This and that and what’s new!
20 Pound Weights
First off, I’ve graduated to a new class of weights in my group ex classes! I attribute this to two different factors: 1) the willingness to use heavier weights even if it means feeling self conscious if I can’t finish the group routine and 2) doing workouts at my neighborhood clubhouse where I pick up the heaviest weighs I can handle.
When I’m in a group class, I don’t get to control the reps, so it’s harder to be bold with the weights. But on my own, I can stop when I hit failure, so going heavier isn’t as much of a risk. I’ve been using 20s in group ex and 25-30 when I’m on my own. And it’s working – not because of how I look (which feels the same) but because of how I can suddenly lift more!
No Wata
I had never heard of this product until I was at an event recently and asked my friend if she had hand sanitizer. She didn’t, but she offered me No Wata. It’s a product that acts like soap and water in that it physically removes dirt and germs by binding to the grime. Just put it on like a hand sanitizer, rub it around, and it makes a film that you then brush off. Check out their website for all the technical details!
Native Spray Deodorant
Another product I’ve been loving is the Native brand spray deodorant. It smells soooo good. And it’s not an aerosol (it’s propelled out by nitrogen).
Backstory: I got a rash in my armpits a year and a half ago. I tried a bunch of different deodorants, switching laundry detergents, all my body products, and two different doctors, including my dermatologist. We could not figure out the problem. The rash would come and go. I personally think it was yeast based, the doctors said allergy. I had the idea that maybe my deodorant sticks were passing it back and forth to me, so I thought I’d try a spray. THE SPRAY SEEMS TO HAVE WORKED! I’ve been using it for months now and the rash has been gone (except for my Jamaica trip when I used a stick because I couldn’t take this spray on TSA!) Anyways – I am a fan!
The most annoying gum surgery
Soon I will be spending an insane amount of money to have a gum graft surgery. Yes, I do care about my gum health. But I’m so annoyed I have to do it! I’ve avoided it for years. I won’t be able to eat normally for a while, and I can’t exercise for a week. And the worst thing is I have to have it TWICE for each lower canine. UGH. Please send good vibes.
Toms TRVL LITE Retro Runner Sneakers
My mom and I both bought these from Toms on sale after my sister swore by them on our Jamaica trip. They are so cute and comfortable. And they are water resistant! I did get their shoe care kit too because I need it for all of my white shoes.
I also got these Blakley Loafers gifted from Toms the following month. So cute, with a little height!
Cann Spritz
Love Aperol Spritzes? Cann makes a nonalcoholic THC-based mix that gives you all the fun without the hangover. Just mix your dose with seltzer water and ice and you have an instant cocktail! I love their little squeeze packs too. The Lemon Lavender is so good.
3D-Printed Shoes!?
Yep – that’s a thing! PollyFab sent me their 3D-printed slides called the Airpuff One that have become my new “house shoes.” They are kind of like those Jellies from the 90s? But they are very breathable, washable, and comfortable. Much better for summer than my closed-toe slippers. They also make slides that are very cushiony with more of a lift – check those out too!
Summer Fridays
I love the name of this beauty brand! Their packaging is so pretty too. They sent me a few of their best sellers, and I love these exfoliating pads! The lip oil is also great – the tube is so sturdy feeling and the applicator nice and wide. I will try the vitamin C serum when my All Bright C is used up!
Celisse Essentials Nail Set
I am not someone who enjoys going to get my nails done. I don’t like sitting still or having to go to appointments! And I’ve always been terrible at painting my own nails. Celisse sent me their Essentials Set, and I gave it a try.
The Celisse formula is great because it’s truly quick dry and dries in 90 seconds. It also is very shiny and gives a gel-like look. Part of the reason I’m so bad at nails is because they take so long to dry, but this was TRULY quick dry! I loved the neutral pink shade as well – my imperfections were less visible. The only downside to this brand is that they only have 3 shades for now. We need more! But I really loved the look and feel and felt this was one of the most successful home nail experiences I’ve had. Thumbs up!
Taylor says
Hi Kath — I have found that any deodorant with baking soda gives many people a rash in their armpit. I believe that’s why I couldn’t use the Native brand. Maybe that’s the same issue with you! I love Real Purity deodorant — Amazon sells a two pack.
Kath Younger says
For a while I thought that was it! And it still may be. I used the brand Pretty Frank for a while (which is BS-free) but then even that started giving me the rash! It wasn’t a perfect experiment though, so I’m still unsure. But the Native spray is working well for now!
Alyssa says
I’ve had major gum graft surgery for hereditary thin gum tissue – multiple teeth all over my mouth. It was brutal – and I did it without going under or any major pain meds-just Tylenol. The first couple days are the worst but after that it’s ok and it’s a relief to have it done. Lots of smoothies and soft food for a while! I could exercise after a couple days-I went on a decent walk the day after. I do remember bending over to lift weights at one point (when I was ok to) and I could feel my pulse in my gums. So weird. But honestly if you’re getting only one done at a time it shouldn’t be that bad.
Kath Younger says
Ugh. Thanks for the tips. I’m dreading it in all the way!! They’re giving me an anxiety drug but I’ll be awake 🙁
Amanda says
Ugh I feel for you. I’ve had gum graft surgery twice (twice because the first time didn’t “take”). It’s not fun but I’ve definitely had worse oral surgeries. I was totally awake too, but the novocaine they give you was fine. I didn’t feel a thing. I don’t remember it being too painful after (Tylenol was sufficient for me) but eating soft foods got old quickly and, when you’re used to being active, having to hold off on exercise is annoying. Icing my face helped keep the swelling down. Good luck!
Kath Younger says
Thanks for the tips! I think the low activity is going to be hardest for me as well.
Deena says
My sister just had that gum surgery. She also avoided it for a while. She’s glad she did it (there weren’t other options) and she healed well. Sending good vibes!!
Kath Younger says
Thanks for the vibes!
C says
I’m also having gum grafting done after putting it off for years. I need 10 areas done, top and and bottom. Wishing you (and I) a quick recovery!
Kath Younger says
omg 10 areas!! Do you have to do that 5+ times? Mine wouldn’t do both of mine at once and I’m so mad about that.
Elizabeth says
Put off gum surgery here and it was not bad at all. I did a bunch of teeth at once, too (a whole strip along my lower left and upper left sides). Just used OTC pain meds. I think it was not bad because I used donor tissue instead of my own, it’s the roof of the mouth pain that’s supposed to be the worst. My advice is to get a Velcro ice face pack because it was the best pain reliever and being hands free made it doable for longer stretches. Good luck.
Kath Younger says
Thank you for sharing your experience!