And just like that, we’re in the middle of November. School year starts, fall races fill our calendars, autumn amazes us with her vibrant colors and fantastically cooler running weather … and then, we get here: adjusting to o’dark thirty morning runs, pulling out the shoe traction for tackling miles on icy roads (last weekend’s snowfall is indeed sticking around), and making plans for the upcoming holiday season.
It is, truthfully, one of my most favorite times of year—not the hurried-ness of these next two months, but rather the downtime that comes with school breaks and fun runs and just hanging with family and friends. Yes, we do need to carve out this time for ourselves, and it’s not always easy. But the older I get, the more I make a point of doing this. It’s important for my happiness (and for my family’s happiness) if I’m taking good care of myself. Then I can take good care of the people I love. I’m looking forward to snowshoeing on our neighborhood trails, to early winter race traditions including our local turkey trot and the Farmland 5K, and to yes, yes, yes, slowing down some after a busy fall. I dream of couch time with a great book, of unhurried afternoons to cook and bake in my kitchen. Simple, important things.
What we all don’t need: extra stress. We don’t want to sweat the small stuff. Let’s just break a good sweat logging miles, hiking in the woods, laughing with our loved ones.
The 2018 MRG Holiday Gift Guide
I’m hoping this MRG Holiday Gift Guide will help you enjoy the upcoming holiday season, because it takes away some of the stress of shopping. Plus, it’s fun to pick out something useful and fun and cozy that celebrates our love of Michigan and an active lifestyle! We’ve got a great sale now underway at the Michigan Runner Girl online store—at least 30% off most items, some even more of a discount—and I think you’re going to find great pieces for all the people in your life who love the Great Lakes state and living healthy and happy. (And, you know, you deserve a little something, too. Go ahead, treat yourself. You can always wrap it up and let your kids or family know they bought you something pretty wonderful. I’ll admit to doing this myself!)
You can find all of the MRG store items here. Below, a few ideas we couldn’t wait to share with you:
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1.) Michigan Runner Girl Core Performance Long Sleeve T-Shirt—$21
For your running partner who helps you get out of bed and out of the door 3 days a week…thank goodness for these people in our life!
This tech tee comes in a variety of colors; the MRG Safety Green keeps you seen and safe during those early morning runs in the ‘hood.
2.) 26.2 Strong Sweatshirt—$27
For your friend who finished her first marathon this year—YEAH! (This sweatshirt also is available in 13.1, 10K & 5K and also in two colors)
3.) Mind Over Miles Core Performance Long Sleeve T-Shirt—$21
A perfect layer for cooler-weather running, this long-sleeve performance tee is soft and breathable. You’ll also find yourself reaching for it as an everyday lifestyle piece.
4.) Michigan Runner Girl Knit Beanie—$10
Face the elements head on with the MRG knit beanie—perfect for winter running and playing. This 8-inch hat blends comfort and warmth. Available in so many colors, including bright ones to keep you safe while on the roads and trails.
5.) Mind Over Miles Long Sleeve Tech Tee-$21
The all-new Mind Over Miles logo is pretty popular with the guys, too. Just sayin’.
6.) Michigan Runner Girl Pullover Hoodie-$38.50
The original and essential MRG clothing item! This ultra-soft hoodie is sure to become your go-to sweatshirt, all year long. Wear it pre-race to stay warm and post-run to ward off the chill, slip it on while sitting around a bonfire, throw it on for running errands, keep it in your car for those late-day cross country meets and Saturday soccer games. It’s a wardrobe essential for living the active lifestyle. It’s lightweight and incredibly cozy.
7.) Your New Favorite Mug-$10
Whether you start your morning with a cuppa Joe or a steaming mug of hot tea, MRG has got you covered. (Hot chocolate
That works, too!) Enjoy your favorite drink in the all-new Michigan Runner Girl ceramic mug. Cheers. It’s going to be a great day! (This mug is also great for afternoon caffeine pick-me-ups. If you’re into that, like us.)
8.) Limited Edition City Posters – Grand Rapids & Traverse City – $17
Introducing custom-made, limited-edition MRG city prints: poster-size collectible prints of the Michigan cities we love to explore. Both Grand Rapids and Traverse City are featured (more to come in 2019!). This print (above) features Traverse City, the scenic up north town on the shores of Lake Michigan’s West and East Grand Traverse bays. You’ll see Old Mission Peninsula, home to the Bayshore Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K routes, as well as the Vasa and TART trails, which are popular among runners, hikers and cyclists. Special landmarks and outdoor adventures are pictured throughout this custom, Michigan-made design.
9.) Classic MRG Hat – $12.50
Just keep moving. Whether you’re in the woods, on the road, or on the water, the Classic MRG Hat is ready for your next adventure. Heck, it’s so comfy (and stylish) that you’ll find yourself reaching for it anytime you’re out and about — on the weekend hanging with friends and family, or running errands and getting things done.
10.) The MRG Box (All four seasons, or just one!) – $99-$300
Introducing the MRG Box, a seasonally focused item — we’re calling it an experience — that features fun and useful products to enhance your active lifestyle here in the Great Lakes State. In other words, this is a box full of fun and fabulous things that will make you smile.
