Greetings from Orlando!

It has been a beautiful weekend in sunny Orlando! I'm taking a break from the pool, so enjoy some photos!

(And yes, boss, I did learn lots at the conference.)

I started at the Coronado Springs Resort, the conference hotel for the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, which I was attending. I got a really good deal at the Hyatt Grand Cypress on Priceline so I'm here tonight. Both are really nice!

I got a three mile run in Thursday and one mile today. I wanted to do my full 8 this morning but after an open bar, a huge dinner and a huge breakfast... yea... I did one, I'll try 8 again tomorrow!

But... really Mickey???? The evil mouse knows you're a captive audience that can't leave!!

My sunscreen and razor were taken at security since I carried on. The resulting damage:

The lovely lake I ran around:

My room and the view at the Grand Cypress:

Getting started: Couch to 5K

I actually had two people ask me about getting started this week, so I wanted to give a shout out to the Couch to 5K program (C25K).

It worked for me (mind you, I was 40 lbs heavier at the time) and I highly recommend it, and it sure beats the elliptical for cardio. Tips:

Be nice to your feet -- get a good pair of running shoes. They don't have to be expensive at this point, but designed for running.

You don't need an expensive Garmin but you'll probably want at least a cheap sports watch.

Pick out a race when you start the program and register early. That's an incentive to complete it. When picking out a race, pick a midsize one, so you won't get lost in the crowd or be one of so few that there actually is a risk of finishing last. Also, pick one that says "run/walk" so there's no way you will finish last. And always go for the ones that give you technical or tek or tech shirts instead of the normal cotton ones, they're way better. (continued)