Missions Half Marathon 2015

Purpose. Race. Events. is a local race organization that I've come to love in San Antonio. My first introduction to them was with Spa Girl, but they have a Half-Marathon series (with 5K and/or 10K options), women only runs, and have expanded to a few other cities for a few races in Texas and Arizona. I really like them because they are friendly, really care about just getting people out there and being active, and they have a cause. The support is amazing ... from friendly, easy packet pick-up to lots of happy course support. The races are small enough to feel personal, but large enough to never be alone ... and that's important if you are a turtle. Each race supports something important. This year they began the Missions Half Marathon. Of course, I signed up. There were lots of reasons to be excited for this race. In my years in San Antonio, I have not traveled the Mission Reach to see all of the Missions and this race gave me the opportunity to travel by foot along the river and through Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, and Mission San Juan de Capistrano. 100% of proceeds raised from this race were to support La Misiones Permanent Fund to help restore, preserve, and maintain these important parts of our young history. Beautiful history. Also, this was going to be Sorority Girl's very first half marathon. I was going to do it with her, at her pace. 

Thursday after work, I headed down to Whole Earth Provisions at the Quarry for packet pick-up. It was the usual smooth process. Find my number, sign my waiver, pick up my bag and bib, pick up my shirt. The swag is always good, well thought-out. Nice reusable bags. Nice tech Ts without lots of sponsor logos ... shirts I will wear. The tagline was "Running through the Soul of San Francisco." 

Since my last race, I was honored to be selected as an official ambassador for INKnBURN. I have always felt like an unofficial ambassador since I love their artwork on running clothes. Not just pretty, but really very comfortable. The Dry I.C.E feels like silk. The technique for printing never fades, trust me, some of my shirts have been washed and dried many times. I was so excited to wear my new spring designs. I have converted Sorority Girl to the INKnBURN line and she doesn't wear anything else anymore, either. And there is a reason. We both were wearing our new clothes. We were noticed. I can't tell you how many times we were stopped and asked ... are you running in jeans? Can I feel those pants? Lots of oooohhhh aaaaaahhhh!!!! And, remember those really awesome volunteers? Lots of cheering for how awesome our wildflower pants were.

We started out at Mission Concepcion. If it wasn't for Sorority Girl, I might have bailed. It was sub-freezing temps and sleet. Not bad, but bad enough. It stayed cold and the clouds spit off and on, but overall, it was not bad. Pleasant, in fact. Mostly because of the company along the route. 

The race started in the usual way for Purpose. Race. Events. A prayer. The participants raising their voices in respect to sing the National Anthem. And we headed out. I love the way they start their events. 

We ran through Mission San Jose and along the river. Our friend Heather was doing the 5K and we ran with her until the split. Despite the weather, the views were absolutely gorgeous. Before the river, we did run through a part of town that doesn't showcase the city in the best light, but on a Sunday morning, it does remind me to be thankful every day for the gifts I have. 

We continued on the Mission Reach and entered San Juan de Capistrano where we turned around. I love the Park Rangers cheering us on as we entered the Missions. One ranger said to me, "weren't you in muscles last week?" Yes, I may never be famous for my speed, but INKnBURN gets me noticed. We maintained a decent pace for the first half, but then slowed down a bit on the return. I knew my left leg was dragging and I felt knock-kneed and pigeon toed. Well, more knock-kneed and pigeon-toed than usual. I think my hip is weaker while recovering from prolotherapy. Those damaged tendons are connected to weakened muscles. But, I think it's going to be better in the long-run.

By Mile 11, we were walking. Oh well, remember, Sorority Girl's first? No matter what, any pace, even crawling ... she was finishing happy and proud!!! As we entered the finisher chute, the announcer made a comment "who will come in first?" I looked at her, slowed down and pointed and said "this is your's ... celebrate." She slowed down with me and said "no way, we are doing it together." She grabbed my hand and we ran the finish together. Not my PR, but one of my proudest moments. The only time I've ever been emotional at the end of a race was when I was crying in pain, not for pride. I felt like a proud mama. We got our medals and our food (Conchas are appropriate) and began the mosey to the car. I know that it was not expected to be this cold for this race. It's rarely this cold in San Antonio. But, in true form, Purpose. Race. Events. managed to find space blankets to wrap around to ensure we didn't chill when we stopped moving. It's those little thoughtful things that make such a big difference in an organization. And, did I mention, race photos are FREE!!!

It's not so soon to sign up for next year. 

And did I mention, they raised OVER $15,000 for La Misiones Permanent Fund!!!

Ay Chihuahua!!!! Papi

On the Saturday before Christmas, we were expecting Chloe and Cooper to foster for the week. I pulled into the garage and called The Muscian from the house. 

Me: "Guess what I have in the car"

Musician: " Foster dogs?" 

Me: "Not exactly"

The first day when we posted to look for his owners

I was driving home and on a 4-lane street with a median and there was this tiny little dog running in and out from under and between the wheels of cars. My heart almost stopped. I think I screamed once because I couldn't bear to see what I thought I was seeing. There was a man and daughter walking a lab puppy and this little guy wanted to play with the puppy. The puppy was afraid of him even though he was twice the size. I stopped my car, they told me the little white dog wasn't theirs. I bent down and he leaped into my arms. He had a collar with a rabies tag, no phone number. The Musician sighed. It was going to be a full house. A stray, 2 fosters, and our 2 girls. He's a patient man. We took this little guy to the vet, no microchip. His vet was closed for the weekend. Monday morning we called the vet again. They called his "owners." They had given him away a month or so before and called his new owners. They called us and picked him up on Monday night about an hour after Chloe and Cooper. arrived. His name was Harley. I had been calling him Papi ... it morphed from Puppy, because I was all into baby-talk with him. 

His people came to pick him up and he reached out to me. The man said "I don't know what to do, he keeps getting out." I asked the little girl, "Did you miss him?" She said "No, he's my sister's dog." WHAT??? All little girls are supposed to love little cuddly wiggly worms like Harley. I worried about him and couldn't stop thinking about him. Poor little guy. A few weeks later, the people called and offered him to us or the shelter. I could barely wait to get home to pick him up. And we reached out to SA ROCKS to see if they would take him into their program. We would pay for his vetting and foster him until he was adopted. They said yes. 

The Musician was going out of town for 10-days, so it was just me and the girls and Papi. He got his neuter and I don't think he was very pleased with me. 

He cuddled with me and pestered Alley. Our fatty 10-year-old who wants to spend her days in the window was forced to play. And did she play. For hours, they would wrestle and run through the house. It was awesome to watch. He wiggled on the floor and slept in my bed. He didn't climb under the covers, but slept right next to me. A king size bed, one person, three dogs. I only had a sliver of the edge of the bed and he would push and push and I would get closer to the edge because he wanted to be closer to me. 

As promised, I took him to adoption events. He played with other dogs. They really had no choice because he wants to play. In the meantime, he learned about toys. He likes to shake and toss fluffy toys, but doesn't know how to interact with toys. He convinced blind Bunny to get in the action from time to time. Our girls who are normally bent out of shape with a foster, LIKE him. WHAT!?!?! 

At his third event, he fell in love with a little girl. But, he was trial adopted by another family. It lasted one night. Papi was meant to be the companion dog for an elderly invalid man. Papi was afraid of the equipment and he has lots of energy. He is an amazing cuddler, but also needs to play. He made their elderly fat little dog play. But, it wasn't the right match and he came back to us. Alley was sad when he was away. The Musician took Papi to the adoption event and Alley wouldn't look at him when he came home without Papi. 

He thinks he has found his furever home and loves us (me and Alley) very much. But, we have talked and I hope he understands. The only way we had room to save him was by helping other really great foster dogs find their furever homes. The perfect home is out there for him. It might break my heart (and Alley's), and I hope his new people will keep in touch and tell him how much I love him. He really is a special dog among the many special dogs who have passed through our home. 

If you might be the person to give Papi his perfect home (he needs a playmate), fill out an application at SA ROCKS ... or just call me. No one can resist this little face.

GoldenTote February 2015

I am not good at shopping. I get overwhelmed. Too much to stimulation. Too many choices. I also have no fashion sense, so my closet is full of the same things. I have been using another clothing subscription service and liked it, but it has the potential to be pricey. 

I heard about GoldenTote and thought I would give it a try. December was a home run. In January, I tried their mystery tote and it was a bust. But, there were a few things I wanted to try from the February selection. There are two options $49 for 1 chosen item and 2-3 surprises, or $149 for 2 chosen items and 4-5 surprises. The selection is better for the $149 and I saw a few things I liked. 

This is from their site: Golden Tote is the ultimate 'Surprise Grab Bag' filled with clothing and accessories for women. Working with carefully selected fashion brands and designing our own fashion favorites, we curate an eclectic assortment of treasures and package them all up in a custom tote bag for one amazing price. Think of us as your personal shoppers, stylists, and designers that are scoring you some major fashion finds for an incredible price.

The varsity sweater looked really cute in the picture. It was one of my "chosen" items. I thought the material would be thin, but that's OK ... winter in Texas. It would be good for layering if I went to a colder climate. It looked somewhat fitted on the model. It was not. This was a size small, but fit like a large. Gaping arms and very boxy and wide. The Musician said it looked "frumpy." I couldn't convince myself I liked it on. 

My second chosen item was the quilted vest. It actually is pretty cute and fits well, but I couldn't get past the rose gold zipper. I thought it would tarnish and look cheap pretty quickly. In fact, I think the rose gold already looks cheap. It was OK, but I'm not in love with it.

I have seen a mix of surprise items to include lounge-wear and accessories. I'm not complaining to receive regular clothes. I actually really liked this top. It was cute and fit well. Would be great for casual days. I am discovering a GoldenTote theme; however. Everything seems loose and flowy. This was no exception. This went in the "win" column. 

The next surprise item actually looks better on than it does on the hanger. Could be dressed up or down. Comfortable. Again, really flowy, but fit well. Another "win." 

When I first saw this top, I was pretty iffy. It's different, but I actually really liked it on. I like the pop of red vertical stripe in the middle and wider stripe in the back. Could be dressed up or down and layered. Another item for the "win" column.



The final item in the box was the blue dress. I received one of these in my January mystery box in pink and hated it then and I still hate it in blue. The shape is boxy and it's just weird. I think it's too short to be a dress and it has a scalloped hemline so it looks like a pool cover-up. But, it is layered, so I think it is supposed to be a dress. The waist tie just makes it boxy looking. This was NOT a win.

Sooo ... all told, I had 3 items I really liked, 1 that was just OK, and 2 that I hated. I couldn't justify the $149 price-tag if I was going to send 2 or 3 items to charity pile without ever wearing them. Swapping is really so much of a hassle for me. So, I ate the $7.95 shipping cost, and the $12.95 flatr-ate shipping to return the box. It's all or none. Can't keep just a few items. I really am not sure if/when I will order again. I think if I LOVE items that I can choose, then sure, maybe. I am not into the flowy, belted-dress and that seems to be common. I am sad because I was blown away by my December Tote. Nice thing is that you don't have to cancel, you only purchase months you want.

wantable intimates January 2015

I had a code for 30% off Wantable and I wanted to give it a try. I have read about their Accessory box (I am not a good accessorizor), their Intimate box, and their Fitness wear box (try on at home and keep what you want). They also have a new Make-up box. For the Accessory, Intimate, and Make-up, the cost is $40 the first month and then a 10% discount subsequent months. When you sign up, you set up a style profile an select things you love, like, and dislike. They will never send something you dislike. Each box is selected for you, so my box will be different from everyone else's box. And, you can return if you want. That's a bonus most boxes don't allow. I chose the Intimates box. Assortment of undergarments, socks, loungewear, etc. Should be 3-4 items per box depending on value of items. 

Fusion Tank-S-Polar Bear (real Underwear). Scoop neck on one side in a stretch fabric. Smooth and seamless. It looks pretty small in the picture and it it pretty small. Snug and stretchy. It works well for layering, but I have to tuck it in or it tries to ride up. Retail $42                                                                          Rene Rofe Cami Set (Rene Rofe). Really cute cami and shorts pajama set. Probably (definitely) the nicest short pajamas I own. Really soft. Really comfortable. Fits really well and super cute. Retail $42

So ... my verdict: I really like what I received and the value was there, but I have to decide if I want to keep subscribing. I'm discovering my closet and drawers are quite full and I just don't know if I need the extra expense.  

Organic Authority Best Year Ever Goodie Box

Guilty, I admit it. I have become a bit of a "box" addict. I really like opening packages and being surprised with new things to try. So, when I heard about Organic Authority Goodie Box, I jumped on it. I already knew what was included for $129 and had already decided it was a good value ... another important thing for me when I think about boxes. Only 50 of these boxes were sold. I was pretty excited when I received the box, but forgot to take a picture of the packing or group picture of the contents. Oh well, on to the review. 

Wondercurl’s Detoxifying Clay Hair Cleanser

I have never tried ... or heard of ... clay hair cleanser/mask. But, one of my friends has and she likes it. I looked up on-line how to use it. It is supposed to clean, detangle, and condition in one step. I have used it a few times now, and I haven't really noticed a difference. I don't feel more shiny, luxurious, or refreshed. I didn't feel like my hair was softer. And, I definitely didn't notice a detangling effect. Seemed I had to work pretty hard after use to have tangle-free hair. I'll keep using it, but I'm not sure clay hair cleanser is for my type of hair. Value: $24

Naturally Me Deluxe Home Spa Package

Naturally Me’s body care products are vegan certified,100% natural and scented with essential oils and always handmade. 

2 oz All Over Butter – $9
Soap Bar – $6
Aromatherapy Soy Candle – $20
12 $15 Gift Codes to be used once every month in 2015
Total value: $215

Because it is a small company with handmade items, there are very few products available on the website. Shipping is $5.25, but if the order is less than $15, then shipping is refunded, which is really nice. Each gift code expires at the end of each month, but can be applied to purchase of subscription. I receive so much product in my other subscription boxes each month, that it just doesn't make sense for me to commit to a subscription right now. I like trying new things. But, I will be ordering monthly. The customer service is really great. Chaundra seems to really care. 

Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts 

I really, really want to add Hemp Hearts to my diet. I hear so many good things about them. But, I'm technically not supposed to use this product because of random drug screens. However, I have also read that the amount of THC in Canadian-derived hemp hearts shouldn't show up if I am only using a sprinkle in a smoothie. I have to decide if I will use this or give it to my friends for their daily "green drink." Value: $15.99

Country Choice Gluten-free Steel Cut and Old-Fashioned Oats

I love oatmeal and use it a lot. How can you go wrong with more oats? I haven't really cared a lot about gluten-free, because that's not really my issue (knock on wood). But, I'm happy to try these out. And steel cut? yes, please.

Gluten Free Steel Cut Oats: $6.49 
Gluten Free Old Fashioned Oats: $4.19 
Total value: $10.68

Juice Beauty Cleansing Milk and Nutrient Moisturizer 

Cleansing Milk: $22
Nutrient Moisturizer: $36
Total value: $58

I'm already a fan of Juice Beauty. Learned about them through subscription boxes and have purchased more items. I know I will love these. 

Athar’a Moroccan Glow Detoxifying Face Mask

I have never tried a powder face-mask before, but it seems simple enough ... add water and voila, you have a clay mask. I'm a fan of clay masks and love the plant-based, essential oils in this. This is vegan and certified cruelty-free, so I'm pretty happy about it. It's hand-crafted and I do have to be careful with it, the powder is very, very fine. Value: $24.95

Herbal Medi-Care Formula-DTX 

OK ... I'm not a big user of supplements, but since I have it, I figured I would give it a try. It's vegan, yeast, and gluten free.  May as well try a detox. Value: $24.94

derma e Skin, Hair and Nail Oil

I am new to hair oils, but have been finding the benefits for taming my frizzy hair. I love that this can be used on skin and nails also, especially since I don't polish my fingernails. It has a really nice scent. I've used nail oils before and liked it, so let's see how magical it is for hair, skin, and nails. Value: $15.50 

I Am Grateful To You Inspirational Olive Bracelet

What a cook idea!!! Waste nothing. Upcycled olive pits with a little extra bling added to make a lovely piece of jewelry. I can't wear bracelets with my uniform and don't really wear a lot of bracelets anyway. But, I do always wear my watch and I really love the idea behind these. A constant reminder of daily gratitude. Be thankful for what we have. I like it. And, the neutral colors make it possible for daily wear like anything else some people wear as just part of who they are. Maybe on weekends. Or, maybe as a gift to spread the gratitude. Value: $20

PURGGO bamboo air eco-purifier

How cool is this? Purggo is a German-engineered, patent-pending, and beautifully designed car air eco-purifier made with 100% all natural bamboo charcoal. 

1. It adsorbs and eliminates odor instead of just masking it.
2. It is fragrance- and allergen-free, and it is all-natural and non-toxic.
3. It works 24/7 passively and lasts for 365+ days.
4. It uses one of the most renewable natural resources in the world.
5. It is 100% asthma and allergy friendly.

Value: $35

This actually was a gift card and I ordered on-line immediately. Shipping was fast!!!  And, I was really impressed with the customer service follow-up. They really seem to care and want feedback. The product is great. Neutral. No scent so it's not really masking anything. I admit it ... I eat in my car and sometimes it gets a little funky in there. With this hanging on the back of my headrest, nothing. No funky smell. 

Jack LaLanne 100th Anniversary Fusion Juicer

The box included a gift card which I submitted immediately. The juicer is expected to take 6-8 weeks for shipping, but I don't mind the wait. I've been doing morning smoothies and I'm looking forward to trying out a juicer. This was just the right excuse to get one. 

Juicer value  $59.99 (gift card)

$50 Gift Card for mustHave Protein or mustHave Greens

I ordered the mustHave Greens, as the Protein is whey. I checked the site a few times because the gift card was $50, but the retail for the greens (and even the protein) is higher than the gift card, but I got lucky and found the Greens on sale for just the right price that my gift card covered it ... with a penny to spare. I think I'll leave that in the change bowl for now. I like that they produce their products in small batches and work hard to source directly from farmers in a sustainable fashion. Shipping was quick. The grasses, kale, and spirulina are juiced and then dried to a  a very fine powder and it seems some got past the seal because there was green on the outside of the package. I use a spoonful in my smoothies and don't taste anything, but I feel like I'm getting something. FYI ... the bag is clear so you can see ... green is green.
 Gift card value: $50 

For $129, I received $556 of products and I will get a lot of use out of most of them. Yes, I'm happy about the purchase.  I think I will have to keep an eye out for Organic Authority and might have to get a box next time they have them.