Closet craving :: Running Necessities

I mentioned about a month ago that I need new running shoes.  Since I started the Couch to 10k program last week, I've really been noticing my dire need for new shoes.  Unfortunately, the budget does not allow for new shoes now.  I have an ongoing list of running necessities I need to have in order to be truly ready for my first half in November.  Thanks to a hefty college tuition bill I have to pay this month, none of these will be even close to happening until June or July (cringe inside).

DOCTOR APPOINTMENT

[via weheartit]

Not that kind of doctor though.  About two years ago, I started having some breathing problems.  I went to the doctor and was told I had bronchitis.  While the bronchitis and coughing eventually cleared up, the breathing problems did not.  Since moving to Raleigh, I've been to the doctor twice.  She switched me to a steroid inhaler after I was practically using the other inhaler daily.  It appears that my breathing problems happen solely at home (in my own home) and when working out/running.  The problems vary in intensity depending on the day.  Some days it's not too bad when I run, other days it is very difficult to breath.  I end up being short of breath and it's very hard to breath in.  It's definitely affecting my running.  I know I need to go back and re-evaluate since the steroid inhaler is not working.  With a doctor co-pay at $30 (and she mentioned x-rays last time, no thank you) and a possible prescription, I don't have that to dish out.  I know when I find something that works, my running will improve.  

SPORTS BRA

After hitting the shred in only a sports bra and in front of our bedroom mirrors (TMI?!), it's obvious I need better support for high impact activities like running.  Women's Health complied a list of best sports bras.  The one pictured above is a Natori Sport underwire sports bra and apparently costs a whopping $48!  Yikes.  The other high impact sports bras they list are equally or more expensive.  This may stay on the necessity list for quite a while.

GARMIN FORERUNNER

As Megan and others have noted, the Nike+ is not the most accurate.  I had speculated this for a bit.  I don't think it'll be completely necessary to have this before the half since I'll be running to finish, not for my speed.  It would be nice to eventually have the Garmin to note my actual and real speed and distance.  

Of course the doctor appointment and running shows are first priority.  It's always difficult every month when the rarity happens that I have extra money.  Typically I am putting it in savings to save for another trip (or more recently I was trying to save for D's birthday).  It's so hard for me to take money to spend on doctors or large price items these days (even clothing and shoes).  While I desperately want to update my wardrobe and running necessities, traveling is so much more fulfilling to me.  I do know that to succeed in my goal of running the OBX half (and not kill myself), I am going to have to take some money for doc and shoes.  

I better start playing the lottery.   

Insert witty title.

So, the best news is that my credit cards will be ALL PAID OFF in June (now if only I could say the same for my school loans...ugh)!  This is thrilling news!  It will come at about the perfect time.  I have so many BIG financial commitments every month and feel like I have no extra money to indulge a little (on maybe my Toms?).  In April, we have spring break.  In May, I have my friend, KD's, bachelorette party and D's birthday (which I have to go big or go home for since I was broke on his birthday last year).  In June, I have KD's wedding in Birmingham (which is a bit of a trek from Raleigh).

After June, I will have the credit cards paid off and (hopefully) a little work bonus in my pocket!  My mind is running with little ways I want to spend a bit of extra money.  Mainly, I want to put it in savings for a trip to NYC with my girls and mine and D's holiday getaway this year.  BUT if I have a few extra dollars here and there, here's a few things I hope to spend it on...

[Fete Sequin Mini, sale $138, J Crew]

I know LOTS of bloggers are loving J Crew for spring.  Obviously this skirt wouldn't be there by the time I have a little spending money in July, but I adore this skirt!  The whole look is just chic and stunning to me.  Those shoes too!  I'll be on the lookout for something like this.  (Oh and even at the original $178, this one is perfect in comparison to the $2500 on the Sequin Long Skirt)

[Myne Jazz Long Skirt, $210; shopbop]

I'm totally into the maxi skirt and dress trend happening right now.  One of my fav outfits I wore recently on a warm day was a maxi dress topped with a sweater.  It gave the illusion of a mxi skirt, and I felt so fab and comfy in it!  I like the pattern in this skirt and could envision the numerous possibilities of styling.  I feel like it could work through summer and fall.  It also reminds me of something Carrie would pick out :) Not too sure if I could rationalize $210 for a skirt, but hey, this is a wish list!

[Foley + Corinna Metallic Disco City Bag, sale $138; shopbop]

I die a little inside that I can not buy this this very minute (ugh...this is what happens when I browse online. Must.remind.myself...D's birthday, spring break!).  I have been dying for a Foley + Corinna bag for YEARS now.  I could never afford the almost $400 retail, but this is totally do-able.  I know it will be long gone before July....

[Plains Ranger Dress, $128; Anthropologie]

Oh I adore this dress!  I'd take off the sash and pair with a brown, braided leather belt (envisioning one I've been eying at Target) and pair with some chunky brown wedges.  Love.

 

[Warby Parker, Roosevelt glasses, $95]

I've been on the hunt for some cool new glasses for a while.  I LOVE these Warby Parkers glasses.  I hate making "practical" purchases though.  Warby has so many cool choices though; I'll definitely HAVE to make a purchase from them this summer!