It is too cold.

I'm not sure I can keep up with this winter running thing.

I want to be fit and I want to feel tough, but honestly - it is too cold outside.

I bought a water bottle that I can hold as I run and easily open up for a sip. I bought new pants that repel my sweat and keep the wind out. These pants are also smooth and make me slide about when I sit on the couch (bonus). I wear layers - long underwear, hoodies, jackets, wicking shirts, etc. You would think this would be enough.

It is not. It is too cold.

Nearly everyone in the running group is equipped with special running gear like:

• wool socks (which somehow keep you warm and dry in a way that other socks do not).
• half-zip shirts with pockets, wind protection, water proof capabilities and thumbholes. (I really want one of these, but they're $70!)
• jackets to wear over the half-zips with more pockets and protective devices.
• hydration systems or fuel belts - these are the nerdiest things around! You carry water in tiny bottles on a belt. Some people bring Gatorade too. I think the only reasonable use for such a thing would be cocktails-on-the-go.
• hats with holes for ponytails (these sound cute and look really stupid) and zippered pockets.
• special gloves

I'm afraid it's simply too cold for me to run without spending way more money than I want to invest in running in the cold. I'm truly not a person who gives up, but it seems that being a Winter Warrior Runner means buying a whole lot more crap than I'm interested in buying.

I'm thinking it through and trying to see if I can figure out a layering plan that will get me through a long run. I love the nighttime runs on Wednesdays, but I can't be freezing like this for 13 miles.