Hi. I'm Bethy. And I'm an athlete.

I've never considered myself an athlete. At least, not a real athlete. Yes, I know I probably should, but everyone has their insecurities. One of mine is that I don't really think I'm athletic, no matter how many races I run.

But something happened the other day at the gym. I don't typically choose to run on the treadmill, but since I was working it out during my lunch break, it was just convenience.

I snagged a treadmill right in front of the mirrors and started warming up. Then I glanced up. And I saw an athlete.

I'm not trying to be cheesy here, folks; I'm just telling you that for the first time, I looked like an athlete to ME. It didn't hurt that I was wearing short, black compression shorts and a black tank top. I could see my leg muscles contracting as I ran--I'd never done that before. Even my arms looked strong as I swung them in rhythm with my strides. And my face looked focused and determined.

I'm an athlete.

So no matter how many times I want to give up or I feel tired. Or even if I skip a workout. I've seen myself as an athlete in the mirror. And that's what I am.

{Gap dress: exactly | NYC scarf | Banana Republic boots: Exactly | Target earrings}

Recent Wardrobe Additions

How I'm preparing for Fall 2012...

Willow riding boot

Finally replacing my long-faithful cognac boots (see them here) with these beauties from Banana Republic.

Terry dress

Figuring out that sheath dresses are really the best for my shape, and sticking with them for every season. (See the below example, too.)

Brown leather sheath

Investing in a luxurious piece like this dress. Yes, it's leather. I know, I know. But I feel totally awesome in it.

Women's Lightweight Button-Front Sleeveless Tops

Picking up as many of these tops from Old Navy as I can. They're perfect for several reasons: They're cheap, they come in lots of fun colors, and the sleeveless factor makes them perfect for wearing under cardigans.

Women's The Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans

Sticking with some old faithfuls, like the Old Navy Rockstar jeans. I've worn my black ones so many times that I've had to replace them thrice. (Examples here and here.) And now I have a blue pair to wear into the ground.

Which Fall pieces are you stocking up on or investing in?