We pulled off quite the surprise for these kiddos. Last Sunday I decided we needed to get out of town for a bit and so I asked my sister if I could take her kids to Disney. She responded yes as long as she could join the party, and then we called my mom to see if she wanted to join too. My mom was game and then we decided to keep the trip a surprise for the kids. We checked them out of school yesterday and brought them to the parking lot where we told them that Disney was our destination. Their response was pretty priceless.
We got them goodie bags filled with this Disney Secrets book to read on the drive there, some treats and Mickey shirts.
Little man was really thrilled about the Mickey ears and the 9.5 hour drive up ahead of us =)
It’s been a long time since these guys have been to Disney, so they can’t wait to run around the park for 16 hours straight. It will be interesting to see the distance walked for the day at Disneyland on my Apple watch.
Pics from our last trip together:
We made it all of the way to St. George with no stops and holy cow the sunshine feels good. It’s supposed to be 80 degrees in California. We are keeping this trip cheap by bringing a million snacks, staying in a really classy hotel, and my sister got a few free tickets from a friend which makes this quick get-away even better.
Brooke studied her little map during the car ride and told us exactly what rides we were going to be going on.
A quick stop for dinner in Vegas at a sandwich shop before driving the rest of the way to our hotel. I am getting really excited for churros, riding Dumbo 20 times, and the parade (the older I get the more the parade has become one of my favorite parts of Disney). I will also get to go on the roller coasters with the big kids… My stomach is going to love me ;)
Disney, we are coming for you!
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Feel free to send in your amazing running accomplishments to [email protected] !!! I am loving these and I hope you are too!
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Cortney!!! “First race in 2016. First 5k in February. First place female at the Crystal Classic 5k in Green River, WY! Oh ya & did I mention I’m 41!”
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Ashley!!! “I first started ‘really running’ back in 2012 when my job transferred me to Canada and I didn’t have many friends, so I picked up a hobby I could do on my own. While I’ve run 6 half marathons since then, I didn’t really improve much until this past year. I started dating my speedy boyfriend last January and even though I can count the number of times we have actually run together on one hand, I have been able to substantially PR in the 5k, 10k and 1/2 marathon! 10k turkey trot in Rhode Island- I placed 3rd in my age group! Dallas Jingle Bell 5k- I ran sub 8 minute miles! Dallas 1/2 Marathon in December- I PRed by over 4 minutes, with a finishing time of 1:55:15. Can we wish my boyfriend Ryan good luck as he trains for his first Boston marathon, hoping to run 2:55?!” Yes, we sure can! GOOD LUCK RYAN!
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Charlotte!!! “NYC weather has been in the single digits this month, so I decided to do my long run on the treadmill this week. Having never run more than 6 miles on the machine, I was super nervous! But inspired by HRG’s treadmill marathon, I decided to stretch the 12 mile long run to 13.1… my first treadmill half marathon! All about building that mental toughness for race day:)
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Elizabeth!!! “I ran a 10k PR this past weekend! I finished in 57:08, which might not be the fastest, but a year and a half ago I never thought I’d be able to run 6.2 miles straight much less average under 10 minute miles. My legs are still a little sore a couple days later, but it was worth it!”
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Hannah!!! “I ran my first marathon, the 25th anniversary Austin Marathon, on Valentine’s Day with my sister-in-law! (it was her first, too!) Running that marathon was the coolest thing I have ever done and certainly the proudest moment I’ve ever experienced! Crossing the finish line with Kristin was a dream!”
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*Jill!!! “Yesterday I ran a half marathon on my own with no cheering fans, no set water stations or fuel handouts, no celebration or medal at the end. Training for a marathon takes a certain mindset, a certain strength, will and endurance. As I was running my 13 miles I thought a lot about life and what I want to do next. I also thought ‘running is an isolating sport’ because here I was on a long training run by myself with nothing but my thoughts (and music, of course!). But it also reminds of how strong I am. When, at the end of the day, no one really cares how far or fast I ran, or if I ran at all! Sure I have a running coach who holds me somewhat accountable and a blog devoted mostly to running but realistically I am running for me and me alone. So on the days when it would be easy to cut short a run or to skip out altogether, running reminds me that I am motivated, strong and I can do more than I realize. The dedication, willpower and determination it takes to run a marathon is not something I take lightly and it is a good reminder when I am feeling down, defeated or not good enough, that tI am capable and independent and I can do anything I set my mind to.”x
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*Ellen!!! “I finally have a new PR for the 10k! 55:10!! I was so super ecstatic that I managed a sub 1:00:00 10k!”
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What’s your absolute favorite treat at Disney land? Favorite ride?
Rollercoasters… how does your stomach handle them?
Do you have a long run or race this weekend? Do tell!
Ever pulled off a big surprise for somebody?
78 comments
Hollie
That’s awesome you were able to pull off the surprise. I’m terrible at keeping secrets so I don’t think I could do it. Keeping birthday presents and Valentines day gifts is a huge accomplishment for me!
My stomach can normally handle roll at coasters but it’s those swing rides that I can’t! Im glad you had a good week Janae. Congrats to your readers and their accomplishments as well. That’s awesome!
Ellen @ Tale of Two Runs
Oh I am totally the same Hollie!! I have a few things planned for my dad’s 60th and i am trying not to skype too much with him so I wont spill the beans LOL!!
Sally @ sweat out the small stuff
I love roller coasters! Haven’t been to Disney in about 16 years.
Have so much fun!!!
Natalie
Fun!! I’ve actually never been to any Disney place. I don’t mind roller coasters, though.
We pulled off a huge surprise engagement party for my sister last weekend. She had no idea her boyfriend was proposing last weekend, and then she was completely shocked by the party. It was great! :)
Jenny
I have always wanted to do a Disney surprise! We are hoping for Christmas this or next year but we will see. I love Disneyland and roller coasters and all of that. We just aren’t sure about taking a under one year old with us. So we may have to wait until we are done with kids and the oldest kid is a little older to have fun.
Sarah @ SarahRuns26
My stomach does not do well on rollercoasters. I’ve done plenty of them, but my stomach does not like me after! I haven’t been to Disney since I was a kid! How fun!
Small surprises I’ve pulled off, bigger ones I haven’t. I keep thinking I want to surprise my husband with a trip to Seattle this summer (it’s where we got engaged) but not sure if I’ll be able to pull that off!
Arthi
How fun! Nice job on pulling the surprise off. I threw my mom a surprise bday party for her 60th a few years ago and it was such a blast. They’re so much fun when they actually work out as planned :)
Did a semi-long run on the treadmill on Wednesday cause I’m going to Miami today!!!! No long run on the books .. Just lots of sunshine, beach, and quality time with some girlfriends!
Have a great weekend!!
Amanda @ Exploring Life & Things
Ahh have so much fun at Disney! That would be like the best day ever to get pulled out of school for that haha. Oh my gosh I LOVE roller coasters and any adrenaline rides. My boyfriend on the other hand hates them.. I don’t understand haha.
Have so much fun!
Brittnee
Have a great time!! I loved roller coasters when I was a kid, but now I’m not sure if I could handle them. But I’m thinking I should take a trip to an amusement park soon and find out!! Can’t wait to hear all about your time at Disney!
Jenny
Have a blast!!! One of my good friends is there right now, and she has been teasing me with sunny and smiley texts! It looks beautiful in ‘land! Also looked very low on crowds, major bonus! I love the churros too! Have fun!!
Brenda
Hopefully you read my comment AFTER you finish all the roller coasters, but I hate them cause the summer after 6th grade I was at Bush Gardens and went on one, went around a curve and bam, my front teeth were gone! I kid you not, they called it a “UFO”, an unidentified flying object perfectly hit my teeth while I was screaming and broke them. Anyways, I am going to venture out this weekend for a test jog, two and a half weeks ago I slipped on black ice going to check on our chickens and bruised my tailbone so bad that I haven’t run since. Keep your fingers crossed for me because I’m itching to run! (seems like my life might be accident prone, huh?)
By the way, you win the prize for coolest Aunt and Mom ever!
Rachel
I am so jealous about your trip to Disney! Have an AWESOME time!
I have my first 11 mile long run on the agenda! The weather is suppose to be lovely (sunny and 50s) which is warm for the upper midwest right now so I am really looking forward to my run (and enjoying the sun!)
Lisa @ Lisa the Vegetarian
Have fun at Disney Land! I’ve never been to Disney Land, but I’ve been to Disney World a ton. I love it there! Last time, my fiancee and I spent a week there and according to my fitbit, we walked 55 miles during the trip! Crazy!
Karrie
Oh my gosh I love Brooke’s face in the first picture! She looks so excited. I hope you all have a fantastic trip! Everything at Disney is my favorite. It’s such a magical place!
My stomach is pretty good with roller coasters. I don’t think I have ever gotten sick from them.
My guy and I have our first half marathon this weekend, so wish us luck! Hopefully next week we can submit our accomplishments!
Gretchen | Gretchruns
I have a race this weekend! 15 miler followed my a home inspection for the house I’m (hopefully) buying! So excited and nervous. And I LOVE roller coasters!
Cynthia
Love Brooke’s face in the surprise picture!! Dole Whip is my favorite Disney treat, then I love the Mickey Mouse pretzel. By the way, you can get Dole Whip in a little shop in Vegas called Pineapple Place! They have so many flavors!! 18 miles tomorrow!! Have a great time at Disney!
Jill @ RunEatSnap
What a great surprise! You are an awesome mom and aunt! Super fun.
Thanks for sharing the running accomplishments! I love them!
Tomorrow I have a 3 hr. 15 min. long + I am doing my first stair climb – the American Lung Association’s Fight for Air Climb so we’ll see how that goes!
Have fun at Disney!! <3
LeAnn
Love Disney! Their caramel apples are amazing!
I am in love with your shirt. I think I must own one. Can you share where you bought it please? :)
amanda
I’m jealous about the amount of free time and disposable income you have. I’m doing something wrong by working a regular job
Denise G.
Oh yeah it is going to be nice and warm for your visit today- Dole whips for everyone!
I did pull off a big surprise – one of my husband’s good friends is in the Air Force and she was in an intense training course just before our wedding. She told him she wouldn’t make the wedding and he was upset of course. Well she secretly planned it with me that she would be taking a red eye flight straight from the wilderness to make it.
The night before the wedding we had her at the best man’s house and I had to try and get hubby there after his bachelor party. I made some excuse and we coordinated so that she would be the one to answer the front door. He was absolutely shocked and we caught some great photos of the moment.
Lily
Were here too! (southern California) My husbands family lives here. We’ve been here since Saturday haha
Angie @ Pace With Grace
What a great surprise! A kids dream! My stomach can handle rollercoasters as long as its not full of food. You may want to eat after you go on them ;-). I am sick (ugh) so taking it easy this weekend and hopefully feeling better soon.
Michelle
Can I join your family?!!? Such a great surprise! I would never be able to keep Disney a surprise from anyone because I’d be too excited! I’ve never been to Disney in California, but I love Disney World in Florida. I haven’t been for 3 years so I think it’s time for another trip. Hope you all have a great time!
Michele @ paleorunningmomma
Oddly I handle roller coasters well even though motion sickness normally kills me. Probably because they’re so quick! Long run tomorrow is 16 which I’m feeling less than thrilled about since it’s supposed to be cold and windy.
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious
Oh I’m so jealous of your Disney adventure! I’m a big Disney park lover, although my stomach doesn’t love the roller coaster so much anymore. It’s 80’s here in Arizona and it is truly my happy weather. I have a break from school this weekend so I will be getting outdoors to enjoy it before the massive heat comes in a few months.
Ellen @ Tale of Two Runs
That is such an amazing surprise!!! Going to disney was such a dream for me as a kid but living in Greece made it very hard! I did get to go when I was about 20 LOL and trust me I felt like a 6yr old kid EVERY SINGLE minute of it!!
Meredith @ the cookie chrunicles
Omg have the best time! I wish Disney world was driving distance for us. It’s a lot closer than Disney land but still a 2 hour flight! Such a great surprise for the kids! Please have a chocolate covered apple for me and a giant cookie ice cream sandwich from the bakery :) my faves
Sky
That is such a fun surprise. I would love to do something like that for my little girl when she gets old enough. I have only been to Disney once and I am hoping to go back really soon. I love the giant turkey legs! I am an adrenaline junky so my stomach handles things like a champ. I have never even gotten close to being sick on a ride. The more drops and loops the better!
Kristen @ Glitter and Dust
I can’t wait to pull off surprises like that when my son is old enough. I love planning special events for people. Disneyland would definitely be the ultimate surprise for a child. :) I honestly don’t know how to pick a favorite ride… can I pick a favorite in each land?
No big races for me this weekend… but I am running a 10k race next weekend for my birthday. Yay!
Chastity
How did I not know Disney was so close?! (I’m in Park City.) I’m totally doing this with the kids. They will flip!
Lindsay @ Lindsay's List
Janae – your whole outfit, head to toe, with your arms out basking in the sun. Where’s it all from?? :)
Becky @goodfortheswole
Awww that’s so fun!! Man I wish someone would surprise me with a Disneyland trip!! No huge run planned…but I’m gonna try out a little running again to see if my back can handle it (30 weeks preggo over here)
Laura
Have fun at Disneyland!!! I love roller coasters, my favorite parts are the drops! (Love Tower of Terror, California Screamin and Space Mountain). It’s the spinning rides I can’t do anymore (like teacups)…those do a number on my stomach!
MaryM
How fun!!! Good for you!! I think times like that are good for our souls and our kids souls. We can just let go of everything and enjoy. We live close to Disney (World) and I never tire of visiting.
I love the running accomplishments!! They are all amazing. Cortney “wow!” Age really doesn’t matter in this sport. You are all fast! Congrats to all on the running accomplishments. They are all inspiring.
Cortney Reed
Thank you!! It was an exciting race for me especially after a long winter with lots of treadmill miles & cross training!
Age is definitely just a number! ?
Nicole (Cuckoolemon)
I am loving the shared accomplishments!! Such a great thing to do.
Kaci @ Kaci K. RD2Be
Their faces in that first pic are too cute! That’s so cool that you guys did that. The only surprise I’ve ever managed to pull off is when my brother was going to visit our parents and stopped to pick me up on the way without either of us telling them I was coming too.
I really love reading everyone’s running accomplishments! I think I’ve said that every week since you started but it really is so inspirational.
Catie B
I LOVE Disney!! I’ve been to both in the US with my parents and I went on a Disney Cruise with my Mom in high school and it was the best! You’re going to have so much fun!!
Fiona
I have always wanted to go to Disney! What a nice surprise :)
I prefer to watch other people and not be sick, I’m more of a water park girl.
Long run is 12 miles in preparation for my first marathon but 12F, 20mph winds and maybe snow. Working on that mental toughness- I hope!
Surprise: my husband and I love road biking but his is from 1984. So, I’m taking him away for his birthday and surprising him with picking out a new bike .
Julia @ Lord Still Loves Me
You are such an awesome momma! I love that you went all out, books and everything! I can attest to the 80 degree weather. You’re picking the perfect weekend to come out here. Hope you enjoy the park!
Chelsey
Hi Janae!
Those green pants!!!!
Where did you get those? And that shirt? Loving your style!
hallie
Yeah I want to know too!! please post!
Shayla
They are from Roolee.com, I remember from a previous post :)
Katie
NEED to know where your green “moto”ish pants are from!
shalyn
Have SO MUCH FUN! Never been to Disney but its on my list of To Do’s.
Can’t stomach roller coasters but will for sure do them regardless!
I have a 10 K trail race this weekend after battling pneumonia for the last 3 weeks so I am hoping the rest pays off and my lungs behave. Will be so happy if things so well.
Have a great weekend with all those crazy kids and your sister and Mama! Enjoy the sun, rides and great food!
[email protected]
What a great surprise! I hope you have a wonderful weekend soaking up the sun and fun! No races this weekend but I do have a long training run planned with friends, it’s one of my favorite combos. Happy running!
Emily
where did you get the sweater with the blue stripes? So cute!
Emma @myfullfatlife
Have a great time at Disneyland and enjoy the warm weather!
I love reading about everyone’s running accomplishments!
Rachael @ Catch Me if You Can
at disneyland i love the churros and at california adventure in cars land they have mini churros and a frozen apple slush drink that is DELICIOUS. i love disney though so i could go on an on about all the food i love. have so much fun and soak up that sunshine!
Caroline
Have fun at Disney! I get motion sick but last time I took some motion sickness pills before and it helped some. Favorite Disney treat is probably the Mickey rice krispie treats!
Staci | Hoosier Running Mom
I love the smiles everyone has in all of the accomplishment photos! Shows what a great sport running really is!!!
Hope the kids (and adults) have a great time at Disney!!
Kelli Bonin
Your shirt! I need to know where it’s from :) And those Roolee Moto leggings are on my wish list right now!
Steph @ loveandlunge
What an epic surprise!! god, I would have loved that as a kid. No races this weekend, but some easy runs in some hopefully nice weather and I cannot wait. 59 degrees is a lot better than the negative temps we had a couple weeks ago, so sign me up!
Peggi Konvicka
Churros definitely! I grew up in California so I have been to Disneyland A LOT
Love the roller coasters. My son (he is 10 now) has been to Disney World twice and he is NOT a fan of the roller coasters which is bummer. Maybe in 2018 when we go back he will be – fingers crossed.
No long run plans for this weekend. Usually Saturday is when I run 6 or more but tonight is my first WOD of the Crossfit Open at my Box, and it is Burpees and overhead lunges, think my legs will need a rest tomorrow :)
Rachel @ Simply Rachel Nicole
How fun!!! I am so jealous that you guys are going!! I can’t wait to see all of the pictures and hope you all have a blast! :)
jade
What an excellent surprise for the kids, they look so excited and the pic of the kids the last time they were there is gorgeous ! Have tons of fun!!!
I planned 2 surprise birthday parties, one for a 40 year old friend and one for my 21 year old daughter. My daughter actually started crying, (happy tears :)).
I’m running a 1/2 marathon tomorrow.
Erin
awww curly is so cute in the old pics!
Michelle
Best cousin trip ever!! Have so much fun.
Awesome running accomplishments! I love that Cortney is edging out that young guy at the finish line (yay for 41!!).
Cortney Reed
Haha.. Thanks! ?
I had no idea who was behind me.. Just knew no one was going to pass me at that point! Apparently I was going to knock him out! Lol
Christina @glittergirl
I’ve heard so many great things about Disneyland including some fabulous pineapple slushed drinks or something? It sounds like a dream.
Heading out for 9 miles shortly – same route as last week. My hubby is nursing a hangover so feels good to wake up and do something productive (it’s Saturday here).
Enjoy your trip guys!! Can’t wait for the next update!! Xx
Caitlyn @ Candid Cerebrations
I’m loving your posting of accomplishments on Fridays! It’s so inspiring. I’ve never been to Disneyland only Disneyworld. And my stomach does totally fine on rides but too many upside down ones give me headaches.
Kate
Jealous! Have a great trip!
You e probably mentioned this before. But where are the black slip on shoes from?
Lora
Heading there this afternoon to watch the parade and celebrate my little ones 2nd bday….I will be so excited if I spot you and your crew. Hope you are having fun!!!
Michelle
Have a great trip! Sounds like a blast!
I did TWENTY miles on the treadmill this morning before work. I woke at 2am. (Was supposed to do it tomorrow morning outside but I scored on super cheap airfare tickets so I am skipping town tomorrow morning instead:) Gotta fit the run in somewhere, right!)
Meesh
Whaaat! That is a crazy/wonderful surprise. I have never pulled off such a feat!
Jennifer Kyle
Your pants are so cute! What brand/store? I can’t do roller coasters at all!
Amanda W.
I know your busy at Disney right now:) So no rush! But what is the name of the black Nike shoe you have been wearing in some of your recent blog pics? Really enjoy your blog it has been motivating me as I am training for my first half on April 16!
Shay @ Whine Less, Breathe More
What a magical surprise! I would love to surprise my girls with something that cool, but I can’t keep such a big, fun secret.
We are booking our flights to Disney World for this summer this weekend! We’ve gone every few years since my girls were little. This summer we are going with my parents, my youngest brother & his family, and my oldest brother & his children. We can’t wait!
Charlotte
Thank you for the feature Janae!! It means a lot. I’m loving these running accomplishments too :) have a blast at Disney!
-Charlotte
Cori
Oh man, I LOVE Disneyland! Favorite treats are Dole Whip in the Tiki Room, Mickey pretzels with cream cheese inside (not all pretzel carts have the cream cheese ones but there’s one by Space Mt.), and last time I got a peanut butter sandwich over in Pooh Corner. It was simple with graham crackers peanut butter and dipped in chocolate, but soooo good. Favorite rides are Space Mt. And Soarin’. I always clap with giddy anticipation at the start. Have FUN!
Margaret @ youngandrungry
Such an exciting surprise for the kids and I love reading all of the accomplishments! I hope yall have fun and thanks for sharing!
Skye
I love Disney!!! I’ve only been once about 6 years ago cause Aussie. What age do you think is best to take a child? I really want my son to experience it, but it’s one time kinda thing given it will cost us thousands. I want him to be young enough for the ‘magic’ of it but old enough to appreciate it (and also sit on a plane for 15 hours!).
Carol
I have a cut back week so my long run is 13 miles. I pushed it to Sunday because it’ll be in the 50s and who could pass that up when we just had a blizzard on Wednesday?! We were in Disneyland last September so I could run the half marathon – most fun race ever!
Kay
What an awesome surprise!!
Losing Lindy
so awesome, next time you can take V too !
Taylor
Loved that you surprised the kiddos!! We surprised my brother on the plane ride there a couple years ago and it was the cutest thing!!
Lauren
Love your shirt! Where is it from?
Cortney Reed
Thanks for the shout-out! ?
So much fun following your spontaneous Disney weekend!