Tuesday, August 17, 2010

i declare!

I'm not a huge fan of jewelry. I'm definitely not into the big flashy pieces that seem to be all the rage these days. Give me a plain silver necklace, bracelet, ring and I'm good to go. Now pair this with running, and I found myself a piece I'll never take off!!

i declare gives you just that! i declare was started by Annette Allen as a way for her to represent her loves, inspirations, accomplishments, etc. Each charm is sterling silver and is hand made by Annette so you are guaranteed your piece is unique. There are 5 different charm sizes to choose from and a handful of different fonts. Once you pick your charm size and font, you can pick from different styles of chains and order yourself a bracelet or necklace which is unique to you! In addition to the stamped charm, you can add adorable 3D charms, spacers or birth stone crystals to accent your piece of jewelry. There are really a lot of different options and prices vary accordingly.

The necklace I was sent had two charms, one stamped "ultra", the other "running." It is so perfect and simple and I love it! I don't have a picture of mine right now but here is a close example.



I love the idea of simple jewelry. I love that it's personalized and good quality. I've been wearing mine almost every day and it looks great. I take a sterling silver cleaning cloth to it when it starts to look dull and it cleans it right up. I've gotten tons of compliments on it and definitely see myself ordering i declare charms in the future. I'm giving i declare 10 biscuits!!! woo hoo!

Orthaheel

I've had my share of foot problems this year when Achilles issues landed me in a boot. Trying to find blame, other than running too much, I swore up and down it was from wearing my cheapo flip flops all day and not having the proper support. So when Orthaheel sent me a pair of their natural pain relief flip flops, I was excited to see if these allowed me to dress for summer but not risk any further injury.

Here's some info about Orthaheel:
  • Orthaheel's biomechanically designed and clinically tested technology helps reduce pronation to relieve associated foot, ankle and knee pain.
  • Clinical research supports Orthaheel's success in restoring the foot's natural alignment, enabling the feet, ankles and legs to dynamically function as there were intended.
  • The sandals feature a shock absorbing midsole which provides support and stability and the build in orthotic helps prevent pronation. There's also a rubber sole with patterned tread for traction.

Orthaheel's sandals come in a wide variety of styles and colors and they even have mules and sneakers. I've been knocking around in the Women's Tide (pic below) and have been really pleased. I find that my feet don't slip and slid in these like they do regular flip flops and even though they don't have an ankle strap, my foot feels very supported in the sandal. There is a lot of cushioning and the toe strap is barely noticeable because the material is so comfty. And if this isn't enough, Orthaheel guarantees you'll walk pain free in 30 days or your money back (conditions apply, of course).

While these might not be the stylish of sandals, I've learned that when it comes to my feet, I'd rather have something supportive than the current hottest trend if it means staying injury free. A pair of the Women's Tide will run you $54.99, which is a little pricey for a pair of sandals. But I honestly, I think they are worth it. what do you have to lose with a money back guarantee? With that being said, I'm giving Orthaheel 7 biscuits.