tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2884153291729924432024-03-13T16:32:31.269-04:00Wake Up and Smell the Chocolate!Child of God. Children's Librarian. Chocoholic.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.comBlogger387125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-59885426363966735402017-10-23T18:43:00.003-04:002017-10-23T18:46:00.978-04:00Walt Disney World Marathon Part 5: Beyond the Finish Line<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>Welcome to my race recap! Read Part 1 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/01/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>, Part 2 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>, Part 3 <span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-3-first.html">here</a>, </span><span style="color: #38761d;">and Part 4</span><span style="color: #38761d;"> <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-4.html"><span style="color: #274e13;">here</span></a></span>.</i><br />
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Okay, so I crossed the finish line of my first ever marathon feeling like I'd just, well, run a marathon. As soon as I slowed to a walk my body was like, <i>whoa there crazypants what did you just do and where can you lay down?</i></div>
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It's hard to explain clearly now, but I was feeling pretty out of it. Not only did my whole body hurt but my mind was also pretty muddled. It was what I imagine going into shock might feel like, in some small way. I didn't feel like I had control of myself, which was weird. I had been running for so long, my body mechanically doing what it needed to do, that when I stopped it was like everything hit me at once.</div>
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Someone put a medal on me. I was so relieved and happy and kept being on the verge of tears.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhXQ3cHDh5M5rrimbIT3q5r4ZJDm7tRQ7h6-blTE-oPt74C1Z5EMvgUql7MzvjF_2rnoFRw-8_RIOLtnJCne9BU7_FbGVpB7RDjfhRmR3YddTTUEMwThEzcUKwjxNmdH7WQSOGE_3THQ/s1600/IMG_1832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhXQ3cHDh5M5rrimbIT3q5r4ZJDm7tRQ7h6-blTE-oPt74C1Z5EMvgUql7MzvjF_2rnoFRw-8_RIOLtnJCne9BU7_FbGVpB7RDjfhRmR3YddTTUEMwThEzcUKwjxNmdH7WQSOGE_3THQ/s320/IMG_1832.jpg" width="268" /></a>Luckily, someone grabbed me right away and asked me if I wanted ice. My brain could at least comprehend that this was a good idea so I followed this woman over to a bench where I sat down. There, she carefully wrapped bags of ice around each of my knees. I remember this older guy sitting next to me with long hair and a long beard who told me he liked my sleeves. I was wearing bright neon yellow arm sleeves!</div>
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I knew I needed to keep moving, so I walked gingerly out of the icing area and continued through the herd of finishers. People were passing out foil blankets and I took one but didn't have the wherewithal to do anything with it other than let it sort of trail behind me like I was Linus dragging his blue blanket. Suddenly an older man appeared in front of me and said, "You look like you could use some help!" As I kept murmuring thank you over and over and of course felt like I was holding back more tears, he carefully tied the blanket around my shoulders, double-knotting it. The cold was starting to hit me now that I wasn't running and I was so thankful to have another layer!</div>
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So now with my medal around my neck, a blanket around my shoulders, and ice packs around my knees, I hobbled further on to pick up a sports drink, water bottle, and official runDisney snack box. I found a spot on the ground and gently eased myself down, unable to bend my legs too much yet. It felt so good to not move! </div>
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When I opened my box of food, I zeroed in on the salty tortilla chips and cup of fake cheese. That is not usually the kind of thing I go for but when I saw those suddenly they were everything I wanted! I started feeling more like myself after sitting for a bit and when my friend joined me we hung out for a while longer until we felt like standing and then headed out to continue with the rest of our day.</div>
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We iced more at our hotel room (and inhaled some cold leftover pizza), took showers and got ready, and then headed to Disney Springs for the evening! The best decision we made was to keep moving throughout the rest of the day. Easy walking around the shops kept our legs moving and I think it definitely cut down on soreness. We also wore our compression socks.</div>
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After that, it was a crazy couple of days in both the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Visiting Disney World is exhausting even if you haven't just run a marathon, but man is it worth it. We had the best time and made memories that I'll always hold close. Oh, and you KNOW we wore our medals every single Disney day!</div>
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Running the Disney World marathon was the culmination of so much hard work. I loved sharing the experience with my friend and I love the satisfaction and pride of earning that medal.</div>
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Here's to many more racing adventures in 2017!</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-62613890745076316642017-02-09T10:41:00.000-05:002017-10-23T18:45:01.504-04:00Walt Disney World Marathon Part 4: Completing 26.2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>Welcome to my race recap! Read Part 1 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/01/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>, Part 2 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>, and Part 3 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-3-first.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>.</i><br />
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My friend's knee started bothering her during the first half and we split up around mile 15 as she needed to walk for a bit. We kept in touch during the race through Snapchat and phone calls!<br />
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At some point later on in the race, nutrition was available...PowerGels and bananas. I didn't have a super rigid fueling strategy. Just grabbed something here and there beginning at about mile 5 to prevent hitting a wall. (I also brought some mini LaraBars and Gatorade Prime Energy Chews that had worked for me in training.) It was amazing how many volunteers were helping out at these stations. Truly, so much work and organization goes into these events and it really shows.<br />
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The route took us through Magic Kingdom first, then Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot. Of course, in between we were running on main roads, staff roads, and other various hidden areas. There was a long stretch through ESPN Wide World of Sports which thankfully I had read about and tried to be mentally prepared for. It was just as tough as I expected, approximately miles 17-20. Definitely the longest 3 miles of the race, boring stretches without much going on. Those few miles are the only time I needed my music!<br />
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The second half of the marathon got progressively more difficult mentally. Training had prepared me for the tough moments when you really just have to grit your teeth and push through. I was thankful this course was super flat. The two or three inclines were laughable compared to what I'm used to in my neighborhood and it seemed at times like I was the only one still running while everyone else took walking breaks.<br />
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Passing mile marker 20 was a surreal moment since, from that mile on, I was going farther than I had ever run before in training. Somehow my legs just kept moving! Stopping or walking never really occurred to me, but during that last hour it was amazing how many different body parts took turns hurting.<br />
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Finally, it was mile 23. Then 24. Then 25. For the final mile, we ran around the countries in Epcot. As inspirational music swelled and crowds of people cheered, I got a little choked up as I thought, <i>wow, this is really happening... I'm finishing a marathon, like am I a superhero or something?? </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuJ-07q_9tNPIQQgBvnU2CYlFU02Hed2_F0uqfzfiSzXEXdce8B8yIJfyY14BO8yc0LwTEK8Iv0JASN50SjU7GCy5NAzW10fTcTgpn0Nl60gH4zWknW7L7GA2dG1-KvTigRxuuJiSHK4/s1600/IMG_2160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuJ-07q_9tNPIQQgBvnU2CYlFU02Hed2_F0uqfzfiSzXEXdce8B8yIJfyY14BO8yc0LwTEK8Iv0JASN50SjU7GCy5NAzW10fTcTgpn0Nl60gH4zWknW7L7GA2dG1-KvTigRxuuJiSHK4/s320/IMG_2160.jpg" width="240" /></a>During the final miles, spectator support is absolutely invaluable. In the middle of the really rough moments when you're asking yourself if it's worth it or trying to ignore your hip pain or wondering exactly how big that blister is.....someone will yell out "You got this!" or "Great pace!" or "Looking good!" And you'll throw your shoulders back, smile to show your gratitude, and give those people something to watch!<br />
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I lost count of how many times I heard my name as people specifically encouraged runners by reading off our racing bibs. Those cheers meant more than I can express.<br />
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At mile 26 I heard the gospel choir. I threw my hands up in the air and sang along for a minute until I got beyond them and spotted the finish line. WHOA. Donald Duck was standing at the finish line (various characters trade off during the race) and I ran over the line feeling LIKE A BOSS.<br />
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I finished with a time of 5:15:45. I will admit to being a little disappointed with that, especially since I completed my last half marathon with a time of 2:02:57. However, I came to terms with the fact that this was going to be a slower race because of the crowds and craziness. This just means that it will be easy to beat if/when I run my next marathon!<br />
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Stay tuned! I'll do one more wrap-up post soon.<br />
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And only 8 months later...here it is, <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/10/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-5.html"><span style="color: #274e13;">Part 5</span></a>!<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-433134206524626452017-02-03T09:08:00.002-05:002017-10-23T18:36:03.185-04:00Walt Disney World Marathon Part 3: The First 13.1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>Welcome to my race recap! Read Part 1 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/01/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a> and Part 2 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>.</i><br />
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We woke up around 3AM and basically sprang out of bed. This was it! The magical day we had envisioned for months, through endless training runs and long workdays and non-Disney-related moments.<br />
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We got dressed, made sure we had what we needed in our gEAR bags (lol) and caught a bus around 4. Yep, it was cold all right! Started out in the 30s. Not bad running weather, but not really the kind of cold you want to stand around in for hours. I was thankful I had heard you didn't really need to be there 2 hours early like Disney claimed. We ended up having the perfect amount of time to get through traffic, security, gEAR check, port-a-potties, and corrals.<br />
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Wow. I knew runDisney races were crowded but this was a crazy amount of people. After the race, we found out that there were over 17,000 finishers (not including people who started and didn't finish for various reasons). Disney is nothing if not organized though, and we calmly moved through the horde to get to our starting corral.<br />
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I had gotten into Corral F (corrals ran from A-P, with P being the largest including the walkers) which was a result of my proof of time from my last half marathon. My friend was in Corral J, so we decided to start together there. However, somehow we ended up in Corral K. Oh, well.<br />
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We watched as corral after corral was sent off in a blaze of fireworks, with Mickey counting down for each start. How magical is that?<br />
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Runners were huddled in clumps all around us and it was pretty amusing to see the get-ups inspired by the desire to be warm. Resort towels, garbage bags, and even a bathrobe were on full display. As we moved up to the start, more and more of these comfort objects were tossed to the side (and picked up by people waiting in later corrals!). Disney collected and donated all the throwaway clothes; this happens at many races.<br />
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Finally it was OUR countdown and OUR fireworks. Go! Shortly after 6AM, we set off in the darkness. The first few miles flew by and we drank in every little thing. Running under the Magic Kingdom entrance and seeing the first few character stops, we couldn't stop smiling.<br />
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As we ran down Main Street towards the castle, I wanted to freeze time and savor the moment, but we had to keep moving! Our pace was slow and steady even from the beginning because of several reasons. First, we were with slower runners and, in the middle of huge crowds, we really had to run the pace of those around us. Second, the course was narrow at times and we had to keep our eyes open for people suddenly walking (thanks, Jeff Galloway), veering off to meet spectators, or stopping for a quick selfie. Third, we were focused on enjoying the unique runDisney experience and meeting our own personal goals. Mine was to run the whole marathon...that's it!<br />
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I see why people get addicted to runDisney races. It is my favorite race I have ever done. Period. Nothing beats the magic! True it was crowded and crazy and of course it was difficult, but the pros greatly outweighed the cons.<br />
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Runner support was phenomenal. Water/Powerade stops were nearly every mile, with dozens of volunteers ready to assist. Multiple aid stations had everything from Vaseline to Biofreeze (I used both!). Thousands of spectators cheered, offered food, and held up signs.<br />
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Many runners were in costumes, so that was fun to see. Lots of great people-watching opportunities! Each mile marker had a different Disney character(s) on it along with accompanying music. Character stops were plentiful, and even though I never stopped for one, I enjoyed seeing them as I ran by. They included Beauty and the Beast, stilt walkers, the dragon float from the Festival of Fantasy parade, Lilo and Stitch, and even Oswald the Lucky Rabbit! It seemed we were always coming up on unique characters and many racers took full advantage, lining up for a picture. My friend and I weren't interested in standing a line during a marathon, though!<br />
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Running through the parks was the absolute <i>best</i>, everything I dreamed it would be. One of my favorite places was Africa in the Animal Kingdom. Such great theming! I had heard that it was possible to ride Expedition Everest halfway through the race but unfortunately we ran past it too early and it wasn't open for riders yet. I definitely would've done it if I had the opportunity though!<br />
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Honestly, the first 13.1 miles flew by. Months of training had paid off and I was feeling great.<br />
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Would the magical Disney runner's high help me "go the distance?" Stay tuned...<br />
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<i>Keep going! Read Part 4 </i><a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-4.html"><span style="color: #274e13;">here</span></a>...<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-90086032648341465522017-02-01T08:49:00.001-05:002017-10-23T22:34:58.668-04:00Walt Disney World Marathon Part 2: Getting There<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>Welcome to my race recap! Read Part 1 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/01/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here.</span></a></i><br />
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My friend and I had signed up for the Walt Disney Marathon in April, when registration first opened. Our conversation went something like this...<br />
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Me: I mean, if I was ever going to run a marathon I would want it to be in Disney World.<br />
Her: You don't have to convince me! I would totally do it.<br />
Me: Wait, are you serious?<br />
Her: Are you?<br />
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The marathon wasn't until January, so we had a long time to look forward to it. We spent our time completing a Color Run 5K, a Mud Run 5K, a Hot Chocolate 15K, and a Run & Ride Half Marathon. Yes I admit I had been bitten by the racing bug and I was loving it!<br />
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Hal Higdon's marathon training plan that we followed was an 18 week schedule and we plunged right in. I wrote how many miles I was to run each day in my calendar and completed them like it was my JOB. I wasn't going to be disgraced in front of Mickey Mouse, no way. If I was going to do this, I was going to do it right.<br />
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After months of anticipation, training, enormous amounts of food to satisfy our increasing appetites, and Disney-related reading/music/gifs/what-have-you, we found ourselves in Orlando on Saturday, January 7. Weather-related delays and turbulence on the flight had my stomach in knots, and the stress only increased when we realized we were going to be cutting it closer than we wanted to at the expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports.<br />
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Nevertheless, we were extremely grateful that our race was still on after hearing that the half marathon had been cancelled due to lightning. I can only imagine how devastating that news was to the runners. On a positive note, Disney seemed to handle things extremely well and we heard of runners making the most of things, as runners are prone to do. I saw many people out getting their miles in anyway on Disney property. Typical!<br />
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Unable to fully enjoy the Magical Express as I kept watching the clock, I self-soothed by eating handfuls of peanut butter M&Ms. Now that I was finally hungry, of course we didn't have time to get any real food. At the resort we didn't have time to leave our carry-ons, instead we hopped on the bus to the expo.<br />
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When we finally held our official bibs in our hands I almost sobbed with relief. Okay, now this was actually happening! My proudest moment of the day was scoring a free banana and apple slices at the Chiquita booth by tossing a beanbag through a hole. Apple slices for my empty stomach and a banana for pre-race fuel!<br />
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We had intended to do some resort-hopping but our matching faces of exhaustion reassured each other we were on the same page. We headed back to our resort, All-Star Movies, and went straight to the food court. It was time to carbo-load, and we chose macaroni and cheese and pizza. We ordered way too much food, so enjoyed leftovers over the next couple days.<br />
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While eating, we talked about the weather again. It was going to be cold. The temperature had been dropping and Sunday morning it would be 30s at the race's start, 5:30AM. I had brought a throwaway jacket to wear over my tank top and arm sleeves but I was getting nervous since I knew we would be standing around for a bit before actually running. After reading a tip online, I asked a janitor emptying garbage in the food court for two trash bags to help us keep warm at the starting line, which she happily supplied.<br />
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Oh yes, now we're ready! Early to bed!<br />
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<i>Keep going! Part 3 is <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-3-first.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>.</i></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-60648585500187480382017-01-31T08:48:00.000-05:002017-02-01T09:07:23.761-05:00Walt Disney World Marathon Part 1: The Training<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Yes, I'm just going to casually post this here even though it has been quite a while. Does this mean I'm going to start posting regularly? No promises.<br />
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However, because I love reading others' race recaps and Disney World vacation blogs, I'm writing about my experiences here. And if you're like me and obsessively comb the internet for these kinds of updates, this is especially for you!<br />
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So, I ran a marathon. *blush*<br />
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And that was the easy part! I had heard that running the actual marathon could be considered a "victory lap" after all the training, but I'll admit I had my doubts. I mean, victory lap? Seriously? Running 26.2 miles did not seem like it was going to feel that easy breezy.<br />
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Now of course I know where that perception comes from. Training for a marathon is really really tough. I ran most of my miles alone, with no cheering crowds or water stations. Runners have to be self-motivated. Here's the thing: running takes discipline. If you want to run a race and you want to meet a particular goal or goals, you have to be willing to stick it out even when no one but you knows (or cares!) if you are logging the miles or not.<br />
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You have to run in the rain or the heat or the cold.<br />
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You have to run when you're sad or tired or whiny or anxious.<br />
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You have to run because you made yourself a promise...a promise that you're not going to be one of those people who registers for a race and then blows off the training. You're going to stick it out.<br />
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And I did! I really did. I followed a Hal Higdon marathon training plan since I felt like I had good success with his half marathon plan. I ran nearly every single run on that schedule, missing only one or two due to sickness. I got up early or I ran after work. I piled on layers or I wore my cap to keep the rain out of my eyes. I pranced through newly-fallen snow like a focused, non-flying reindeer.<br />
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And I am immensely proud of myself for this. My confidence increased. I would run up a hill a little faster just to prove I could do it. Each time I completed a run that I started out dreading, it was like I was showing myself that yes, this was possible and yes, I was up to the challenge.<br />
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The first training run I completed that was longer than 13.1 miles (a half marathon) was a big step. Then I cleared 16 miles. Then 18. And finally, before the taper, 20. I was running four times a week, farther and farther. My friend, who has been by my side for nearly all my races was my accountability partner. We ran our long runs together every Saturday. We sent each other pictures on Snapchat to encourage each other. We reminded ourselves of the end goal:<br />
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The Walt Disney World Marathon.<br />
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<i>Keep going! Read Part 2 <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2017/02/walt-disney-world-marathon-part-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here.</span></a></i></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-81425096015054522252015-10-25T14:02:00.001-04:002015-10-25T14:02:50.093-04:00Because I'm Only Half-Crazy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I just completed my first (!) half marathon.<br />
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Crazy, right? Who'd have ever thought?<br />
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4 years ago, I ran regularly on a treadmill, working up to 7 miles. One of my New Year's resolutions that year was to run 10 miles, but I never did.<br />
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Last year, I started running again. My gym membership expired and I decided not to renew. Running is a cheap sport, right? This time I took it outside. I realized I enjoyed dodging chipmunks a lot more than staring at numbers on a screen.<br />
<br />
Earlier this year, I ran my first 5k. It was a color run, so it was just plain fun with no pressure. It was so much fun in fact that before I knew it my friend had talked me into registering for a half marathon with her. She is extremely persuasive, not to mention optimistic.<br />
<br />
These past few months, I've been training. I used a schedule that helped me build my mileage each week. I hit 8 miles, the longest I'd ever run. Then 9. Then 10 - my 2011 New Year's resolution! My confidence grew and a half marathon seemed possible. I even stopped using the word "allegedly" as I told more people of my plans to run 13.1 miles.<br />
<br />
The morning of the race, anxiety hit. What if I couldn't do it? What if I had to walk, or even worse, stop? What if I didn't taper correctly? Did I run too much the week of? Not enough? It was going to be 30 degrees. How much should I wear?<br />
<br />
My alarm was set for 5AM. I woke up at 3. There would be no more rest. I tried to talk myself down from the ledge but there was no reasoning with this panic attack. Spreading peanut butter on a piece of Ezekiel bread gave me something to do, but the smell turned my stomach. Twenty minutes in the car on the way to the race and I'd swallowed two bites. Woof.<br />
<br />
As soon as my friend and I arrived on-site, I started feeling better. This was real, this was happening and it was all going to be fine! I promised myself that after this, I never had to run again if I didn't want to. That was, um, super reassuring.<br />
<br />
Bundled up in our extra "throwaway" clothes, we waited in line for the port-a-potties. We wanted the full experience, after all. In no time at all, the race was on and my adrenaline was kicking into high gear. No corrals, so there was some confusion. Close to 5,000 runners made for a crowded start.<br />
<br />
We started out and it was odd but exhilarating to run with so many people. The first 3 miles were a blur. I couldn't believe how quickly they went. I got my first "taste" of an aid station and enjoyed the true race experience of grabbing a cup from a volunteer's hand and attempting to drink the water while running. (Result: failure and mild humiliation with a side of dribbling.)<br />
<br />
Around mile 7 and 8 things started getting hairy. The never-ending rolling hills had me fearing every turn. It felt like we kept climbing and climbing. Periodically I would chew another gummy from the bag I was tightly clutching and visualize an energy boost. I kept thinking that I COULDN'T stop and I WOULDN'T walk. No matter what. I was going to run the whole way.<br />
<br />
My saving grace was the spectators. People of all ages, bundled up outside their homes and on the streets with signs and cheers of encouragement. When I was trying to remember why I had ever thought this was a good idea, I heard cries of "You can do it!" "Great pace!" and "You're doing awesome!" I'm so thankful for people who will get up early and do this. I'm sure for a lot of runners it made the difference between carrying on and quitting. I know it did for me.<br />
<br />
I hit mile 11. The farthest I'd ever run previously was 10.5. I hit mile 12. One mile left! How hard can that be?<br />
<br />
Pretty hard, apparently. It was the most difficult mile as I subconsciously increased my speed and started feeling like I didn't have much left in the tank. It was a surreal final few minutes as time seemed to slow and I felt so. spent. Trying to keep myself distracted, I cued up what had become my theme song of the past few months, "On My Way Home" by Pentatonix. Most of my training runs had ended with that song. I had tried to imagine what it would feel like to finish 13.1 miles. Now it was finally happening.<br />
<br />
At the end I strained to at least beat one woman who was ahead of me, you know, because I'm that cool. As I slowed to a walk my legs did NOT like it and I felt like I would fall over. I received my medal and walked around in a state of stunned silence. 2 hours, 21 minutes, and 34 seconds. I had thought I would perhaps cry or smile or leap over the finish line or something. None of that happened, just a sort of numbness.<br />
<br />
Reflecting on my experience now I have to remind myself to be proud. This is a big deal! I did what I set out to do! Slower than I wanted, and not with as much pizzazz, but I did it. Sadly I am tempted to compare myself to others who passed me along the way, but I'm not telling their stories. This is mine. My journey. My sweat. My pain. My fears. My determination.<br />
<br />
This race has reinforced for me a lesson I've been learning all year: I am stronger than I think and I need to find opportunities to prove this to myself. Adventure, travel, discovery: I want to say yes! My fear is that years will pass one after another, all the same. I am determined to take advantage of new opportunities and not let fear or complacency hold me back.<br />
<br />
I will do hard things. If only to prove to myself I can.<br />
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-17519899934977154752015-04-14T08:45:00.000-04:002015-04-14T08:45:06.578-04:00Packing Rhymes With Snacking (What I'd Rather Be Doing)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Guys. I am so not good at this blogging thing.<br />
<br />
Do me a favor. Take a look at some posts from two or three years ago. Look how consistent I was! Are you impressed?<br />
<br />
Here's another thing I'm not stellar at: packing.<br />
<br />
I recently got back from a pretty super awesome trip, which I will (fingers crossed!) write about more later. But in the days leading up to said trip, I was preoccupied with "packing," loosely defined here as piles of random objects slowly inching closer and closer to my suitcase.<br />
<br />
When it comes to packing, I am very visual. I don't like anything to be hidden away until right up until the last possible moment. Out of sight, out of mind. I just know I will forget what I've already packed, even if I check it off a list.<br />
<br />
Yes, I love lists. No, I just don't feel like I can trust them when it comes to packing!<br />
<br />
So my floor becomes a maze of shoes, leggings, Clif bars, scarves, lotions, books, etc. in piles that get larger and more spread out as the days go on. Sporadically, like a grumpy lumbering bear, I'll hulk around the piles and shuffle things around.<br />
<br />
During the week of packing (it is an EVENT, I tell you!), I get to have fun nightmares where I have either forgotten something important on my trip or I have to pack in five minutes because I'm leaving early for some reason.<br />
<br />
And then of course there are the items I need to pack that I truly do have to wait until the last minute for because I'm still using them (makeup, I'm talking to you).<br />
<br />
For a girl who loves her lists, they are surprisingly unhelpful when it comes to packing. Not sure why. I will make them, but they are barely coherent and rarely consulted.<br />
<br />
Packing helps me get excited for a trip so I can anticipate what I'll be doing, but it also makes me a nervous, disorganized wreck. I'll relax when it all gets UNpacked!<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="http://festivetravelpartner.com/packing-for-your-trip-pre-vacation-drama/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://festivetravelpartner.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/clothing-pile_fa.jpg" /></a>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-32915690156033428132015-02-21T11:09:00.000-05:002015-02-21T11:10:34.796-05:00Read This Blog Post and You Won't BELIEVE What Happens Next!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.motherfitness.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Surprised-Baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.motherfitness.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Surprised-Baby.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pixshark.com/happy-surprised-child-face.htm" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Nothing. Nothing happens.<br />
<br />
This was a total waste of time.<br />
<br />
Honestly, you should've seen this coming.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-56417334758332486422015-02-06T09:45:00.001-05:002015-02-06T09:45:44.759-05:00A Salute to Nutella<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So yesterday was World Nutella Day. And what a day it was! Baking with Nutella was a must. On Wednesday, I spent far too much time browsing online to locate the perfect recipe.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b0/6c/e4/b06ce401c0f0f3e5db0b0d760ef0c679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b0/6c/e4/b06ce401c0f0f3e5db0b0d760ef0c679.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lesbonsplansdegandalf.eklablog.com/-a108483298" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I settled on <a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/2013/05/05/nutella-stuffed-cinnamon-sugar-muffins-2/" target="_blank">Nutella-Stuffed Cinnamon Sugar Muffins</a>. Goodness gracious. I followed the instructions almost exactly, using half whole wheat and half white flour. I was especially excited to get tips on how to make muffins with nice tall domed tops. (Thick batter, full muffin tin cups, and the first 5 minutes of baking time at 425 degrees.)<br />
<br />
Well, maybe excited is not quite the right word...<i>interested</i>, I was interested. The excitement hit around the time the oven timer went off...<br />
<br />
They turned out quite nicely if I do say so myself. And the cinnamon and sugar coating on the top really takes these guys to the next level.<br />
<br />
The amount of Nutella in each muffin is perfect. Honestly, though of course I love the stuff (as any sane person does), I don't go nuts with it. I notice when as I try to keep processed/sugary foods out of my diet that products like Nutella start to seem extra sweet. In a *yipes my teeth hurt* kind of way. So a little goes a long way! If you're looking to enjoy the good stuff, this is a nice simple recipe to try. And there's wheat flour in there, so it's almost a breakfast food, right? Right?</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-60609578401766268992015-01-29T08:50:00.001-05:002015-01-29T08:50:32.380-05:00See You Soon, Big Baboon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I feel that there are few things on this earth more gratifying than reading to children.<br />
<br />
Seriously, if *all* my job involved was storytime, I would be a happy camper.<br />
<br />
Tuesday is my big storytime day - I have 3 groups. Though each storytime is 30 minutes, the day simply flies by. At 5PM, I am utterly spent. And utterly blissful.<br />
<br />
It doesn't matter how many times a sweet voice calls me "Miss Laura." I can't get enough.<br />
<br />
When a child starts at the very back edge of the storytime rug, clinging to a parent, and then by the end of our time together has crept up closer and is hanging on every word, I feel like I won the lottery.<br />
<br />
Even when I have a particularly rowdy bunch, there is always at least one moment when everyone is silent. When a story has captured the attention of every child and adult in the room. When I sneak a glance around, taking my eyes from the pages, and see mouths hanging open and eyes fixed in concentration.<br />
<br />
The moment passes; we jump up to sing a song. I'm a rock star surrounded by adoring fans.<br />
<br />
At the end, right before we move to the craft tables, we sing our goodbye song. Little voices pipe up proudly, everyone knows this well since we sing it every week:<br />
<br />
See you later, alligator; in a while, crocodile.<br />
Give a hug, ladybug; blow a kiss, jellyfish.<br />
See you soon, big baboon; out the door, dinosaur.<br />
Take care, polar bear; wave goodbye, butterfly!<br />
(Source: this lovely <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKUpFtJiyKQ" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;">video</span></a>)<br />
<br />
Hugs, shy thank-you's, waves. They show me their completed crafts, bursting with pride.<br />
<br />
My heart is so full.<br />
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-63468656699210977452015-01-16T08:30:00.001-05:002015-01-16T09:26:11.232-05:00Ding Dong Merrily<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Before Christmas, I participated in something new. I volunteered as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://kytx.images.worldnow.com/images/13628564_BG1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://kytx.images.worldnow.com/images/13628564_BG1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&ved=0CAQQjxw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbs19.tv%2Fstory%2F13628564%2Fsalvation-army-has-immediate-need-for-bell-ringers&ei=WP-vVJTXHoLesATpqoDACg&psig=AFQjCNF3I21vTuJpm779T4c_dn5FFFEZzQ&ust=1420906712600467" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Crazy, right? I always wondered who these people were that I saw ringing bells outside Wal-Mart. Seems simple enough, though. I mean, anyone can stand and ring a bell.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I got involved through my library and the local Rotary. Minimal instructions were given, but I showed up at the appointed time at a nearby shopping center. I was bundled up and ready to go for two hours.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The volunteer I was replacing passed me the bell and apron, and I started ringing my little heart out.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And ringing.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
And ringing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And ringing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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Has it been two hours yet? What? 10 minutes?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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Let's just say that I really underestimated the toughness required to stick it out in the elements. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The dancing around was a necessity, really. Had to keep the blood circulating.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was pleasantly surprised at how many people gave. Most donations were a dollar, but it varied. Some gave on their way into the store, while others promised to give on the way out. Either way, they got a smile and a "Merry Christmas!" from me. (And the guy who just said "Aren't you cold?" and did not donate got a bonus fake laugh.) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Honestly, it was a joy to feel like I was helping in some small way. And all the lovely people I met made the experience feel truly gratifying. And, not to brag, but my crazy good bell-ringing skills and winning smile had people stuffing $$$ in that red bucket like nobody's business.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Of course, awkwardness finds me no matter what, and bell-ringing was no exception. I kept running into the problem of whether or not to keep ringing while someone was fumbling in a purse or wallet. I didn't want to stop and stare, but it seemed strange to RINGRINGRING when they were standing there in the act. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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I don't mean to rush you, but RINGRINGRING.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
By the end of the two hours, most of my body parts were numb and I was more than willing to relinquish the bell, which by now just felt like an extension of my hand. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Uncomfortably cold? Yes. Lengthy and at times boring? Yes. Will I do it again next year?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also yes!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-43890039138851234552015-01-01T13:14:00.002-05:002015-01-01T13:14:30.568-05:00Smelling Chocolate Once Again<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
New Year's Day: the ultimate Monday.<br />
<br />
And what a perfect day to plunge back into this blog, which YES I have neglected for an entire year. What of it?<br />
<br />
Time to begin again. To discipline myself by writing and sharing. To put my feelings into thoughts and my thoughts into words. And then to present them to the internet.<br />
<br />
Woof.<br />
<br />
Beginning January 1, 2014, I became Head of Youth Services at the library I have worked at full-time since my college graduation. In August 2014, I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a master's degree in Library and Information Science. In short, it has been the fastest year of my life.<br />
<br />
If you're joining me for the first time, or just trying to catch up and remember what is up with the chocolate, take a look back at some posts through the years:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2010/11/oh-shes-just-shy.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">On introverts</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2012/02/you-know-youre-librarian-if.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">On being a librarian</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2013/05/in-childrens-library.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">On the children's library</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2012/03/and-may-odds-be-ever-in-your-favor.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">On The Hunger Games</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2013/03/wait-second-bunnies-dont-lay-eggs.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">On hope</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2011/07/harry-potter.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">On Harry Potter</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2012/06/food-glorious-food.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">On nutrition</span></a><br />
<br />
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</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-48186323000746736692014-01-03T12:01:00.001-05:002014-01-03T12:01:20.865-05:00Since Last Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Whoa! New Year! Where did that come from?<br />
<br />
Over the last few weeks it feels like I've just been running around. Seeing lots of friends and family. Playing games. Eating cookies like they're goin' out of style. Rushing to the gym. Traveling. Gifting people with the perfect Christmas presents. Receiving some awesome ones. Saying "See you next year!" to people (it never gets old).<br />
<br />
Enjoying the break from classes (not sure how I could cram them in now anyway). Looking forward to only 2 more semesters, baby!!<br />
<br />
Made this insanely delicious<span style="color: #38761d;"> <a href="http://www.thefrugalgirl.com/2011/02/wednesday-baking-caramel-monkey-bread/" target="_blank">monkey bread</a> </span>for Christmas morning.<br />
<br />
Watched season 1 of Sherlock, after about 17 (well, not quite) people told me I needed to watch it. Loved it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="176" src="http://smartladieslovestuff.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Benedict-in-Sherlock-benedict-cumberbatch-14550644-632-348.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smartladieslovestuff.com/stuffwelove/smart-ladies-love-awards-shows-our-golden-globe-picks/attachment/benedict-in-sherlock-benedict-cumberbatch-14550644-632-348" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">Source</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Bought <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6C2N2t4NXE" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">Pentatonix</span></a> albums because they rock my socks.<br />
<br />
And now it's cold cold COLD. And super snowy. Couldn't make it up my hill yesterday after coming back from work. Needed some assistance. Embarrassing. <br />
<br />
So that's what's up with me! Planning the new year and plotting how I can manage this blog! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you dear readers!<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-8340287807323334932013-12-20T11:11:00.001-05:002013-12-20T11:11:11.027-05:00Care for Salt with Your Snow?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I meant to write a Thanksgiving post.<br />
<br />
I meant to write a snow-related post.<br />
<br />
I meant to write a fun Christmas post like<span style="color: #38761d;"> <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2011/12/frosty-is-dead.html" target="_blank">this one</a></span>. Or<span style="color: #38761d;"> <a href="http://smellthechocolate.blogspot.com/2010/12/little-known-ways-to-celebrate-holiday.html" target="_blank">this one</a></span>.<br />
<br />
But it is just NOT HAPPENING, people!<br />
<br />
Besides school and work, I've got cookies to bake! Presents to wrap! Josh Groban to listen to!<br />
<br />
Lots going on. Lots coming up in 2014. Change is coming for me. More on that later.<br />
<br />
For now, let me just say one final word on -<br />
<br />
<i>how disgusting my car looks right now</i>.<br />
<br />
Trucks have been tossing salt around like the Swedish Chef in his kitchen. Like crazy. We've had delays and closings and people freaking out and people running to the grocery store. So, typical winter weather in this area. I love love love having snow on the ground in December as long as I don't have to drive in anything unreasonable. And as long as I can make it up my intense hill (a burst of speed usually helps as I begin my ascent).<br />
<br />
So anyway, lots of snow means lots of salt and whatever else is in that dirty mixture that is all over the roads. I hate the gritty feeling under my shoes but I would rather feel that then my legs flying out from under me, I suppose. And as a result of all that road grit, my car is really looking like it's feeling the dismal winter blues. Sorry, pal. There's really no use in cleaning you at this point. Why bother? You'll just get yucky again.<br />
<br />
I have almost walked past my car in parking lots because it just doesn't look right. Oh well. At least every other car on the road is in the same situation. Except a few. Really? Are you washing your car every day?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="282" src="http://socalmountains.com/e107_files/public/1363713736_2392_FT184450_cartoon-snow-shovel-boy-122710.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://socalmountains.com/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?184450" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">Source</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-24975447135264074732013-11-22T11:27:00.002-05:002013-11-22T11:27:24.621-05:00It's Midnight Somewhere...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Definitely went to the premiere of Catching Fire last night. With my sister and brother.<br />
<br />
And guess what? I didn't even have to stay up until 3am! 8 o'clock premiere, baby! And let me tell you, I'm never going back. You not only get to go to bed at a decent hour, but also see the movie before the other "die-hard" fans do at midnight! As we passed the line in the theater leaving around 10:30, I said <i>again</i> how glad I was we did 8pm.<br />
<br />
*caution: there may be spoilers ahead*<br />
<br />
So how was the movie? Long. Don't get me wrong, I wanted it to be long. I was sorry when it was over. But I definitely felt the length. There was a slow buildup to the Quarter Quell, and as in the first movie, you could really feel Katniss's desperation as she entered the arena. This was intensified as Katniss watched Cinna be attacked as she ascended to the arena, unable to do anything but scream and pound on the glass.<br />
<br />
I can't emphasize this enough: Jennifer Lawrence is stunning. She is so perfect for conveying Katniss's fear, rage, defiance, and stubbornness. There was more of a love triangle than in the first movie, but I didn't really mind that. I felt it stayed true to the book. There was a moment where you could see Gale excited about rebellion, definitely foreshadowing for Mockingjay.<br />
<br />
I am such a sucker for Peeta. He is strong in ways Katniss is not. She needs him so she doesn't fall apart. And he is so patient with her. Josh Hutcherson's eyes get me so bad. Him trying to comfort her as the jabberjays cried out in their loved ones' voices gave me goosebumps.<br />
<br />
I almost cried once, and that was when Katniss spun and her wedding gown turned into a mockingjay. Then Peeta dropped the "baby bomb," the tributes held hands, and the Capitol citizens were in outrage. Other scenes of rebellion during the Victory Tour not only gave the audience a taste of the Capitol's persecution but of people's courage and boldness. In the final two movies we will see how Katniss reacts to being the symbol of the rebellion.<br />
<br />
So, the other tributes. Mags was so cute. Johanna so sassy and dangerous. Finnick shone, with that gorgeous smile and heart-wrenching moments. Beetee and Wiress were easy to love at first glance. Can't wait to see more of Annie.<br />
<br />
Haymitch, Effie, Caesar. They're the best. Effie's tears as Peeta and Katniss were once again off to the Games were very touching. Her outfits were also completely fabulous.<br />
<br />
The scenes in the arena were so much more terrifying than the last movie. Higher stakes, more dangerous competitors, the scariest-looking monkeys I've ever seen, and of course...TICK TOCK. Through it all, Katniss struggles to remember who the real enemy is.<br />
<br />
My adrenaline was coursing, each moment was more intense, and the finale was breathtaking. At the end of it all, I felt as though I had come through an emotional marathon. This was a movie not only true to the book, but to the original movie. Francis Lawrence carried on the story so well.<br />
<br />
Can't wait to see it again. But I'm gonna need some time!<br />
<br />
<img height="210" src="http://sciencefiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Catching-Fire-catching-fire-movie-33836550-1280-673.jpg" width="400" /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-76932091015784680592013-11-15T12:58:00.001-05:002013-11-15T12:58:48.950-05:00More Than Just a "Comment"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Why.<br />
<br />
Why, why, why, why.<br />
<br />
Why?<br />
<br />
Why do I read the comments?<br />
<br />
It's not like I'm ever going to be pleasantly surprised.<br />
<br />
I must just like to torture myself.<br />
<br />
I'm reading an article, watching a video clip, looking at a blog. My head says NO but my rebellious finger scrolls down the page anyway to view the comment section.<br />
<br />
Horrifying insults. Disrespectful words. Vile language that few would have the guts to say to anyone's face.<br />
<br />
The internet is typically a pretty cool place. Information. Shared ideas, words, creativity. Easily accessible. You can say what you want to say. Everyone has an audience.<br />
<br />
But. People are so quick to type out a scathing opinion. So eager to engage in a pointless argument. So ready to gang up on someone with a different point of view.<br />
<br />
We all know bullying is wrong. Parents, teach your children to be nice! Be polite! Use your manners! The golden rule!<br />
<br />
But I'm not reading comments by children. I'm reading comments by adults.<br />
<br />
People who write those comments: Is it brave, what you do? Is it sticking up for yourself? Is it helping someone understand?<br />
<br />
It's teaching someone a lesson. It's belittling someone's point of view. It's stepping on someone's feelings.<br />
<br />
It's setting yourself up above someone else. By pushing that someone down. That's bullying. It's always been around, but now it's different. It's online. It's fast, it's easy, it's widespread, it's anonymous. Mocking, biting sarcasm that not everyone is strong enough to withstand.<br />
<br />
People are killing themselves after being torn down online. Kids are growing up typing, hammering out their blunt feelings on issues because they are learning that they are valuable and important only at the expense of others who are not as coolsmartfunfashionablesexy as them.<br />
<br />
This should not be okay. THIS SHOULD NOT BE OKAY.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://static2.fjcdn.com/thumbnails/comments/anonymous+rolled+a+random+image+posted+in+comment+21+at+_96cff4c15a0652643240a5e07005bd7b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://www.funnyjunk.com/Midgets/funny-pictures/4868391/" target="_blank">Source</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-44051315926172423762013-10-28T12:12:00.001-04:002013-10-28T12:12:27.390-04:00Hello, Sugar!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Nope.<br />
<br />
Didn't do it.<br />
<br />
Attempt #1 at the Sugar Detox was a fail. At least in terms of completing it. I made it 8 glorious days before I got concerned that I was doing something wrong.<br />
<br />
I was feeling okay, not like I was starving myself. However, I was definitely missing out on "something."<br />
<br />
I started feeling weak and lethargic. I could barely lift easy weights at the gym. I had heard that I might go through a short workout slump, but when it got to about my fifth workout and things were not getting better, I got concerned. I have worked <i>way </i>too hard at the gym to start losing muscle mass.<br />
<br />
So I gradually added those carbs back in.<br />
<br />
Am I right back to where I started? No. Believe it or not, I did learn a lot. For instance, how crazy dependent I am on sugar. How it ends up in practically everything I eat. I learned that vegetables and protein can be a meal. I learned more about what it feels like to be truly hungry versus bored or anxious. I learned that WOW a Gala apple can seriously taste like candy.<br />
<br />
This past week, my meals have been mostly vegetables, instead of mostly carbs. I am working on key concepts like balance and fuel, as opposed to emotional eating. For me, eating better has been about planning and some extra work in the kitchen. Being prepared makes a big difference.<br />
<br />
This is not the end of me trying new eating plans. I enjoy learning about nutrition far too much for that! However, if I do anything close to this plan again, I will not wait so long before eating a banana or two. My enthusiasm to try something new sometimes escalates into too much too soon. This leads to frustration.<br />
<br />
I of course have to end this post with a new recipe I found! I have been enjoying coconut milk as a healthy fat, and this <a href="http://canadagirleatspaleo.com/2013/08/16/chocolate-chia-seed-pudding-21dsd-approved/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding</span></a> has the perfect level of sweetness.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="023-001 - Copy" height="320" src="http://canadagirleatspaleo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/023-001-Copy_thumb.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="309" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://canadagirleatspaleo.com/2013/08/16/chocolate-chia-seed-pudding-21dsd-approved/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span id="goog_1296450781"></span>Source</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-16089627956479327112013-10-17T11:49:00.001-04:002013-10-17T11:49:54.659-04:0021 Days...WHAT?!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So I decided to do a <a href="http://the21daysugardetox.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">21-day sugar detox</span></a>.<br />
<br />
No, this isn't going to turn into a food blog. Although, I do happen to write about food a lot. What kind of blog is this, anyway? Hm.<br />
<br />
I decided to do it because it's a limited amount of time and I thought it would be good for me. I won't be eating like this forever. I'm hoping to learn what I can do without. I can do anything for 21 days. Or, we'll see, I suppose.<br />
<br />
Hello, my name is Laura. I have a problem with sugar. And overeating things with sugar.<br />
<br />
Even my spinach salads have to include dried fruit. And though I try to make healthy choices, I sabotage myself due to a lack of self-control. One piece of dark chocolate turns into a cookie. That cookie multiples into a few (ahem) more. Then it seems like a good idea to eat frosted mini-wheats for dinner (but it's with soy milk!).<br />
<br />
So I'm on day 3. I didn't purchase the book, but I did read about a lot of other people's experiences online. I'm following the basic plan as closely as I can, including no simple carbs, dairy, or fruit as well as obvious sugary products like cookies.<br />
<br />
So spinach, not oatmeal. Almond milk, not cheese. Fish, not my beloved Ezekiel bread. The original plan does exclude some things I have chosen not to, such as black beans and natural peanut butter. Both are organic and do not include sugar.<br />
<br />
It is pretty close to Paleo, except for the whole "no fruit" thing. I will be adding fruit in after 21 days, in case anyone was wondering. Here is another helpful <a href="http://www.rosecole.com/handouts/21DaySugarDetox.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">resource</span></a> I found that was just a smidge less restrictive than the original plan.<br />
<br />
I know I am only a few days in, but I'm feeling pretty good. Certainly nothing close to some of the nightmarish accounts I found online. I am enjoying a good variety of foods, such as tuna, mashed cauliflower, spaghetti squash, chicken, carrots, salsa, hummus, & eggs. Knowing myself, I have to mix it up and not try to eat 2 salads every day. I am also cooking a lot of veggies, since raw veggies tend to make me mean.<br />
<br />
So why am I posting this on my blog? Partly because it helps me be accountable. Partly because someone may find it interesting or helpful. Partly because it's my blog, and, well....<br />
<br />
Wish me luck! Especially as 3 days without ice cream is kind of a record for me.<br />
<br />
And happy season premiere of The Biggest Loser! I am loving the new shortened episode format. I realize that show is not perfect (or always accurate...), but I sort of love it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="http://eudoraorganics.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/95f7d640d4702089129b50601987f562.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="251" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://eudoraorganics.wordpress.com/2013/04/30/my-clean-eating-inspiration/" target="_blank">Source</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-83902709752360788552013-10-04T11:35:00.004-04:002013-10-04T11:35:33.723-04:00In One Ear<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="In One Ear and Out the Other Antiqued Copper Earrings" height="320" src="http://www.artfire.com/uploads/product/6/986/34986/4034986/4034986/large/in_one_ear_and_out_the_other_antiqued_copper_earrings_818f1549.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/CirclesofStone/4034986/In_One_Ear_and_Out_the_Other_Antiqued_Copper_Earrings/Jewelry/Earrings/Metalsmithed" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">Source</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sometimes I feel like a broken record.<br />
<br />
(And yes, I realize that expression is now ironic as records are now obsolete except for hipster usage.)<br />
<br />
It feels like I say the same types of thing every day at the library.<br />
<br />
Usually I say these things because people A) don't listen or B) aren't observant.<br />
<br />
It is unfortunate that I have such a sarcastic sense of humor. It is sometimes hard to stifle the voice in my head.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a bathroom?" Actually, you walked right past it as you were entering the library. And also, of course we have a bathroom!<br />
<br />
When people are just passing through town and don't want to actually apply for a library card, we give them guest passes to use on our computers. These guest passes begin with the same few letters that include part of our library name, as well as some numbers.<br />
<br />
When I give a guest pass to someone, I point out the "I" on the pass that can be mistaken for a "1."<br />
<br />
"Just type in these first few letters, that's an "I" not a "1," and then the numbers."<br />
<br />
Inevitably, people come wandering back up to the counter, confused.<br />
<br />
"It doesn't work."<br />
<br />
"Did you type an "I" or a "1?"<br />
<br />
"Um....a "1."<br />
<br />
"Well, it's an "I."<br />
<br />
"Oh, really?"<br />
<br />
How many of these conversations do I have to have before I lose my mind?<br />
<br />
It's fun to guess which people will get to the computers and immediately struggle. I wouldn't put money on it, but I am a pretty good guesser.<br />
<br />
Library work is customer service work. Customer service means dealing with people. People can be annoying.<br />
<br />
Or how about when people come to the desk all concerned with a book. "It might be overdue...I don't know."<br />
<br />
It's fun to pick up the book when a receipt comes dramatically fluttering out.<br />
<br />
What exactly do you THINK we're handing you when we give you that piece of paper with dates on it?<br />
<br />
And of course, the classic example is trying to explain something to someone and being interrupted. Please just wait for me to get the information out of my mouth before you start asking a question that I am <i>currently trying to answer</i>.<br />
<br />
Everyone has off days. But it does seem like some people really don't care enough to hear and understand sometimes.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-8743084590951395692013-09-20T11:24:00.004-04:002013-09-20T11:24:39.557-04:00Confidence, Procrastination, & Footnotes. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Confidence is a fickle, fickle friend.<br />
<br />
I've either got it or I don't got it. It's amazing how much my environment influences my feelings of confidence. One minute I'm top of the world, the next minute I am worthless.<br />
<br />
Let's not dig too deep into this psychologically, let's just think a bit on how my confidence blooms or wavers when it comes to schoolwork, shall we?<br />
<br />
Yuck. Schoolwork.<br />
<br />
I promise you I used to be more focused when it comes to work. I blame the internet. Now suddenly I can't concentrate unless I have music playing, 17 windows open on Google Chrome, and a snack. Seriously, can I not work on a paper for more than ten minutes without having to read a blog post or refresh my Facebook?<br />
<br />
Seriously. I am writing this blog post as a way to avoid an assignment. This is real.<br />
<br />
And speaking of confidence (wow, off topic much?), I am always always <i>always </i>second-guessing myself when it comes to assignments.<br />
<br />
"I've got all the time in the world!"<br />
<br />
"I will never get all of this done!"<br />
<br />
Sometimes "working on schoolwork" is really just me studying my calendar and planning how long I can put things off.<br />
<br />
I go back and forth all the time. I will accomplish something and pat myself on the back, plan out the rest of my week, and feel good.<br />
<br />
Then two hours later I am having trouble with my internet connection and realizing that APA citation style takes longer when you can't do it free on easybib.com. (Why different citation styles, why? I used MLA throughout my entire college career and now, out of nowhere, come footnotes?? Are you kidding me?)<br />
<br />
My confidence is very fragile, apparently. I try with my lists to stay organized, but I give myself minor heart attacks when I all of a sudden think maybe I've forgotten to submit something. The nightmares aren't helping, either. Why are all my dreams about forgotten assignments? Am I that much of a nerd?<br />
<br />
*Sigh* Okay, back to work. I've got a paper to write.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, these fingernails aren't going to paint themselves.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIIYpfy_qO9FF30W83g3o8DwLz0ClbBJup9QhsRd9GbcVK9JxER04XBqxd7A-NmZyBtjQfnUNTUxfBlL7RCzrhL0wptVOfETFzECWOzDou0RqTr7BnGd4nBmLolSt8um9U-viujf-EIU/s1600/footnotes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIIYpfy_qO9FF30W83g3o8DwLz0ClbBJup9QhsRd9GbcVK9JxER04XBqxd7A-NmZyBtjQfnUNTUxfBlL7RCzrhL0wptVOfETFzECWOzDou0RqTr7BnGd4nBmLolSt8um9U-viujf-EIU/s400/footnotes.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://tex.stackexchange.com/questions/56063/how-to-properly-typeset-footnotes-superscripts-after-punctuation-marks" target="_blank">Source</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Speaking of footnotes, I sort of hate when fiction books do this. The author thinks it would be fun to interject random thoughts speaking as the main character, but it drives me bananas. Because I have to read every one. I have to.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-84650475424737502042013-08-29T08:42:00.002-04:002013-08-29T08:42:41.257-04:00BEST Blog Post U Will Ever Read!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's hard for me to avoid superlatives.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
THIS IS THE BEST COOKIE YOU WILL EVER EAT!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
THIS IS THE FUNNIEST VIDEO YOU WILL EVER SEE!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
YOU ARE GUARANTEED TO CRY MORE THAN YOU EVER HAVE READING THIS BOOK!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Maybe I just want to challenge the claim.</div>
<div>
<br />
I had better cry buckets. Or I had better have the uncontrollable urge to forward this email to 47 of my closest friends.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's just, how can you not check out something so enticing? Especially online. Those videos that promise heart-wrenching stories or side-splitting laughter.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Bring it on, I say. There is so much information being thrown at me every day, I only want the best. Or the saddest. Or the most inspirational. Or the most delicious.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Not that these things always meet my expectations. I am often reminded of this:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/FJuhNDrX008" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
But I am not deterred! I will stay curious to find the next BEST thing.</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-31438344068460702372013-08-20T08:22:00.004-04:002013-08-20T08:22:53.197-04:00Ah, Yes. Right This Way.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
"It had a red cover."<br />
<br />
"The author's name had a 'q' in it."<br />
<br />
The main character has a cat and works in a bakery."<br />
<br />
Oh boy! I love a good book-finding challenge!<br />
<br />
All right, all right. Sometimes it gets a smidge irritating trying to read the mind of whatever random patron is giving me very minimal information.<br />
<br />
Here's a tip: be prepared! We can only do so much.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Google, I just type in whatever the patron says, then keep modifying my search terms and see what I turn up.<br />
<br />
I once spent close to 20 minutes searching online to find a particular mystery series. Every time the patron (an older woman) remembered another detail, I typed it in. My, the satisfaction when I hit up on the correct title!<br />
<br />
If the patron does have some helpful information, though, I like to think of it as a challenge to remember a particular author or title. (J.K. Rowling's new book published under a pseudonym? <i>The Cuckoo's Calling</i>. As if I wouldn't know that!)<br />
<br />
I'm always happy to help a patron remember a particularly elusive title. I feel like Super Librarian! As he or she exclaims in awe over my skill, all I can do is bask in their admiration.<br />
<br />
"It's no trouble," I say. "That's why they pay me the big bucks."<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://popgoesthelibrarian.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/ostrich-librarian.jpg?w=584" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://popgoesthelibrarian.wordpress.com/page/2/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">Source</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-73322611565886805592013-08-08T08:38:00.000-04:002013-08-08T08:41:38.043-04:00An Introverted Summer (Hint: I've Been Reading a Lot)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Aaaahhhh....<br />
<br />
Please excuse my absence last week. I was breathing a sigh of relief and celebrating the fact that I am officially DONE with my summer classes and DONE with one year of my graduate degree! One year down, one to go!<br />
<br />
So, I've got a couple weeks of freedom (well, as much freedom as a full-time employee has) until the fall semester begins.<br />
<br />
That means, it's time to reread Harry Potter! I am currently on <i>Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban</i>. Hello Marauder's Map, Remus Lupin, and Crookshanks. I've been trying to catch up on other books, too. Time off from classes = more time to read! (Since I am studying to be a *real* librarian, this is not lame. It is professional development.)<br />
<br />
Since my vacation is long over, summer has been a smidge dull.<br />
<br />
Not quite as horrible as Harry's summers with the Dursley's, but dull nonetheless.<br />
<br />
A bright spot this past week was a party with friends. Outside games, delicious food, hilarious conversations...the kind of fun that I don't get to have too often. It made me miss college, when I always had people to hang out with.<br />
<br />
As an introvert, it's always been easier and more comfortable for me to relax by being alone. However, introverts get lonely too! I have come to appreciate my time with friends, as it seems opportunities are rare these days.<br />
<br />
ANYway, we had a bonfire at the party, complete with roasting marshmallows. It was perfect for a chilly night (what is up with this August cold??), except for the sparks zooming and crackling towards me. Yes, I am a fire wimp.<br />
<br />
You may be surprised to learn this, as I have such a sweet tooth, but I am not really a huge fan of marshmallows. Happily, there is yet some junk food that I can resist. Even marshmallows roasted to a perfect golden brown.<br />
<br />
Of course, I was absolutely exhausted by the time I got home. Social interaction is draining! But it was just what I needed. It's been great to get out and relax without the pressure of assignments due. I've been catching up with friends with phone calls and Skype, and it feels lovely.<br />
<br />
So here's to summer! To Harry Potter! To friends, to fun, and to a break from classes.<br />
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Now I'd like some warmer weather, please.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mdy86hVsb71qc6ysdo1_500.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://librarylinknj.tumblr.com/post/36601745839/keep-calm" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;">Source</span></a></td></tr>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-72868329386817030552013-07-23T08:05:00.002-04:002013-07-23T08:05:29.153-04:00Care for a Bit of... *Magic*?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So, yeah, I went to Hogwarts.<br />
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*eeeeeeeeeeeeee!*</div>
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Definitely an amazing experience. I only wish The Wizarding World was bigger! I did explore the rest of the Islands of Adventure, but honestly the rest of the park seemed kind of run-down. Clearly all the recent $$$ has gone to Harry Potter.</div>
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Let me start at the beginning. My sister and brother and I got to Universal bright and early and headed straight for The Wizarding World. We hung out there in the morning and then later on in the afternoon. Here are the highlights.</div>
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HOGWARTS CASTLE Oh my, I could not take enough pictures of this place. The sky was so blue and the buildings were so awesome. I kept staring up, up, up at the castle like an idiot. We headed to the castle straightaway to get in line for the ride. The queue wound through the castle (finally, after we waited outside in the heat for <i>forever</i>) and we saw talking portraits that looked so REAL and Dumbledore seemed so real and Harry, Ron and Hermione were there and it SNOWED and the Sorting Hat talked to me and there were hallways and the Pensieve and I loved every minute, OBVIOUSLY.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdudCWI0xdO47nv02_zO1CxiCr56ihJ7OhF7KOEjDGBCXnRo61hyphenhyphenOvpcu_acPae71zTBrKWhY2ThS5wpgqZWLdNrsmVj8DDHDLAyZEu7EmIVJ7owhnPgfRRY6GDvhrmPJ859-bBqeA7k/s1600/DSC02231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdudCWI0xdO47nv02_zO1CxiCr56ihJ7OhF7KOEjDGBCXnRo61hyphenhyphenOvpcu_acPae71zTBrKWhY2ThS5wpgqZWLdNrsmVj8DDHDLAyZEu7EmIVJ7owhnPgfRRY6GDvhrmPJ859-bBqeA7k/s400/DSC02231.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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THE FORBIDDEN JOURNEY RIDE This was definitely the best theme park ride I have ever experienced. I could have ridden it 17 more times in a row. Now, let me first say that I was a bit nervous since I knew the ride would simulate some crazy movements. I was thinking of Soarin' in Epcot, which I really didn't like as it gave me vertigo. However, it turned out I had nothing to fear; I loved the exhilarating feeling of zooming through the air with Harry and Ron! The world was so familiar, and the mix of projection screens and animatronics seemed so real and so perfect. The "Hogwarts students" do a good job of getting people onto the ride quickly ("Watch your step, Muggles!"). I saw Aragog, I came thisclose to Dementors, and the Whomping Willow sent me reeling! Yes, I did scream out "Expecto Patronum" during the ride. It seemed like the right thing to do. Loved it. Pretty sure I beamed through the whole thing. Especially when Draco "saw" the riders and shouted, "Showing off for your Muggle friends, Potter??" I did get to ride it twice; the second time I went in the single rider line (tip: zip in through Filch's Emporium) to get there faster since I had already seen everything in the queue.</div>
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BUTTERBEER Yeah, had to get the butterbeer! I heard that the frozen butterbeer was a little too sweet, so I went with regular. It was really good, like cream soda with a sweet foam on top. I'm not a huge fan of soda, though, so I got kind of sick of it after drinking about half. But refreshing on a hot day!<br />
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THE SHOPS Definitely very fun to poke around in. However, why do they have to be so crazy small? I guess I know why: authenticity. But you would think that efficiency would trump that when it comes to a theme park world that everyone knew would draw a gazillion people a day. Definitely hard to maneuver around in the shops, but fun to see the extravagantly priced Bertie Bott's Beans and chocolate frogs. I tried on Gryffindor robes, waved Bellatrix's wand, even peeked at the Monster Book of Monsters (looked vicious). I didn't purchase anything as my vault at Gringotts is rather empty currently.<br />
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OLLIVANDER'S This was for sure one of the most magical experiences of my life. I had to wait for 45 minutes outside in the hot sun to get in, but it was so worth it. I stood with a small, hushed group of people as the wandkeeper chose out a young girl to participate. He gave her several wands to try. She waved a few with semi-disastrous results as things crashed around the shop. Finally, a wand chose her. A light shone on her, wind blew through her hair, music swelled (those <i>effects</i>!)...yeah, I definitely got goose bumps. It was a short five-minute experience, but I was completely transfixed. You could have heard a pin drop as everyone watched breathlessly. We were then let out into an actual shop where you could buy any wand you wanted. Only $30, which seemed reasonable to me. You could definitely buy <i>any</i> character's wand. My brother got the Elder Wand. I resisted. SO MANY people buying wands though, seriously. </div>
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So that's it! If you are a Harry Potter fan and you ever get the chance to visit, go for it! You might want to wait a bit, though, as Universal is adding a Harry Potter world in their other park, Universal Studios. The Hogwarts Express will connect them. How rad is that??<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-288415329172992443.post-15219797670278270292013-07-15T11:14:00.000-04:002013-07-15T11:14:34.088-04:00Who Wants to See Vacation Slides?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I could definitely write 100 blog posts about my Disney World vacation.<br />
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The best food (Nutella waffle sandwich, Dole Whip, Norwegian school bread).<br />
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The best rides (Expedition Everest, Toy Story Mania, Star Tours, Tower of Terror).<br />
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The best experiences (Beast's castle and all of New Fantasyland, countries in Epcot, Jedi Training Academy).<br />
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And on and on and on.<br />
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Instead, I will just show you a few pictures. And soon, you'll get a more descriptive post all about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (!).<br />
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Then I'll move on for real, away from vacation and back into the grand adventure that is my life.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3UF_zLDgnC7NrXtMO5B3uBkeGPnDlGO_BzUerPAB7A_okUJgYXcYmAQz4KLi5TvajNhXKaiyTRuovMo-31ErMh1InPk2N1W9zuUeUHDetcGHpjHJgo57A7l2cX-DOLk-cTSmBHCKRPsQ/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+2+075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3UF_zLDgnC7NrXtMO5B3uBkeGPnDlGO_BzUerPAB7A_okUJgYXcYmAQz4KLi5TvajNhXKaiyTRuovMo-31ErMh1InPk2N1W9zuUeUHDetcGHpjHJgo57A7l2cX-DOLk-cTSmBHCKRPsQ/s400/WDW+2013+Part+2+075.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flags outside of Expedition Everest rollercoaster in Animal Kingdom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjg8Xmbgdl_hwd68KnsKTEEMA5KFmZ1l-l6rEbFTYw7UndgWq8-4-g1Q5or8ZsWBBPBryaJzkfgY7ZHVN26Q8d9pMgT6c31qp3tRNTvZkngPR7S18kILtnwst-HSEiuwjRMjPnccrK58/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+2+083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjg8Xmbgdl_hwd68KnsKTEEMA5KFmZ1l-l6rEbFTYw7UndgWq8-4-g1Q5or8ZsWBBPBryaJzkfgY7ZHVN26Q8d9pMgT6c31qp3tRNTvZkngPR7S18kILtnwst-HSEiuwjRMjPnccrK58/s400/WDW+2013+Part+2+083.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close and personal with all kinds of animal on Kilimanjaro Safaris in Animal Kingdom</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breathtaking performance in France, Epcot</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6o7GJbbgAQy-YBfaTrVMHyP_g1j0HY1-9hhSqPvKoPiWN-oDVZhNe4cXlWj2x3iWpdj8PgPcox7k3i9ZaBZh2dShOLHVHO_1pAzOFJHTdTENTv28LlhfdVLTmEOE-qH0uPTTpwefNCKs/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+2+055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6o7GJbbgAQy-YBfaTrVMHyP_g1j0HY1-9hhSqPvKoPiWN-oDVZhNe4cXlWj2x3iWpdj8PgPcox7k3i9ZaBZh2dShOLHVHO_1pAzOFJHTdTENTv28LlhfdVLTmEOE-qH0uPTTpwefNCKs/s640/WDW+2013+Part+2+055.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cloudy, rainy, wonderful day in Epcot</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ywQIEaz2v73A0yAJRgo9ZVwce9vg8Yg3s7DnR3iHHVV-zcsnUIfIyp8ZLhbr765rj_u3p_ROr2YvEAqIAYK-FtvvKBTV-GRR0mesKoLE9HAGQmaRwyDD6-UElIo6ATNNfvuleFUyv8w/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+3+036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ywQIEaz2v73A0yAJRgo9ZVwce9vg8Yg3s7DnR3iHHVV-zcsnUIfIyp8ZLhbr765rj_u3p_ROr2YvEAqIAYK-FtvvKBTV-GRR0mesKoLE9HAGQmaRwyDD6-UElIo6ATNNfvuleFUyv8w/s400/WDW+2013+Part+3+036.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couldn't help letting out a scream as Darth Vader appeared during the Jedi Training Academy, Hollywood Studios</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Nv5WX5aAJkaIM9GYYIgkxkMDTvlMzgJCjlL-u4XzZSJoj3d9uekZlpmPTnzNfu5AVT4tVmeQhNA-oV-Tl_XhhOc7IuCV7rt6z9-b-rDkxxO_Q7-J8uH-qGBCfTQxO7E9hHswiVaD0xc/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+3+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Nv5WX5aAJkaIM9GYYIgkxkMDTvlMzgJCjlL-u4XzZSJoj3d9uekZlpmPTnzNfu5AVT4tVmeQhNA-oV-Tl_XhhOc7IuCV7rt6z9-b-rDkxxO_Q7-J8uH-qGBCfTQxO7E9hHswiVaD0xc/s400/WDW+2013+Part+3+040.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Hollywood Studios on another perfect Disney day</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwnCRW60GbHoYLq3-NDEugzkYS0QeEVtRoAt7tNm2g_TK_agmvi8GKRuHFBQiU6zy0ya4C_nUvuCZiY9yDN81tgBn97REMo_zbqm68D9wPyp1qa7cC0tAtR4y4C7LlzGM4MkheMVziMc/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+1+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwnCRW60GbHoYLq3-NDEugzkYS0QeEVtRoAt7tNm2g_TK_agmvi8GKRuHFBQiU6zy0ya4C_nUvuCZiY9yDN81tgBn97REMo_zbqm68D9wPyp1qa7cC0tAtR4y4C7LlzGM4MkheMVziMc/s400/WDW+2013+Part+1+008.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gaston's Tavern and fountain in New Fantasyland, Magic Kingdom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bi__Col91qwo5zIxpHPilKQLbyT80jSOsRYCKlrqVI0_duPGkplbMJ8pAMeVzH0Ly5C9G_DFdUxLUkupuD4iFK-_9EI_jO1w_19qTIPZzoC9VdL0WFckRnTDWWQ0LGJzUF2LhMzVGNY/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+1+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bi__Col91qwo5zIxpHPilKQLbyT80jSOsRYCKlrqVI0_duPGkplbMJ8pAMeVzH0Ly5C9G_DFdUxLUkupuD4iFK-_9EI_jO1w_19qTIPZzoC9VdL0WFckRnTDWWQ0LGJzUF2LhMzVGNY/s400/WDW+2013+Part+1+042.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tangled rest area, complete with tower and lanterns (and poster of Flynn Rider) in Magic Kingdom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGAmg07U_eUTb8OlW3TG9KvBggIJX23VgpZmwPYahee9hRET84I66TPMBK6WqaTUd9Vk7cmo3CbTKy3AZ8X8pJLXQC-jKebIELapQEUHM5ZHDuUYnVTFH4hyKH2Z4LOLTelkWIEmz3Bc/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+1+052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGAmg07U_eUTb8OlW3TG9KvBggIJX23VgpZmwPYahee9hRET84I66TPMBK6WqaTUd9Vk7cmo3CbTKy3AZ8X8pJLXQC-jKebIELapQEUHM5ZHDuUYnVTFH4hyKH2Z4LOLTelkWIEmz3Bc/s640/WDW+2013+Part+1+052.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Minnie statue after a typical Orlando rainshower outside Cinderella Castle, Magic Kingdom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuS_Nnvr6DMKKZ-9dedara6D0tRig-Cg1KMLE5U18bujlwaRwcHIzfoATqsED0sAHue6lyCCNNJ1H1CyXxpJs_aZgJ74LWRppIOBICCxoj110d3pJKg-hyviQNFAhGKcW7sZgQrGJKrTU/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+1+095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuS_Nnvr6DMKKZ-9dedara6D0tRig-Cg1KMLE5U18bujlwaRwcHIzfoATqsED0sAHue6lyCCNNJ1H1CyXxpJs_aZgJ74LWRppIOBICCxoj110d3pJKg-hyviQNFAhGKcW7sZgQrGJKrTU/s640/WDW+2013+Part+1+095.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gargoyle outside of the Beast's Castle in New Fantasyland, Magic Kingdom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QgBLTowW0oIcvabY03nXxUC-QedZPeCiPENoyay2A7Jc4U4NrPVMvtE_Gq_u3O5woHwIBiouxa97oQE7Ng-ev7UCIgrgvu466Kjz_oazMbZQfSPr6ceA8A1_5voJHoTFBY5iB8Y1EwY/s1600/WDW+2013+Part+1+103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QgBLTowW0oIcvabY03nXxUC-QedZPeCiPENoyay2A7Jc4U4NrPVMvtE_Gq_u3O5woHwIBiouxa97oQE7Ng-ev7UCIgrgvu466Kjz_oazMbZQfSPr6ceA8A1_5voJHoTFBY5iB8Y1EwY/s400/WDW+2013+Part+1+103.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gate entering Be Our Guest restaurant in the Beast's Castle, Magic Kingdom</td></tr>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07387310668901075647noreply@blogger.com1