Harlem Globetrotters 2022 Spread Game World Tour

in , , ,   with No comments

Image from The Harlem Globetrotters


Thank you to US Family Guide and the Harlem Globetrotters for hosting us so we can share this experience with you!

For generations, the Harlem Globetrotters have been delighting fans.  Having never been myself, I was excited to experience these talented basketball stars with my family when they recently visited Baltimore.  A Harlem Globetrotters show is so much more than a basketball game!  Part sporting event and part comedy show - the Harlem Globetrotters bring something the whole family can enjoy.


www.runningonpixiedust.com


The Harlem Globetrotters 2022 Tour is in full swing!  Visit their website for all of the dates and use code USFAM to save 20% on tickets.

So what can you expect at a Globetrotters game?  After arriving at the arena, we first visited the official Harlem Globetrotters merchandise and my son picked out a basketball as a souvenir.  We grabbed some snacks and headed to our seats as the teams finished warm-ups.  At our Baltimore event, the Harlem Globetrotters were playing the Washington Generals.  The introduction of the teams was much more of a comedy show than a sporting event with a "grandma" Globetrotter fan taking center stage.  During warm-ups, the team delighted with some classic Harlem Globetrotters tricks - fancy dribbling, dunking, passing, and more!


www.runningonpixiedust.com


Throughout the "game," there are frequent comedic game breaks with the ref and players interacting with each other.  It's all good, clean, family fun and left my little one buying his own Globetrotters ball and practicing in the concessions area during halftime for his chance to make it on the team one day!



The Harlem Globetrotters really cater to the family experience and the afternoon was topped off with a free autograph session after the game.  While it was a little disorganized, as fans just went down to the court and stood behind ropes clamoring towards their favorite players - the lines did move and we were able to grab three autographs in about 30 minutes.  The best Globetrotter in my son's opinion - X-Over! 


www.runningonpixiedust.com
 

Don't miss the chance to see the Harlem Globetrotters with your family when they come to town.  The show is as entertaining as ever and a great choice for a fun evening!

Share:

2022 PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge

in , ,   with No comments

Image from PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge


80s babies and runners everywhere can rejoice in the 2022 PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge!  Poor PAC-MAN has spent decades being chased by Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. . .and now you get a chance to experience that feeling to as you complete virtual runs and unlock challenges along the way.  One of the best parts of this virtual challenge?  You don't get just one run to enjoy!  So whether you are new to running and using this as a race or a seasoned veteran who wants to add a little fun to some of your training runs, the PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge may be the perfect choice for you!

Disclaimer:  I received an entry to the 2022 PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge to review as part of being a BibRave Ambassador.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Ambassador, and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

What's Included in the 2022 PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge?

www.runningonpixiedust.com


The 2022 PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge includes 3 different run distances that get progressively longer as you unlock the challenges.  

  • Blinky Blitz 3-Mile Challenge
  • Pinky & Inky Power-Up 4-Mile Challenge
  • Clyde's Course 5-Mile Challenge
Once you conquer all 3 levels, you get to unlock the bonus level!  As far as swag, runners will enjoy a commemorative race bib, finisher's medal, and a collectible baseball pennant.  I love the idea of the baseball pennant as a unique race item.  I mean, everyone loves a good t-shirt, but I already have quite the collection!

How do you complete the 2022 PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge?


Obviously with virtual challenge, you need a way to record your results so you can unlock the next level.  The PAC-MAN virtual challenge has partnered with Race Roster and ASICS Runkeeper in order to track your results.  You can connect your registration directly to the Runkeeper app and when you complete the distance, it automatically tracks your mileages and let's the race know that you've completed the level.  I opted to complete my Blinky Blitz 3-Mile Challenge on the treadmill as it ended up being a super cold late spring day.  With that, I was able to manually upload my results to Race Roster and earned my badge to unlock the next level.  

www.runningonpixiedust.com



But is a Virtual Challenge worth it?


The 2022 PAC-MAN Virtual Challenge gets you several race distances, fun and unique swag, and the opportunity to run at your own time and location.  I have really come to enjoy virtual racing because of these things.  And, you can use code BIBRAVE10 to save 10% on your registration - making it even more affordable!  Find more information and register here.

Who is ready to step up to the challenge and join me?? 

Share:

Splitsville Luxury Lanes Bowling and Dining Review at Orlando's Disney Springs!

in , , , ,   with No comments
Bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Orlando, FL - www.runningonpixiedust.com


When families think of a Walt Disney World vacation, they typically think characters, theme parks, and rides.  But a hidden gem located inside the gates of Walt Disney World Resort is Disney Springs - a shopping, dining, and entertainment mecca for families to enjoy outside of the parks.  Recently, we had the chance to visit Splitsville Luxury Lanes located on the West Side of Disney Springs.  Between the great food, fun atmosphere, and relaxed vibe, it was the perfect place to kick off our vacation!

Thank you to Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Disney Springs for hosting our family!


Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Orlando, FL - www.runningonpixiedust.com


We had an early flight out of Baltimore on our arrival day to Orlando and knew that we didn't want to head to the parks on our first day after being up at 4AM.  Splitsville Luxury Lanes turned out to be a great choice to grab a bite to eat and have some fun in a much more "low key" atmosphere than heading to a park.  We arrived around 11:30 and, despite having a later reservation at 12:30, they were able to accommodate us!  From the outside it's easy to see that Splitsville is a huge location.  Upon entering, guests can choose between bowling and eating or just dining.  There are lanes both downstairs and up to easily accommodate A LOT of bowlers. . .and there's also some pool tables to enjoy as well.  If you're bowling, you get a lane for a set period of time depending on the size of your party.  Each lane also has a table and wait staff to bring food and drinks.  

  • 1 - 2 People - 1 Hour
  • 3 - 4 People - 1 Hour 15 Min.
  • 5 - 6 People - 1 Hour 30 Min.
  • 7 - 8 People - 1 Hour 45 Min.
Bowling pricing includes unlimited bowling during your lane time and shoe rental.  Current pricing as of March 2022 is $20 per person before 4PM on weekdays and $24 per person after 4PM and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.


Bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Orlando, FL - www.runningonpixiedust.com



The bowling lanes are well maintained and have a retro feel to them.  At this Disney Springs location, you even get a little "Disney magic" with some bowling balls featuring Mickey and Minnie!  While all the bowling at this location is ten pin with larger bowling balls, they do have options to help little ones in your family.  Bowling balls are available as light as 6 lbs. and you can see easily printed on the ball hand sizes XS - XL that will help size the ball appropriately.  We ended up also making use of bumpers for our 7 and 10 year old and they had a ramp if you have someone young enough in your party that can't yet manage rolling the bowling ball on their own.  Everything is computerized in the bowling alley - including the bumpers - which automatically popped up and down when it was my kids turn to bowl (although I probably needed them just as much!).  The bowling screen also has a countdown of how much time is left on your reservation so it's easy to see and keep track of while enjoying your visit.

The food and drink at Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Disney Springs is also a big draw - and not just your typical bowling alley food.  We kicked off our visit with a round of drinks from the bar and a cone of fries.  The chive dip was every bit as good as our server promised!  For our main courses, my kids chose of the children's menu and had the pizza and chicken tenders.  My husband had the Southern Goddess Salad which he said was the delicious.  As a vegetarian, there were several options on the menu including pizzas and salads, but I chose to go the the veggie sushi roll.  All of the ingredients were fresh and it was nice to visit the a bowling alley and have some healthier options to choose from!  This trip to Disney was during my birthday week and Splitsville helped me celebrate with some birthday ice cream as an extra special treat.


Food at Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Orlando, FL - www.runningonpixiedust



I was worried that we may feel rushed to eat and bowl during our reservation time, but the timing was perfect.  With kids, it was great to have them engaged in something active and fun while we were waiting for our food to arrive and after we finished eating.  Our server was wonderful and we truly loved our visit!  Splitsville Luxury Lanes is a great choice on a day off from the parks, family dinner at Disney Springs, or a fun adult night out.  For all of my runDisney friends, you can also find Splitsville often participating in the runDisney discounts at Disney Springs during race weekends - check them out!


We'll definitely be back to Splitsville in the future and with so many options of fun things to do in Disney Springs, it's becoming more and more of a must-do for us on every Walt Disney World vacation!

Share:

2022 Celtic Canter 5K - Race Recap

in , , ,   with No comments
www.runningonpixiedust.com



The Celtic Canter 5K is a local tradition that combines Irish fun and festivities with a family friendly race experience.  It's typically an event that brings out a large mix of runners and walkers, people of all ages, running through the streets of my neighborhood.  But the 2022 Celtic Canter was a little different.  Let's just say that "I-rish" it was nicer weather!

This year, I had signed up for the Celtic Canter 5K with my 10 year old son to make it a family event.  He's been working hard training for soccer and swim and enjoys getting out there for some races.  He was also really excited to learn that his soccer coach and one of his teammates was running the race as well. We all know running is more fun with friends!  When we signed up, I had visions of running the race with my son and then heading out with some friends after to enjoy the Irish festivities - bands, vendors, pub crawl, etc. - but Mother Nature had other plans.  


www.runningonpixiedust.com



I've run this race several times before and it seems like it's always a chilly day.  If you know anything about Maryland weather, it can always be a little crazy. . .especially at the change of seasons like in March!  The day before the race was a beautiful 60 degree day with loads of sunshine.  Forecasters were calling for snow, ice, and winds. . .scratches head. . .REALLY?  Yeah, that forecast panned out.

I woke up at 6:30 to take the dogs out for their morning walk and the rain that was falling over night was JUST starting to turn over to snow - big, heavy, wet flakes.  By 7:30, the ground was completely covered, but roads looked OK still.  I was planning on just walking to the race start since it's less than 1/2 mile from our house, but decided against it not knowing how bad things were going to get.  My husband and 7 year old son agreed to be our race support and at 8:30 we left the house for a 9AM start time.  By the time we left, snow and ice were starting to stick on the road and we surprised to slide a little bit on the way there. 
 

www.runningonpixiedust.com



The race organizers had set up a tent the night before near the start which was nice prior to the race.  It was heated, dry, and home to some bagpipes.  We hung out in there and met up with our running friends until the clock struck 9 and we made our way outside.  Conditions had deteriorated rapidly and the road was a slushy covered mess.  We were anxious to start - really more anxious to finish - but minutes kept passing and the race wasn't starting.  Meanwhile, the cold slush was soaking into our shoes, freezing our feet and the wind gusts were pelting us with cold snow.  Not sure if the rumor was true, but we heard from another runner that the delay was due to the snow plows knocking over the cones on the race course - the race runs on roads through downtown Westminster, MD and the roads are coned so that one side is for running while keeping the other side open to traffic.  

By the time we eventually started at 9:17, we were already miserable.  My husband had moved our van from the start line to a spot before mile maker 1 to be able to cheer us on.  We hadn't even made it a tenth of a mile and my son was asking to bail on the race.  I can't say I could argue.  I couldn't feel my feet at all as they were thoroughly soaked through.  We planned to make it to the van and then leave.  Our running buddies decided to join us in bailing as well.


www.runningonpixiedust.com



It was the first time I've had a DNF, but I didn't care in the least.  The way we were slipping and sliding on the road had me worried about an injury just 3 weeks ahead of the runDisney Springtime Surprise weekend which I didn't want to risk and the weather was nothing less than brutal.  We were so excited to see the van, hop in, and go get warm!

I did finish the race in the afternoon - but from the warmth and safety of my treadmill!  I always thought my 2019 Frederick Half Marathon was going to go down as the craziest weather ever, but I think this race takes the cake.  

What's the worst weather you've run a race in?  Drop your stories in the comments below!
Share:

runDisney 2022 - 2023 Race Information

in , , , , , , , ,   with No comments


Calling all mouseketeers, princesses, villains, and running fans!   runDisney marked the return of in person racing during the 2021-2022 race season and, just as the tutus and pixie dust of the 2022 runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is beginning to cover those magical miles, we have some race dates releasing for 2022-2023!

For the upcoming 2022-2023 running season, we so far have dates for Wine & Dine as well as Marathon weekends.  There are no changes to race offerings or typical weekends with these. Dates are as follows:


Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend - Image from www.rundisney.com


runDisney Wine & Dine Weekend - General Registration Opens March 22, 2022

  • Disney Wine & Dine 5K - November 4, 2022
  • Disney Wine & Dine 10K - November 5, 2022
  • Disney Wine & Dine Half-Marathon - November 6, 2022
  • Disney Two Course Challenge - November 5-6, 2022
  • Post-Race Party - November 6, 2022

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend - Image from www.rundisney.com



runDisney Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend - General Registration Opens April 19, 2022

  • Walt Disney World 5K - January 5, 2023
  • Walt Disney World 10K - January 6, 2023
  • Walt Disney World Half Marathon - January 7, 2023
  • Walt Disney World Marathon - January 8, 2023
  • Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge - January 7-8, 2023
  • Dopey Challenge - January 5-8, 2023


While a lot remains similar to past weekends, there are a few notable changes.  The past two Wine & Dine weekends have been incredibly popular with their villains theme. . .but this year we get something new - an "unforgettable showcase celebration."  Drawing of the popularity of EPCOT's International Food & Wine Festival, Wine & Dine weekend will this year showcase Disney favorites from around the world - representing the global community of runDisney including themes from Coco, Aladdin, Raya and the Last Dragon, and Soul.

Virtual race options also return in 2022-2023 for race weekends.  I'm glad to see runDisney continuing to offer these options for runners who can't make the trek to Walt Disney World Resort during a race weekend.  I always wondered why they didn't offer these and it's one change from COVID that I hope continues to stay.


Read all about my virtual runDisney Star Wars 10K in 2021!


Keep checking back as more information will be added for the 2023 runDisney Princess Half Marathon and 2023 Springtime Surprise Weekend as it is released!  

Share:

Minions 5K Virtual Run - Race Review

in , , ,   with No comments
www.runningonpixiedust.com


Bello!  (That means 'hello' in Minionese if you didn't know!)

During the pandemic, I fell in love with virtual racing - especially when I can combine my passion for entertainment with my love of running.  When I first heard about the Minions 5K Virtual Run, I knew it was a must-run for me.  I mean, who can pass up some sweet yellow swag?

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Minions 5K Run as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador) and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Why Virtual Racing?

Virtual races have become some of my favorites recently.  I used to think it was silly to spend money on a "race" that you run around your neighborhood - don't we do that all the time for free??  But during the pandemic years, virtual racing became the only game in town for a period of time and I gave some a try.  I quickly fell in love with the fun themes, cute swag, and convenience.

Let's talk about the convenience for a minute.  No race day traffic.  No packet pick-up.  No porta-potty lines.  It's pretty awesome.  I also like that I can adjust my race day if needed based on weather or illness.  For example, I registered for the Minions 5K run a few months ago, but pushed my race date back to January 22, 2022.  I tested positive for COVID in December and wasn't quite back up to working out for a few weeks. . .no worries though with a virtual race!

The Minions 5K Run Swag


Minions Run Swag - Image from www.minionsrun.com


Virtual races can come with some pretty sweet swag.  You won't be surprised to know that yellow is the featured color of all things for this race!  Runners get a comfy yellow t-shirt (available in both men's and women's cuts), a minions beanie, and a virtual race bib.  There is also a medal for this race featuring some of our favorite characters.  My medal hasn't arrived yet, but I can't wait to add it to my collection!

My Minions 5K Race

Ugh.  I should just take the word "race" out of this subheading.  As I mentioned earlier, I tested positive for COVID about 6 weeks ahead of when I ran my Minions 5K race.  Leading up to this, I really haven't been doing much running.  For about 3 weeks after testing positive, I didn't workout and, since I started back up, I have mostly been doing some low impact rides on my Peloton bike.  I knew I wanted to get out and tackle these 3.1 miles so I grabbed my trust BibRave pup, Tinker Bell, and we hit the pavement.  She was also a bit out of running practice, but I think she did better than me!


www.runningonpixiedust.com


I ended up walking more than I ran on a bone-chilling 24 degree afternoon.  Yeah, 24 degrees.  I actually waited until the warmest part of the day to run so that should tell you a little about the cold snap Maryland is in right now!  We had to stop for Tinker to go to the bathroom (like all runners tend to do!) and we had to stop because my shoes came untied. . .twice! Otherwise, we took it easy.  We enjoyed each other's company and being out in the fresh air.  My Shokz headphones were dead when we left (major runner fail) so we even had the chance to just enjoy the winter sounds.  

Overall, we traveled 3.19 miles in 47 minutes.  Super slow, but very steady.  Then it was home to warm up by the fire and watch some playoff football!  


Check out my review of this race and find TONS of race reviews over at BibRave.com!


Looking for more virtual race reviews?  Check out some of my other recent virtual events!


Share:

Mantra Labs - Chrono Bundle and Hydrate Product Review

in , , ,   with No comments
Mantra Labs Chrono Bundle - www.runningonpixiedust.com


Self-care has never been more important in our daily rituals and the folks at Mantra Labs know that we all need a little "boost" to keep going strong.  I was excited to partner with this company and try their products as making good choices throughout the day can sometimes be hard.  I recently had the chance to try their Chrono Bundle and Hydrate products to review and honestly have to say that I'm thrilled to share just how amazing these products are with you.

Disclaimer: I received products from Mantra Labs to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!


Who is Mantra Labs? 


Mantra Labs specializes in making "simple, science-backed, plant-based nutrition." That's right, vegans (and even those of you who are vegan-ish like me) can rejoice in a product that fits your specific dietary needs while tasting delicious as well.  Their company is not just focused on physical health, but mental health too.  BibRave Ambassadors had a chance to chat with the company and you can tell this is much more than a career for them. . .it's a passion.

Share:

Monster Jam Arena Championship Series coming to Washington DC - January 2022!

in , ,   with No comments
Monster Jam - Image from Feld Entertainment


Monster Jam is coming back to Washington DC in January 2022 with all of the fun and excitement families have come to expect.  Celebrating 30 years, Monster Jam will be returning to Captiol One Arena in Washington DC featuring the main event and special Pit Party opportunities on both January 29 and January 30!  

Who can you expect to see at Monster Jam?  Fans can plan to see Grave Digger, Megalodon, Whiplash, Stone Crusher and more.  My oldest went to Monster Jam a few years ago and still talks about the memorable evening and spectacular tricks.  We hope to make a visit down to DC this winter to relive the thrills - and introduce my youngest to the excitement.  


Monster Jam - Image from Feld Entertainment


Tickets are now available for both Monster Jam and the Pit Party at www.ticketmaster.com.  You can find more details on the Monster Jam event and COVID safety protocols at www.monsterjam.com.  

About Monster Jam



Unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable, Monster Jam® features world-class athletes competing for championships on perfectly engineered dirt tracks that push these ever-evolving, state-of-the-art trucks to the limit. Beyond the 350 global live events each year, the Monster Jam brand extends off the track into the home through products, content and merchandise that keeps the fun alive year-round.  For more information, visit MonsterJam.com.

Share:

Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND New York Resort!

in , , , ,   with No comments
LEGOLAND New York Brick-or-Treat - Image from LEGOLAND


Who doesn't love a few "bricks" and treats this time of year?  LEGOLAND New York Resort is debuting an all new month-long Halloween "spook-tacular" event that you won't want to miss.  Here are all the highlights of Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND New York Resort:
  • Join LEGOLAND New York Resort every Saturday and Sunday in October 2021 from 3:00PM - 6:00PM
  • Check out all seven themed lands with kid-friendly Halloween activities including trick-or-treating!
  • Special Halloween characters will be on-site to add to the fun.
  • Guests ages 12 and under can join an awesome costume contest including categories for:
    • Most LEGO Themed
    • Spookiest
    • Most Imaginative
    • Funniest
    • Best of the Best
Best of all, your admission to Brick-or-Treat is included with your single-day ticket purchase, hotel package, or annual pass.  Traveling to Goshen, New York to visit?  Don't miss the LEGOLAND New York Hotel!  Guests at the hotel will be immersed into the fun and scares with Halloween decor adding to the "treats" of the season.


About LEGOLAND New York Resort


LEGOLAND New York Resort Brick-or-Treat - Image from LEGOLAND


AWESOME AWAITS at LEGOLAND® New York Resort, the ultimate LEGO® theme park destination, now open just outside New York City in the beautiful Hudson Valley! At LEGOLAND New York, kids ages two through 12 and their families can ride, climb, splash, and build their way through seven themed lands. Transform into a Minifigure on the world-premiere LEGO® Factory Adventure Ride, master the art of Spinjitzu on LEGO® NINJAGO® the Ride, save the kingdom on the Dragon Coaster, and explore awesome LEGO built cities in MINILAND! Adding to the multi-day destination experience, the bricktastic fun continues at LEGOLAND® Hotel, open year-round! The only LEGO themed hotel in the Northeast, it features 250 rooms in four themes: LEGO® Pirates, Kingdom, LEGO® Friends and LEGO® NINJAGO® – all just steps away from the theme park! The park is easily accessible by car, Metro-North train and direct bus service on Coach USA from Port Authority. For more information visit https://www.legoland.com/new-york/.
Share:

Space Jam: A New Legacy - Out of This World Virtual Race Experience

in , , , ,   with No comments

I love a good race theme - especially when it matches up with a movie our family loves.  Running the Space Jam: A New Legacy Virtual Run gave me some motivation to train and some nice swag that my boys wanted to steal from me.  

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Space Jam: A New Legacy Run as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

www.runningonpixiedust.com


Like previous virtual races I've reviewed, this experience is all about what YOU make it!  With virtual racing, you have the opportunity to plan your own course, create your own playlist, and theme as much (or as little) as you prefer.  If you follow my race reviews, you know I love to get into "character" - especially a cartoon character - to run.  While it was a little harder to come up with a costume for this race than for my DC Superman Run a few weeks earlier, I took advantage of the Tune Squad sweatbands that came with my race kit to get in the race spirit.

Share:

Hersheypark in the Dark 2021

in , , , , , ,   with No comments
Hersheypark in the Dark is back for 2021 and it's SWEETER than ever!  If you've never experienced this seasonal favorite in Hershey, PA you have been missing out!  We've been to Hersheypark in the Dark several times and it's always a blast.  What better way to celebrate the Halloween season then with rides, decorations, festivities, and. . .oh yeah!. . .CHOCOLATE!  Find out more about the 15th Anniversary of Hersheypark in the Dark below.

When can you visit Hersheypark in the Dark in 2021?

Hersheypark in the Dark - Image from Hersheypark


Hersheypark in the Dark is open for three weekends in October 2021.  Beginning Friday, October 15, guests can visit Friday, Saturday, and Sundays.  Hersheypark in the Dark will be open through Sunday, October 31.  Guests can visit Friday evenings from 5PM - 9PM and on Saturdays and Sundays from 2PM - 9PM.

What attractions are open inside the park during Hersheypark in the Dark?

Share:

The 2022 planDisney Panel Search is about to begin!

in , , , , , , ,   with No comments
www.runningonpixiedust.com


The most magical time of the year for Disney enthusiasts is here once again!  The planDisney Panel (formerly known as the Disney Parks Moms Panel) is searching for the next group of panelists. . .and it could be YOU!  I've applied to the panel every year since 2013 and have made it to the second round 4 times.  While there have been some variances from year to year, the general process follows a typical pattern.  But first, check out what planDisney has to say about the 2022 search!


The planDisney Panel is looking for people just like you!  All it takes is a love and knowledge of your favorite Disney destinations and a talent for sharing what you know with others. . .plus a whole lot of pixie dust!  Each year thousands of people apply, but just a small handful are selected.  You can apply for specialities in Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Vacation Club, or Disney Cruise Line.  To find out all of the details for eligibility, visit the planDisney Panel website.

The application usually opens right around Labor Day each fall and wraps around Halloween.  For the 2022 planDisney Panel Search, the first round of applications open at noon on September 9th and close at noon on September 14th.  Round one usually consists of a series of questions that let the selection panel know more about you and your Disney experiences.  After a few weeks, emails will roll in announcing if you've been selected to move on to round two.  In the past, round two has consisted of more written responses and a one minute video.  Here's an example of my round two videos from my applications for the 2019 and 2020 panels.
Share:

DC Superman Run - It's a Bird! It's a Plane! It's Virtual Race Fun!

in , , ,   with No comments
DC Superman Run - www.runningonpixiedust.com


If you love running and are enjoying the influx of virtual races on the market these days, you don't want to miss the DC Superman Run from Ventures Endurance! Last year, I ran the DC Batman Run and the DC Wonder Woman virtually, so I was thrilled when I had the chance to sign up to run the DC Superman Run in 2021 and add another piece of DC Comics swag to my medal collection.

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the DC Superman Run as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

DC Superman Run - www.runningonpixiedust.com


Why should I run a virtual race?


The DC Superman Run is a virtual race and virtual races have so many perks these days.  First off, let's talk about convenience.  Planned a race day and have bad weather pop up in the forecast?  You can move your race day!  For me, I woke up one morning and just felt like running my DC Superman Run - so I did (I'm saying that in my best Forrest Gump voice right now!).  There's no waking up in the pre-dawn hours to make your corral (here's looking at you runDisney), no stressing about where to park or race day traffic, and you can make your post-race celebration whatever you want from the comforts of you own home.
Share:

runDisney Returns! Everything you need to know about runDisney in 2021 and 2022

in , , ,   with No comments


runDisney fans can finally rejoice - live races are returning to the Walt Disney World Resort in November 2021 beginning with the Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend.  The announcement released June 30th, shares some details about the upcoming race season - clear through an all new Springtime Surprise.  Let's break down what's we know, what's new, and what we still want to hear more about from runDisney are in person racing returns!

Don't forget that this race season, the Walt Disney World Resort will be celebrating 50 years of magic! Learn more about that celebration here!


runDisney Returns 2021 - 2022: What We Know


runDisney will be returning to in person racing beginning in November 2021 with the Wine and Dine Half Marathon weekend.  We have race dates for all four race weekends and registration dates for two of them.

  • Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend

    • Race Weekend is November 4 - November 7, 2021.
    • Registration Opens to Club runDisney on July 6th and General Public on July 13th. 
    • 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Two Course Challenge will be offered
    • Post Race After Party is still planned!

  • Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

    • Race Weekend is January 5 - January 9, 2022
    • Registration Opens to Club runDisney on July 20th and General Public on July 27th
    • 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge, and Dopey Challenge will be offered
    • Castaway Challenge is not listed as an option this year

  • Princess Half Marathon Weekend

    • Race Weekend is February 24 - February 27, 2022
    • Registration Opens to Club runDisney on August 17th and General Public on August 24th
    • 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and Fairy Tale Challenge will be offered
    • New Sunrise Yoga offering that you can register for as well!

  • Springtime Surprise

    • Race Weekend is March 31 - April 3, 2022
    • No More Star Wars Theme, but a rotating theme each spring
    • No specific details yet, but promising unique opportunities with this weekend
    • STAY TUNED!

runDisney Returns 2021 - 2022: What's New??

Share:

Kicking Into Summer with Challenger International Soccer Camp!

in , , ,   with No comments
Challenger International Soccer Camp - www.runningonpixiedust.com


We were super psyched to partner with Challenger International Soccer Camp in 2021!  If you know my oldest, you know he eats, sleeps, and breathes soccer.  Seriously, my son watches games on TV, practices skills outside, plays regularly with his travel team, learns new tricks on YouTube. . .the list goes on and on!  So when we had the chance to check out Challenger International Soccer Camp, we jumped at it and he has lots of good things to share!

Thanks to Challenger International Soccer Camp and US Family Guide for providing us with a free week of camp!  As always, thoughts and opinions are our own.

Before Camp

Challenger International Soccer Camp has a host of information on their website about their programs and, with locations around the country, you can hopefully find a camp close to you!  We were fortunate to have a camp about 30 minutes away in Mt. Airy, MD.  Registration on the site was quick and easy.  Since we registered more than 30 days ahead of camp, Brody received an awesome soccer jersey.  I love the colors!


Challenger International Soccer Camp - www.runningonpixiedust.com


We received a lot of communication from Challenger ahead of camp including ways to access virtual content and prepare for camp.  There are camps for a variety of ages and skill levels.  The littlest soccer players (Ages 3 - 5) can participate in the TinyTykes Camp for one hour per day.  Older kids have more options including a Half-Day Camp, Full-Day Camp, Next Level Skills Combine, and Full Day Competitive Camp. Brody signed up for the Full-Day Camp - 6 hours of soccer per day!  He could barely contain his excitement as camp got closer!

Share:

5 of the BEST Reasons to Get Knockaround Sunglasses!

in , , ,   with No comments
Knockaround Sunglasses - www.runningonpixiedust.com


For several years now, I've been watching people I follow enjoying their Knockaround sunglasses and finally took the plunge in April purchasing my first pair.  Shortly after, I had the chance to work with them through my partnership with BibRave and review even more product.  The #1 comment I have to share about my Knockaround sunglasses - I wish I would have listened to my friends and bought them sooner!  Now I'm 5 pairs of Knockaround sunglasses in and I find myself stalking sales to add even more to my collection.  Why?  Find out the 5 BEST reasons to add some Knockarounds to your life.

Disclaimer: I received 2 pairs of Knockaround sunglasses to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

1. Bang for Your Buck - Let's start with one of my favorite things about these sunnies, the price!  Long gone are the days of thinking that quality shades have to cost an arm and a leg.  With price points starting as low as $20 for adult sunglasses, you won't feel guilty adding so many pairs to your collection.  There's also frequent opportunities to score sales from their website.  


Knockaround Sunglasses - www.runningonpixiedust.com


2.  Function & Performance - I use these as my everything-in-one sunglasses.  I have several pairs of the sports sunglasses which have a rubber padding on the nose to reduce movement.  They are awesome to run in. . .and equally awesome to run errands in!  Knockaround sunglasses are lightweight and stay in place, making them a perfect choice for an active lifestyle.  Need some blue light blockers?  They've got those too. . .and so do I!  

Share:

Visiting Duke's Lagoon at Dutch Wonderland

in , , , ,   with No comments
www.runningonpixiedust.com


Dutch Wonderland is truly a "kingdom for kids" located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.  Having been around for more than 50 years, Dutch Wonderland is a well known theme park in the Mid-Atlantic, but what you may not know is what a gem the water park, Duke's Lagoon, is for your young adventurer on a hot day.  Here's what you need to know about visiting Duke's Lagoon at Dutch Wonderland!

Thanks to Dutch Wonderland for having me back in 2021 as a Royal Ambassador.  As a Royal Ambassador, my son and I received free admission to the park.  

Duke's Lagoon features water attractions, a water ride, food, cabanas, and more.  It's a great place to play and cool off on a hot day.  Our visit was in early June but the thermometer topped 90 degrees so we were anxious to go play.  There are three main water play areas in addition to the ride, Pipeline Plunge.  Each of the water play areas are designed with specific ages in mind.  There is one section that has oversized cartoon-y underwater creatures that overlook small geysers and "water table" type activities.  Another section has a tropical feel with water cascading from overhead features and play structures that you can climb on to shoot water guns.  The final and largest play area has multiple water slides that are perfectly sized for toddlers and elementary aged children.  There are guards on duty here helping to keep kids safe as they climb and slide.  The slide structures resemble a playground - nothing large or intimidating for young guests.
Share: