Yoginis Love Layers: Me Sheeky's Stevie Skirt!

Stevie Skirt in Jade

Okay, maybe not all yoginis love layers but many that I know do. I think that's one of the reasons I get so many compliments when I wear my Stevie skirt from Me Sheeky. It's such a simple layer but so cute and functional. I also feel a little like a saucy super hero in it.

I chose the Stevie for it's asymmetrical hemline. It looks great with full-length pants and even better with capris. I love how the sizing is true to your regular size, you don't have to size-up because it's an over layer. The fabric is also quite then, but doesn't feel flimsy. The skirt stayed true to original sizing after a trip through the laundry and the color has stayed strong after a few wash cycles.  

The beauty of the skirts from Me Sheeky is the dual purpose. You can easily wear them for fashionista reasons alone. However, the skirt works well in Vinyasa practice. I wore it during a 10 hour day assisting at a teacher training and it fit beautifully the whole time. Even if you're not a yogini the skirt is great to go over bike shorts or for chasing toddlers around a playground.

Even better Me Sheeky is offering my readers a limited time discount! Order between today and July 7th and you'll get 20% off! Just use the code: SHEEKYCUPCAKE at the time of your order! I think once you try them you'll be hooked. I can't wait to get another!

Oh Flatterware, You Make Me Smile

When I was a Girl Scout and it was time for our first camping trip I was so excited to go shopping for my first bit of gear. My favorite item was my pink collapsible cup. I loved how it opened and closed and stored in such a tiny fashion. However, it wasn't very durable. The rings could separate too far and it was then no longer water-tight. So I gave up on collapsible cups. As an adult I have been hesitant to try collapsible bowls and cups because they always seem cumbersome, hard to clean, and not terribly durable, that is until my friend Michele introduced me to Flatterware.

I love my bright red Flatterware cup for so many reasons:

1. The Size: It actually holds a 12oz portion of a beverage or snacks. 
2. It is Durable: You can bend it, squish it, fold it and it always bounces back to it's original shape. 
3. Easy to Clean: The Flatterware items are a smooth. No rings with crevices that get nasty and filthy. They're easy to rinse out and clean, even at the base points. Also Dishwasher safe.
4. Works for Hot and Cold Beverages! I can use it for water or tea. 
5. Phlalate-free!

Who would enjoy Flatterware:

1. Naturally campers, hikers, climbers...anyone who enjoys their meals outdoors. 
2. Event Goers. The large beverages served at sporting events and other gatherings may be too much for one person and a Flatterware cup makes it easy to share a drink without sharing germs. 
3. Travelers will enjoy the cup when visiting locations where cups may not be provided (yes, some accommodations don't have cups in their rooms and bathrooms).
4. Parents will enjoy these for picnics or serving up snacks and beverages during outings. 
5. Dogs will enjoy drinking out of the bowls while out and about.
6. Environmentally-concious folks who want to reduce the amount of waste in the world.

The design is clever and they're a great item to keep in your bag. Visit the Flatterware website to discover where you can buy their bowls and cups for yourself or for a holiday gift!

Merrell's Peyton Bag

I am always looking for a good bag that goes easily from walking around to riding my bike while looking good in the process. I wasn't sure about the Peyton bag from Merrell when I ordered it but I had a giftcard so went for it. After a few weeks with it I can say I would get it again, even if I had to pay the retail $49 for it.

The high points

• The single shoulder strap fits comfortable across the body or over one shoulder and it can be configured to lay across the body either way.
• There is a cross strap that easily tucks away but can be used to stabilize the bag while riding.
• It has a roomy main compartment. I can fit a book, snack, light jacket, wallet, and cosmetics. There is also a interior zip pocket good for storing small items and organizing.
• The outside has two pockets that are roomy enough to fit sunglasses and an ipod. The pocket zip-up but you can easily port your headphones or hand-free device through.

The low points

• There is a "hidden" water bottle pocket on the side, when you unzip it the mesh water bottle area is available however it's too narrow for even the smallest Nalgene style bottle. The only bottle that would fit is a disposable water bottle and well...yeah.
• The cross strap is a blessing but it can be hard to reconfigure it.
• Color selection isn't the best. When I got my back they had black available but now the website is limited to the print above or red or wine. You may have better look on another site if you want black.

So that's it, short and sweet. It's a stylish bag that is good for an urban ride and won't break the bank.

Luggage Love: Briggs and Riley's BRX Explore Upright

If you're like me you have a lot of packs. Backpacks, day packs, hydration packs, and more. Packs are great for excursions into the wilderness but navigating airports or weekend trips that don't involve camping call for something else. So when I was given the chance to try a bag from Briggs and Riley's new BRX line I jumped at the chance.

With the current state of travel and checked bags costing an additional $25+ each way on most major airlines it seems that carry-on is the way to go. However after carrying my pack from the main terminal to the end of Concourse A at Denver International Airport on a trip a few months ago wheeled luggage seemed like a nice little luxury. So I opted for the BRX Explore Upright 19. The bag is a great size for weekend trips and comes in Amber, Ocean, and Slate. When I got the bag I could tell it was different than traditional luggage.

Since the BRX line is Briggs and Riley's "Adventure" line I wasn't sure what to really expect then I realized it's designed intelligently with great features like you would expect from "Adventure" gear. The first detail I really noticed was the outer slash pocket. So many times you have this pocket on a piece of luggage but you would be lucky to stuff a newspaper in there, they're just not designed to be functional. The pocket on the Explore is generous without being bulky and you can easily fit a magazine, a book, or even a light jacket in it.

In addition, the outer slash pocket there is a full organizer pocket that is lined in bright orange (on the Ocean bag at least). This may seem like a silly detail to love but most items are lined in black or dark grey and it's hard to find items inside. With the bright orange I easily located hair bands, pens, bobby pins, my black wallet, any of it. The pocket is also set-up well with enough interior pockets to hold a laptop and be useful but not so many that you feel overwhelmed by the need to over organize. Other great features on the exterior of the bag include compression straps (it's about time we see this on a wheeled bag) and a strap to attach an additional carry-on or purse, which tucks away in it's own zipper compartment when not in use.

One other item you'll notice on the bag is the exterior handle system and wheels. They're of good quality and feel rugged but light. Even better the exterior handle systems means more usable space in the main interior compartment and if you're bringing along gear the more room the better. The interior features a built-in compression system to help keep gear and clothing in place as well as a roomy lid pocket.

I found the bag to be easy to roll, easy to take corners, and easy to lift when full. Being 5'2" a bag that can be hoisted over my head with ease when full is very important during air travel and storing luggage so this is a major win for me. While the bag works great for someone at my stature I believe someone taller would also find it appealing because the handle system expands to a generous length.

At $260 I believe the bag is priced right. It has a lot of great features and it offers a Lifetime Warranty which is good for manufacturer defects, as well as airline damage and "any reason" damage. Where else are you going to find that? Seriously.

Dirty Girls Need Love Too: Products That Pamper Active Gals

I like to get dirty, but I think you knew that. Between biking, climbing, hiking, and just playing outdoors I tend to be a little grubby a lot of the time. At the same time I like to take care of myself. I like soft skin and pretty shiny hair (even if it's windblown or I am rockin' the lovely helmet hair). Over the last few years I have found some great products for girls like me who are no stranger to being dirty but like to feel a little pretty too.

Lips

I love the lipgloss by "Yes to Carrots". It is shiny and soothing with just a hint of color. My favorite element is how easily it is applied. A lot of glosses are globby but this goes on smoothly. I love that is not tested on animals and 95% organic and Paraben and Carmine free. The only thing I would change is to add an SPF coverage.

Face

I don't like to wear a lot of make-up. Sure I own Foundation but that's really for special occasions. For my daily wear I opt for tinted moisturizer by "Kiss My Face". I have sensitive skin and most tinted moisturizers I have dried irritate my skin. The Kiss My Face pigment comes from minerals, not chemicals, and the product is oil and fragrance free. The mineral coverage also provides SPF 8 UVA/UVB protection.

Hands and Feet

My hands and feet always need a little extra love. They tend to be dry and when I added activities and the elements to that they just don't stand a chance. However I have found using Burt Bee's Thoroughly Therpeutic Honey and Bilberry Foot Creme does the trick. While designed for feet I love the results so much that I began using it on my hands as well. I have tried other products that work well but they are heavy and greasy. This moisturizer is light, absorbs quickly, and smells delicious.

Hair

I wash my hair every few days. I am prone to dry skin and also dry hair so shampooing frequently doesn't help. However, I am not a fan of that second or third day "Have you been in the wilderness too long?" look my hair takes on. So when I discovered "dry shampoo" I fell in love. The powder spray allows you to apply it right at the roots where hair may get a little oily and makes it easy to style. The transluscent formula has worked on my hair when it was dark brunette as well as blonde. While there are a lot of more expensive brands on the market I have found Batiste Dry Shampoo works just as well and is less expensive. I prefer the "Blush" scent but it also comes in "Tropical" and "Original".

Crux Craft: Clever Name, Clever Design

For someone who knits, sews, and climbs this gorgeous chalk bag, courtesy of Crux Craft, was a perfect item for me to review . When I saw the images online I thought the bags were pretty but wasn't sure how sturdy they would be. Once I got the bag in my hands I was quite pleased.

First, the images online didn't do the bag justice. The colors and knitting are absolutely beautiful. The interior is lined with a very good quality fleece. The bag has a enough structure to stay open with ease without being stiff. In use, I found the bag was really easily accessible and the right depth for either a chalk ball or loose chalk. For being handmade and well structured it is a still a nice light weight.

Your chalk bag can be boring or your chalk bag can be a fun expression of yourself. Each chalk bag by Crux Craft is a one of a kind original. I recommend checking them out. It's a great purchase for yourself or a gift.

Recipe Review: Red Wine "Beef" Stew

If you know me you know I don't eat meat and I don't imbibe alcohol so this recipe review may seem an unusual choice for me. However after talking with a friend who recently changed to a plant-based vegan diet I became aware of how much lousy vegan food there is out there. What I mean by lousy is over-processed and filled with sugar (see PETA's Accidentally Vegan list). I realized if I want to eat better it's not just about cutting out animals and alcohol but also about sticking to the basics. We all know whole grains are better and that eating mostly plants will help us avoid fats and sugars.

However, sometimes I get bored with the food I know is safe. So this week I pulled The "Skinny Bitch in the Kitch" book off the shelf and picked out a few recipes to add to the mix this week. What I like about the Skinny Bitch girls, Rory Freedman and Kim Barouin, is they have a lot of recipes that are familiar for former meat eaters.

I really love the way this "beef" stew turned out. I made a few changes but that's why I love cooking my own meals. You can improvise and make the recipe your own. You can find the recipe here and for the record here are my changes:

• Substituted a non-alcohol cabernet sauvignon


• Skipped the onion because I don't like the texture


• Skipped the peas beacause I forgot to buy them


• Cut the recipe in half which worked very well but the cooking times stay the same


• In addition to the rosemary used to coat the "beef" strips I took a whole sprig and added it to the stockpot for the first 15 minutes then pulled it out. Great flavor!!!

Review: Mountain Hardwear's Mistral Jacket

When the weather began to cool I knew I needed a new piece of outerwear for my bike commute, outdoor adventures, and every day life. I wanted something that had room for a couple under layers but wasn't bulky and it had to be wind resistant. After a bit of research online and hitting the real life store I selected the Mountain Hardwear Mistral Jacket.

The Mistral had everything I was looking for. It is a close fit without being tight and it keeps out the wind. The zipper pockets are roomy and have a nice soft lining for warming my hands. The sleeve pocket is also helpful for keeping lip balm, ID, and other small items. What sealed the deal is the incredibly soft fleece. I feel like I am wrapped in a blanket however the articulated sleeves and women's cut also allow for full range of motion.

Now unfortunately our temperatures have dropped below freezing this last week. I was worried that my Mistral would have to go into the closet for a bit in lieu of my Columbia Bugaboo 3-in-1. While the Bugaboo has served me well the fleece inner layer is white which tends to show wear quickly and it also feels bulky. I feel like the little brother in The Christmas Story when I wear it (click here for a visual aid). Then I realized my Mistral is compatible to zip in to the Bugaboo or any other Trifecta System compatible shell. I love it even more now!

The Mistral is a great jacket that can take you year round. From the cool nights of summer to the cold temps of winter (paired with the right shell) the Mistral is a great all around jacket.

For Yoga, for Cycling, for Climbing, for Living: PrAna's Erin Top and Bliss Capri Pants

Finding clothing that takes me easily from yoga to cycling to a casual dinner with friends is not easy. I need clothes that move with me while still flattering my figure and maintaining a certain level of modesty. I don't have the long lean body that you may think of when you think yogi/climber. Think less Cirque du Soleil and more Mary Lou Retton. I am short, muscular, and curvy. I am lucky to have found new wardrobe staples from PrAna that answer my needs.

An issue I come across when searching for tops is finding the right amount of support for the girls. Many brands design tops with adequate sports bras built in but they scoop too low thus don't work for yoga or anyone larger than a C cup. Another problem is finding a top that doesn't fall forward (yay everyone look at my tummy!!!) in inversion poses or fit so snug I feel like a wee little sausage in it. I love the PrAna Erin top because it addresses all these issues.

Made from 89% recycled polyester and 11% Spandex the Erin Top has superb moisture management so I never worry about a little perspiration from my bike ride. The built-in shelf bra is combined with a modest (yet not constricting) neckline. Coupled with a cute contrasting racer back style I have full support for the girls. I never worry about a wardrobe malfunction during inversions or a bumpy bike ride. Also, the stomach area of the top is perfect! It stays in place but it's not so snug that you can make out exactly where my belly button is.

The Bliss Capri Pantscompliment the Erin Top perfectly but have also become my go to pants for everything. I wear them to work, to the park, for hanging out with my fella, to going out to dinner. The length is perfect on my 5'2" frame to wear as an ankle length pant. For taller ladies this would be a true capri. The fabric is light weight but ready for climbing or other abrasive activities. The fabric also dries quickly. With the recent storms we've had in Colorado I have come to appreciate how important this is. The drawstring waist allows for a custom fit and stays where you put it (there's nothing worse than having to re-tie your pants all day). I also like the deep pockets, very convenient when you ride your bike everywhere.

I really can't say enough about how much I love these two items. After going through the wash about five times so far both have held their color and shape and no pilling! I plan on purchasing the Erin Top in multiple colors and probably a few pairs of the Bliss Capri Pants as well. After all, when you find a good thing, go with it!

I'm a Bug Lover

It's true. I love Petzl's Bug Bag. I wanted this bag because it was designed for single day multi-pitch climbing. I knew this meant it would have a low profile, be light in weight, as well as comfortable and durable. While multi-pitch is in my future I wanted a bag that would allow me to ride my bike with my gear to meet up with others and allow me to haul all that I need up rough approaches. I am pleased to say the Bug delivers.

I took my Bug out on an Independence Day climbing adventure to North Table Mountain/Golden Cliff in Golden, Colorado. I managed to pack (pictured at the right) my harness, belay device, PAS, Chalk bag, climbing shoes, three 30' sections of webbing, a few slings, biners, and 11 quickdraws into the Bug. In addition I had three sets of printed routes (in the hidden back compartment), my IPhone, some snacks, hydration bladder, rain jacket (secured with a side compression strap), helmet (secured to the daisy chain in front) and rope (secured with bottom straps). It is almost comical how all these items fit into the small pack, kind of like thirty clowns in a tiny car.


While compact the gear is still going to be heavy, especially on my 5'2" frame. However the bags shoulder straps were easy to adjust to allow that weight to disperse evenly and comfortably. In the past when I have fit this gear into a traditional backpacking pack I have had the turtle issue. The weight doesn't always disperse well and with areas when I need my balance most the old school packs work against me. The Bug really works in my favor for managing the weight of my gear as well as fitting close to the body. I even took my gear for a spin on the bike and yes, it is possible, just make sure the rope ends are secured.

I recommend this bag for anyone who wants something compact, light, and roomy for their climbing gear. Go ahead, love the Bug.

The Love of a Good Mat

About a year ago I was very casual about my yoga practice. I did the occasional video at home or sometimes a group class but it wasn't a regular part of my fitness routine. I picked up my yoga mat like you would a pack of gum. It had a pretty color and was right there on the end of the aisle at Target.

Then I began working with an instructor. I learned about yoga beyond asanas (poses) and it's now a part of my life, not merely for fitness but for my spiritual and mental health. Naturally the more I practiced the more my sassy hot pink yoga mat began to fail me becoming sparse in areas and the cats new favorite scratching toy.

Around the time I began looking for a new yoga mat I was blessed with the PrAna Natural Sticky Mat. What I noticed immediately is how much heft the mat had. Unlike my other mats of the past this mat feels serious. The mat, made of rubber, provides enough cushioning for me to easily work on my concrete balcony with comfort and stability. The smooth texture of the mat is a nice feature as well. Compared to other mats with a basket-weave type texture this feels smooth and doesn't leave weird imprints on my skin after certain poses.

In addition to the cushion-factor I really like the level of stickiness the mat has. I feel I can move fluidly while still able to stick in poses. This confidence helps me focus on my breath and body rather than wondering if I am going to slip.

Another aspect I love about the mat is it's biodegradeable nature. While I have no plans to part with it any time soon I like that it won't live for centuries in a land fill after I am gone. I try to support companies who support my beliefs. PrAna not only matches my lifestyle but cares for the environment and that is important to me.

The mat retails for $68.00 which is a bit more than mats you will find at the sporting goods store or Target. I think that it's worth every penny. Just like a gym membership if you don't use it you won't get a return on your investment but if yoga is a regular part of your life I recommend you give the mat a try. It's really become a partner for me. Allowing me to move my solo practice forward with confidence.

Don't Let the Name Fool You: Mountain Hardwear is Perfect for an Urban Adventure

I ride my bike about 85 miles a week. Not a ton but it's my primary mode of transportation. Bike commuting wouldn't be possible without good versatile durable clothing. In addition to riding I need clothing that fits into my casual work environment, allows me movement to climb on an indoor bouldering lunch break, and moves with me throughout yoga. That is why I love my new items from Mountain Hardwear.

I love my Petra pant for so many reasons. While the fabric is light and moves easily it doesn't feel flimsy. The pants feell durable and well made. The zip thigh pocket is perfect for my keys or a little money and the slash pockets are nice and deep (important when hiking or riding for security). Another great feature is the adjustable tabs in the waist, allowing a little more room for sizing. As a woman who's body fluctuates I really love this element.

The top I adore is the Duration Tank. I love the Pale Orchid color, it's very flattering and goes well with black (very important to the Cupcake). My favorite part of this top is that it feels like I am wearing nothing! The fabric is so light and breezy I feel very free and cool even in the warmest temperatures. The wicking properties keep me dry and it has antimicrobial finish, which is a fancy way of saying it controls odors. In a perfect world I wouldn't worry about such a thing but an active girl will eventually perspire. It's nice to know this top has my back in the odor control department.

With a name like Mountain Hardwear one might feel you need to hit the hills to don this apparel. The reality is it's perfect for anyone who's looking for strong, fun, attractive clothing to take them from the Farmer's Market to Yoga in one comfortable outfit.

Be Confident and "Live Out Loud Everyday" Even in a Swimsuit

I know that I am not alone in saying shopping for swim wear is the bane of my existence. I don't love my body, I don't like seeing it in harsh fitting room lighting and I really loathe the idea of finding a two piece that's top and bottom both fit (finding the Holy Grail may be easier). I often settle for an ill fitting takini top and board shorts, or at my lowest point last year, my lycra tennis skirt with built-in shorts. So why do I share this humiliating information with you? So you will understand just how lucky I feel to have found LOLE Swim wear.

LOLE (Live Out Loud Everyday) creates clothing that takes a woman from the trail to lunch in the city with ease. In that same spirit their swim wear is both attractive and a little sexy while still being functional. I was fortunate enough to receive two tankinis and the first thing I noticed was how sturdy they felt without being bulky.

Upon further examination, I noticed that the bottoms are fully lined and that is a huge plus to me. If you've ever been swimming in the ocean or a sandy area you know the perils of sand crotch. There is nothing more uncomfortable than sand stuck in the lining of your swimsuit, and getting it out discreetly, forget about it! With the fully lined bottoms that is not a worry.

When I tried on Gulf Halter Top and Reef Hipster bottom in Watermelon I was pleased with the fit. The leg holes were roomy, the top provides excellent support, and the color was very flattering, even to my pale skin. I then tried on the Cali Halter Top and Catalina Bottoms in Light Moss and this was my favorite. I really love the color and the cut of the bottom is very flattering for my shorter legs.

After the fawning over pleasing fit and colors I had to take them for the real test, the swim. I am delighted to say the suits were just what I wanted. The tankini tops are cut loose enough to give you some breathing room but not so full that they flop around when you're swimming. The bottoms stayed in place when I kicked, no riding up so I suddenly wasn't caught in the accidental thong. Not only are they beautiful and functional but they're chlorine resistant and rated UPF 50+ for protection from UV Rays.

If you find yourself in a bind this time every year looking for swim wear I highly recommend LOLE. While tankinis are my preference they also have a one piece and various bikinis. The colors and prints are designed to mix and match so go crazy, and Live Out Loud Everyday this summer! Click here for a list of retailers.