Come Out and Play

RANDOM

The last time I ran was supposed to be a 10 miler with the track club on my day off.  I was looking forward to it  and we had perfect running weather, meaning overcast skies and temps in the low to mid 60s.  I woke up that morning not feeling right, but a lot of times I'll get past that "not right" feeling and run OK.  I only made it a little more than 2 miles before I had to turn around and walk most of the way back.  I ended up in bed from the time I returned home until the following Tuesday when I decided I needed to go into work and produce a paycheck.  Wednesday I had a session at RU and that was difficult at best.  Thursday it's a visit to the doctor's office.  I came home with antibiotics, Rx nose spray, a netti pot, and a big bottle of Tylenol.

I hope with all this rest that my IT band will ease up. It's better than it was a month ago, but still reminds me it's there.

I was asked to review the book Train Like a Mother  - How to Get Across Any Finish Line and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity by Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea, authors of Run Like a Mother.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book!  I honestly didn't want to put a lot of preconceptions into this book before reading it because I've often been disappointed with running books written for women.  This book is written with real life in mind, a healthy sense of humor, and serious support and concern when needed.  It's as if you're getting training advice from your very knowledgeable running friends who know what it's like to fit in a training schedule and juggling kids, school, family, work, etc.  I like that they go over things that everyone talks about, but nobody ever addresses in other training manuals, such as going commando, race goals, running music, women's nutrition, etc.  The training schedules are very straight forward and not too technical -- they explain everything as if they're talking to you without being condescending.  I liked that there were little reminders to not skip a particular workout and get a babysitter. Both authors give their spin on explaining things, which I liked, because no two experiences are the same.  This book is a good read for the new runner with constructive tips on how to get started, as well as the seasoned runner with chapters affirming that what you're doing (or thinking) is actually right on par, or that you might need to change a few things. This book can be read in a weekend and is a good "go to" or reference book.  If I gave stars to books, I'd give this a 5 out of 5 stars.

I'm also reviewing another pair of running shoes.  This time it's On Cloud - Cloudrunner.

Yes, purple and fuchsia, but I actually like the colors, which aren't too foo-foo.  Photo from the On Cloud Facebook page.

I've never heard of this brand until I received them.  They're engineered in Switzerland and relatively new on the running shoe scene.  I've received them a week ago, and haven't run in them since I got sick, but they're very comfortable.  My only concern is that they might be too cushy, which might aggravate my plantar faciitis.  I have some miles to make up next week, and I'll be able to judge on how well they ride then.

This weekend is the La Jolla Half Marathon and 5k, which I am happily not running in, but my brother and sister-in-law will be here to participate in the 5k.  My sister, the one who concocted the whole running weekend has backed out, which sort of throws things off. My sister has participated in only two, maybe three 5ks in the past 5 years or so.  She likes La Jolla because she doesn't really race it.  She's more of a walk/runner.  That's all fine and good because she can enjoy the scenery.  I personally don't like this race.  I like the course on my own terms because it is a pretty course that goes along parts of La Jolla Shores and ends near La Jolla Cove.  If I'm in a 5k race, well, I'm in to RACE and try to edge out that lady in the red tech shirt just ahead of me. I'm far from being 5k race ready at this point,  my IT band aches just thinking about it,  and running La Jolla, with the steep hills and bumpy running surface for the last mile, does not bode well in my mind.  Hubs and I are planning to be at the finish line to see if my bro can score a podium finish.  My sister-in-law has been running for a long while, but sort of new to racing.  I'm looking forward to seeing how they fare on Sunday, then head out for brunch. 

In a little more than a month is the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon/Half Marathon.  I'm not 100% certain, but I think this will be my last race for the year.  I almost put in for the lottery for the Nike Women's event in San Francisco in October for 2012, but I reminded myself that I do need the break, and would need to continue training and be half marathon ready.  No to Nike, and probably most other races until January 2013.

This year will be the 30th anniversary of Title IX.  Even though Title IX happened in 1972, I personally did not see any changes until I was in high school in the mid to late 70s. It also took my parents longer than that to be on board, even though my high school finally had girls track team started in my Junior year. There was no support (or transportation) to stay with the team.

Because of Title IX, my niece was able to participate on the high school wrestling team and sparred against boys and girls in her weight class. 



Song from Saturday, April 14, 2012:
Part of Me - Katy Perry

PEACE

Human

What have you all been up to?

I've become rather meh* when it comes to blogging. I used to be so consistent, but now it has taken somewhat of a back seat to social networking.  Sad, I know, but that's what's happening.  It's also a time issue as well, and when I am home the last thing I'm doing is blogging, but dealing with family things like helping the kiddo with homework and the usual day in, day out things that need more attention than my blog does.  I'm not abandoning the blog.  I suppose I'll amp things up again, and post more frequently at some point.  I just don't want it to collect cobwebs.  I still have plenty to say, as disjointed and grammatically incorrect as it may seem at times.  At least it's honest.

Product Review:

I've been trying out the VITAband wrist band. Here's a picture of mine:

From the VITAband site:

"The VITAband acts like a medical ID bracelet providing medical professionals with your identification, relevant medical history and emergency contacts to help ensure you get the care you need in the event of an emergency.

VITAband also offers Visa® payWave contactless payment technology. This allows users to simply wave their VITAband, featuring The VITAband Visa Prepaid Card, at the point of sale to make purchases at millions of retailers who accept Visa debit cards."

 I know it's hard to see, but I'm wearing it on my right wrist in this photo from the Nike Women's Half Marathon this past October

I've been using the VITAband for about the past three months, wearing it during every run.  It's rather comfortable and I've gotten used to wearing it.  It's a rubber bracelet with an emergency number and my personal ID number on the back of the wrist- which will access my emergency and medical information for first responders, and can include a removable, scan-able pre paid Visa chip.  I have yet to use the Visa chip.  There are stores in my area that do have the scanner, but I usually don't frequent those stores.   I wanted to talk about the ease of just being able to wave my wrist at the contact-less payment scanner, but I haven't seen one yet.  I might have to make a special trek to the stores that do have the scanner, and I'll post about using it.  I like the idea of having some form of money on me when I run, cash or credit card, and this wrist band would mean one less thing to carry if my post run eateries/establishments would have this scanner, and (so far) none do.  There is a yearly fee to use this band and to keep your personal emergency information in their system.  I really like the concept of this band, which can access more than your emergency phone numbers, but includes what ever health information you provide on the site, which can include allergies, past surgeries, medications, health issues, etc.  I like the VITAband with all of my information for first responders, I just wish the High Dive down the street from my house would  have the Visa  scanner... Just sayin'...

Other Stuff

I was contacted (through THIS blog) by the Mutual of Omaha's "Aha Moment" team to film my  "Aha Moment."   I thought I'd take them up on their offer and put in what I had to say.  I went to their Airstream mobile "studio" set up at Balboa Park.

As I waited for my turn there were others ahead of me who were doing great things like helping those less fortunate than themselves, saving babies, helping to find cures.  Their interviews were on a screen just outside the Airstream in the waiting area.  Here I am, going to talk about me and running.  Running and I  felt so petty at that moment. 

As I waited, I filled out this clap board, which they actually used, and I got to keep:

What I had intended to say in my filmed interview with them is that my "Aha Moment" happens every time I run, that I am constantly awe struck with running in San Diego county.  I'm extremely fortunate to live in an area where the running season lasts all year long.   After I said something to that effect, the person directing the shoot asked me to repeat what I had just said because an airplane flew overhead and they didn't get a clear recording.  MY MIND WENT BLANK.  *gah*  I lost everything I wanted to say.  *Poof*  It was gone.  I became really nervous after that and felt myself stumble on my words.  There was no flow.  She had to prompt me with questions after that, and I felt rather sucky.  I've posted my segment on Facebook and Twitter. Since Blogger won't let me post the link to access the video Mutual of Omaha posted on their site, here's the actual link:

http://ahamoment.com/moments/2630

I never realized that I move around so much when I'm nervous.  If this were Tyra Banks Top Model show I would have lost the spokes model segment. Seriously.  Thank goodness for creative editing.  My last words came out wrong.  I wanted to say something about every day being an "aha moment, "  not the thing about putting it all together to say this is why I do what I do.  (What?)  Yeah, I lost my train of thought that morning.  The scarf. People asked about my scarf.  I bought it on clearance at a store in an outlet mall a few years ago. It goes with everything... I also had a black sweater on which (I thought) made me look more pulled together, but it turned out to warm up that day and by the time arrived to the taping I was rather toasty, so the sweater came off.   They have three finalists and one will win a spot in the actual televised ad campaign, and I knew from the get go that I wouldn't be one of them. I wasn't vying for a TV spot.  That's just not me.  It's all good, though.  I've never done anything like this before, and now that I have, I hope that's it. 

 Song from Wednesday, October 26, 2011:
Hey Soul Sister - Train - Run-DMZ

PEACE

*For lack of a better word.  Complacent?  Bored?

My Girl

The last time I was here I said I was going to give my book review, but, I swear, I didn't think I'd take so long to read the book. Life happens.

I was eager to read the Run Like A Girl by Mina Samuels because it's an accumulation of inspiring stories about women in sports, but mostly running. There were several points in the book that I did not want to forget, and I ended up tabbing a few pages...

OK, so I tabbed more than a few pages, so sue me.  I did go through a few sets of tabs, especially to refer back to some of the finer points that resonated with me.

I found my head nodding over "shrink and pink."  Shrink and pink is where clothing and gear companies take a man's designed item, such as a t shirt, size it down and change the color to pink, with no consideration to a women's body, sizing or need.  You would kind of think that, by now, shrink and pink would no longer be an issue, but it is.  The last two half marathons I ran in gave out men's sized/fitted t shirts to everyone. Bonus points that they were tech shirts, points lost because both of my XS men's t shirts from those two races have no consideration for my curves and fit me rather large, even though those are both XS.  In both of those races the women outnumbered the men. "Shrink and pink" is so 10, (20 ,30+) years ago, but still an issue. 

Samuels points out that when women get together we rarely start a conversation with a list of our accomplishments, but with the tendency to bond though belittling ourselves, and dialing into the internal radio "KFKD," and, yes, it's exactly as it sounds. K- f**ked.  This got me thinking to a conversation I had with a couple of ladies from the track club, how the first things that we all talked about were our crappy run times, aches, pains, and other mishaps of the running week.  After a short while one lady piped in "hey, next time we get together let's talk about how wonderful we all are!"  Everyone laughed, but she had a point.  We needed to celebrate each other and focus on the good things, that we showed up for the run that day, that we ran, that we're together, that we are strong and awesome, etc...  It's time to turn off "KFKD" and tune in to "KGrrrT."

The book is chock full of stories of women who have overcome struggles in their own lives which lead them into sports, mostly running, and how their lives evolved from being involved in a sport.  What I took from this book was an over-all sense of empowerment from participating in a sport.   As a girl growing up in the 1960s  and early 1970s, sports were not encouraged unless the choices were dance, tennis or volleyball, and maybe basketball.  There's nothing wrong with any of those activities, but that's all there was and I wasn't adept at any of those.  I was rarely encouraged to find empowerment in sports, or anywhere else, for that matter.* There was no sense of empowerment from running because that was a considered boys sport, at least in my parent's eyes.  There was no girls track team in middle school or in the early years of high school.**   I often longed for that sense of empowerment in those younger years, but I'm glad that I can feel empowered from running now.  It's never too late.

Title IX is brought up a few times in this book, which is the education amendement, passed in 1972 stating:

"No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance..."

—United States Code Section 20, ^[1]

I'm not sure why, but there is a reference to Roe v. Wade in this book.  I'm not sure the context of which it  was meant, as I re-read that particular paragraph a few times over to figure it out, but I just couldn't wrap my head around the reference.  I'm not sure what Roe v. Wade has to do with running, and I felt the reference was rather unnecessary.

When I began reading this book I was excited to delve into the individual stories, but as I read I became rather complacent,  making the book a bit slow to read.  It's not that the stories weren't interesting, in fact they were interesting and very relevant,*** it's just that I felt certain points were made time and time again.  I became bored.  I'd read a page here and there, but would often put it down to take care of other business.  There was no desire to get back to the book until I realized I has been over a a month since I received the book and figured would finish reading it.  I began plodding through, just to give the book a fair shake.  I found a new eagerness to read this book once I made it to the last couple of chapters, and my interests were once again piqued.

Mina Samuels discusses the importance of friendships and bonds through sports, and how, as adults, we still needs play dates.  This chapter resonated with me.  I never really thought about running in the terms of "play dates,"  but she has a point.  Running can be a very social activity, and people can accept that you have no make-up on, you're sweating from every pore on your body, probably smelly, and, well, gross. Running friends are rather accepting of each other.  We help to hold each other accountable, or to be our cheerleaders. Yes, there is something to be said about having solo runs, where you can clear your head, but it's nice to have someone who knows about your training,  someone who you can talk about running with out the blank stares back and that that common bond of running that evolves into long term friendships.

I would recommend this book to an eager, new runner or any one who needs to rekindle the spark to get off of their butt and start doing something to put their body in motion.

If you don't mind, I have a play date to attend to.

Gotta run.

Song from Thursday, August 25, 2011
Take it all - Adele

PEACE

*My parents were of the realm of "Leave it to Beaver" and I was supposed to grow up to be June Cleaver.


**FYI, I  graduated from high school in 1977, and the small Catholic school I attended was still playing catch up with girls in sports.  They finally had a girl's track team in my Senior year, but I had no transportation to or from practice, even though I did try out for the team.  My parents weren't quite caught up with Title IX.

***There were many inspiring stories of women who were top notch athletes, beginners, women who overcame disease, abuse, adversity, discrimination, struggles with weight, self-esteem  issues, finding love, separation, divorce, death,  losing, winning, and so on...

Protect Ya Neck

Product Review, Again.

I've posted a product review for SCAPE sun block before, but since Southern California had summer-like weather again, I figured it was a good time to bring it up again.

San Diego had summer-like weather for the past four days.  There has been no "May Grey" to speak of.  On one of those toasty days I was determined to start prepping and priming part of the house exterior for painting.  I worked on an area that was in harsh, direct sunlight for HOURS.  Before I placed myself in that extremely sun-soaked area, I applied SCAPE to all exposed skin, which was my face, ears, neck, arms and legs.  I  must have prepped and primed that exterior section of house for about 4 hours.  At the end of the day there were no signs of sunburn, or evidence that I had been in the sun.

Finally, a mention about year-round skin cancer awareness, prevention and education.  YEAR-ROUND.  Every day.  365 days a year.  Got it?  Even though the people at SCAPE asked me to give them a shout out about (YEAR ROUND) SKIN CANCER AWARENESS, PREVENTION AND EDUCATION, I would have mentioned it any way. I was given full sized products of SCAPE to try about a year ago, but continue to purchase their products and use them daily.  I'm fair skinned and have been to the doctor for skin cancer screenings on a few occasions.  I've had my share of sun damage, especially while spending plenty of time outdoors swimming, running, gardening, hiking, etc. Ever since I've been using SCAPE on a daily basis, there have been no issues with sunburns.  I use sunscreen every day, even if it's cloudy or if I'm planning to be in doors all day, because I never know what the day will hold.

THE FACTS:

Dr. Nic Martens,  the PhD behind Neutrogena’s biggest product launches in history ~ he developed Helioplex and Ultra Sheer, has developed a new sunblock called SCAPE www.scapelabs.com with a specific emphasis on skin cancer awareness. (Hence the SCAPE acronym.)

SCAPE Athlete Sunblock will protect you against both the harmful UVB and UVA rays, providing the highest quality protection from both sunburn and skin cancer.
SCAPE is:
•   5X more waterproof than anything else – proven
•   Will not rub off and  go into your eyes
•   Breathable – allows the skin to breathe and keep body temperature down and doesn’t clog pores
•   Has the highest UVA protection on the market
•   Loaded with vitamin E and antioxidants to protect and nourish the skin
 

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S.

•   Over 1.3 million will be diagnosed this year

•   1 in 5 Americans will develop a form of skin cancer in their lifetime

•   90% of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure

•   The risk of skin cancer decreases by 80% with the regular use of sun protection

I use SCAPE SPF 30 lotion, SPF 50 lip balm, and SPF face stick sunblock.  This stuff works.  I'm even scraping out the last of the face stick with a bobby pin, just so  I get every last bit of it.

Song from Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Unskinny Bop - Poison

PEACE

Unskinny Bop

Aside from having to re-learn a computer program that's still in DOS (really) and office flow, work is going well.  The first day I worked with the doctor  he commented, "The last time you worked here was when Seinfeld episodes weren't reruns!"  He also made a comment about my hair, that it's no longer curly.  12 years ago (just about) everyone had big hair.  I had long, super curly, big hair that became frizzy when I even thought about humidity.

Hubs and I,  1990-something...

 Holy Hair, Batman!  I'm also about 30 pounds heavier in this picture and rockin' the mom jeans.

It's not the best picture,  but you get the idea.  I had TONS of really big hair. Now I wear my hair somewhat straight with the help of technologically better styling products and a really great flat iron.*

The running continues. I've made an effort to show up at the Tuesday night track club workouts where we're doing 800 meter intervals, which is a two lap run around the track, then a recovery jog/walk. Lather, rinse, repeat. Last week was 800 x 6. This week I think it was 800 X 7. I lost count.  We always end the workout with some sort of abdominal exercises.  Good times.  I'm still putting in my Saturday long runs with the track club, and a shorter run in my 'hood just because it contains hill. I will be needing to keep hills in the equation since my next three half marathons are loaded with hills.

I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Runner's World wear test program again. I thought I had missed out this time due to scheduling conflicts. Luckily, for me, there were a few pairs of shoes left and coach Paul brought the extra shoes to a Saturday run. I just had to be extra EARLY. It was early.  I got up around 4:30 AM just so I could make it to the park at 5:45 AM. I scored a pair of Karhu's Flow Fulcrum Ride. I tried to look up my particular model on Karhu's website, but the shoes are scheduled to come out this summer. I must have an unintentional bright pink vibe about me, or something. My last pair of test shoes had screaming pink soles. These Karhu's scream PINK. Hubs calls them my "Rainbow Brite shoes." My first impression of these shoes was "Ow, my eyes!"

Once I got over the color, I began to pay attention how I felt while running. They're not as cushy as what I'm used to, and these are somewhat similar to a racing flat, but not quite as minimal. There's still a fair amount of cushion in the heel, decent arch support, and a little forefoot cushion, but (again) not as much cushion as what I'm used to. These shoes are perfect for track workouts. I might give them a road test and see how they do on the streets in my 'hood, perhaps an easy 3 mile jaunt. I don't think they'll get me through a 10 miler on asphalt, though. They fit smaller than the size indicates.  I took an entire size up from my regular shoe size so that they would fit properly.

Between getting our taxes done, starting a new job, the Easter holiday, the bathroom in rip-out/remodel mode, and real life, my house is beginning to take on the vibe of one of those houses you see on the show "Hoarders."  O.K, maybe not THAT bad, but I don't recognize my house right now. I need to spend a week reorganizing and cleaning without stopping.  I know what I NEED to do, but I just haven't done it.  I had to do this blog post first.  Priorities.

The last time I ran in the Nike Women's Half Marathon was 2007.  I've been trying to get back in every year since then.  I would always get the rejection e-mail or no e-mail at all and I'd have to search the site to see that I was actually rejected.

FINALLY

 Even though it says "marathon," I'm signed up for the half.  :)

I GOT IN! 

In addition, AKA Alice and the Heffers got in, too!  This time it's a girls trip! 

It looks like hills will continue to be on the training agenda...  There will be hills and plenty of sunscreen because it will be a summer training season.

Yay.

Song from Monday, April 18, 2011:
Rolling in the Deep - Adele

PEACE

*Thank goodness for advances in hair care!  Walking around with a head that looks like a Brill-o pad gets old.

Show Me What I'm Looking For

I didn't realize that the last run with the track club session (that we've paid for) was last Sunday.  We slept in and woke up way too late even think about running. I'll have to drag my husband out for a run somewhere tomorrow morning just so we can keep moving.  We're not going to join the second half of the track club's "Half Mad or Whatever" training program, although we might  see about running with a few friends on the weekends near by just to keep things going.  We also have some half marathons in the Fall and Winter, but I'll be training with RU again.

Last week I attended another Runner's World Magazine's Wear Test distribution.  This time  I received a phone call for the invite instead of a general e-mail, and this time they only had about 25 pairs of shoes total.  I was selected by Runner's World Magazine based on shoe size and that I turn in my reviews to the magazine on time.  Sometimes these distributions can be a zoo because it's first come, first serve (even for regular wear testers), and people line up for a few hours to get a good spot in line.  This time there was no line.  We were all guaranteed a pair of shoes.  I came away with a pair of Nike's Lunarglide+ 2. 

I've wanted to try the Lunarglides ever since they came out a couple of years ago.  I did try on a a pair of the first Lunarglide versions Nike had, but, at the time, another pair of shoes fit better.  The Lunarglide+ 2 do fit my foot better than the original version, as they've made a few improvements to the toe box area (not as long) and they don't feel as stiff.  My custom orthotic fit perfectly in these shoes.  I took them on a 3 mile run in the 'hood, and they felt rather comfortable.  The real test will be when I put on more miles.  I've had issues with past Nike running shoes not lasting more than 100 miles, and if I'm training for a half marathon or further, that's not a lot of wear.  I wore out the treads of the Nike Air Pegasus with about 70 miles on them.  With only three miles on these new Lunarglides, I can't really judge how well they'll do on a long run, but that will happen soon.  I'll give my two cents about wear and durability later.  I'm  hopeful.

I'm still 'trolling the net for a stationary upright bike, perhaps a spin bike with mileage gauges.  I'm open to suggestions, if anyone has any thoughts or recommendations.  I'm looking to buy new.   I do own a real bike, but I need to be doing a V02 max workout, and the only way to do that without killing myself is on a stationary bike. The gym's craptastic stationary bikes aren't cutting it for me. I've tried.

Hubs and I will be volunteering this Sunday at the AFC Half Marathon, water station #1 with the San Diego Track Club. I'll try to say hi to you as you run by, provided that you are running in this race.  *wink*


Wednesday's Song:
Happy Feet - Paul  Whiteman, John Altman, Abbie Garnder, etc.

PEACE

Freedom

My foot is dealing with some sort of muscle pull, so no running until it feels better. While I'm waiting for the foot to feel better, I've been frequenting our community pool. I honestly had no clue how I would do. The last time I started fresh from a long time off from swimming I could only swim two or three lengths of the pool and I was toast. Obviously, my fitness levels weren't the best at that time. This time I have miles and miles of running in my endurance tank, I train hard at RU - which has saved me time and time again,  and just keep active as possible. My first time out I swam for an 1 hour and 15 minutes, but took about a 5 minute break during that time, and several mini water sip breaks. I also did several slow back stroke laps to catch my breath. It was complete bliss. It was the way I feel when I have a good run. I didn't have to think about my feet. My head was clear, and I just swam. It felt very freeing.

I also hadn't thought about counting laps until someone asked me if I thought I swam a mile. I had no clue. Bryan suggested dividing my swim into drills, then count the sets of drills, but knowing me I'd still lose count of the drills. I remembered I had that water resistant Tech4-0 sports watch that I had received free for review last year. After some minor fumbling around with it, I found that it did have a lap button and took it on my swim today. It worked!

Tech 4 O Women's Accelerator Pulse Watch

Sooooo...
Let's do the math. One lap was 50 meters. I swam 37 laps. 50 X 37 = 1850 meters. There's 1609.344 meters in a mile*, so, yeah, I swam over a mile today. Go me.

I didn't take a 5 minute break this time, but water sips that probably lasted a few seconds at best. Most of of the laps were freestyle, but I did a few slow backstroke laps to breathe.

I'm far from being a speedster in the pool, but I'm not training for any tris, masters swim team or anything like that.  I'm swimming to burn off some energy while not running.  That's all.  Will it evolve into something else?  I don't know... yet.

Yesterday's Song:
Hope - Jack Johnson

PEACE


*I had to look it up.

Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me

PRODUCT REVIEW

I was contacted by the folks at SCAPE to review a few products from their sunblock line.  I can no longer easily find the sunblock brand I was using and have been trying several different brands for the past two years. I was happy to give SCAPE a fair try.  I'm particular about the sunblock I use because:

1. I'm fair.
2. I burn easily.
3. Skin cancer is a concern.
4. I want something that I can use equally for running and every day.
5. I want something that doesn't run into my eyes and stings when I sweat.
6. I want something that stays on, no matter what I'm doing outside.
7. It's gotta smell good. 

I was surprised when I received the package of sunscreen products because they sent me the distinctive yellow, black and white full sized containers to try:

SCAPE products: SPF 30+ cream athlete sunblock, SPF 50+ athlete lip balm, SPF 50+ athlete sunblock face stick.

A little info from the company:

"SCAPE  – www.scapelabs.com – is skincare/suncare for athletes  developed by the PhD behind Neutrogena’s biggest product launch in history, who is also responsible for Helioplex and Ultra Sheer.   The polymer technology and science in the product is innovative and has a specific focus on Skin Cancer Awareness Protection Education.   In fact, the key athlete that helped develop the product, Ironman World Champ, Craig Alexander, had a melanoma removed a few years back.  He found SCAPE while it was in development phased and has not used anything since.

SCAPE is:

• 5X more waterproof than any other product on the market – achieved through a new polymer technology similar to an ultra-thin Gore-Tex layer to hold the sunscreen in place
• Will not rub off and will not run into your eyes
• Breathable – allows the skin to breathe and keep body temperature down and doesn’t clog pores
• Has the highest UVA protection on the market – a result of making the Avobenzone molecule photo-stable
• Loaded with vitamin E and antioxidants to protect and nourish the skin"

I did the gutsy thing and used SCAPE for the first time at the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon on June 6, 2010. The forecast indicated heat, humidity and sun. I know we should never try anything for the first time *ever* when running in a race such as a half marathon, but I figured this product was created for athletes, and it was the perfect scenario to test the product. Sure, it was risky because I didn't know if it would live up to everything the company claimed.  Would I be allergic to it?  Would it run into my eyes and make my eyes sting as some other sunscreens have done?  Would it last long enough while I waited for my husband to finish his marathon? 

In the morning before heading out to the half marathon/marathon start area, I slathered on the creamy SPF 30+ sunblock, and my husband helped me to reach the backs of my arms and back where I couldn't reach.  (I prefer spray or aerosol sunblocks, just so I can reach by back areas by myself and for thorough coverage.) The creamy sunblock went on smoothly, had a pleasant, clean scent, and it was easy to apply.  It never felt sticky or greasy.  I applied the SPF 50+ face stick to my face and worked it onto my ears.  I'm loving this face stick because it comes in a solid form, in a compact (roll up) container that I could carry with me in the small pocket of my  hydration belt, I can apply it even if my face is sweaty, it's non greasy, and has a pleasant, clean scent.   With both products I never felt like I had any heavy, sticky creams or goop on my face or body.  The SPF 50+ lip balm is silky going on and not waxy like some other brands, and has a nice citrus flavor. 

I ran my half marathon and I was sweaty early on.  I never once felt the sunscreen drip into my eyes and cause stinging.  Even after I crossed the finish line and received an ice cold washcloth to cool my face with, the sunscreen stayed put!  I finished my half marathon in 2:30:55, and I still had to wait for Hubs to finish the marathon.  He finished in 6:06, and during those extra 3 1/2  + hours, I never thought to reapply sunblock.  I did stay in the shade a few times, but I walked out to our track club's water station at about mile 25, where there was no shade.  One of my friends received a second degree sunburn from being out in the sun with me for the same amount of time, and we're equally fair skinned.  I did not burn where the SCAPE sunblock was applied.  The only part of me that did burn were my feet, after I had changed out of my running shoes into my flip flops.   I didn't think to apply SCAPE to my feet.  Lesson learned!

SCAPE lived up to it's claims.  I'm not allergic to the non-comedogenic formula, it lasted me the entire time I was outside, which was from about 5:30 AM until about 2:00 PM that same afternoon, when I went home, and it probably would have lasted longer if I needed it to.  As much as I sweat, it never stung or hurt my eyes, and it never wore off. Hubs also slathered on SCAPE before his marathon, and it lasted him through his time in the hot sun with no sunburn.

I am a convert, and I'm picky about what I put on my skin. I'm also all about skin cancer prevention since I am a prime candidate for skin cancer.  SCAPE works! SCAPE sunblock products will be a part of my skin care arsenal.

Thursday's Song:
100 Years - Five For Fighting, Blues Traveler - Step Away From The Cake, Heffer Blog

PEACE



SCAPE is also available in an aerosol spray and clean foam formulas.

Cherry, Cherry

Product Review

About a month ago, a rep from Cheribundi contacted me to review their juices. I was more than happy to oblige, and she sent me 4 bottles of cherry juice to try.

This is what I received:
Two regular, one lower calorie and one with protein.

This all-natural juice is cherry intense! I like intense flavors, and the tart cherry just bowled me over. It has the consistency of pomegranate juice, yet has a more powerful flavor. I never drank an entire 8 ounce bottle in one sitting, maybe I would drink just half of it or mix it in with lemonade or limeade. The "Tru Cherry" and "Skinny Cherry" versions would probably make good bar mixers for a cherry martini, cherry mimosa or just mixed with soda water and a lime wedge for a refreshing non-alcoholic spritzer.

Cheribuni offered three versions. The "Whey Cherry" has 8 grams of protein, but I'm allergic to whey protein. I was able to taste it without any major consequences, but Hubs drank the rest of it. He must have liked it because it went down fast. The added protein made the juice a little thicker, but not by much. The "Skinny Cherry" version was a little milder in flavor, and is only 90 calories, compared to the 130 calories of the "Tru Cherry." The "Tru Cherry" was true cherry, in your face, knock your socks off flavor.

I would purchase Cheribundi on my own, as I really do like the extreme cherry flavor, but I would experiment mixing it with other fruit juices or drinks, or recipes, such as some sort of marinades, sauces or syrups.*

PS...
It's good for you, too, packed with antioxidants and is a great source of potassium.

Yesterday's Song:
Through My Eyes - Phil Collins

PEACE

*Ooooh, cherry syrup over waffles... Must . Have . Waffles.

Fit But You Know It

Product Review!

I had the opportunity to try out a sports bra from Moving Comfort. I've heard of Moving Comfort before but never tried any of their products. The bra I selected is from their back closure sports bras selection, the Dori bra, pictured above, retailing for $44.00.

For some reason, I'm not sure why, I've never tried a sports bra with a back closure. I believe I am now a convert. Since this sports bra has a back closure it's much easier to put on and take off. I've had some sports bras that are so hard to put on/take off, it must look like I'm being strangled. The back closure was a nice little revelation for me. I'm not blessed in the chest, so I figured I never really needed a back closing sports bra. I was so wrong.

I'm surprised how well this bra fit. The sports bras I purchase are letter sized, and depending on the make, I'll take either a S or M. Per the sizing guidelines on the Moving Comfort site, the bra I selected in S fit me perfectly. No gapping where some sports bras don't offer much support, and not so tight that I feel like I can't breathe and the girls are squished.

This is also one of the most comfortable sports bras I've tried. The fabric is soft and breathable. I've used it while running and for working out, and it never rubbed or chaffed.

Coverage is pretty good, however... When it gets a little nippy out, things could be a little nipple-y... It covers better than some sports bras, in that respect, but there are other sports bras that cover the headlights (high beams, what ever) better. I don't want to worry about what the girls are doing. This is actually a minor criticism because I really do like this bra and would consider getting another one.

This bra is machine washable, and it says to tumble dry, low, but I hang dry my sports bras. It washes well and came out looking like new.

Along with the standard white and black, it also comes in ocean blue and mojito (green). Of course, I selected mojito. Besides, I never had a bright green sport's bra, and it was time I had one. I love the color.

In conclusion:
I really like this sports bra! I also like a bargain just like everyone else, and I don't think I've ever spent $44.00 for a sports bra. This particular sports bra would be the exception. I would much rather save up to buy a sports bra that fits so well than to purchase two sub standard sports bras for the same price*. It's all about the comfort.


Monday's song:
Going Through The Motions - Aimee Mann


PEACE

*The brand I usually buy retails for around $30.00, but I always purchase them on sale.

Heartbeat

Product Review Time!

The fine folks over at Tech40 asked me to try one of their sports watches and write a review.

Today I'm giving my two cents about the The Tech4o Women's Accelorator Pulse.



Features:

* Highly Accurate Accelerometer-based Exercise Mode
(speed, distance, calories, steps, exercise time measurement)
* Heart Rate Monitor with conventional chest strap
* Chronograph (50 laps)
* Countdown Timer
* Alarm

What I liked:

I was somewhat reluctant to use a non GPS device to track my mileage, so I was rather anxious to use the pedometer feature along side my GPS tracking device that I subscribe to on my cell phone. Much to my surprise, the pedometer was very close to my GPS tracking. I did find that it would be slightly slower or slightly faster than my GPS depending on how fast I was running, but it was only off by a few seconds.

I like knowing how many calories have been burned and distance. My prior HRM/sports watch didn't have those features.

A minor detail, but I liked that it comes in a snappy bright blue color. I have a hard time finding fitness gear made for women that isn't all pastel colors. Just because I'm female doesn't mean I want everything in pastels.

There's a setting to track my heart rate zone.

Easy to read display for my presbyopic eyes. *sigh*

What needs improvement:

I'm a stickler for reading directions before using anything, but if you're the type of person who likes to use a gadget right out of the box without reading directions, like my husband, then this sports watch probably isn't the best choice for you. Carefully study the directions then do a test run on all of the features before you apply them to real life workouts and/or runs.

This is considered a women's watch. I have small wrists and I could have used at least one more notch to make the wrist band fit better.

The heart rate monitor chest strap stopped working after only a few uses. Yes, I'm going to replace the battery and give it another fair try, but the battery shouldn't give out that quickly.

In conclusion:

The The Tech4o Women's Accelorator Pulse is a great tool, especially if you're trying to take your fitness up a notch, without having to spend the big bucks for a GPS device. It retails for around $89.99. The accuracy of the pedometer feature was a pleasant surprise. I plan on using this watch during all of my workouts and runs.

EDIT
I replaced the battery in the heart rate monitor chest strap and it works MUCH better.


Yesterday's song:
The Morning After - Maureen McGovern - Heffer Blog (AKA Alice)


PEACE