a post about running

Running has been taking up so much of my time lately, I decided it deserves its own post. I signed up for a half-marathon in August, and I've been steadily increasing my mileage with the help of a training app on my phone. I hope to get back to my knitting and crafting when I've tackled those 13.1 miles! In the meantime, here is my list of the pros and cons of running:

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CON: It's boring. So boring.

PRO: It gives me a lot of time to think, daydream, and listen to music. I finally downloaded the Overdrive app so I can check out and download audio books from my local library straight to my phone. Now I can exercise my body and my brain at the same time! The app is available for tons of libraries... highly recommend it! I just finished "Death Comes to Pemberley" by P.D. James and have started "Yes, Please" by Amy Poehler.

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CON: You can spend a TON of money on it if you're not careful. Even though old gym shorts and free t-shirts work just fine, it's hard not to covet those adorable coordinated outfits in the windows at lululemon. This is why birthdays are awesome! For my birthday last month, my family sent a package with some cute workout clothes, and Dan gave me a water bottle with a carrying strap and an arm band for my phone. (He also gave me a set of off-sized measuring cups, like 2/3 cup and 3/4 cup, that I've been eyeing for over a year. The 1/8th cup is my favorite... the perfect size for little pancakes!)

PRO: The up-front investment is pretty low... no expensive equipment, gear, or lessons. Only a decent pair of running shoes is needed! I bought a pretty pair of black and teal Mizunos. I like them because their logo is a roadrunner, and I appreciate any excuse to have a bird printed on my clothes.

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CON: I can't shut up about it. I apologize to everyone I've talked to since April. If our conversation lasted longer than 3 minutes, I'm sure I brought up running at some point. In my defense, it's taking up a huge portion of time, so I haven't had much else to discuss.

PRO: I have something to talk about with my friends and coworkers who are also into running!

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CON: It's hard. Sometimes it hurts. I don't like doing it.

PRO: I feel good afterwards. Plus, my stuffed animals are so proud of me! Baby Hulk made this sign for me after my 9 mile run, and the knit bunnies were so excited when I finished 10 miles.

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CON: I've probably gained weight. I get hungry and eat a lot.

PRO: I feel healthier. I eat my favorite buffalo chicken sandwich from Which Wich with no regrets. I felt no guilt indulging in a few drinks last weekend at Howl At The Moon, a dueling piano bar. Dad organized it as a belated Mother's Day gift to mom!

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Just a few more long runs until I reach my goal. I am counting down the hours/miles!