As a runner I should have known better.  I should have recognized the signs my body was giving me.  Instead I decided that new shoes weren't that important.  Boy was I wrong.  My carelessness caused what I think were stress fractures on my left shin, and tendonitis in my right foot.  I wore my old running shoes throughout training and for my entire race.  I am now sidelined from my regular runs until I heal.  
My hiatus from running has given me runners envy.  Because the weather is nice, I have been going for walks through my new neighborhood.  This has been enjoyable, until some show off runner blows by me.  Then I wish I could just pick up the pace and put a little hop in my step.  Then I remember the shooting pain in my shin during the race and in my foot afterward.  Then I get mad at myself for ignoring my previous need for new running shoes.  As you can see, this can be a vicious cycle.  All of this because I underestimated the value of good shoes.
I have been keeping my cardio fitness up by using the stationary bike and the many elliptical machines that the gym has to offer.  I know that when my body is ready I will be able to run again and begin training for another race.  You can bet your shoelaces when the time comes I will be doing this training in new running shoes.
 
Alicia - I actually gave myself a bone spur in my ankle from ignoring the signs that new shoes were in order. Listen to your body lady :)
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