Over the Kitchen Counter: Angie's Place for Cooking and Crafts

theraWell Cooling Towel

I had never even heard of 'cooling towels' before our last trip to Disney World where they are sold in the gift shops. They are expensive to purchase at the park but when I returned home I found one locally for about $11. I was skeptical but thought it sounded like a useful item if it worked...and at that price, was worth a gamble.

theraWell is the brand of cooling towel I found. It is a reusable towel that lasts up to 4 hours. It offers instant cooling and doesn't need to be refrigerated to work. This particular one is 6.5" x 33"...so long and narrow. To use the towel you simply soak it with water, squeeze out the excess and then shake the towel to activate. When it is no longer cool you just repeat the steps to re-activate.

It was quite surprising when I tried the towel for the first time. It feels like what I imagine a dolphin fin would be, cold and rubbery! My daughter said it felt like a mushroom! I must say, it really IS cold! After a sweaty bike ride it instantly cooled me off. I dabbed it on my arms and then wrapped it around my neck. It is a strange feeling but I am really impressed with how it works. I can see many times when it will be a wonderful item to use: camping, exercising, sports events, amusement parks, or even when returning to a hot car after a day of shopping.

The towel is machine washable on the gentle cycle and air dried. It needs to be stored in an airtight container or bag. Mine came in a tube bottle with a convenient clip top to hang on a backpack, belt, bike bag, etc. Have you ever tried one of these towels?

Road ID

I'm like a boy scout...always prepared. I plan, I organize, I insure, I ensure, I record, I anticipate. Maybe by being super ready I feel more in control at avoiding disasters or maybe I just want things to go as smoothly as possible. It's just in my nature.

About 8 years ago my hubby was participating in his first marathon. Through the 'running world' grapevine I heard about little dog-tag sort of ID plates that could be attached to running shoes. Because, obviously, runners carry very little if anything at all with them while training, during the race or on the trail, it is extremely important to have a form of ID along for the run. I ordered one of these custom-made shoe pouch IDs and felt much better about having hubby out on the road. Data such as name, birth year, hometown, and emergency contact information is added to the plate and whether attached to the shoe, wrist, neck or on wearables, it is the perfect way to be identified in case of an emergency when one is unable to answer for one's self.

Now that we are riding our bikes longer distances, and trying to do that with as little extra weight and baggage as possible, I went back to ROAD ID to order new IDs for both of us. I opted for a wrist band this time that has a strap like a fitness tracker. I added our updated info, selected our favourite colours, and even picked out some charms to decorate the bracelets. I chose a bike chain link for myself and 'run' for hubby (along with a medical alert symbol for his allergy).

The bands arrived in a really nice little tin (which can be re-used for all kinds of fun things - check the website for all the ideas!) and the bands were simply excellent. They are comfortable to wear and while the personal information is all there, it is not something someone could read in passing (e.g. on the subway, standing in line, etc.). Hubby loved his band and was happy to have the allergy alert and specifics on his person at all times. In addition to being great for exercise situations, Road IDs are also really a smart idea for travel, children, seniors, and I believe, everyone.

Here are the top ten reasons why one should wear one of these identification tags (as quoted from the Road ID website):

1. If you can't speak for yourself, Road ID will speak for you.
2. Road ID enables First Responders to immediately contact family members and friends.
3. Road ID enables family members to provide additional details about your health or give consent for potentially life saving procedures.
4. Road ID enables hospital staff to locate vital medical records.
5. Road ID can communicate medical conditions or allergy information to medical staff.
6. Road ID can prevent serious delays in treatment by saving crucial time during the "golden hour" of medical treatment.
7. It's far better to have Road ID and not need it than to need Road ID and not have it. It's not just a piece of gear, it's peace of mind.
8. Accidents happen far more than you think they do. Each year approximately 450,000 of us are taken to hospitals unconscious and without identification.
9. Road ID looks good on and makes a statement about your athletic lifestyle – not to mention that studies would probably prove that people that wear Road ID are considerably smarter than those that don't.
10. Road ID can save your Life. Period.

I have peace of mind knowing that husband and I have our ID with us when we ride.  It was fun to customize our designs and colours...and I love the cute tin! If you decide to order one of these IDs, make sure to contact the company prior (I used the online 'chat') and ask for the $5 discount code!!!

This 'n That

How is your summer going? I have been busy trying to catch up with life, getting ready for some August birthdays, vacation plans, scrapbooking and finally, back to quilting! My extra hexagon paper templates have finally arrived at my LQS, ready for me to pick up. I have been at a standstill with my English Paper Piecing because I needed more hexies but actually it's perfect timing now as we get ready for a road trip so I can take them along in the car.

My fridge has been bursting with healthy food as the plant-based eating plan continues. Paired with my cycling schedule, I'm feeling like I'm in awesome shape this summer. The farmer's market has so many lovely fruits and veggies right now and I still reserve my baker's sourdough loaves each week, with perhaps a yummy buttermilk honey loaf mid-week. The shopping and food prep keeps me busy for sure!

I'm also riding each morning, still learning a lot about my bike and cycling in general, and survived my first mishap when the chain came off at the farthest part of my ride. I was able to get it back on although unfortunately, I had ditched my saddle bag of supplies thinking I was just in the city and wouldn't need anything. Sure, I didn't need tools for the job but my disposable gloves would have been really handy! Luckily I had one tissue in my pocket and got the worst of the grease off my fingers before cycling home. I'm just glad I didn't break the chain or get a puncture and lesson learned: even while fairly close to home, always pack the essentials!

My home bicycle workshop is coming along nicely. I re-organized the entire garage so I could dedicate a small area to maintenance. I cleared off the garden potting bench and converted it to a workstation. I had hubs install a peg board above it so I could hang some tools...not that I have any yet! I was inspired by a couple home shops I found on the net and simply had to make one for myself.  I am pretty pleased with the progress so far. I don't plan on any big repair jobs or anything but even washing the bikes, which is really important to do, is easier when everything is ready to go. A clean bike runs better and just like when I wash the dog, it's a good practice to go over the bike and learn what is 'normal' so that I can detect any problems before they become worse. I'm having a lot of fun setting everything up (and shopping!) and it really is nice to have a place to put my stuff before and after a ride. I know the family appreciates it too even though they think I am crazy (I never go half way when I'm interested in something!). I plan on sharing pics when it's done and also starting a series of posts regarding taking care of bike maintenance yourself. I totally believe that (as women) we should be encouraged to learn how to perform these basic tune-up and minor repair jobs ourselves.

So that's what I've been up to in between Game of Thrones episodes (I was really, really late to the party but am caught up and thoroughly enjoying the series) and regular chores. I realized the other night that Over the Kitchen Counter has been a part of my life for almost 9 years now so I really appreciate any of you who take the time to visit and read. I know you have busy lives too! The blog world has really been quiet these past few months but if you know anyone who might be interested in what I have to say, please let them know about OTKC! Thank you!

Bicycle, Bicycle!

Sorry to have been M.I.A. but we had a busy 4 days of celebrating...and when the mother-in-law is visiting, there is no time for computers! We had a wonderful family gathering to congratulate two graduates and wish them both happy birthdays, toast our anniversary, and honour hubby for Father's Day. There was wine, good food, and way too many pies!

In between all the special occasions I have been making time for some cycling. Inspired by the Blue Zones Solution book I have been riding my bike every day. I bought a new helmet, basket, modest bike shorts (the cushioned, snug part inside, regular loose shorts on the outside), and a good lock and have been trying to use the cycle instead of the car for actual errands. I peddled to the farmer's market and bought fresh sourdough, berries, honey, tomatoes, and cherry tomatoes - all I could fit in the new basket. I felt very healthy and happy being able to eat fresh, support local farmers, and get exercise at the same time, not to mention saving the environment by leaving the car in the garage (small contribution, I realize!).

My legs are slowly getting stronger and my confidence riding in traffic is too. Although I have always ridden a bike, it was sporadic and casual at best. I never made a real effort to use it daily but now that the time is right in my stage of life, I am enjoying it tremendously. Once I focus on something, learn the proper way to do it, equip myself, and practice, I become completely passionate. I've been so excited to get out and pedal that when it's a rainy day I'm sad the bike stays put. I think about cycling when I go to sleep and when I wake up so I know that I'm hooked! It's that wonderful feeling of kid-dom, freedom to go where you want without worrying about parking or rushing, wind in your hair. I love all the smells in the air (roses, cut grass, bar-b-ques, camp fires) and it's amazing what you notice. Sadly, there is also cigarette smoke, pesticide (the WORST to ride through a cloud), exhaust, etc. but the good definitely outweighs the bad.

We have planned several excursions and wouldn't you know it, the kids have been riding with us too! One daughter is really getting caught up in it also and we have been riding together after work. I love how they follow our example and it is a fun thing to do as a family. We also have reserved a bike tour during our summer vacation and I cannot wait to go. Finally, because I'm me, I've put my name on a list to take a maintenance course. The basics of fixing tires and adjusting gears, plus general maintenance and know-how, are covered and a manual is included (I LOVE manuals!). I'm really looking forward to it and hate waiting for the class to be scheduled...

Hoping for a sunny summer!

Live and In Person! It's...

If you read my post yesterday, I teased I would reveal today where I went and who I met on my return trip home from Ocean City.  If you read my post on July 21st, you might have already guessed!  Only a few hours from Maryland, nestled in the beautiful green hills and valleys of rural Pennsylvania, is the amazing Ladyfingers Sewing Studio.  This charming former stagecoach-stop hotel built in 1860 is now home to over 4,000 bolts of fabric and an endless array of wonderful quilting notions, threads, books, patterns...AND the incredible Gail Kessler!

Gail is the fabulous instructor of two great Craftsy classes: Piece, Patch, Quilt: Basic Quiltmaking Skills (which is not only a fantastic class but also FREE!!!!!), and of course, the wonderful Classic Double Wedding Ring with Gail Kessler.  You may have been following along as I share my progress on this beautiful, king size quilt - it's a labour of love that has me enthralled.  When I realized that I could detour only slightly from our route and potentially meet Gail in person I was beyond excited.  That I have a lovely husband who was willing to drive me there, through traffic and detours, and wait patiently as I visited and shopped, made the trek that much sweeter.

When we finally arrived and I walked through the door of the shop the first thing I saw right away was the...actual...Downton Abbey Double Wedding Ring quilt!  Oh my!  My first impression was a) stunning, and b) huge!  I couldn't believe I was seeing THE quilt from the Craftsy class.  Amazing.  Incredible. Wow!

And then...down the stairs came the...actual...Gail Kessler!  I was quite star struck but managed to form a sentence or two and had a delightful meeting.  Gail kindly looked at my first DWR block and gave me advice about my blanket stitch (should be smaller) and how to finish the outside arcs (I need to peel up the edges to allow for the seam allowance).   We discussed Gail's spectacular quilts, her gorgeous 'Dimples' and other fabric lines she's designed, Craftsy, and had a lovely chat in general.  Despite my excitement I still remembered to pick up two more bottles of the excellent Quilter's Choice glue and treated myself to the entire Downton Abbey fat quarter bundle because I love it and the DWR quilt only makes use of the plums and blues.

I was so fortunate to meet Gail in person and appreciated her taking the time to visit.  She is wonderful, sweet, and so gracious.  I was actually glad I let her know I was coming in advance since she is an avid cyclist, taking advantage of the stunning local landscape and smooth, traffic free roads.  In fact, Gail hosts bicycle tours through Gear Up Tours.  The rides look so interesting and accommodate all levels.  I love the idea of the whole package - lodging, meals, instruction, support, and SNACKS!  What a unique and fun experience that would be!

With plenty of photos and memories of my journey to Ladyfingers, I will never forget dropping in and meeting my Craftsy instructor live and in person!  It was quite a thrill for me, a fan, to talk to such a famous and talented quilter...but Gail, of course, is a real person and so sweet and welcoming.  I'm envious of the local crafters who get to see her all the time and take advantage of her warm and inviting shop, not to mention her incredible knowledge and talent as a teacher.

Oh, and one last thing.  Gail will always be a part of my very special project.  I asked her to sign a cut of fabric I will be using in the Double Wedding Ring quilt.  I think it will be an extraordinary addition to the border and incredibly special and unique to have the signature of the designer incorporated within the patchwork.