DID YOU GET ANY RUNNING STUFF FOR CHRISTMAS?

Christmas has come and gone. Most of you runners out there probably received some great running stuff. Let me guess. New Nikes? A GPS watch? A whole box of Powerbars? Whatever you got, I'm sure you're anxious to try it out.

My stocking was full of running gear: Two black Under Armour tops, the kind that Batman would wear--real tight to show off my muscles. Unfortunately, my muscles aren't impressive. The tight-fitting tops will probably sag a bit, but at least they'll keep me warm.

My wife bought me an Under Armour running cap. I really like it because it is made of that material that breathes well. I noticed the tag on the inside of the hat said it was the woman's model. Does that make me a cross dresser?

I also got some Saucony black tights. I won't have to wear those purple ones any more. Maybe my running buddies will quit making those snide remarks that cast doubt upon my heterosexuality. Of course, when they find out about my new running hat, they'll start a whole new line of wisecracks.

I received two pair of sweatpants--one from Nike and the other with my favorite NFL team's logo--the Steelers. The Black and Gold went 8-8 this year and needed help to make it into the playoffs. Unfortunately, San Diego beat Kansas City's second string team last night and sent the Steelers packin' for another season. I decided to wear my Nike sweatpants on my 8 miler today.

My favorite gift this year, however, came several days after Christmas. My daughter Sarah gave birth to a baby boy--Charles Nash Taylor. My middle name is Charles. Maybe he'll be a runner like his Pappy. Let's see. In six or seven years I hope to run his first 5K with him. He'll probably beat me.

Charlie and Pappy.

Yes, that is my new Under Armour hat.