After a two year post-pregnancy hiatus from the gym, I have decided to try one of those "Couch to 5k" training programs. I'll be participating in the charity 5k of the LA Marathon to benefit Inside Out Community Arts.

I have been blessed to work in the arts, and to do what I love for a living. I have seen firsthand how art programs, such as Inside Out, can empower youth to overcome hardships, trust in themselves, and believe in the future. I hope you'll join me in providing youth with this beautiful gift. ART = LIFE

Please click DONATE  to help me reach my goal!

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If you're interested, here's my training blog:

Week 1 - I confidently tell my husband that I am going to run the 5K. I begin to train, and complete my first "long" run, which to marathoners, is ridiculously short.

Week 2 - I keep training, but remember why I hate running...tendonitis in my knee from all those years of dance. Ouch. I realize that instead of "running" this 5K, I am probably just going to be pushing my daughter in a stroller at a quick quip. My husband, of course, was right :)

Week 3 - I bought a brace and some joint supplements for the knee, and I'm determined to keep training. My favorite run this week was chasing my husband home from the park--he was on his bike and I was pushing Sofia in the stroller :)

Week 4 - My knee is starting to feel better, and yesterday I completed 2.79 miles. In a couple of weeks, I should be all the way up to the full 3.1 miles aka 5K.

Week 5 - I've reached the middle of my training period, and to get through the hump I made myself an old-school friendship bracelet to wear at all times as a reminder of my goals. 

Week 6 - On my day off this week, I took a trip with my family to Griffith Park and quickly realized that completing a 5k over there will be WAY harder than where I've been training at the beach.  Needless to say...my calves are sore!

Week 7 - I realize that instead of treadmill training, what I really need is dance class.  This week I had the best workout ever and actually enjoyed it.  Dancing makes me happy.

Week 8 - This week I discover that Hermosa Pier to Manhattan Pier roundtrip is about a 5k.  Perfect motivation for training!

Week 9 - My favorite 3 miles this week?  Hefting my toddler around Disneyland for her birthday!