Magic shorts

This is how INKnBURN shorts make me feel

Many years ago I watched a movie on a plane. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Four young women of different shapes and sizes all fit into the same pair of jeans ... at different times... and they all looked great and had amazing, life-changing experiences.

If you know me at all,  you know I am very self-conscious about my shape. It's been many different sizes and the result of previous sizes shows up in pretty unflattering ways. I started running at a different size than I am now. I have always run in compression shorts with a long-ish inseam, capris, tights. My thunder thighs, have turned into loose flappy thighs. My back-side is flat and, I swear, hangs down to my knees. Skirts with compression underneath are even better to cover the bum ... but never ever would I consider running shorts. I remember the first time I bought a running skirt, how hard I looked for one and how happy I was to find one. Now, skirts are all over the place. I wear several brands and aim for longer lengths and inseams. I admire those girls with the tight thin muscular legs and tight tiny bottoms in their itty bitty shorts. No way would I ever be able to pull that off. Just two words: Chub Rub. Shorts ride up on me. They don't cover the droopy bum. I don't have to say anything more about it.

 I love everything INKnBURN. I have been wearing their skirts becaues they are so beautiful. Hidden designs on the shorts underneath. My only issue was that they were just a wee bit short. The inseam hit at the thickest part of my thigh so it rolled up. Anything more than a few miles was not comfortable. Then, INKnBURN had a sale.  A Mystery Grab Bag of Bottoms. 4 shorts or skirts or combination for $100. I couldn't pass it up. I ordered my usual size and found 3 shorts and a skirt. So, I tried on the shorts and game over ... I am now a shorts runner...for the first time in my life.

I found that the original size fit well, but was a teeny tiny bit snugger than I prefer.

Red Denim...No longer available
This is the size I wear in regular jeans and in INKnBURN capris/tights/pants

So, I sized up and they were perfect.

Paeon...Limited Sizes still available
This is one size up from regular jeans. I feel most comfortable in these

Buuut, there was a pair I wanted really bad and they had it another size up, so I gave it a shot. Also perfect. Well, maybe a little loose in the back-side ...

Healing Mandala...No longer available
This is 2 sizes up from what I normally wear in jeans

What? I can wear three different sizes and they all are perfect? It's really INKnBURN Magic. Just like the capris, tights, and pants ... something about the shorts makes my butt look (can I say it?) good. Not flat and flabby. I think they are true to size, but it depends on how you like your fit. Snug? or Loose? Regardless of the fit, I haven't had any issues with the shorts riding up. NO CHUB RUB!!!

There are so many things to like about these shorts.

1. The fabric is made of magic. Light-weight. Feels like nothing. And it dries in a flat second. So ... sweat away and you won't feel soggy. Trudge through a river and you'll dry in an instant.

2. The designs!!! I don't need to say anymore. A picture is worth a thousand words. The colors are amazing and coordinate so well with all of the other designs for mixing or matching.

3. The shorts are a bit longer in back to cover the saggy butt. Bonus. No cheek hanging out.

4. The waistband is nice and wide. I wear it rolled up and it hits nicely on my hips and is really comfortable. You have the option of rolling it down if you want a lower-cut fit. And, of course, the styling details on the inside of the waistband are super fun, detailed, and coordinate with INKnBURN tops.

5. The liner is really comfortable. I hardly notice it's there. No seams rubbing in all the wrong places.It also stays put, no moving around, no wedgie.

6. There are two little pockets in front that are just the right size for a couple of gel packs and/or a set of keys. No big bulky items.

7. I love that they are made in the USA. I love supporting small business. The staff take pride in each piece they individually make, trim, and package. The pride in their product shows.

The only thing I have to say is that I think the "C" in DRY I.C.E stands for "crack" because there is something addictive about these shorts. I can't get enough!!!

Complaints? None really that I can think of. I have heard some rumblings that the company doesn't make larger sizes and the new designs are topping out at Size 12. I guess they didn't have sales volume in size 14, so they stopped making very much in that size. I do size up from what I wear in jeans and I am definitely sized up (1-2 sizes) compared to their capris/tights/and pants. The only other thing I have noticed is that the newest designs in shorts seem to fit a little snugger. Not like a full size smaller, but a hair smaller, like ... in between sizes. I ordered my "perfect" middle size, so I can't
really tell you if there is less of saggy butt in my top size. Of course, that could also be a reflection that my backside has gotten bigger rather than the shorts getting smaller. We won't talk about that possibility any further. I have heard other people say they think the newest designs are shorter, so maybe it's not just me.

So ... I can say, I've become a bit OBSESSED with INKnBURN shorts. The designs are gorgeous and I can wear them for distances without chafing issues. So, what's not to love? The old designs are amazing, but sadly, no longer available.

New Lust 

Classic Lust

Sunflower

Bloom

Leaf  'em in the Dust(I no longer have these)

Dragonfly

True Blue

Pink Ink

Dark Denim

Celtic Knot

Hollywood Dragon

AND NOW FOR THE NEWEST DESIGNS!!! 

If you love them ... which I do ... so I bought them ... you may want to order quickly. They make only one run of each design. When they are sold ... they are gone. You may be able to hunt them down at one of the limited local running stores that carries the brand, but no guarantees. There are limited sizes still available in Paeon and Run or Die (I don't have those ... I know, shocker!!). These three are new and most sizes should still be available. 

Lace is gorgeous. Almost like running in lingerie. Mine runs a hair snugger than old designs.

Dragon Flower has amazing vibrant colors and texture. I love the dragon on the fold down waistband. These also seem to fit me a hair snugger than older designs.

This could be my new favorite. Wildflower. I love the vibrant colors. I love the detail that makes them look like worn jeans. These fit exactly like older designs. Perfect sizing. I had considered asking for a size up before shipping, glad I didn't

I love the whimsy and detail of the designers at INKnBURN. Fish Tank for April Fool's. Get it? And the colors are amazing match with wildflowers. 

Wantable Intimates May 2015

Wantable has 5 subscriptions: an Accessory box (I am not a good accessorizor), their Intimate box, Make-up box and their Fitness wear and Style box (try on at home and keep what you want). For the Accessory, Intimate, and Make-up, the cost is $40 the first month and then a 10% discount subsequent months if you keep everything. You can return individual items, though, so it's not a keep all or none sort of thing. 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.

So far, I'm really impressed at how quickly Wantable ships. My collection for May arrived on May 1. 

Rene Rolfe Double Fun PJ Pant Dot: I love having pajama pants. I pair them with a tank for lounging and sleeping. These are really soft, which I've noticed from Wantable. I love the bright cute colors. Retail $28. My price to keep $15.14. 

Pajama Drama Slit Maxi Mint Julep/Noveau: I haven't really worn nightgowns and this isn't one. I slipped into it for a loungey relaxing Saturday afternoon around they house. It fits great and looks amazing. I Perfect for sping and summer days where I want to just hang out at home but not feel like I'm just being a slob. Retail $32. My price to keep $17.30

I was iffy on the Real Underwear Daphne HIpster in Vapor Blue. It's really more of a grey. I was worried that the lace pattern would feel uncomfortable. When I wore it, it felt small at first, and then it disappeared. The fit is great because it is snug enough to prevent riding up. I don't have much sexy underwear but with Wantable, my collection is growing. Retail $14. My price to keep $7.57.

My thoughts? Again, I'm pretty happy with the selection they found for me. Every month, I try to justify the cost of continuing, and every month my expectations are met or exceeded. Retail for this was $74 and I paid $36. I will  use every piece. I am really considering trying their Style box in June. May is already sold out. 

Little Lace Box April 2015

Little Lace Box is a newer subscription box for women. It's curated for women by three sisters and isn't really described as a "lifestyle" box, but curates their boxes around particular themes. They used to be a monthly box and that is changing after the April box. I think because of their popularity, they grew really fast. They put so much thought into the curations, it has been challenging keeping up. After April ... the subscriptions are going to every other month ... six times a year. I had an annual subscription ... so it extends it out 18 months for the remaining 9 boxes. No complaints.

You can purchase a bi-monthly subscription for $59.99. 3 boxes over 6 months for $149.97. 6 boxes over 12 months for $269.99. If you have a recurring subscription, you can email them to suspend subscription for any reason and then resume when  you are ready.  I purchased mine when the annual (12-box) subscription was $383.90 ($31.99/box). Shipping is between the 20th-23rd each month and they bill monthly just before shipping.  If you like items you receive and want more, they have an on-line boutique where you can purchase more. For every dollar you spend in the boutique or on the purchase of the box, you get a loyalty point.  50 loyalty points is one dollar to spend in the boutique.

I want to share how nice and personal these sisters are. I shared a link to my blog last month and one of them PM'd me back asking about my blog name and we chatted a bit. She was very sweet. I thought it was nice that they reached out personally. 

Such a nice personal touch, I received a text notification when my box was shipped out. So, I was anxiously awaiting it's arrival. The first thing I noticed was how HEAVY the box was and it is bigger than last month. I love how there is a personal note describing the thought that goes into each box. This month's theme was a reminder of the the things in life that remind us of home and family. For them it was their grandmother's Italian kitchen.

The first item in the box was this Porcelain Jewelry Dish by Artisan Janelle Bealieu: Perfect for putting rings in while cooking or doing dishes. Some were glazed, some were not.  The unglazed version should develop a nice patina with time. I received unglazed and I'm super happy with it. It is more authentic, in my mind. The lace pattern was either on the top or bottom of the dish. Mine is on top and I'm super happy about that too. Because they are handcrafted, each one will have a slightly different shape. I have heard some grumblings that some folks didn't like it because it doesn't look "finished" or looks "simple" and they weren't very nice. I love it. I think it looks very personal and I could easily see myself picking this up at a local farmer's market from the person who made it herself. This will get lots of use and will spare me from searching the counter for where I left my rings. Retail $14.99

Gourmet Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar from The Ancient Olive. What a great combination for a paring. I love olive oil and vinegar for dipping and dressing. This combination of Milanese Gremolata Olive Oil with the flavors of Italian herbs and Sicilian Lemon Balsamic Vinegar should be amazing. Retail $13.99. They also wanted to include a full-size bottle of olive oil, but where would it have fit. So, in true Little Lace Box form, we get to pick our own to choose just what will suit our own individual tastes. A form was included with suggested pairings and I might just have to spend a little coin to order a pair instead of a bottle. I really love the personalization that goes into the curation. Retail $13.99

Oil & Vinegar combinations wouldn't be complete without Olive Oil Dipping Bowls (by Le Cadeaux). These cute little individual bows are just perfect for it. Just a little nice touch for a dinner to add a little style. I love the roosters and fish and floral ... all very Italian kitchen to me. Retail $15.99

Tea Towel By Belle & Union Co. I always have a tea towel on the stove and I love the whimsy of this design. Retail $14.99. Following a similar theme of things you need in the kitchen is notepad for your grocery list. This Market List Notepad was designed by Little Lace Box to match the Tea Towel. I've never thought about it, but I suppose most are designed to be torn by a right-handed person and this is designed to be ambidextrous as one of the sisters is left-handed. This sure beats the post-it notepad that I have on the counter right now. Retail $4.99







Seriously, could you have an Italian Kitchen without gourmet pasta? I can't wait to try the Filotea Pennete della Domenica from Marx Foods and I won't be letting my husband do the cooking that night. It needs to be prepared perfectly and paired perfectly so we can get the true benefit of fine pasta. Retail $8.99 Along with the Pasta, the box included Trentasette Pesto from Marx Foods. I believe some people received a Sauce and some a Pate. Mine was Red Pesto with Truffles. It has a lot of cheese and cheese with rennet, so I'm passing it along to a friend. It does seem very gourmet. Retail $8.50

 Unfortunately, after every meal, dishes have to be done. So, the sisters included Cucina Dish Soap from Fruits & Passion. It's concentrated, eco-conscious, bio-degradable with a great scent. Retail $8.99

So, what do I think? I really love it. The box really did really follow a great theme. It had lots of small treats and items that are just a little bit decadent that I may not have picked up for myself, but that I will surely enjoy. It's a perfect Italian Kitchen with a value of $105.42. I love how some boxes have a few items of high value and some boxes are packed with a ton of items of lower value.

I can hardly wait for June. The box theme is Classy and Fabulous so should be filled with style items. And, thank God, they promised no temporary tattoos.

Divas Galveston 2015--Girls weekend with a little run

Cue little girl voice: "Look at me! I'm a Princess!!!" in my tutu

I have sworn never to run in a Tutu. I don't judge people who do, just not for me. Well, that changed. Diva's Half Marathon & 5K in Galveston included Tutus in the packet. It was going to be a celebration of ridiculous. I love women's races, so Sorority Girl and I signed up and decided to make it a girl's weekend. We both signed up for the half-marathon, but as the day approached, we had both been recovering from colds and were just lacking in motivation, so we decided to do the 5K and just celebrate the weekend. 

We drove to Galveston on Saturday and went straight to packet pick-up. Super easy and well-organized with short lines. Little shopping expo, but I refrained from purchasing anything. They made it really easy to change to the 5K. Show them our bib, and voila. It was done with the click of a button. The day was dreary and chilly and it was hard to find a good picture of the ocean view ... well, not much of a view since the sky and the water were the same color.

We checked into our hotel, what a dive. It was really perfect for the weekend of ridiculous. I felt like we were on Spring Break (more on that later) and were in a cheap hotel. The shower curtain was missing. What's with that? We had to ask twice for a shower curtain and then when it arrived, they expected us to put it up. We didn't. We did worry a bit about cockroaches and bedbugs, but we weren't plagued with either, wheh.

Then for the girly stuff to begin. First, we had to find food. I read about Po' Boys at The Spot and thought, well maybe, an oyster Po' Boy wouldn't be so bad. I have a little squeamishness about oysters, but not as bad as other seafood. I think they can be harvested in an eco-friendly manner and I don't think they fight to survive. Well, when we got there, Po'Boys were on my mind. The only option was shrimp, and with some angst, I ordered it and Fried Pickles. By the time I was a few bites in, the grease bomb hit my belly. UGH!!! I don't know if it was that I can't digest shrimp anymore since it has been over a  year since I have had any form of seafood, or if it was the amount of grease in the super-fried meal. Didn't matter. My guts were not happy and it took days to recover. 

After eating, we headed to the Pleasure Pier. Teehee!!! We giggled at the name. We appreciated the "pull your pants up" rule. But, there was a $10 fee, just to walk on the pier even without going on the rides, so we looked from a distance.  Then it was on to manicure/pedicures. Not the best we've ever had, but it was nice to sit in the massaging chair for 90-minutes and chat and sip on water.Then to Rita's for frozen treats. And what kind of silly girl weekend would it be without wine coolers? So, we found the cheap gas station and picked up some Smirnoff screwdrivers. The attendant declined to check my ID even when I offered. What? Don't I look like I need my ID checked? There was synthetic urine at the counter. Naive as I am, I had to ask what it was for. Wow, I didn't know they could do that? And how does one sneak it? I don't know. The attendant did look at me and say that I cold probably make a lot of money selling my urine. Again, what? And, YUCK!!!

Pre-race prep. What could possibly go wrong?

We laid out our kits for the next day. INKnBURN lace for me. Hollywood Dragon for Sorority Girl. One of us is naughty. One of us is nice. To bed and early morning wake-up to drive to the start line. It was a sea of pink. The half-marathon started 30 minutes before the 5K and we timed it perfectly. We were walking up as the leaders were heading out.

Remember, it is the ridiculous factor. The 5K course was PACKED!!! We trotted slowly along, chatting the whole time. Women were amazing. All shapes and sizes and ages and paces. All super friendly and supportive and chatting with each other. I totally loved one woman who pranced and waived at all the stopped cars, blowing them big kisses, because they were all out there for her!!! She was the Diva of the Day!!! Perfect. 

About 100 yards from the finish line, there was a station passing out tiaras and boas so we could really prance and primp for finish line photos. As we finished, there was water and fruit, but really I was up for the champagne. Medals were being passed out by firemen. We stood in line for the fireman of our choice. Since we had signed up for the half-marathon, even though we did the 5K, we were given half-marathon medals. We clinked our glasses and drank our cold sparkling beverage. Headed home with a stop at the outlet mall (what girl weekend is complete without some shopping?) Would I do it again? Heck yes!!! The race was well organized and fun. The weekend company was a blast!!!

Post-Race Celebrations

I forgot to turn off Trusty Garmin ... I did not run an extra mile at a 4 minute pace.

UMMMM ... Yeah. This makes it all worth it!!!