Here’s my take on the Garmin/Nike + thing: either one probably works fine, depending on what you want to do and where you train. I have a Garmin 305 and I absolutely love it. I would never work out without it. I use it for long runs, short runs, and everything in between. I use it while biking and during spin classes as well for heart rate and speed data. It definitely IS a training partner. Next to my running shoes, it is the only piece of equipment I wouldn’t run without.
However, depending on WHERE you run and/or workout, the Garmin may not be the best option. Strictly treadmill running would be better suited by a standard heart rate monitor and simply using the speed/pace data on the treadmill. Indoor track running or wooded/building areas would be better accomplished with a foot pod (ie—Polar, Nike + etc). Garmin makes a foot pod attachment for the 205/305 as well, but I can’t comment on the accuracy.
Having said all of that, let me comment on what I dislike about the Garmin that I wish I could change:
1.) It is bulky. Like some have said, it feels like you’re carrying a laptop on your wrist. Sure, you’ll eventually get used to it, but it’s still big and gets sweaty. The new 405 addresses this problem, but it doesn’t help all of us with the 200 and 300 series.
2.) The adapters to mount it to your bike and the optional cadence sensor, foot pod, etc feel like true “afterthoughts” that weren’t meant to be part of the original product (ie—the zip ties that are required to mount the cadence sensor and bike mount, etc). I feel Polar does a much better job of integrating all of these accessories into one well-thought-out package.
3.) You can wear the Polar or Garmin 405 models as a standard wrist watch when you’re not working out. If you wear the 205 or 305 around, you’ll look like you’re trying to coordinate a space shuttle launch.
4.) I’m sure it’s “water resistant,” but I would still hesitate to swim while wearing the 305, whereas I would feel more comfortable wearing the Polar in the water. Don’t ask me why, maybe it’s just perception.
5.) You will definitely lose a signal in the woods or around tall buildings, as would be expected, but when the signal is regained, it seems like the rest of the run is never quite accurate. I remember during the Chicago Distance Classic, I lost a signal during the downtown portion of the race, and even the remaining 8 miles or so I noticed my Garmin jumping all over the board as far as pace, distance, etc. I think I ended up with a Garmin run distance of 32.4 miles on the 13.1 mile course. That made for a nice average pace.
All of those items, however, do not keep me from loving the Garmin. I would (and do) recommend it to everyone as one of the first “non-shoe” related running purchases. Glad yours seems to be working for you!
Steve
It should just about be charged now. Best price I found, plus free shipping...how do ya beat that? 
