5:30am in the hotel, didn't tell the boys - and ran 13.18 miles out of 4 loops around my Disney hotel and finished a half marathon at Disney in just under 2 hours and five minutes.  Sure it wasn't timed, but I came to Disney to run a 1/2 marathon, dammit!

Joel Andrew - Getting Old

For the second time, Joel Andrew was picked to be the Beast at Disney World.  He is now 6, in first grade, and this is the first trip he can read, the first one he can go on upside down roller coasters, the first one he did not have a stroller.  He was a big boy here, and we knew it.

He still has the magic, and believes in the characters, but would ask things like, is that the real Mickey, or is that the Mickey helper?  His father got him to go on - and love Rockin' Roller Coaster many times. Though I think Splash Mountain is still not a favorite.

He still sits at restaurants patiently, and does not demand to go on any ride he sees right in front of him, and will just go with the flow.  I am waiting for more whining and this all to end soon.  I hope it does not.  He would whine about walking, and about being hungry a few minutes after leaving a restaurant, but other than that he was an awesome vacation companion and all around great guy.

I hope the Magic keeps coming for this guy.  There is still a ton left for me!

James Morris, Explosive Guy

James was a treat this trip.  Super happy, super excited, super dancy and super fun.  Then he would pass out.  In a restaurant, or on me while carrying him home.  Exactly the sort of thing I always wanted.  My little exhausted-had too much fun guy - carrying him home and snuggling with him at night.  He would wake up each morning ready to go though!

As for rides, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train was his favorite.  We called it "Hi-Ho" and he would ride it forever.  BUT, it was the only roller coaster he would ride.  He cried on Thunder Mountain and of course on the Yeti one.  He would not even think about going on Splash Mountain.  When the older boys broke away from us with their dads, and it was just he and I in the park, he asked to go on the carousel with me, and we did, and he smiled.

He is so excited to meet the characters now, and will always say "cheese" for a picture.  I took him to the Disney Jr. thing at Hollywood studios - where you sit on the floor, which smells, and things fall at you for the ceiling, and all the adults are cramped by the end and all the toddlers are freaking out because Sophia and Mickey and Jake are on the stage.  I thought we were too old for it, but he loved it and I wonder if this might be the last time now.  In reality, I think he just liked doing something a little more his speed, and not being pushed on some big ride.  He liked being with me.  And that made the smelly smells and the back aches of this ridiculous show which I have watched what seems like 90 times now, all go away.

He loved the trip, he had his rough patches, and he is excited to grow up.  But I am excited to have him at this stage.  Occasional whininess and all!

PS - Addendum to this post.  I created the post with the photos and titles weeks ago, and went to fill it out tonight.  I then realized my original intention for the post was to tell the story of my son, in the airport, on the way home.  He is wonderful and all, and a ball of fun and all, but also known as being a bit crazy.  We get to the airport, and we go through security and who is stopped - not me, not Joel, not Joel Andrew, James.  James has to get the "metal test" where they put the wand on him.  They search his backpack, and sure enough there is a bottle of water hidden at the bottom of the bag.  They test the metal wand thing, and I see on the screen: "explosives detected."  WHAT?  Joel Husband reminds me he probably touched all of the hand rails and benches that are right next to where Disney lets off fireworks, but still!  Our one of a kind man.

Top Tips from this Disney Trip

It's been almost a month since our trip, so I am not sure I can remember these tips.  What did we learn this go-round?  Let's see if I can sum it up in a few words.  Nothing long winded.  Just simple, straightforward, good things to know about Disney. Go!

Get the My Magic Experience app, and link everything - fast passes, dining reservations.

Eat at the Quick Service Min & Bill's Dockside Diner in Hollywood Studios.  Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese.  It sells beer.

Sometimes, giving into the Disney and paying extra for the holiday party or the party after the half marathon is really worth it actually.  Damn you, Disney commerce!

Eating dinner in the main dining room of Be Our Guest really is more magical then the dining room to the right.

Let the Disney photo people take your picture, and make sure you have the photopass thing linked to your Magic Band, and the My Disney Experience.

Get to the Parks when they open, and book your Fast Passes for starting no earlier than an hour after Park opens.

Food & Wine is delicious.  Go to Epcot then.  But it is busy.

Said before - La Cava de Tequila for a margarita.  They sell an avocado margarita that is becoming all the rage.  I still like the classic San Angel margarita.

Going with friends is so fun, all get on the same ride, which takes your picture and make a funny photo.  This photo - if you touch your band to it at the end of the ride - will automatically show up on your app.

Get a drink by the pool.  Eat breakfast in your room. Have an ice cream with your kids at 10am.

Disney With A Big Group of People

Well, it's no secret.  I am a bit of a control freak.  And, when it comes to Disney and planning for Disney, so is my husband.  So, if you add other people into the mix - who knows what can happen?  What happened with us - all great things!  We had a wonderful trip with friends this past November, and we have friend/family trips scheduled for the next trips as well.  We have come a long way since the family stressed trip of 2010...  And, I think a few things I have learned about traveling to Disney with large parties/friends and families are:

1. Meet ahead of time to lay out the basics.  What do you want to do, what does everyone else want to do?  What is the thing you do not want to do? Where should we eat, and where should we stay?  Do you have park hopper passes (very important when planning some days)?  What kid of a meal plan do you have? Do you want pool time?  What time do you wake up?  These can help everyone map out the perfect group meeting times. 
2. Get some unforgettable group photos: Get together in groups of 8+ and try your hardest to get in your own "boat" or car on one of the rides that takes pictures.  We have an awesome shot of everyone on Splash Mountain, LOVED IT!
3. You do not need to do everything together.  Give people their space, their own time to do what they want to do, they do not want to follow your schedule 100% and vice versa the same here.  This means if you are going with a big extended family, suggest one big family meal a day and everyone do whatever they want other than that.  It is hard to walk through crowds with four people let alone 18.  And, even harder when Aunt Mary does not understand about the importance of making a Fast Pass reservation you have for Seven Dwarfs when she really wants to go on tea cups.  Don't stress about it.  We'll see you in an hour, for a Mickey ice cream, Aunt Mary. Not a big deal!  (at one point this was a very big deal for me, just sharing what I learned here!).
4. Pick some great places to eat as a group! More romantic restaurant settings, or those without a conducive theme should be reserved for smaller gatherings.  For example, Paris in France, Sci-Fi Diner in Hollywood Studios, Brown Derby, etc.  They are good for small groups, and could be ok for big groups but if you have cousins or friends involved who really want to hang and not necessarily sit still, then there is a list for your large group.  They include places with music, characters, dancing.  And, buffets or family style that will allow for everyone to go at their own pace and speed.  Our favorites this trip included Germany's Biergarten in Epcot and Tusker House in Animal Kingdom.  Kids were occupied, and it seems with the long tables these places were meant for big groups.  I heard Japan was also awesome (though I missed that one); I could also imagine Winnie the Pooh in the MK being great; Ohana at the Polynesian; we liked Primetime 50's though it was slow... Maybe Mama Melrose might be better for Hollywood Studios.  
5. Someone's late for fast passes?  That might not be good.  But someone late for dining reservations?  It is actually OKAY! I freaked out this trip when we were 15 minutes late for one of our check-ins.  We are crazy about our dining reservations and from past experience I thought if you are late, you lose, AND you are billed.  First person in the party there just tells the check-in desk, and then it is easy.  No problem.  I was shocked!  "We will accommodate you when you are all here, no worries."  That made life so much more awesome and easier for the remainder of the trip.  
6. If the older crowd doesn't want to go on a ride, don't push em.  I was surprised at how crazy the rides were for me - I guess I am getting to be an older crowd!  Those rides are pretty crazy. There is so much more in Disney then bench sitting for them to do while waiting too.  Parade? Shop?  Country Bear Jamboree?  Everyone can still have fun while waiting for others on a ride. And with cell phones, you just meet up when you meet up.

We had a great time with our friends, and made some amazing memories that the kids will have forever.  Look at this picture below of Laurel and Joel with Goofy and their siblings, it is sure to be on their Save the Date. Looking forward to more trips in the future years to come!

Pre-Thanksgiving Excitement

This morning I took the time to snuggle with my James, and while in bed I laid out the week for him.  School today and tomorrow, and then fun at home the rest of the week.

He was floored that Ama and Grumpy were coming, AND Daddy and I were staying!  He was amazed that ALL of us, would be eating dinner with Nana and Pa too, on Thursday.  His reply:

"THIS WILL BE AWESOME!"

See, getting family altogether is super important for all!

Food and Wine at Epcot with Kids

So this year marked one of many that we went to Epcot with the kids for Food and Wine Festival.  Most people who plan a Disney vacation with their children leave out the Epcot because they think there is nothing to do there - nothing for the kids.  This couldn't be further from the truth.  And, plus - since most people stay away - you can go and have a great day there!

First - Epcot the park. There are two sides, one with rides and learning about land, seas, space, etc - and the other with the countries and the food.  The country part does not open until noon, and it is the area that is host to the Food and Wine Festival.  We will get to it in a bit, let's start with the rides and learning.

So, what's in Epcot anyway?  That creepy Michael Jackson thing?  I remember waiting in line forever for Figment's Journey to Imagination.  Ellen - before she was talk show Ellen has something.  And there is a ride to do with the Dinosaurs, right?  Yep - all that from when we were kids is still there, good news is no lines ever for any of them.  But there is so much more now.

In the Seas you can meet Crush and talk to him, ask him questions, in Turtle Talk with Crush, and after do the Nemo ride (never a wait there).  Say hi to my friend the Manatee, and take a picture in Bruce the Shark's mouth.  At the Land you can eat in a rotating restaurant with Donald, take a ride to learn about agriculture (we actually found this fascinating) - or fly away at Soarin (you will want a fast past for Soarin for sure).  Tons of fun there.  On the other side of this park is Test Track (Fast Pass please!) where even the most doubting of pre-teen boys will be smitten.  They will want to do this over and over and over again, warning.  There is also a space ride I haven't done yet...  I hear is good.  These are just some of the highlights of this area of the park, it isn't dull like we thought it was!

Now - for Wine and Dine  and the countries!---

In year's past we have gone on completely empty week days/ weekends for the Food and Wine Festival (usually takes place mid-September through mid-November).  This is quite popular, and so you will note the Park is more crowded than any other time of the year for Epcot, but it is worth it.  We went during a particularly high crowd time this year -- around the Wine & Dine 1/2 Marathon, and Veterans Day week (which also turned out to be NJ Fall Break?), so it was crowded.

EXCEPT - and a BIG TIP HERE - if you find yourself at Disney during this time - then BUY TICKETS FOR THE RACE AFTER PARTY AT EPCOT!  Regardless of whether you know a runner or not.  The party was so awesome, characters everywhere - no lines for the food carts, music blaring, tons of fun.  Not everything is open, but it was a unique experience and I wish I had more time to be there!  Next time if we go, I would probably do the 5K in the morning so that I could have more time for the party at night!  (I am crazy for being a runner and telling you non-runners this).

What is Wine and Dine anyway?  They have all sorts of extra little country kiosks set up in between the other countries.  Lots of little bites for sale from all over the world, and of course wine and beer too.  Think your kids would be bored?  Maybe (but see below for other things to do in Epcot countries any time of year) - Mine were never bored, love food, and were thoroughly entertained.

What will my kids do in this Country Section? There was so much with the people watching, the street shows - each country has one.  In France there was a guy who climbed atop 15 stacked chairs.  In China are the acrobats, and in Japan you can see the drums (my favorite).  There are characters throughout, think Alice in Great Britian, Aladdin in Morocco, etc.  And, they keep adding these little scavenger hunts, this year was something to do with Remy from Ratatouille.  Our kids had too much fun otherwise, so we didn't get to do this, but it looked awesome, you had to go in and out of all the countries to try and find Remy in each spot.  I would have loved to do it!  There are also activity stations at each country for the kids.  More and more.  I highly recommend.  Also, this is the area with some awesome restaurants for the kids, hibachi in Japan; dancing and live show with delicious buffet in Germany; princesses in Norway; and in Mexico dine in the dark next to the boat ride (my boys love that one in particular).

There are other fun things at other times of the year in Epcot too - so don't be dismayed if you missed Food and Wine.  The Flower Show I hear is amazing, I haven't been since I was a kid.  Maybe we will make that one soon.

Lots to do an see for the kids in Epcot, don't let your experience as a kid thinking this was the least fun of all the parks sway you.  Times have changed.  Plus, it is the most fun for adults now (around the world with drinks anyone?), so do a good job ensuring your kids love it and it will be a fun place to go for years to come!

Disney this Go Round, and Ages to bring Kiddos.

Another trip to Disney in the books and what a fun time it was.  Food & Wine, Mommy ran (separate post coming soon), we went with friends for the first time, James was 44 inches and got to go on many of the rides (against his will); Joel Andrew was 48 inches and loved Rockin' Roller Coaster; they still hate Tower of Terror, we ate a ton, we DID NOT have any strollers, and we packed better this go round.  All in all, a memorable trip.

 Some things we did from lessons learned in previous trips- we packed light, we bought the necessary items from gardengrocer, and we had less reservations for eating and more time for snacking/eating in the room.  (that being said, we still ate a lot).  Can you imagine, we actually missed one of our reservations!

Bringing the boys at ages 4 and 6 though, and having friends who had an 8 year old with us - truly made me realize how grateful I am that I brought the kids at younger ages.  I can't forget how awesome it was when Joelly saw Pluto for the first time, for him and me.  Now, it is still awesome for him to see the guy - but the magic is going to fade and is even starting to fade a bit already.  When they were 2 and 4 and 3 and 5 it was pure excitement and joy.  Now that Joel is in 1st grade, I am seeing a bit of the crankiness seep in - complaining about does he have to meet Santa Goofy - the line is too long.  Really?  Really buddy?  Two years ago you would have peed your pants.  Now the line is too long?

There are some advantages to having older children in the parks though. I had a small bag which I lugged around - and that was it.  No stroller.  I shudder to say it, but the next trip I do not think I will bring anything.  Disney is getting really good with the photopass thing, I don't think I will even need my camera!

The no stroller was awesome.  Like really awesome.  We weaved in and out of crowds, and I think I only carried a sleepy Jamesy once or twice.  I could have made him walk too...  But, the boys walked and walked - and so this meant that as soon as we got back to the hotel room, they slept and slept and slept.  Passed out right away.  They slept in too.  There was some complaining, but I quickly shut them down with reminders of how much I will be running on the trip too.

Other advantages of older kids - is now they can ride almost all of the rides.  We bumped into friends of Joel Husband's and they had 7 and 9 year olds - and they said to their kids the last Disney trip, when they were tall enough to go on the rides, but complained about them - that they would not go back to Disney unless the kids promised they would go on all the rides and not complain. So - here they are 2 years later and the kids promised to go with the flow the entire trip. Brilliant, and I hope we will get there maybe this time next year or two.  It was sad when James would not join us on Splash Mountain, even though he could - he missed a good photo op!

They start to recognize traditions too - the picture with the sword and the stone, the Mickey ice cream (maybe that was more for the ice cream).  They can get everything ready for meeting the characters, and they can even read their signatures.  They can carry their food back to the tables at buffets, and they entertain themselves at dinner and on lines (sometimes it ends in fighting, but...).

So, it was a fun new stage we entered.  But, I still had my Jamesy to enjoy a bit of the old.  He loved the Disney Jr. thing, and was excited to go on the Carosuel. He was thrilled to meet each and every character he could, and he was happy to be with us on an awesome vacation.  My little boy is going quick though, our next trip he will be days away from turning 5.  Maybe we can get him on Splash Mountain then?

New Flag Football Believer

So, I have to say, I have been a bit glum in the past about organized team sports for young children.  My primary concerns are losing the weekend hours to games, being slaves to games, and having my children feel as though they cannot exceed.

Joel joined flag football this year because frankly, most of the other boys are doing it.  I was not excited about the weekend commitment, but Joel Husband you could tell, from the get go was psyched.  This was going to be something he would bond with his boy over.  It would be awesome.

I went to the second game for the first time, and I watched as a boy in Joel's grade grabbed the ball and sprinted, with some artful turns, to the other end of the field, evading all of the 1 foot taller boys along the way.  And I was hooked.  We cheered and cheered.  And Joel Andrew looked confused.  The boy who got the touchdown's parents told me that the first season is a rough one, do not worry.  That's ok, I thought.  As long as he is having fun.

Week after week we went to game after game and I got more and more excited each time a little kid ran down to the other end of the field to get a touchdown.  And then it happened, Joel started pulling flags.  He caught the ball, he tried to run...  He will get there.

He is more confident than ever, and he has a good time.  His coaches (including his Dad) are doing a great job, and he is learning to play on a team, good sportsmanship, and not to give up.  He is learning to practice and to be strong.  And, all of the other parents continue to remark to me about his improvement.

I feel a bit like he is like his Mommy, and maybe most improved player this year.  I am proud of my little guy and can't wait to root the team on again next weekend.  Yes, on a Saturday, at 8:00am.  Go Pack Go!

Indy - Pats vs. Colts

So, this is now our 9th away game, I think...  I have to write about it, but I am not sure what to write.  The trip was so epic, words cannot describe.  Also, it cannot be compared to any other football game experience either - because we had club AND suite tickets!  Not kidding. Actually, we had regular seats too - we sold those though.  Long story.

Normally I talk about the cleanliness of the stadium, the food they sold, the people and the intense harrassment of us in our Pats jerseys, but for this game we were swept away in a sea of amazingness, that I never really made it out to the regular seating area.  I'm ok with that, and did and will always treasure every moment.

We were going to go for the weekend, with friends and one thing led to another and the friend's dad was in town, and he had club seats - but then his friend was in town, and he had suite seats, and he wanted to share.  OK!

We let it slide when the catered tailgate had a deflated football cake (BTW - that was THE BEST cake I have ever eaten!); and Brady testifying cookies.  We stayed at the tailgate a long time, got to the stadium and the suite, and when we got there, most of the seats were taken. So, the suite owner GAVE US CLUB TICKETS.  Are you kidding?  That was enjoyable and we watched the first half of the game, where the Colts were doing better than we thought they would - from those seats.  It was awesome.

Second half back to the Suite. While I was chatting with Kim and explaining why teams generally do not go for it on 4th down, the Colts did, and it ended very, very poorly (now dubbed the punt).  The game went downhill for the Colts from there, but the Pats fans in the suite stayed on and boy did we have some fun.

The whole experience was really nice. We need to write some thank yous for sure. Joel husband had a lot of party and was a little roudy on the way home.  Some insights into our general time in Indy and the football fun we had:

1. The stadium is in an awesome location, very walkable from downtown and HUGE!  The retractable roof makes it temperate no matter what time of year. Everything seemed new and awesome, what a great place to watch a game!
2. All of the people in town seemed a little against us Pats people - but don't worry, they had a big mid-western smile for us too.  We ordered a cookie cake that said "Go Pats" and were told people almost weren't going to make it.  All in good fun, but seriously the Colts fans are fiercely loyal and also really, really think we are cheaters.
3. We did not get food or drink from the stadium as we came full, and the suite had food.  I am told there were local beers on tap, and the signature fried pork sandwich.  We may just need to go again!
4. Pats fans really brought it this trip, everyone on the plane ride down was quite vocal, and even running at 7am on Sunday morning I ran past a few fans who screamed "go pats" with me.  We did a good job representing!

Pats won.  

The remainder of the weekend was amazing.  Indy is an incredible city, totally walkable (or runable, as I did one 12 mile run and one 6 mile run, and what beautiful loops they were!).  The zoo is very nice, and two seconds from downtown; the museums are in a row and gorgeous, the Eiteljorg building itself is a marvel.  The canal walk has to be done, it is incredible to think a city was able to make something like that so beautiful and so clean and so welcoming for all.  And, there is a steakhouse on every corner.  We of course went to the famed St. Elmo's for a drink.  I want to go back to Indy again and again, what a treat!  I am so thankful we were able to go, and in such style, and do hope we can bring the kids again soon.

#20Before40

Since I am into the running thing, I want to keep it going, so I have a plan.  I would like to run 20 races before I turn 40.  I will start counting with my first 1/2 marathon that I ran on the eve of my 36th birthday - and I hope to end on that note too. In between time, I want to keep doing some races.

I haven't decided yet if it is 20 10M+; 10K+; or just any kind of race, races at all.  I'm thinking we should just call it any kind of race now, we can narrow later depending on how it is looking...  I'd like to update the blog with my opinions on each race and its "running" - both my running it and their running of it.  And, also, use this post as my continual measuring stick.

I am actively seeking friends to join me.  Take a picture with me at the start and then later when I hobble towards you at the finish.  It will be more fun for me that way.  The more the merrier!  Just let me know if any intrigue you and you are in, let's sign up - or get the date in the books!

So, here we go:

Last updated: December 1, 2015

Runs Completed:

1. Smuttynose Rock Fest, October 4, 2015.  1/2 Marathon, time: 2:11:57.0
2. Disney's Food Wine, November 6, 2015. 1/2 of a 1/2 Marathon (really 7 miles, weather related cut short by Disney), 1:03:06 - 437th woman out of 8,622. 85th in my division, and top 10% overall. (followed by 13.1 ran on my own a day and a half later around the hotel, time: 2:04:50
3. Hampton Falls' Tiger Trot, November 21, 2015.  10 Miles. Wicked Bad Head Cold. 1:45:56 
4. Jingle Bell 1/2 Marathon, December 12, 2015. 13.1 Miles. Results: 409/814 78/170 gender/age 2:01:29.5 9:17
5. Rock N Roll DC Half Marathon, March 12, 2016. 13.1 Miles. 2:07:14, 9:43 pace. #5,743 out of 14,470.
6. Wallis Sands 1/2 Marathon, May 15, 2016. 13.1 miles. 2:04:27.3, pace 9:31, #1 out of 24 Athenas!

Runs Signed Up For:

1. She Power Virtual Half.  Despite the name, I am trying the "Virtual Half" thing.  Can I credit this as a race will be debated in future blog posts. A medal will be mailed, and I will run it on my own time.  The medal is distinctive. I sent some unknown party $50 to run 13.1 miles around my neighborhood.  I get a virtual bib. We will see what this all means soon.
2. Old Port 1/2 Marathon and Lobster Bake - Saturday, July 9th. Who doesn't love Portland, and who doesn't mind running in sweltering heat?
3. Traveler Beer New England 1/2 Marathon.  Fall.  In NH.  It goes from Loudon to the State House and is supposedly all down hill, and it ends with a shandy!  What?!  Yes!  I am also this close to getting Mat to run with me.  Come on Matty!
4. Rock N Roll Vegas Half Marathon!
5. Key West 1/2 with Heather, the lady who started it all for me!  January, MLK weekend. Need I say more?

Runs I'd Like to Run (in no particular order):

• The Bermuda Triangle.  1 mile followed by a 5K followed by a 1/2 marathon.  January - MLK weekend.  It's in Bermuda!  And, sounds like a neat challenge!
• Maine 1/2 Marathon.  Fall - birthday weekend.  Coastal Maine.  I bet most people went to Colby. 
• One of those wine 1/2 marathons where you go through wine country somewhere (preferably out west). 
• Disney Princess 1/2.  February - NY/MA winter break weekend. I probably can't do more than 2 Disney runs, even with being a vacation club member - they are a $ commitment and time suck from your vacation, are scheduled (how do we take boys out of school?) on strange dates, and the most of them are in CA.  But, maybe I can do the princess 1/2 sometime?
• The Eastern States 20 mile/Run for the Border Half Marathon.  Sat, March 26, 2016.  I like the idea of running from Kittery, ME to Mass through the entire beach run of NH which I love, but highly doubt I'll ever make it to a 20 mile run, especially in the winter time!
• NYC 1/2 Marathon.  This is in March, and I would have to enter a lottery, or fundraise to get in.  But how fun would it be to run the streets of my old hood?
• Army Ten Miler.  In DC, gorgeous route, have heard it is a really nice run with lots of positive people.  It's in the fall.  The other option is the Cherry Blossom ten miler, which is a similar route and obviously in the spring and a gorgeous season.  BUT - that is a lottery run or a fundraising run.  Not too into that idea.
• Yosemite 1/2 Marathon.  Did you know that many of the national parks have these?  A lot of them seem to obviously be in high altitude areas.  Not sure how this would work.  Out of all of them it looks like Yosemite might be the least challenging.  It is in October.  Can you imagine?  Awesome.  Grand Canyon 1/2 would also be a contender here - if I was to pick one of these types of races.  That is in May. 
• Indy Mini-Marathon.  You get to run the Motor Speedway there?  Plus, some of my favorite long runs, and my best 6 mile time were in Indy.  YES PLEASE!  I just need to have the right company!  This happens the first week of May, which may conflict with Mother's Day and James' B-day.  Maybe it is my mother's day gift and James' b-day gift...
• Gate City 1/2 Marathon?
• There are a slew of interesting 10ks that I need to research too.  My husband had an idea of doing a "10k gourmet" where I travel, run and then eat and blog about it.  In Richmond, there is the Monument Avenue 10k which is supposed to be great; Atlanta has the "best run race in the country." The Cooper River Bridge Run, in April, in South Carolina, seems like a possibility sometime paired with a HHI visit - this one in particular has been getting awards for how well the race is won.-- I am sure there are more and I need to sprinkle 10ks into my goals too - a lot less taxing than a 1/2 or 10 miler.  
• A Run to Remember - its in Boston on Memorial Day weekend so it seems like a no for me, as we are always elsewhere...  But it looks awesome.
• A run that goes into multiple states at the sametime!
• An international run.  Do they do any half marathons in Venice?  Could you imagine running the streets of venice?  I WOULD LOVE IT.  Sounds silly.  How do they shut down a city walkway/lifeline.  Can't happen.  What about another awesome city in europe?  Italy?  Rome, florence?  Hmmm.

Anything I missed?

True Story: Milkshake

Tonight, driving home from dance class James and I were listening to our usual party music.  Then, Kelis' Milkshake came on.  It drives me nuts and gets in my head for days, so I went to switch it - immediately, before she even said more than one line of the song.  James immediately asked me: "Can you please put the Milkshake song back on, Mommy, I like it."

What did I create?

Smuttynose Rockfest 1/2 Marathon

I ran my first ever half marathon a week ago now, and I thought I would create my own little running section on the blog where I can talk about what I liked, and didn't like about each race.  So, here it goes.

Smuttynose Rockfest
Sunday, October 4, 2015, 8:00am
Hampton, NH
#5366
Finished in 2:11:57.0 (10:05 mile)

2593 504/981  F3039      JULIE WILLIAMS       Hampton Falls NH       35 F  5366 2:11:57.0 10:05 2:14:46.8 

Things I loved:

• I could pick up my bib the day before, (it was close to my house, so this worked).
• It was close to my house, and the route is one I run on a ton, so I know and like it. 
• Flat, lovely run with lots of water and rest room stops, ideal visual split of the race knowing the four different sections of the route (run in town; run up beach; run in the backroads; run down beach to home).  Well done.
• All of the people, except for the traffic, bathroom lines, and starting issues (see below) - I loved all of the people there. 
• Beer tent, that was fun, wish it wasn't so windy I would have stayed and hung out!
• Snacks - they gave out tons and tons of snacks afterwards!
• Medal - a bottle opener?  YES PLEASE!

Things that were tough:

• The traffic going in really was no joke, so I needed to be there super early and find parking, and then I was there and cold and waiting.
• Bathroom lines!  There were huge lines before the start of the race, I could not believe it!  But, what are they going to do?  The bathroom needs were only for about 20 minutes all day, or all event. 
• It was cold - I was glad I brought an old t-shirt and ditched it on mile 2.
• The first few miles were lapping loops. Would have loved to do a longer, straighter shot up the beach more but my guess is closing traffic down is tough!
• There were a ton of people at the start, tons, I didn't understand when we were even supposed to start!  If you look at my time, it took me 3 minutes to get to the start line. 
• Lobster line - way, way too long!

 I hope to do more and more!