The New runDisney Medals - Revealed

This news was so awesome, I thought it deserved it's own post! The lovely folks at runDisney have done it yet again! Just when we think we know what is coming...we are proven wrong...and we LOVE it! During the Disneyland Half Marathon Meet-Up, Faron Kelley the director of marketing for runDisney made a very special presentation that no one expected. Faron revealed 7 new runDisney medals that participants will have the opportunity to earn during this year's Wine and Dine half marathon in November, and during Walt Disney World Marathon weekend in January 2014.

I want to give each of these medals the time and attention they deserve in this post as they are each in my opinion beautiful works of art! I also must say I am quite excited I have the opportunity to earn each and every one of the following medals!

2013 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon - November

This reveal surprised me most out of all of the medal reveals. Normally, runDisney refreshes their medal designs every five years. Which means we would have seen the classic Spaceship Earth design for the last time this year, with the hope of anniversary bling next year. Well, runDisney surprised us with this beauty! It stays true to the classic Wine and Dine medals in it's circular shape and grey and silver color. They have removed the charms that dangled from the bottom of the classic medal and instead placed them directly on the medal. I personally think this was a great move since I have heard that the charms sometimes fall off. I love that the medal showcases the race logo of Mickey Mouse running with his tray. I can't wait to add this to my collection of bling this fall. Wine and Dine is my favorite east coast Disney race! It truly is the Runner's Night Out! It will be even sweeter to share the weekend with my #CorralG family!

2014 Walt Disney World Family Fun Run 5K

The Fab Five is rounded out with the addition of Pluto to the race medal line up for Walt Disney World Marathon weekend. This silicone medal is vibrant and will certainly be a great way to kick off marathon weekend. Pluto is a welcomed addition to the race weekend line up! I wonder how many runners will dream of Plutopia before earning this medal?

2014 Inaugural Walt Disney World 10K

Let's officially welcome Minnie Mouse to the Walt Disney World marathon weekend roster of 'Mousecots'! The Walt Disney World 10K was added earlier this year and runDisney fans were all very excited to hear this news. Ladies particularly were excited because it was announced that Minnie Mouse would be the character to represent this race! The 10K distance is growing in popularity and I am sure this medal will help the popularity continue to rise. Set in shiny and matted gold tones this medal feels and looks classic. Note the wreath on those sides of the medal. I love the sunburst detail behind Minnie. This medal is solid and will surely be a wonderful memento and reminder of an amazing accomplishment!

2014 Walt Disney World Half Marathon

Introducing the Donald medal for Walt Disney World Marathon weekend! This year, we watched as Donald Duck stole the Mickey Mouse medal in a tantrum during the great medal caper! Looks like he will get a new medal for 2014 and he won't have to go ransacking offices to get one. This medal has some of the details from the 2013 medal, namely the sunburst and the banner across the front. runDisney has gone away from the duck profile silhouette and is giving Donald a full body appearance with a touch of sweat launching from his forehead. The design is simple, elegant, and strong. I like it! The ribbon is cool too!

2014 Walt Disney World Marathon

I'm just going to say it... I LOVE THIS MEDAL! The 20th anniversary bling from this year will always be special, but this is one beautiful piece of medal! We find a rather large Running Mickey taking center stage on this medal in front of the classic ear logo and sunburst. This medal is simple in design but strong! This medal also has a good deal of weight to it. So marathoners (me included), don't fret, your accomplishment will absolutely be recognized with this beautiful piece of medal! 

2014 Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge

LOOK AT THIS!!!!!!! runDisney DID IT with this medal!!!!! This medal is another example of a redesign prior to an anniversary year! I was not expecting this medal at all! I also wasn't expecting this design! We are served classic goofy with a sunburst, reminiscent of the opening of a classic Goofy cartoon. We are also treated to orange, and blue tones blended with the matt and shiny gold within the medal! The stars that traditionally take stage on the top of the medal were not removed, and I am happy to see this! If you will be earning you Goofy status or renewing your commitment to crazy in 2014...you are in for a treat! I need this medal and I will crawl to the finish to have it!

2014 Inaugural Dopey Challenge

Look at this beauty! The Dopey Challenge is inaugural for 2014, so this medal had to be special. Notice the purple circle on the medal, which is drawn from Dopey's hat. The medal is quick and to the point. It is a stand out piece. I found it interesting that there was no sunburst in this medal, when it was present in all the others. Also, I thought the Goofy medal was more embellished than this medal. Don't get me wrong, I really like this medal! It is just as strong as the others. I think I am just missing the thread that ties to together with the others. Whatever, it's still awesome and it's mine in January! What do you think?

So ladies, I know you are wondering where the Glass Slipper Challenge medal is. The answer is I don't know because they didn't show it to us at this event haha! But as soon as I see it, if I can share it, you'll be the first to know!

So what do you think about these medals? I love them! Each one is strong and beautifully designed! Which ones will you be earning?

runDisney Half Marathon Weekend Official Meet-Up Recap

There is one event that occurs during all runDisney half marathon/marathon weekends that is probably more coveted than the actually races themselves. Eager participants literally sit at their laptops, computer, tablets, and smart phones (all at the same time) and stalk the Disney Parks Blog waiting for the moment runDisney will announce the official meet-up/tweet up! The 2013 Disneyland Half Marathon weekend was no exception to this. With the introduction of the inaugural Dumbo Double Dare and the Disneyland 10K, the energy and excitement level of this weekend were at record highs. I was fortunate enough to receive my invitation to this exclusive event! runDisney didn't disappoint! 

When I arrive at The Disneyland Hotel bright and early on Friday morning I was greeted by runDisney coordinators who checked me in and handed me my runDisney tote with my name on it...this was a nice touch! Inside the bag we found some awesome swag from H20+, and the wildly popular runDisney technical tee. runDisney's first surprise of the morning...the shirts were BLUE! A huge change from the gunmetal color that we are used to seeing. Every last runner was excited about this color change. Sometimes it is the little things! I shook hands and met some runners I follow and finally was able to put some real faces to names! I was really excited to meet Heather from Through Heather's Looking Glass! We hit it off the second we met! She really is a delight!

Heather and I

Normally the race will begin with a 2-3 mile run around the resort property, but this meet-up started with something new! New Balance is the official shoe of runDisney! What this means is we as participants have access to shoe consultants and running form workshops. The meet-up began with a running form workshop called Good Form Running! This clinic was really awesome! We learned four of the basic running form principles; Posture, Mid-Foot, Cadence, and Lean. This not only was very informative, but it was a great way to warm up before our run! So thanks to New Balance for coming out and sharing some amazing information with us!

New Balance leading the Good Form Running Clinic
Photo Credit Jimmy DeFlippo

Once the clinic concluded, The White Rabbit appeared out of literally no where! This could only mean one thing...he was late for a very important date! This signaled the beginning of our journey through Downtown Disney, Disney California Adventure Park, and Disneyland Park!

Photo Credit Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo Credit Jimmy DeFlippo

We literally ran all over the parks! We ended up being stopped at the Mad Tea Party attraction in Fantastyland where we met Alice! She was gracious enough to take photos AND we got to ride the tea cups! YAY! I got to share a tea cup with one of my favorite tweeps who I finally got to meet in person this weekend, Justin! 

Justin and I have gone MAD!

Once we said ta-ta for now to Alice we made our way to California Adventure where we concluded our run and were greeted by the Mat Hatter and some lovely breakfast items to refuel. This offered a great time to mix, mingle, and get to know some of our fellow runners! We were in great company as we had some very special guests join us at the meet-up! Alice and The Mad Hatter Joey Fatone fron *NSYNC Sean Astin from 'Rudy' and 'The Goonies'

Once we got settled, it was time for the what I like to call 'talk' with the greats! First up was Faron who is the marketing director for runDisney...and he literally blew my mind with his news. First piece of news, runDisney is actively looking at 4 new races. What and where they are was not shared, but it sounded like these races were strongly being considered. So stay vigilant...I'm sure there will be more details coming soon. Now, the thing that excited me most was the announcement of new runDisney BLING! When Faron pulled that black sheet off of the medal hanger I stood up and gasped!!!

Faron Snatching My Edges and Giving Me ALL the Life
Photo Credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

The medals are beautiful! The medals for this year's Wine and Dine half marathon, and next year's Walt Disney World Marathon weekend were revealed! All of which are GORGEOUS! My personal favorite was the new Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge medal!

New runDisney Bling

The next treat we got was a chance to get a sneak peek at the new ABC show/spin-off of Once Upon A Time in Wonderland! I personally can't wait to see how this show turns out!

Next, official runDisney nutritionist Tara Gidus the Diet Diva came up and gave us some awesome insight into nutrition. I always love hearing her talk! She is so full of energy and passion! If you get a chance, go to one of her talks during marathon weekend, she really is a wealth of knowledge and really approachable and sweet!

Tara Gidus Serving Nutritional Realness
Photo Credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

After Tara, we heard from the legend and runDisney training consultant, Jeff Galloway. I love listening to Jeff talk! He has so much passion about running and wanting others to succeed! His passion really is infectious! Again, another person I highly recommend going to hear speak or even stopping him just to say hello! He is incredible!

Jeff Galloway Doing His Thing!
Photo Credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Next up Ali Vincent from the Biggest Loser! She is just a huge ball of energy!!! She's really an inspiration and is using her platform to change the world! I can appreciate that! Go You Ali!!!

Go Ali!
Photo Credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Oh, there you are Sean Astin! Sean is known for his #Run3rd platform! He is also very inspirational and a leader in the runDisney community. A really nice guy all around! He recognized me again at the finish line of the Disneyland 10K! Thanks Sean!

Sean Astin Encouraging Everyone
Photo Credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

And last but not least, Joey Fatone! Fellow Goofy finisher was earning his coast-to-coast and his Dumbo Double Dare! He is hilarious! He also served us with some *NSYNC 'Bye, Bye, Bye' choreography and that was all I needed to cap off an amazing morning! Way to go Joey!

Joey said *NSYNC Isn't Reuniting LOL
Photo Credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

After all the speakers took the stage, PR Manager Bob raffled off 3 pairs of New Balance shoes, four runDisney laptop cases, and 4 runDisney roller travel bags! Now, I never win anything, but when I won the roller bag, I was ecstatic haha!

This was one amazing meet-up! runDisney doesn't have to do these! They choose to do these, and they made a lot of dreams come true that morning! I am over the moon that I was able to participate and look forward to participate in more! Seriously, runDisney is amazing! From the people, to the races...every step is magic!

THANK YOU runDISNEY!

Chicago Marathon - American Cancer Society

I love to give back to charities and causes! Nothing makes me happier than to know that I can use my blessings to help someone else. My grandmother always (and still does) remind me that you can't receive blessings with a closed fist. I have done lots of fundraising and participated in various philanthropic endeavors in the past, but whenever I can combine that with running...I mean how can that be bad?

This year in October, I will be running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. I have joined the American Cancer Society's charity team as a proud member of Team DetermiNATION! I chose to team up with Team DetermiNATION because my life has been touched by cancer in so many different ways. Effecting friends, family, loved ones, and taking lives way to soon. Cancer Sucks! I want to do my part to make sure people that need treatment, therapy, and other services can receive it. I am confident that one day this disease will no longer exist. Until then, I will run to help save lives.

You can help me! You can help others! Since I am running with a charity, my entry is contingent upon reaching my fundraising goals of $1,500.00. Just think, with that money a child can get the treatment they need, a mother, a father, spouse, brother, or sister can have one more day of treatment. You can help make a difference. I am doing the hard part by running 26.2 miles in the Windy City. Please find it in your heart to donate to this cause and help save a life. No donation is to small.

Plus there is a chance for you to win some stuff! I will be giving away two $50.00 INKnBURN gift cards! If you donate, your name will be entered to win one of these gift cards!

Interested in donating? CLICK HERE! Thank you so much in advance for your support! Truly, I mean that from the bottom of my heart. To those of you who have already donated, THANK YOU!

With Love,

Linz

#PoweredByBits Chat Tonight

Tonight is the night! I am co-hosting EnergyBits #PoweredByBits chat on Twitter! The party starts at 5PM PST/ 8PM EST! Join the conversation on Twitter using #PoweredByBits! I will have plenty of Inspirational Tea to go around!

Do you want to win a prize during the chat? Enter now for your chance to win a shiny tin of EnergyBits! The winner will be announced at the end of the chat! Hope to chat with you tonight!



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Continue Through It

Training is difficult. I mean, if running a half or full marathon were easy everyone would do it, right? I will be the first to tell you my biggest problem is consistency! I know I should run further and more frequently, but I have a hard time staying focused. I have since had to take a step back and evaluate my goals, my race calendar, and my choices so that I can perform at optimal levels when race day comes. I know most of us feel that way. It is hard to stick to training programs. It is hard to see others posting about their awesome runs while life got in the way of yours...I get it and can totally relate. But let's be honest with one another...it isn't suppose to be easy! Training building character and builds tenacity and endurance! So, the stronger our focus and discipline is, the better our results. This also talks to the important topic of proper fuel and nutrition as well.

I am going to share with you some of the methods and ideas I have found that work for me. I am absolutely sure that none of these are new ideas that I came up with, as we as a civilized people have been studying human behavior for centuries...but that doesn't mean I can't try to lend a helping hand :)

Remember Why You Started This Journey In The First Place! 

More often that not, people just don't wake up and start training for a half or full marathon. Usually, some form of inspiration has smacked us across the face and that ignites the inspiration to keep going. I started running to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I had no idea it would take over my life in such an enriching way. As a motivational runner/blogger, I find it is important to progress and get stronger and faster. If I am remaining stagnant and not reaching milestones or achievements...then all my hard work is for not. I can't have that. I enjoy the work I do on this platform way to much, and awesome folks like you appreciate my words. So, I keep in mind that I want to remain healthy and continue to inspire with the highest level of positive impact possible! You may not be a blogger, but we I know you have your own personal reason for why you run. Don't loose sight of that. You can always look back to it for comfort and energy to push you through your training run or race.

Surround & Align Yourself With Energy That Compliments Your Goals!

Energy is not lost, it is transferred from one party to the next. Energy comes through people, nature, animals, light, and anything here on Earth, really. Have you ever noticed that when you have someone in your life that brings you down whether directly or indirectly it has an effect on your mood? In order to maintain focus on your goals and dreams, it is critical that you surround yourself with people that are loving and supportive of your dreams and aspirations. I am not suggesting to cut people out of your life that may have a bad day...we all have them including me. But really be aware of the energy that is in your space. It has a huge impact on you as a person...and I want to see you win!

I hope you found these tips helpful! Share them with a friend! What are some things you do to keep you focused and motivated?

INKnBURN Product Review - The Tech Tube!

One of the things I love to do is talk about products I love! I am fortunate enough to be an Ambassador for INKnBURN, which for most of you is no surprise haha! In a past blog post, I talked about their tech shirts, shorts, and water bottle handhelds...all of which I still love and I have increased my inventory by some ungodly number! Now, I want to give you some insight on a little wonder they like to call The Tech Tube!

The Tech Tube is something really special. It is currently available in twelve different styles and can be worn by both men and women. The tube is made from the same high-quality material as their awesome tech tees! They are soft, yet durable. Each design is strategically placed on each tech tube to allow the highest level of versatility when it comes to how we as athletes wear them. Take the Rock n' Roll tube I am wearing in the first picture. I am using that tube as a headband and was able to roll the tube in such a way that the skull and logo appeared front and center, and the wings wrap gracefully around my head! Details are very important when it comes to art and apparel, and INKnBURN absolutely has this down to a science.

As a headband, this tube does not disappoint. It is light, and wicks and captures sweat, and needs absolutely no adjustment once secured to my brow. I used to run wearing a Halo headband, nothing wrong with the Halo, but I find that the tech tube is more my speed. Ladies, I would recommend this as a way to hold your hair back during your runs.

But of course there are other uses for the tech tube other than just a headband!

Sometimes, we just need to be prepared. You can roll the tube and slide it around your neck, and it instantly is ready for action when needed. Pull it up to your forehead for a headband, slick back your hair, remove it and place it around your wrist to wipe away sweat. You name it. One neat thing about this application is you can create a small pocket and place ice in it to help cool you...hands free! Something to think about after a day on the trails or finishing a road race...it is summer after all ;)

As temperatures start to cool down this fall, I love wearing a good beanie! I love things that are stylish and are eye catching. Well, who knew that the tech tube could be transformed into a beanie!? I didn't! And I am absolutely excited about it! With so many designs to choose from, those cold races are a thing of the past. Sweat catcher and stylish hat in one! And when you aren't racing, they are great casual wear accessories...much like most of the thing InB makes!

You can learn to make the beanie by watching the Pro Holly in this video:

This is quite possibly one of my favorite items to run with. It has become a staple in my arsenal for sure! And the price isn't bad either at $25.00! Remember, these are high quality tech tubes made from some awesome material, the softest threads, and the art is impeccable.

So do yourself and your wardrobe a small favor, click here to view their selection of absolutely fantastic tech tubes, order one, and give it a go! Want to make the deal even sweeter, when you decide to purchase, create an INKnBURN account, and use promo code 'LinzieToldMe' at checkout! You will receive 15% off your purchase! This is a one-time use code, but I am sure once you try INKnBURN, you'll see that the price is well worth it! So be sure to check out their tees, shorts, camisoles, etc.

Distance Yourself with INKnBURN, where Art and Apparel Collide and bring you some amazing gear!

Sharp's Park Ranger Challenge

I am not a person who is very fond of camping in tents, sleeping on the ground, cuddling up with dirt and bugs. I prefer a luxurious resort with a spa. But that does not mean that I do not appreciate the beauty of nature...I just don't want to sleep on it haha.

Vacation Races has been something that has peaked my interest for some time now. The first race I remember seeing them put on was the Zion Half Marathon in Utah. For me, much like a city race, there is no better way to experience a city or a destination than to lace up and just run through it! I find inspiration from running in beautiful places. I draw inspiration from the painted canvas that is our National Parks. I love rock formations, bunnies, birds, and seeing things in their natural state. Experiencing nature and seeing the colors and textures it produces is simply unparalleled.

So in 2014, I have decided to quit my day job and become a Park Ranger. Well...sort of.

Today, I registered for the Zion Half Marathon...let the altitude training begin. As registration opens for the remaining three races, I will register and run. This includes:

• The Grand Canyon Half Marathon in Arizona taking place on May 17th, 2014
• The Rocky Mountain Half Marathon in Colorado in August of next year.
• The Lake Powell Half Marathon in Arizona in October of next year

Maybe I can convince them that they should turn these logos into patches so I can put them on a jacket! I am really excited about the prospects of this race series and can't wait. First stop, ZION!

And this just in...they are also working on a Beach Front Half Marathon Series...my wallet is in trouble.

Now, log off your computer and go walk children in nature!