Last weekend I ran a 5K race for the first time in my life! I'm here to tell everyone out there that if I can do it, so can you.

Like most New Years' resolutions, I always make a plan to accomplish something spectacular on January 1st. This year my ambition was to run the New York City Marathon next November. Sure, millions of people run marathons all the time, so what's the big deal???  Well for starters, I HATE exercising, am terribly out of shape, am an occasional social smoker, have never run more than a mile at a time and my diet consists mainly of Pringles, martinis and chocolate.  Needless to say, for someone like me, running ANY kind of race is a lofty pursuit. 

As the months tick by my guilt grows over not starting training of any kind to accomplish my goal. At this point in time, I should be able to run 8 miles without stopping and be stretching every day. Since January 10th, I have done nothing! Sheesh!!!

So when a friend told me she signed up to run the Carlsbad 5000 (the world's fastest 5K), I had an inspired moment and signed up as well.  Without any training, stretching, proper rest, etc, not only did I finish my first 5K, I finished it in 36 minutes and 16 seconds!!!  Yes it was hard, but I had my Ipod revved up and kept my eye on the finish line. I must say it was very inspiring to cross that finish line and can't wait to do it again.

I just might be able to run from Staten Island to Central Park next November! Stay tuned....

- Deanna