Minneapolis-Star-Tribune-runningkellometers

Last weekend I had a date with my husband's cousin. Not just any date... we headed to Running for Kicks in Palos to buy a new pair of shoes. Running for Kicks is kind of a local legend, and the owner is well known in the local running community. His store sponsors local races and it caters only to runners. I had a really great experience when I went back in February and picked up my new Asics that got me through a lot of races and my spring and summer training cycle. As the miles on those treads are starting to get up there, I knew it was time for a new pair. I went in there wanting to give a few other brands a try, including Brooks and Saucony (plus, they were out of Asics 2170s anyways). (The employee helping me seemed to know her stuff, but at first glance she didn't really look like an employee at a running store. I hadn't seen her working there before so I was caught off-guard a bit.)

Anywayssss, I tried on a few Sauconys that were similar to the Asics 2170s and the Asics Kayanos but I wasn't completely sold. The Brooks shoes, on the other hand, felt like I was running on pillows. So comfortable! I've been running in Asics since I was 14, but now I may have a new favorite. Feet, meet the Brooks Adrenaline 12.

I am in love. I tested them out for the first time last week and they were amazing. I can't wait to try them out more! I have a feeling this is the start of a beautiful relationship. I'm really glad I decided to give Brooks a try! What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Have you branched out from an old favorite?

I'm really tired of my current work wardrobe. I always wear the same things and I feel like I haven't bought something new in a long time. With all the fashion posts of my other Chicago blogging friends, I have been inspired to mix things up. I like to think that I have a semi-eye for fashion, but lately all i wear is dryfit, leggings, and race shirts. I need to get back in a groove of liking what I wear to work and out.

Today I set out on my lunch break and headed to Forever 21. I wanted to try on lots of clothes and scope out their athletic section.

And then I remembered these important things to remember when shopping at Forever 21:

1) Sizing is inconsistent. Small, medium, large... you never know what is going to fit at Forever 21! I know the empire waist trend is popular, but that doesn't mean that everything has to dramatically flare out afterwards. No one wants to look like they're pregnant if they're not. Just saying.

2) Don't get excited about their athletic line. I was (although I don't know why) and was disappointed. They had lots and lots and lots of sports bras in a variety of different colors. I already have my preferred brand of sports bras. There is no way these girls can be supported by them. I haven't tried them but I'm just guessing.

3) If it was a bad day for clothes, that doesn't mean it is also a bad day for buying stuff. I tried on 10 different things and didn't like a single one. I left the dressing room feeling sad because I actual wanted to spend money today. Then, I looked at what was surrounding me... accessories! I've been wanting a skinny belt for a long time so I searched for the belt section and got to digging.

Score!

I got 3 skinny belts for $4.80. That's right! Yay for bargain shopping! And that is why I keep going back to Forever 21.

Do you shop at Forever 21? What are some things you've learned from shopping there?

I took yesterday as a rest day (my legs are thankful for it) and tonight I'm meeting up with my running group. I'm hoping this supposed rain holds off!