Fun with Nieces

I have ten nieces and nephews. They were born in pairs. My oldest brother and my sister had children the same years and my middle brothers had children the same year ... except the last year, but still close. We don't live close to my family, so I haven't really had much time to spend with them. Several  years ago, when the oldest were entering senior year in high school, the Musician and I decided to have them come visit. Then, each of the next few years, we had the next pair out. We skipped a few years because there was a little gap, and then we moved or thought we were moving. The plan was that we could get to know them. Maybe show them a few new experiences. I thought we might show them colleges, but they had other plans. 

This year was the last pair. Kristen has already graduated and Kymbr is starting her senior year. This was Kymbr's first flight and Kristen's first without parents. The parents were pretty funny. Several texts with updates until they arrived. I texted them that they were safe and sound. Everyone can take a sigh of relief. I think the toughest thing for them was that they are typical midwestern girls from typical midwestern families ... that means meat and potatoes and dairy and eggs ... not in this house. They were scared and afraid. HEHEHE!!! 

After picking the girls up from the airport, we spent our first evening grilling meatless burgers and planning the next several days. They were unimpressed with the Vegan cheese, but didn't seem to hate the fries. Kymbr is artistic and Kristen is adventurous. We found a mix of both. 

High on the list of things the girls wanted to do was a Segway tour. Always fun and a good way to see the city. We booked with Segway Nation. Headed downtown first thing in the morning. Individual lessons and off we went. The Musician and I had done Segways before, so I was itching to go fast. We had a nice time getting used to the rides by zipping around a park and then for a tour of the city. We had a great guide, but I can't remember his name. Got a pretty good tour and had some nice photo ops. I learned a little more about the city, but I don't remember it all ... so much. 

Look Ma. No hands.

Remember the Alamo

After lunch at Senor Veggie, where we ran into some neighbors, we headed to the Witte Museum. At lunch, Kymbr was more adventurous, but not impressed with Lentil Chili. Kristen had pasta with red sauce. They liked corn fritters and chocolate chip cookies.

At the Witte, we went to the Grossology exhibit. We all thought it sounded cool. The Simmons clan is all about gross body stuff. It was OK, fun, but really geared towards a younger crowd. Some stinky stuff, and some games. I don't know what I expected. If they were 12 or younger,  I think it would have been awesome. We spent a fair amount of time playing games at the body exhibit ... all about your own body. I learned I have no upper body strength.Kristen made the rope pull look really easy. Our aura's were groovy. 
 We rode the sky bike and Kristen climbed a wall. She's quick like a monkey. The girls were not impressed with stuffed baked portabello mushrooms for dinner, but didn't mind the veggie chips. Also not high on their list of favorite foods is tofu scramble. But vegan pancakes ... not so bad.  Over the next few days, we did lots of little fun things. It was really HOT and we had no desire to be outdoors. We learned how to make beaded braided bracelets with a techniqee called Kumihimo. Kymbr is a master at braiding and does lots of friendhip bracelets. The beads added a new flavor for her and this was a new technique. We did some glass fusing. It's great for creative minds as well as those of us who prefer to follow directions. I really need to mail them their artwork.

We went miniature golfing at a glow in the dark indoor mini-golf. We played some air hockey. We tried a few vegan restaurants and meals. Cupcakes, yes. Veggie sushi yes. Edamame yes. Seaweed salad no. Kale salad no. Tacos with faux meat yes. We took the girls to family night at a western bar for a little drinking and country dancing ... the Musician took us each for a spin. Kymbr got to wear her boots.

Shirley Temples ... don't worry parents. I'm not corrupting them

It was hot, but not in the caverns, so we took a tour of the Natural Bridges Caverns. This was a lot of fun for me, because these two just feed off each other and did a lot of laughing and giggling. Funny, we don't drink sodas, but we offered sodas to the girls. Shocker!!! They thought vegan meant no junk food. What? One morning, at 10 AM, they were floored when we went through McDonald's for soda (them) and tea (me). OMIGOSH!!! Soda this early in the morning? Is that OK? And, how is it that these girls did not know that McDonald's sells cookies? They do now. Have I created monsters?

On the final day before the girls headed back to Kansas, we spent the day tubing. Classic San Antonio tradition. Sunburn patterns were splotchy. It was another really fun time for me watching the girls laugh and giggle the whole trip down the river. It was sad to see them go. I had fun. I hope they enjoyed the trip, too. When I took them to the airport, they were impressed with how quickly I maneuvered the kiosks and got their boarding passes and baggage claim. I am just going to harass my sibs because apparently my older brothers didn't make it seem so easy.

River Cities Triathlon 2014

Seems that about every year, there seems to be an issue with my training. I've been getting better at the training part the past few years, but this year was especially tough. If you know me well, you know that this year has been faced with hurdles . . .trying to overcome a hip injury, surgery, and some other issues that have really caused a lack of motivation. I signed up for this race several months ago, but I was going to have to travel for it, and I wasn't in the mood. My friends who were planning to do the race with me weren't going either, so I really didn't want to go. But, the swag is good . . .it's the reason some people sign up for this race. I convinced myself to pack and at least go to pick up the swag. Hey, I paid for it, right? At a minimum, we could have a weekend getaway. Fortunately, the Musician knew my struggles and had my bike tires pumped and Vaderette loaded in the bike rack before I got home to pack. I was unorganized and just couldn't figure out what to pack. I've done this triathlon thing before, right? It took forever, but we made it out of town and into Shreveport Saturday morning.

We went to Sportspectrum to pick up packet and I wasn't disappointed. The timing chip was disposable this year, so they didn't ask if I was planning to race, everything was in the bag.                                                                                 This is the 34th year of the race and it's got a reputation. Sells out in minutes. I set my alarm and cancel everything else to register. Sportspectrum does a great job. I wonder how well run their other races are? Probably pretty good. If I were local, I would check them out, too.                                                                               I remembered that I hadn't lubed the chain very well, so we went to River Cities Bicycle and they lubed her for free. Also, noticed I was missing my pedal cadence sensor so they replaced it, too. And, it was nice to talk to someone about Vaderette. Not many people know the Litespeed brand, or that they make carbon bikes (they are known for titanium). I highly recommend this shop. By the way, I love my bike. Just wish she came with a better motor. 

After all that was taken care of, we met our friends from the boat in the Galapagos for lunch. My non-vegan friends made and amazing (and huge) lunch of vegan food for us and we enjoyed it on the patio. They have beautiful property. Sharye designed every inch of the house, picked out every detail of finish and furnishings, and designed and planted every plant. She has a personal relationship with her plants and it was really fun to see them again. My mood improved. Next hurdle, get dressed and show up for the race.                                                                                                                                                       I laid out my gear to make it easier. Alarm went off at 4:45 AM and I got out of bed. Next hurdle, start the race. 

Met friends of friends and figured I was committed to race. Well, at least start the swim.  I was in a relatively early wave, so that was nice. Not much time to think about it. The water was nice, actually clear enough to see my hands. I have only been in the pool 5 times this year, so I wasn't prepared, so I wasn't nervous. Figured I could relax and just see what happened. I stayed to the outside and didn't get thrashed like last year . . .well, not until the back-half when I got caught up in the soup of the fast folks from the next wave. Surprised that I was a few seconds faster than last year? What what? And, according to the Garmin (which I am still figuring out), pretty straight. 800 meters/20:57

My usual picnic in T1. Still not feeling very stressed. Just out for a Sunday ride. It's only the 4th time I've been in the saddle this year and I stood there a bit wondering what I was supposed to do to get ready? 4:40

Bike was comfortable and smooth. Not very hilly. Noticed that the only sensor working on the bike computer was my pedal cadence sensor. Must figure this out at some point. A few minutes slower than last year, but I didn't feel completely spent. I might have looked like I needed encouragement. I got a lot of "good job" comments from cute guys, and an "I love your top" comment from a woman. Did I look that bad like I needed encouragement. Maybe so. Thanks guys. It helped. 18 miles/1:09:37

Rode into T2 and an official was waiting for little ole' me. The rules say no headphones or music players. I keep my phone as a safety device (security blanket). I don't hide it. I was told that if I wore it on the run, I would get another 2:00 penalty. I said "seriously? even if I'm not using it?" He said "yes." I said "Seriously, even though I'm probably dead last in my division? You're going to give me a penalty? Bring it, not like it matters." He said, "watch yourself." I wonder if they have a penalty for sass? I did leave the phone. Stopped on the way out and told the Musician. He is my defender. Doesn't like anyone screwing with me. He went and argued with the officials. "What about the folks with the jawbones? Aren't those headphones and music devices?" Anyway, next time, phone will likely be hidden in my gear bag, just like everyone else. 3:12

Headed out for run. Again, no expectations. This year was much cooler than last year, which may have helped the bike and certainly helped the run. I had my intervals set for 5-minute run, 1-minute walk. It helped. I was able to run the finish. A little slower than last year, but less trained, and with injuries that haven't fully recovered. I will take it. 5K/41:41

Thanks for the medal. Food was a chicken taco ...very sad I would be a little hungry. Watermelon, however, was awesome. I'll be back again next year. Total time: 2:17:23. No penalty added. I suppose that since the difference between me and the 40th of 41 finishes in my age group was 6-minutes, the 2-minutes really didn't matter. I was disappointed. I felt important getting a penalty.

2013 results for comparison

2014 results

Escape Monthly-Deluxe India Box

Escape Monthly is a destination-inspired monthly delivery of luxury products to help you relax, renew and escape! Indulge in experiences inspired by luxurious spas, tropical getaways, cultures of the world and more! - See more at: http://escapemonthly.com. If I can't take a real vacation every month, at least I can pretend with a vacation in a box. One monthly box includes a trip to the destination. If you just can't live without any extras of items in the box, you can buy them at escapemonthly.com/offers for a discount. All you have to do is enter your email address and they will send you a coupon code for the discount. They are now offering a less expensive (but no discounts) on a mini-box. It has fewer items (4-5 instead of 8, and no travel guide), but still full-size products and costs $24.95. This month they offered a deluxe box from India for $69.99 and promoted they had 25 boxes. I bought one. I wanted to see what was in the deluxe box to see what might be different. When the box arrived, it had some weight to it. It was a square gold box instead of the usual blue chevron. There was a scarf that didn't fit into the tightly packed box. 

As usual, but on different type of paper, the box arrived with a card detailing the items inside. There has been some disappointment on the Internet because the picture used promoting the box showed a few different items including a cute little snow-globe with an elephant. That wasn't included in the box. Also, some people thought the box wouldn't have ANY items that were in the regular box and there is one duplicate item, but a larger size. This wasn't really something to really get upset about, in my mind. I have to admit though, I would have liked something with an elephant, and the snow-globe looked cute.  I looked up prices of the items on-line to get an estimate of the value.

Authentic Indian Pashmina Scarf by Peach Coutoure. I usually don't wear yellow, but is a deep golden color that I think I can wear. It is 100% viscose rayon and really soft. I like that it is fair trade, eco-conscious, and handcrafted by women in India. I found it on-line for regular price $29.99, but currently on-sale for $9.99.

There were several items by Auromere. I liked that all the products are made in India and distributed by a U.S. Company. The Aromatherapy Incense 8-Fragrance Sampler contains 8 packets of 3 mini-sticks of Amber, Jasmine, Cedar, Lavender, Lily, Patchouli, Rose, And Sandal. It smells great still in the package. I like a bath with scented candles. I think I can relax with these. Retail $8.50. Conveniently, these came with a handmade Mother's Symbol (Lotus flower) Teak Incense Burner. It's pretty. Retail $2.00. And to round out the collection, Ayurvedic Himalayan Rose Soap. I'm not a huge fan of a heavy rose scent, but I won't turn it down. It feels moisturizing, so we will see. Retail $2.95. 

Included in the regular July box was the 5-mL version of the Nemat International Amber Oil. The deluxe box had the 10-mL version. I will probably gift one of them because I don't need both. The scented oil could be used on the skin or I plan to use it in a diffuser. You have to like the scent of amber, which I do. It's light and not too floral. Some people aren't a fan. Made in Fremont, California. Retail $15.50. 

Similar to the regular July box was Masala Pop Chai Masala Popcorn. This was better packaged than a similar item in the regular box, with a reclosable bag (not that I need to close it because I ate it at once). I couldn't keep my husband's hands out of them. I received Savory Masala with Papadums and Lentil Chips. I love non-GMO and Vegan. OMIGOD!!! This was really good. The packaging kept it fresh and the flavor pops. Really spicy. You can buy them on-line from their Portland, OR manufacturer for $15 for 3 2.0 oz bags, so the value of the single bag is $5.00.

There were some flavors for cooking included. First was Urban Accents Tandoori Gotta Cook Tonight Mix. I's a product of the USA for $3.99. And the other seasoning was Rub With Love Bengal Masala Rub. It's great on vegetables. Out of Seattle, WA for $6.50. I really like Indian food and Indian seasonings. I won't use the recipe suggestions because I don't eat meat, but I can definitely find ways to use these in my kitchen. 

The next item was quite a pleasant surprise for me. One day, I spent hours looking for Black Salt to make vegan deviled eggs. I finally found some, but it wasn't easy in Texas. I was happy to see Artisan Salt Kala Namak in a 7 ounce jar of fine salt. I will admit, not everyone will like this product of India. It has a very sulfuric smell and flavor. I personally love it, so I'm pretty happy. A little goes a long way, so I won't have to hunt all over town for quite a while. Retail $10.99. 

India wouldn't be complete without Chai. The box included Tao of Tea 500-mile Chai Tea Tin. The black leaves smell incredible. I don't have a tea pot and strainer, but I have a good friend who does. She can share with me. We can relax and sip after adding some plant-based milk and sugar. Of course, I could just smell it all night and feel pretty relaxed. I found a 4-oz tin or you could purchase by the ounce on-line for $2.25/ounce. The 2-ounce tin, which will brew 30-35 cups, is valued at $4.50. Of course, you can't sip tea without a cup, so the box included Earthen Light Brown Handmade Teacup. I found these on-line in sets of 4 for $12.15 (currently on-sale for $10.95), so the value for the 1 cup is ~$3.00. They appear to be made in China.

And the final item in the box is kind of fun. I'm not sure when I will play with the EarthHennna Classic Kit  of henna tattoos, but I can probably find some fun excuse. There is enough henna for about 15 designs and the kit comes with 16 stencil transfers to play with. Each tattoo should last 7-10 days on the skin and the paste for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. Maybe I'll have a little henna party with some girlfriends when we're feeling a little wild and crazy. Retail $16.95 (but currently on sale for $10.95). Made in the USA.




 I am glad to see that there were more items FROM India in the deluxe box than in the regular box. I do really like the collection, so I'm not going to get really upset that the box didn't match the marketing picture. Sure, I would have liked a cute elephant snow-globe, but it's not the end of the world. It would have collected dust. I will actually find use for everything in the box.

I calculated the value to be about $109.87 at full price, but with current sales, closer to $85. Like the regular monthly boxes, I really would like to see a higher value that exceeds the price ($69.99 for the deluxe box) a little more. The marketing advertised a >$150 value, but I didn't see it. I feel like Escape Monthly could get some good bargains because they buy in bulk and could up the ante a bit. I will admit, that I remain on the fence about continuing since I do have some other subscription boxes that make me feel like I'm getting greater value for the expense. But, darn it, they keep tempting me with exciting new locations for the upcoming months, so I keep thinking "let's see what [Paris in August] has and then I'll decide."

(This post contains affiliate links. These opinions are my own and are unsolicited. I have not received any compensation for my comments.)

FabFitFun--Summer 2014

FabFitFun was my first introduction to Subscription Boxes and may be what got me hooked. I love to receive packages in the mail and surprises make it even better. The box is guaranteed to contain at least $175 full-size, premium products in beauty, fitness, fashion, and Wellness finds. There is a wide range of items included, so for me, it's a lot of fun. . .not a bunch of the same. And, I try things that I might not have otherwise sampled. The cost is $49.99 per season, but there are discount codes available. 

 There are a few things about this box that make it a different from the rest and I really like that.

1.       You can purchase an annual subscription to receive 4 seasonal boxes, or you can purchase individual boxes.

2.      I like quarterly. Not too much $$ a year and I'm not filling up on too many products. You can also purchase extra boxes (until they sell out) without having an extra commitment. My communication with customer service has been good. 

3.       The products are all plant-based and cruelty-free. I am not giving away food to friends (like I do with other boxes), although my friends appreciate me for it....Well, they used to be this way...

Something I noticed recently, I don't see Guiliana Rancic's name on the site anymore, so I'm not sure she is affiliated with them still. A little disappointed (more on that later) because when I originally signed up for this subscription, items were all animal friendly and vegan. Not so much in this box. Just a few items, but still . . .It was nice having a box that had great products, but didn't have to scream vegan . . .some people think vegan means crazy, but there are so many things in the world that are accidentally vegan. I would like to see more people discover those things. 

So . . .on to the reveal. I had been seeing spoilers for this box for almost a month, but really was dying to see what was inside. As usual, it's like opening a birthday present and has a brochure describing the items included.

Sonya Dakar Flash Facial: OK, I admit, I haven't used it yet, but it promises to be something I will love. Developed for the stars. Let's hope it's a miracle worker that it says it is. I could use softer, plumper, younger-looking skin. Couldn't we all? Retail $95. 

pur-lisse pr-protect SPF 30: My second sunscreen this month, but this one designed for the face. I can always use sunscreen because my pale skin doesn't like any sun. It's light and moisturizing, so it doesn't fill my pores. Retail $55

Thursday Friday Away Mini Clutch/Makeup Bag: I saw several designs and didn't get the one I was hoping for, but still pretty cute. I love having little bags. They help me organize bigger bags. And, this is probably the cutest make-up travel bag I now own. Also came with a $30 gift card if I want another design. 

 FabFitFun Water Infuser BPA-free Water Bottle: My second infuser bottle of the year from subscription boxes, but I'm not complaining. I drink lots of water and prefer to carry my own bottle instead of purchasing plastic bottles. And I love adding flavors to help me drink more. The brochure suggested cucumber and mint . . .it's like they know me!!! My favorite combination this summer. This one is different than my other one and I love the saying "Grab life by the exercise balls!" Thanks for that advice, I think I will. Retail $15




Zoya Nail Polish: I'm guessing there were multiple colors of this also. I'm on the fence about Maya...coral color. It's not a color I usually wear, but I have branched out this summer to other colors, so I'll give it a try. It is vegan-friendly and supposed to be long lasting. I can't wear it on my fingers, so I'll try it on my toes. Retail $9

KissSTIXX Lip Balm. Contains sunscreen so I'm happy because I think all lip balm should contain sunscreen. Also, saw different varieties on other reviews. I'm happy with the Chocolate and Strawberry combination. I don't think I will ask my husband to wear one flavor while I wear another to get a flavor explosion when we kiss. I think that seems a little junior high to me. Contains beeswax, so not vegan. Retail $5.99. Included a coupon for 25% off an on-line order.

 Next on the not vegan list is POPchips in Sour Cream & Onion flavor. I've had POPchips before in other flavors, and liked them. Gifted these to a grateful friend. Retail $1.29

 Balanced Guru No Frizz Oil. I think the universe is trying to tell me something. In 40+ years of curly frizzy hair, I've never heard of hair oil to smooth things out. This is my second hair oil this month. I think I'm supposed to use it and I think I will. This smells amazing!!! Retail $25

The final items were sponsored. So, I'm guessing the companies paid to have them put in the box, or donated them. Although the values listed total $4.49, I wouldn't really include them in the value of the package. Also, I really like that FabFitFun includes really high-end products that feel luxurious and these just seemed to cheapen the box. I suppose if it keeps the price down while allowing the value to stay high, then I can live with it. I will use the shave gel. I have no need for the liners so I gifted them. The Slimfast bar is a new flavor, but contains dairy, so not vegan friendly. Gifted that also.

Overall, I'm so happy with this box. Total retail value $241.28 (not including the sponsored items). I really like that there are a few really high-end items. Seems luxurious and decadent to me, and makes me already anxious for fall.  I have the 1-year subscription for $175 so the box cost $43.75. Pretty good bargain since I love almost everything in the box. Are you jealous? Do you want one? Here is a link: Use the code 5779985 and get a $15 discount. It's good for the first 3 people who use it. If you like my review, it also helps me out because I get a discount, too. 

(This post contains affiliate links. These opinions are my own and are unsolicited. I have not received any compensation for my comments.)