Christmas Memories with Christmas Tree....

For everyone there are certain things which remind them of Christmas. It can be foods, smells, experiences or things, but each one brings back memories of Christmas past and without them, the holiday is somewhat lacking.

For me, one of those things is the Christmas Tree china from Spode.

Spode Christmas Tree China

Photo Courtesy Spode

Introduced in 1938, this pattern was one of the most important designs for the Spode Company. In May 1938, Sydney Thompson, sales agent for Spode in America wanted a new design for the Christmas season. Thomas Hassall, art director for Spode asked Harold Holdway, one of the Spode designers to produce a design. Holdway created a plate with a central design of a Christmas Tree with presents hanging from the branches.

After a few revisions to the design, salesmen were swamped with orders. Over the following years, the Christmas Tree pattern developed into an entire table setting as well as extra serving pieces. While the most common border of the plate is a green band, it had also been available with a red band,

About 1962, the pattern switched from transfer printing and hand-painting to slide-off lithography.

For years this china has symbolized Christmas gatherings for many Americans and is the worlds most recognized holiday design. But despite its popularity, the Spode factory closed in 2009 and today, new production is made in China.

Personally, I think the Chinese production is not as warm as the English china. Am I biased? Perhaps, but thankfully there is still a market for the English made Christmas Tree china, and I seek it out when I can, leaving the new Chinese pieces for others.

So with December upon us, once again the beloved Christmas Tree china has made its appearance. And last years regulars are now augmented by new finds and additions to brighten the holiday and bring back memories of Christmas past.

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Running and Staying Warm in the Cold...

Winter is one of the toughest times to start running. Between the cold temperatures and the slick running surfaces, it is enough to drive even the most dedicated runner indoors. And for the beginning runner there is the added expense of winter running gear. But for those of you who have decided to run as a result of a New Year's resolution, or are continuing to run as part of a new found desire to get healthier, there a few things you will need to make this time of the year a bit more bearable when running.

As I have said before, and I cannot say this enough, begin by spending your money wisely on the most important part of your running gear, your shoes. Find a good running store. This is not the time to try and save a few dollars ordering something online or at the mall store where the person who is selling shoes is as likely to be running as I was a year ago. Find a serious and friendly running store. They should not only fit you properly for shoes, but also have you run in the shoes so they can help fit you as well so you can find the best shoe for your feet. And think foot comfort before you start worrying about how they look. Spend your money well here and you will at least be taking care of your feet and body. I'm not going to talk about my shoes, because they are just that, my shoes and they work for me, but they may not work for everyone.

As the weather starts to get cold, you will find those clothes you wore in the the cool days of fall just are not enough to keep you warm, especially when you are standing around waiting for a winter run to begin. This past weekend I participated in an 8k with a temperature of 28F at the race start at 7am and only 32F at 8am after I'd finished. What I wore kept me warm enough at the start to be comfortable, but not too warm. By about the second mile I'd worked up a sweat, and with zippers was about to cool down a bit. By the time I finished the modern fabrics dried out quickly enough that I was able to keep warm without developing a chill. So With that in mind, I'll give a bit of a run down on what I wear for these cold days.

For these cold days I pull out the Balega Trail Buster 2 Quarter socks which cover the ankles and offers some nice warmth when you need it. Made with a combination of Drynamix Polyester, Arylic, Wool, Nylon and Elastane, these socks kept my feet dry and warm throughout my run as well as afterwards. With no seams to rub between your foot and shoe, combined with cushioning on the bottom and mesh construction on the top for ventilation, these are my sock of choice. 

When it gets this cold, I turn in my shorts for a pair of Nike Pro Combat Core Compressions Shorts combined with the Saucony Boston Pant.

The combination of the two layers gives me the warmth that I need without being bulky or too warm once I've started running. And while I may feel cool for a few minutes after the run, that does not last long and I am quite comfortable. The Saucony Boston Pants are semi-fitted so they are not tights, but also not baggy and loose like traditional sweat pants. Featuring two side seam pockets with zippers, they are well designed to carry what you need for your run or race.

With the 28F temperature at the start of the race, I decided to layer, three layers to be exact. All technical fabrics to hopefully wick away moisture as I began the race, but keep me warm and dry both before and after the race. My base layer was a long sleeve running shirt which was a race premium at my first December race, the Asics Thermopolis LT Crew. A super soft shirt which offers exceptional comfort and dries quickly after a run.

For my middle layer I added another race premium, this from my second December race, the Asics Lite-Show Favorite 1/2 zip. With thomb loops and a pocket for your iPod, this would probably be enough if I didn't need to stand around both before and after the race.

For the outer layer I wore a simple black North Face 1/4 zip. I wish I could say more about the model, but I haven't a clue what the model is called. It lacks pockets, but is a great jacket for those very cold days.

To top things off I wear the Mizuno Breath Thermo gloves and beanie. Designed to turn body moisture into heat for added warmth, they are excellent for keeping hands and head warm during a run, as well as before and after.

This year I've misplaced my Mizuno beanine and had to buy a hat at the runner's expo before the race. I picked up a Frank Shorter Thermal Running Hat. It certainly did the job and I was very glad I picked it up.

And as before, I'd also recommend having a few days worth of running clothes available. With three days of running gear on hand, I have fewer excuses to not run. While you may only need one outer layer, you should try to have multiple sets of those layers which come into direct contact with your skin. You can spend a fortune on running clothes, but if you shop smart you can save quite a bit of money. Even looking at the websites of the manufacturers you can find clothes at half of retail. And if you sign up for races, they usually have a "race premium" which is usually a shirt. This not only adds to your small collection of running clothes, but provides that training incentive to run regularly.

Remember to spend your money and invest wisely in a quality pair of shoes from a good running store, and then spend your money on your clothes.

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The perfect time to start running, Fall...

Summer and Winter have to be the two toughest times of the year to get started running for a new runner. If the lack of physical conditioning isn't enough to contend with, there is the heat and cold of the hottest and coldest times of the year. But now, in the Fall or equally so in the Spring is perhaps the best time of the year to begin running for someone like myself who had not seriously exercised in years.

As I have said before, begin by spending your money wisely on the most important part of your running gear, your shoes. Find a good running store. This is not the time to try and save a few dollars ordering something online or at the mall store where the person who is selling shoes is as likely to be running as I was a year ago. Find a serious and friendly running store. They should not only fit you properly for shoes, but also have you run in the shoes so they can help fit you as well so you can find the best shoe for your feet. And think foot comfort before you start worrying about how they look. Spend your money well here and you will at least be taking care of your feet and body. I'm not going to talk about my shoes, because they are just that, my shoes and they work for me, but they may not work for everyone.

As the weather starts to cool, you will find those clothes you wore in the hottest days of the year are perhaps a bit too cool for much of your run.

As the temperature cools, I will pull out the Balega Enduro 2 Quarter socks which cover the ankles and offers a bit more warmth when you want it. With no seams to rub between your foot and shoe, combined with cushioning on the bottom and mesh construction on the top for ventilation, these are my sock of choice. 

When it comes to shorts, I prefer a pair which has a built in liner. I wear boxers so it seemed silly to go buy underwear when so many pairs of shorts offer either built in liners or built in compression shorts. In the fall months I've selected the Saucony Throttle Shorts. These have built in compression shorts and are great for cooler days when it is still warm enough to wear shorts, but too warm to wear anything more.

And with these cooler temperatures, my long sleeve running shirt of choice is one which was a race premium at my first December race, the Asics Thermopolis LT Crew. A super soft shirt which offers exceptional comfort and dries quickly after a run.

Occasionally you need a bit more than just a shirt in the early mornings or evenings. In this case I pull out another race premium, this from my second December race, the Asics Lite-Show Favorite 1/2 zip. With thomb loops and a pocket for your iPod, this will be sure to keep you warm enough for most cooler fall runs.

I'd also recommend having a few days worth of running clothes available. With three days of running gear on hand, I have fewer excuses to not run. You can spend a fortune on running clothes, but if you shop smart you can save quite a bit of money. Even looking at the websites of the manufacturers you can find clothes at half of retail. And if you sign up for races, they usually have a "race premium" which is usually a shirt. This not only adds to your small collection of running clothes, but provides that training incentive to run regularly.

Remember to spend your money and invest wisely in a quality pair of shoes from a good running store, and then spend your money on your clothes.

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These Aren't Your Average Beans...

The are some things in this world that get little if any mention at all. We take them for granted or ignore them entirely. Beans are one of those things. Perhaps it is one too many experiences with the unremarkable which cause us to look at them as unmentionable. But when they are done right, they can be really tasty and one of the comfort foods which keep us warm on a dreary day.

Heinz were first produced in 1901, and continued production in America until 1928. In the UK however, they became and remain an iconic British staple, part due to the fact that between 1941 and 1948 the Ministry of Food classified beans as essential in the rationing system.

I haven't tried the original myself, but when I saw a can of Heinz Curry Beanz for sale, I was more than a little curious. They are the original beans with the addition of curry.

So on a rainy Sunday, which rummaging about in the pantry for something to eat for lunch, I decided it was the time to try these curry beans.

This was a very pleasant surprise. And indeed the prefect treat for a chilly rainy day. I'd never have suspect the flavour combinations would have worked, but there I was enjoying a rather exotic flavour combination for American palates.

So if you happen to come across a tin, give it a try, you will be pleasantly surprised!

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Cordials... A Taste Of Summer Even Out Of Season

So a few months ago, I was reading a copy of "The Field" and found an article on British cordials. Immediately I recalled seeing the name of one of the companies profiled and opened my computer to confirm that, yes, I could buy them here in America. I'd never given these drinks much thought before I read this article, but this introduction was all I needed to try them now.

Typically when you mention a cordial in America, thoughts run to the sweet or relatively sweet alcoholic beverages which are served after dinner or in the evening. The alternative meaning of this word is a drink of heavy fruit juice which is mixed with water. It is this latter definition which was discussed in this article.

While in many ways similar to British squash, which is also a concentrated fruit juice, cordials are a bit more refined and less sugary sweet. and a perfect way to enjoy the flavours of summer even out of season.

Leading the way with their Elderflower cordial is Belvoir Fruit Farms (pronounced beever), which is imported and sold in America. The recipe is a family recipe from the Manners family of Belvoir Castle. Growing 90 acres of organic Elderflowers, they ensure they have a supply to supplement those purchased from local pickers. And this picking is done in the traditional method using a walking stick to "hook down" higher florets.

One of the quintessential flavours of early summer, this cordial produces an elegant and refreshing drink any day. Don't be thrown off by the cost and size of the bottle, as it will make 10 pints. You can also add a splash to white wine or a gin and tonic.

They also make another traditional summer flavour, Rhubarb & Strawberry. This bottle makes 8 pints of the most delicious rich fruity drink when mixed with club soda. A real treat and like all their products, they use real sugar, no preservatives, no flavourings and nothing artificial.

I also tried their Ginger Beer Presse, the organic version of which is available in America. This came in a single serve bottle and was most unlike ginger beer I had previously tried. Much lighter and less intense, it has the addition of lemon which with the sparking spring water makes it an incredibly refreshing drink for a summer day.

These hand crafted drinks will remain on my list of drinks to buy for quite some time, even if I have to go to slightly extra lengths to find some flavours which are not imported into America by Belvoir Fruit Farms.

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Schweppes Tonic Water or Indian Tonic Water...

First, I will begin by saying that of the tonic water which is available, Schweppes is my favourite. Yes there are some high end tonic waters available, but this brand still remains my favourite.

Most Americans are exposed to one type of Schweppes tonic water, simply known as "tonic water", but when they travel to the United Kingdom, they find Schweppes Indian tonic water. What's the difference? Is is just in a name or is there more?

Well trying to contact Schweppes resulted in questions from their legal team, or rather the legal team of Coca-Cola which owns Schweppes. Since this blog is and remains a not for profit endeavour written for fun, I've decided to write based on my simple observations.

Yes, there is a difference. The name change is more than just a simple labeling difference. Indian Tonic Water uses sugar, rather than the high fructose corn syrup used in the American version. /The American tonic also contains sodium benzoate as a preservative and the British tonic contains sodium saccharin as a sweetener.

The resulting British product is more tart than the American version which is slightly sweeter. While the sweetness might be more palatable to the American palate for those rare few who drink tonic water alone. But when you mix the tonic water with gin to create the classic gin and tonic, you will find the British Indian Tonic Water makes a better gin & tonic. I experimented with both tonic waters using Gordon's, Tanqueray, and Juniper Green Gin. In each case, the Indian Tonic Water created a superior gin & tonic.

So the choice is yours, American or British Schweppes. They are close, but not the same, so if you are looking for something slightly different and you find Indian Tonic Water, give it a try, I think you will enjoy it.

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Sasanqua Spa... Relaxation on the Kiawah River

The most recent spa I have had the pleasure to visit was the Sasanqua Spa. A private spa on Kiawah Island, it offers spectacular service in a unique environment.

Sasanqua Spa

Photo Courtesy Sasanqua Spa

Designed by Clodagh on a quiet peninsula overlooking the Kiawah River, the building is pile supported, and wood clad. Inside, stone marble and cypress flooring is used, along with teak decks and handrails. The six treatment rooms have ceramic tile floors as well as cypress floors and ceilings, and feature stunning views of the Lowcountry marsh grasses and river beyond.

The men's and ladies' lounge areas offer multi-head showers, private outdoor whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas. There are also co-ed lounges, a outdoor sanctuary with an adjacent co-ed whirlpool.

Entrance Hallway leading to Changing Rooms

Photo Courtesy Sasanqua Spa

From the moment you arrive you are treated like an honored guest, and while I was there felt as if I was the only person in the place, with only occasional glimpses of other guests. Once you have changed into the robe and slippers which are provided, you are allowed to rest in your lounge area until your massage therapist is ready.

Men's Lounge Area

Photo Courtesy Sasanqua Spa

The treatment rooms overlook the Kiawah River with beautiful views, but to be honest I was so lost in the relaxation of my massage that I could have been anywhere. I am pretty sure I even fell asleep at one point, which for me was a very good sign of a magnificently relaxing massage.

Co-ed Whirlpool

Photo Spa Management Journal

After my massage I made use of the whirlpool, steam room and sauna before I finally decided it was time to head home.

Ladies Deck

Photo Cindi Hobgood

I can't say enough about this amazing spa and hope that I will be able to make this a regular part of my trips to Kiawah in the future.

For more information contact the Kiawah Island Club.

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British Crisps... Adding a Flavourful Crunch to Life

Crisps, or chips in the American vernacular, are a product which uniquely reflects the tastes of a population. While the basic crisp or chip may be a simple thinly sliced potato, the addition of flavoring create a very unique and surprisingly varied snack.

Walkers was founded in 1948 in Leicester, Englad by Henry Walker and today holds 58% of the British crisp market.

I try to make a effort to try a variety of these flavours. Of course I could simply try the old favourites, but then I'd never expand my palate and perhaps miss something I might really enjoy.

Prawn cocktail might seem quite a odd flavour for the American palate, but in reality it simple tastes like what Americans are familiar with as shrimp cocktail sauce. Made with tomatoes from the Vale of Evesham, it is a tangy crisp for those who enjoy the taste of cocktail sauce.

Now tomato ketchup was a yummy crisp. Like the prawn cocktail crisps, these crisps also are made using tomatoes from the Vale of Evesham. A bit like an American style french fry paired with tomato ketchup, these are quite tasty and definitely a crisp I will buy again.

What more can I say about a classic like salt and vinegar. Well balanced and not overly acidic, a taste even those who have never enjoyed salt and vinegar will find pleasing.

The sensations line was added in 2002 and this Thai Sweet Chilli flavour is perhaps my favourite of all the Walkers crisps I have tried. Thai Sweet Chilli has been a part of the line since the beginning and is a wonderful slightly spicy crisp.

Monster Munch was launched in Britain in 1977 by Smith and originally called "The Prime Monster." Renamed "Monster Munch" in 1978 each pack featured a different monster on the front of the packet. This is actually a corn snack and this is the flamin' hot version which has a nice bite to its crispy corn base.

I will continue to seek out new British flavours from Walkers as they become available and as always, return to my favourites.

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The Original Polo Shirt... A Brooks Brothers Classic

We have probably all seen them and quite a few of us own them, the original polo shirt, or a copy of this classic men's shirt. And no, I'm not taking about a brand name but a style, more commonly known today as the Oxford Cloth Button Down shirt or OCBD.

Around the turn of the last century, Brooks Brothers imported some shirts from England made of white cotton cheviot, or what is more commonly known today as "Oxford" cloth. These shirts were actually worn while playing polo at that time. Brooks Brothers found the material and appearance of these shirts so favorable, that they copied them and introduced them into their line of ready-made shirts.

Photo Brooks Brothers

These shirts had two outstanding and unique features at that time. First was the ability of the cotton cheviot to absorb perspiration to a greater degree than any material except wool, while not being subject to the shrinkage of the slightly more absorbent wool of wool flannel. Second was that the points of the collar were fastened down by buttons so, that when riding rapidly, they were not blown into the eyes of the player when the shirt was left open at the neck.

Photo Brooks Brothers

When it was introduced it was called the "Polo Shirt," and even today, over 100 years later, "The Original Polo Shirt" is found on the tag of every Brooks Brothers button Down collar shirt.

Photo Brooks Brothers

The original white cheviot has become an American classic, with other solid color shirts and stripes, and has been more or less closely imitated by a host of other shirt-makers over the years. White, blue, pink and yellow seem to be the most common and classic colors, along with blue and burgundy stripes.

Photo Brooks Brothers

I still have several of these in my closet and they wear like iron, lasting nearly 15 years before they need to be retired to wear around the house only.

Photo Brooks Brothers

Today even Brooks Brothers provides a variety of shirts which while close to the original, are not the original. But if you know to look for, you can find this classic long lasting shirt.

First, this shirt is made of cotton, pure American grown Supima cotton. This is not a "non-iron" creation treated with chemicals to save you time or a trip to the cleaners. Second, this shirt is the traditional fit, easily identified by the red tag inside the shirt. The traditional fit is the only Brooks Brothers shirt to have the red tag. The traditional fit is voluminous, cut larger than any of their other shirts, a true American classic. And third, unlike the non-iron shirts, and many of the other shirts sold by Brooks Brothers, these classic shirts which require ironing are made in America.

Note: This shirt cannot be found at the Brooks Brothers Outlet Stores. The shirts there are made under the 346 label specifically for the outlet stores and should not be confused with the original.

Everyone can justify the clothes they buy in one way or another, but if I can invest in a shirt, made in America, which will last 15 years, that is an investment which I will make again and again. If you haven't tried one, treat yourself to this American classic.

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Bedford Springs Spa... A Historic Spa Restored

Once you have had a positive experience at a spa, visits to other spas become something to which you begin to look forward.

The second spa I had a chance to visit was to the Omni Bedford Springs Resort. This resort hotel has a history dating back over 200 years. Closed in 1986, it was completely renovated and expanded as part of a $120 million effort beginning in 2004 and reopened in 2007. It has been ranked a top 100 resort spa in America by Conde Nast for the past two years and is currently ranked number 78.

Still a beginner to the spa experience, I decided to try the Springs Eternal Therapeutic Massage. For me, trying the "signature service" of the spa is my preference as well as looking for a relaxation massage rather than a intensive deep tissue massage.

Bedford Bath Ritual Area

Photo Courtesy Hawkins International Public Relations

My experience began with what is called the Bedford Bath Ritual. This is a self guided process which you can enjoy before your actual treatment begins in one of 15 treatment rooms.  The water used throughout the spa comes from the Eternal Spring, one of eight natural springs on the hotel property.

The Bedford Bath begins with the Spring Eternal Spas signature Black Walnut Ginger Body Polish and rise in the Eternal Springs Mineral Deluge. An aromatic steam follows with a cooling second rinse in the Mineral Deluge. Then, you alternate between a relaxing soak in the Hot Mineral Pool with massaging jets and to the invigorating Cool Mineral Pool. As a final step, you hydrate your body with the Spring Eternal Spa's very own Hydrating Aroma Mist fused with indigenous botanicals of the region.

The ritual is self guided and is posted on the wall of the Bedford Bath Ritual Area, which is single sex and where swim suits are required. Of note is this is the only top American resort hotel spa I have visited where this is required in the single sex side of the spa. In all the others it is optional. This is not of great inconvenience except for the Black Walnut Ginger Body Polish and Eternal Springs Mineral Deluge.

After the Bedford Bath Ritual, it was suggested by a guest that I leave my wet swimsuit in my locker and wear what is common spa attire, just the provided slippers and robe alone, when I moved to the relaxation lounge before enjoying my massage.

Relaxation Lounge

Photo Omni Hotels & Resorts

The relaxation lounge is well appointed, but unlike other top American resort hotel spas I have visited, it is a mixed relaxation lounge. This might not be an issue for everyone, but if that is an issue for you, you should be aware of this in advance.

Relaxation Lounge

Photo Courtesy Hawkins International Public Relations

I enjoyed the Springs Eternal Therapeutic Massage which was wonderful and relaxation and a credit to the massage therapist. This was one part of the Bedford Springs Spa which certainly was appreciated and enjoyed.

Spa Garden

Photo Courtesy Hawkins International Public Relations

While my visit was in the winter months, the spa and the hotel's 1920s indoor pool were enjoyable even in inclement weather. In the warmer months they also have a spa garden which can be enjoyed in lieu of the relaxation lounge.

For more information contact Bedford Springs Spa.

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The Greenbrier Spa... Better than Europe

Growing up, I never even considered going to a spa. It wasn't until I was on my honeymoon at The Greenbrier that I decided to try what I had been missing for all these years. The spa at The Greenbrier has been ranked as a top 50 resort hotel spa in America by Conde Nast for the past four years and is currently ranked number 12. Not a bad place to begin my spa experience.

Photo Courtesy Greenbrier Archives

My wife, while perhaps not as dedicated a spa goer as some women, enjoys a professional massage on a regular basis and has visited a number of spas.

On our honeymoon, she had arranged a spa visit for herself and suggested I give the spa a try as well. We were at the resort for a week, so I decided to give it a try. 

Photo Courtesy The Greenbrier

Being a bit of a traditionalist, I selected the Greenbrier Treatment, which was developed in the 1920s and has remained virtually the same ever since. I had the option of selecting a petit massage, lasting about 20 minutes, or a 50 minute massage. Not being familiar with spa services, I decided to enjoy the treatment with the petit massage. The treatment left me feeling so relaxed, I not only went back again during that first stay, but I chose the 50 minute massage option the next visit and have enjoyed the Greenbrier Treatment with the 50 minute massage on every return visit to the resort.

Photo Courtesy The Greenbrier

This signature service begins with a sulphur soak in the natural spring water found at White Sulphur Springs, and in recent years they have removed the sulphur aroma from the water. This bath is so deep that at 6'2" tall, I can completely submerge my body, which I can't do in most baths. Following the soak you have the choice of a steam or sauna, in which case I always prefer the steam. 

Photo Courtesy The Greenbrier

The next step in the treatment is the Swiss Shower and Scotch Spray. The swiss shower sprays up to 50 gallons of water per minute and the scotch spray is run at 20-30 pounds of pressure. This is a hydrotherapy designed to break up toxins and cellular blockage in the body in preparation for the massage. A full body massage in one of their 18 treatment rooms completes the service.

This spa is a real treat for anyone who has never been to a spa before, as well as any seasoned spa goer, as the relaxation rooms are fully staffed with attendance who are there to fully explain all the amenities available while you are in the spa. 

I now make a visit to the spa a part of every visit I make to The Greenbrier and even enjoy a sulphur soak soon after my arrival, in addition to a massage the following day. A trip to The Greenbrier without a visit to their spa would be missing something as special as the resort itself.

For more information, visit The Greenbrier Spa.

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Getting Started... A Beginning Runners Advice

I had thought about offering advice to a beginner runner like myself and beginning with the gear I've been using now, but it is summer, the hot part of summer, and if you are like me, you can think of 101 reasons why it would be better to not start running now. I've been there and I understand.

I think one of the biggest battles with starting an exercise program is eliminating reasons to not start exercising, so I've decided to start talking about what you will need when the weather in much nicer to start your running.

First, spend your money wisely on the most important part of your running gear, your shoes. Find a good running store. This is not the time to try and save a few dollars ordering something online or at the mall store where the person who is selling shoes is as likely to be running as I was a year ago. Find a serious and friendly running store. The should not only fit your properly for shoes, but have you run in the shoes so they can help fit you as well as you can find the best shoe for your feet. And think foot comfort before you start worrying about how they look. Spend your money well here and you will at least be taking care of your feet and body. I'm not going to talk about my shoes, because they are just that, my shoes and they work for me, but they may not work for everyone.

But I will talk about the rest of my fall running kit. I think running clothing is one area where you can not only learn from others, but also a place where you can save money of you shop smart.

Years ago when I was in school, I never thought of any special clothes for running. You had your shorts of course and sweat pants for those cold days, and a t-shirt. Everything was cotton as I recall. Well times have changed and there is an whole new line of clothing designed specifically for running. Will it make you faster? No, but it might make you a bit more comfortable during your run and if you are looking for excuses why you should not run before or after work, anything to make you more comfortable will help eliminate those excuses a bit.

For fall running I will stick with the basics, socks, shorts and a shirt. That is all you really need when the weather is nice.

For socks I can't say enough about the Balega Enduro 2 sock. With no seams to rub between your foot and shoe, combined with cushioning on the bottom and mesh construction on the top for ventilation, these are my sock of choice.

When it comes to shorts, I prefer a pair which has a built in liner. I wear boxers so it seemed silly to go buy underwear when so many pairs of shorts offer either built in liners or built in compression shorts. this summer I was recommended to try the Adidas Climacool Supernova Shorts and I was so happy that I went and bout two more pairs. These are the lightest, coolest running shorts I've tried. I can't say enough about these for comfort.

In the fall months, you tend to fall between hot days and some cooler days, so it is a good idea to be prepared for both weather conditions with both a long and a short sleeve shirt.

My short sleeve shirt is one which was recommended to me at my local running store, the same place which recommended the short. They suggested the North Face Reaxion Amp Crew. With its knitted fabric it is both soft and cool.

For a long sleeve shirt, I've adopted one which was a race premium at my first December race, the Asics Thermopolis LT Crew. Another super soft shirt which offers exceptional comfort.

With three days of running gear on hand, I have fewer excuses to not run. You can spend a fortune on running clothes, but if you shop smart you can save quite a bit of money. Even looking at the websites of the manufacturers you can find clothes at half of retail. And if you sign up for races, they usually have a "race premium" which is usually a shirt, which not only adds to your small beginning running clothes collection, but provides that training incentive to run regularly.

Remember to spend your money and invest wisely in a quality pair of shoes from a good running store, and then spend your money on your clothes.

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