Feeling Like a Real Runner...

Why do cats enjoy your smelly shoes?...

In adding to my pre race fears, my body has felt like complete shit this past few weeks.

My feet, and my knees have just started to seriously hurt. Not the usual, I've been running more, so of course I'll experience some discomfort. I mean, just walking kills my knees, stairs are the worst, and my toes have been feeling numb on runs, and ache constantly.

Knowing my body, I knew that it was unusual to experience this onset of pain, and I pinpointed it to the purchase of my last pair of running shoes.

I was dreading long runs, so..I finally bit the bullet...er, I mean credit card, and went off to my local running specialty store for an evaluation.

I knew I wouldn't be paying $60-$70 bucks for shoes, which I am use to. Frugal me hated the thought. After all, I have already shelled out a pretty penny for the race, and my plane ticket, and my fun money.

But the me that wants to not cause permanent damage to my body, and finish my half marathon, said "go for it, mastercard don't mind, and you are worth it".

First things first. My running shoes...are not even running shoes.

Upon evaluation of me, it was decided that I over pronate. This caused my big and second toes pain, because they were doing all the work, and the shoes I was wearing did not stabilize them properly.

I'd have never run around like that in a department store, I'd likely wind up on YouTube. At a specialty store, you feel right at home with all the other running "nerds".

They told me that the store is the "Cheers" for runners, and to come in any time to talk about running.

After my consultation, I left with a new pair of shoes that felt like I was running on clouds. I instantly had to test them out, even though I had gone to the store after my trip to the gym.

I'm so attached to them, that they will be boarding the plane with me vs. riding in the underbelly with all that low-class luggage.

And Then Everything Felt Right in the World....

In the days leading up to the arrival. Excitement stirred.

I tracked my package every hour along the two day delivery route. Growing more eager with every stop closer to home.

I opened the door before the Fed Ex guy even knocked.

Inside the boring brown box, was yet another box. This one was so beautiful I hardly wanted to disturb it.

But I just couldn't wait to get my hands on it. 

Behold my new most favorite thing in the universe. The Samsung Galaxy S III

Now, I could be a little over zealous, since I had to make a snap decision 2 years ago to get a really crappy android phone (LG Optimus...run away!) when I killed my beloved blackberry before my contract was up, by sticking it in my sports bra while I ran. (Not recommended....) 

But I don't think that's it. I think I made an informed decision that I am happy with. 

I did extensive research both with online user reviews, and consumer reports. I asked owners of the phone for their input as well.

I can finally attest to having the right phone making life easier. My connection at home sucked with my old phone, and it is such a dream on the new Samsung, that I rarely even fire up the laptop!  I can do everything on my phone, with a quickness!

I couldn't be happier! I think it's the most beautiful thing I own. 

photo taken on my new phone which is just as purdy as my real life camera shots!

Nevermind, I think Mr. Magoo is the most beautiful thing I own...but then again, he owns me!