Monday Musings- Shoes, Eggs, and Travel Outfit
Happy Monday, ladies. This week’s musings are more random than ever, which I think is a sign of either genius or stress š I’m guessing the latter.
What’s Your Fav?
I’ve been logging more miles on the treadmill lately, and as a result, my feet aren’t happy campers. Yesterday, I had to give them a break and just do some yoga at home. I’ve ordered a few different pairs of casual sneakers and these M. Gemi driving loafers that Elizabeth recommended last week. They were already in my cart, so her recommendation sealed the deal…fingers are crossed they fit.
I love my Munro loafers and ballet flats,Ā but I know our feet are all so unique they won’t work for everyone. I wondered what your favorites are. Do you have an especially comfortable brand of loafer or ballet flats to recommend? I’d love to do a round-up for you as a resource. BTW, my new AGLs showed up and don’t fit, so back they go. I checked the size against my old pair, and it’s the same, but I’ve obviously stretched the heck out of them as my feet have gotten wider with age. Sheesh.
Checked bags
I’ve only checked a suitcase once in 20+ years, and that last time it went badly. After I got to my gate, they canceled my flight, and it took me days to get my bag back. Luckily I was going home, but still! It confirmed I was better off just going carry-on. I will have to break that rule for my trip to Miami next week, and I’m sort of nervous about it. I know people successfully check their bags all the time, but I’ve only had disasters doing it. I’m bringing some outfits to shoot for the blog and just can’t get it all in my carry-on.
I often pack my hats inside my carry-on, but I decided this hat clip looked like a great idea because it will hold several hats simultaneously. I hope it arrives in time for my trip.
Cooking failures
I’ve become a fan of Egg bites lately but am struggling to make them successful. Starbucks does a fab job with theirs, and I can’t figure out what I’m doing wrong, so I hope to get some ideas from you. I’m using four whole eggs, and the rest are egg whites. I put chopped red pepper, a tiny bit of red onion, and spinach in each cup, then top it with beaten eggs. Maybe, I’m putting too many veggies in mine??
My non-stick muffin pan is proving to be a disaster for these things. For my first batch, I sprayed the heck out of the pan, but they stuck, and I lost 1/3 of each one glued into the pan. Then I tried using muffin liners which turned the inside of the pan bright blue, so I worried they’d done the same thing to the eggs. They were also a nightmare to peel off the eggs, so we only ate the center and wasted a ton of the “bite”. These things aren’t large, to begin with, so I want to be able to consume all of them.Ā I’ve been googling options lately and discovered food-grade silicone liners. Have any of you tried them? Everything I read seems to indicate they’re safe to use. I love crowd-sourcing ideas from you ladies, so any advice is welcome.
Outfit of the week
I have travel and what to wear on my mind this week. This one features the Eileen Fisher crepe pants that I never travel without. I have them in several colors, many over 15 years old. They’re super comfy, never wrinkle, and are machine washable.
The sneakers look super comfy, and the no-shoe socks will come in handy if you’re not TSA Pre and have to take off your shoes to go through security. Airpods or noise-canceling headphones are mandatory when I fly, and layers for fluctuating airplane temperatures.
Have you got any upcoming trips?
Iāve always checked luggage and never lost any, even when travelling across countries. I donāt want to have to drag carry on around airports. A backpack has always been my go to. It leaves you hands free. Iām about to go on a cruise and bought the Apple Air Tags. Interesting concept! Iāve packed some necessities in my backpack, just in case, to get me through the first day – a complete change of clothes, bathing suit, medications, nightieā¦Iām hopeful that my luggage will follow me. Being on a cruise ship without proper clothes for the evening will not be fun.
You’re smart to carry some necessities with you. Have fun!!
I wear Asics nimbus running shoes for walking.
I had Mortons neuroma in one foot and plantar fasciitis in the other. The runners in a half size larger really helped and wearing shoes with an arch as well. I can walk for hours now.
I am travelling to Arizona for the first time in 2 weeks. Scottsdale, Sedona Grand Canyon, and Page.
Any tips on what to pack? Will be hiking and walking a lot.
Also, any tips on where to shop?
Living in Canada with limited shopping I’m really looking forward to the variety.
I pack a carry on with the better clothes in it and the checked bag with older things in it if it goes missing. Also with an air tag in the checked bag.
Miami sounds great. Have fun!
Take layers as it can be warm in the daytime but as the sun dips it can get very cold. If you are staying in Grand Canyon might take your flannels for sleep. It gets very cold and windy. Watch the weather for your destination. This is usually a great time for AZ, I have children and grandchildren that live there. But this crazy weather we have had lately, all bets are off. Enjoy your trip!
You’re going to such glorious spots! I’m not sure what the weather will be like there but I always suggest layers.
I’m another one with major shoe fitting issues (narrow heel, high arch, wide foot with bunions, lost cushioning in foot pads & lacking ability to bend to tie shoelaces, etc. ) plus being very old. Since finding Sketchers about 5 years ago (around $90-$100) I will never go back. They’ve been god-sends!
What styles of Sketchers work best for narrow feet?
I know they are very, very popular.
Hi Jennifer
I have the same issues with my egg bites. They stick so bad to the pan we have to soak the pan for two days to get it clean.
I just ordered some OXO silocone liners. We will see if this helps.
Have fun on your trip.
Candice
About 15 years ago I met a German women who was an engineer who helped to discover and produce silicone bakeware. She said that she would not use the product becuse of the chemicals in them. Because of that I have never bought silicone items, but they sure appeal to me.
I have recently discovered the Trader Joes mini egg frittatas which are frozen and come 2 to a box. OMG. My hubby and I are hooked on them. 2.5 minutes in the microwave.
270 calories for two. We make a breakfast sandwich with an english muffin but you don’t have to. I love Cole Hahn slip ons. Always well made and comfortable.
Have a great trip! We always check our luggage and no issues.
I usually fly with a carryon but, on our cruise last year, the cruise line lost my suitcase. Luckily they āfoundā it shortly before we sailed. Proper makes some good supportive shoes. Some are pretty ortho looking but their travel active are nice.
I too think it may be your muffin tin doesnāt release properly. I just purchased the Americaās Test Kitchen top-rated pan, which is the Oxo Good Grips Pro muffin Tin (gold finish) from Amazon. Nordicware is excellent, too.
But the interesting point is these pans discourage you from using nonstick spray bc it decreases successful release over time. The bakerās sprays which simulate oil + flour are generally recommended, not the Pam type.
Interesting!! I’ve been using non-stick spray
I too have foot comfort issues and Zerogrand fabric loafers have been great.
I’ll check them out, thanks
I started going to a podiatrist a few years ago and it’s been very helpful. He recommended I mostly wear lace up shoes (I was NOT happy with that news, but it does make a difference and I was able to justify my Paul Green sneakers :). He also recommended I wear Super Feet inserts (he told me which ones to get and told me there is is a half insert that you can get for your flats which helps). I also always get my walking and running shoes at my local Fleet Feet as they are experts on fit. I hope your feet feel better soon!
Hmmm…I seldom wear lace-ups. I wonder why that helps.
Hi Jennifer, I am late to the party this morning, but I, too, have used UPS and FedEx to the hotel. I pack a small carry on bag for the plane so I know I will have access to a few things immediately upon arrival. I pack the outfits that go in the boxes in those jumbo ziplock bags. It cuts down on wrinkling, and if the box should get wet, itās still all good. Have a great trip!!š
Hi Jennifer,
I love all the comments on eggs and shoes. Good supportive shoes are so important. I use Vionic and Merrell most often. I am hard on shoes so I have to get new ones every few months. ASL and Tory Birch ballets are beautiful but the toe box was too tight for my right foot which has grown to be a half size larger. It sounds like you may have the same issue. My foot is narrow so going up a half size makes them too wide and sloppy. Looking forward to your travel outfit. I need one that can get me from chilly Oakland to sunny humid Kauai next week. I am having trouble putting one together. Safe travels to you.
Have a wonderful time in Kauai!
Hi,
Have you tried Garden Lites frozen frittatas ? They are gluten free.
I have been wearing black slip on Sketchers lately . Very comfortable. There are several that look good on, that are sleek and stylish for running errands. I also have some white Nike’s in white. When we go to Florida, I wear comfort sandals because my feet get hot.
I have a problem knee and feet. I use the sit down bike or elliptical. They are easy on joints. Try not to overdo, as our bodies need to recover. I do no more than 45min. for cardio, but I go everyday. I fi go longer I pay for it.
I think with all the suggestion about tags, I will get some for our next trip. I always check bags. They have never lost our bags, but they were delayed till next day, only twice.
Your travel clothes look great. Have fun!
Love silicon muffin liners. Muffins slide right off
Yes to silicone liners. Has anyone suggested Rothy shoes? I have the driving loafers and theyāre great. Love your travel look, and best of luck with checking your bag, you are due for success this time!
One more thing about traveling and Air Tags. I keep one in my backpack/purse when traveling. If it gets away from me I can find it! Also the Air Tag lets my kids back home know where I am with out texting them. Diane
Great points! Iāll put one in my purse too.
I recommend a supportive sneaker for your walks on the treadmill. Support is important and I like New Balance. When I shop for walking shoes I ask for the most supportive sneaker. You will feel better in that type of shoe. Have fun in Florida.
Judy
Thanks Judy
Egg bites – I use silicon liners in the air fryer, but definitely will look at the appliance on Amazon too. I have to wear proper workout shoes for distance walking – New Balance, Saucony, or Ryka. I wish I was going to Miami too, I am so ready for some travel!
Air fryer? What a great idea.
Home Economist here. I make the egg bites on a weekly basis. Try using Wilton cake release, just brush the inside of the muffin tin before baking and they almost fall out. Also, try sautĆ©ing the veggies first to remove some of the water, and it seems to help get more veggies into the ābiteā.
PS Absolutely love your blog!!
Thanks for the tips. I think the sautƩing might be a big help. Add taste too!
I’d love to see more ideas for a travel wardrobe. My husband and I are taking a trans-Atlantic cruise to England, then a 2 week cruise of Norway followed by 5 days in Iceland. Obviously a carry-on is not going to cut it. All the cold weather travel tips I’ve read feature young, fit, slim women and their suggestions are not at all helpful to an overweight 72 year old. This will be our first trip in 4 years, either a great adventure or a disaster! BTW, in our earlier travels, we always checked our bags and never had a problem. Hope that luck continues. Enjoy your trip to Florida.
We loved Iceland! Your trip sounds glorious. Layers are always critical when so travel. Weāve just been talking about that transatlantic cruise. Great idea and no jet lag!
Sorry to hear about your foot fatigue. A new pair of athletic shoes might be a good fix.
As for the egg bites. I use a silicone pan and fill the cups 2/3 full then set the pan in a 9X15 baking pan with a couple of inches of water. They pop out easily and are cooked to perfectionā¦they freeze well too so you can make a bigger batch.
Have fun in Miami!
Leslie
Hostess of The Humble Bungalow.
Brilliant! Thanks, Leslie. I hope we get to see each other this summer.
We have our third cruise to Alaska coming up in a couple of months (we love to cruise!) and I can’t wait to start packing! I always wear sneakers on the plane and for walking around town (in this case, Seattle) before we embark and Dr. Scholl’s Madison slip-ons are my favorite right now. For a bit dressier look, Rothy’s The Point are my favorite. I have both styles in several colors. I always check a bag due to TSA limits as I can’t do without my products, but we use luggage trackers. We’ve had Gegos for the last couple of years with pretty good success (as far as tracking goes), but we just purchased some SmartTags (for Samsung) after I read about how great Apple AirTags work and, so far, they seem to be pretty great! It really gives us peace of mind being able to know exactly where our bags are at all times. I also puchased a hat clip, a Klipsta, before our trip to Hawaii last fall as I usually wear a sun hat when out and about, and I knew I’d have to take off my hat when we visited Iolani Palace. I just removed my hat and clipped it to my bag and it worked great, so I think that that’s a very good purchase. Have a wonderful trip, Jennifer!
Iām a daily walker with plantar fasciitis and I wear these SB Sox Plantar Fasciitis Relief Soxs (Amazon) every time I walk; I also switch out my New Balance sneakers each day, never wear the same pair two days in a row. I get relief from flare ups by using a Tens machine that my podiatrist recommended. As for egg bites, I gave up on the cups and instead make mine in an 9 x 12 Pyrex dish; I cut them into squares and take them on the golf course with me. They are not portion controlled but still a good source of protein!
Good idea! Cutting them is easier than portioning into muffin tins.
Favorite loafers of all time are Sam Edelman Lorraine. They donāt look comfy but I swear I can walk all day in them. I have had some luck with Rockport ballet flats, with the total motion hidden wedge, and also Vionic ballet slippers. For aerobics, or for walking I always choose New Balance. And I donāt use them for anything but walking outdoors or exercise class. That way they last longer.
Never in years of traveling have I had a luggage problem. I will say however the only time I check bags is on the way home, when it really does not matter so much that it arrives with me. Weāve made several trips to Europe of two weeks with a European size carry on (they are smaller) and a small frameless backpack each, plus a purse of reasonable size for everyday carrying for me. No issues, but we usually rent apartments and have a washer at least, if not a dryer.
Your carryon caught my eye. Iām needing a new one, so Iād like to hear more about yours. Iāve been using silicone muffin pan liners and they work well. As far as I know, theyāre safe, but thatās a concern for me as well.
I finally bought a new one by Mono’s and really like it. Its only drawback is it doesn’t have the capacity to expand if you need extra space coming home from a trip. Otherwise, it’s fabulous! I will share more soon.
What a well-timed post for me! Leaving tonight for a short trip to Punta Cana. Driving through the night down to Chicago for a 5 AM flight. No worries about in-flight entertainment, I’ll be studying my eyelids! I always travel with a carry on, mainly because I hate lugging a big suitcase around but have also had checked bags that went on their own adventures without me. Does it irk anyone else that some airlines charge more for carry-on’s as they do for checked bags? After all, we’re doing all the work! Being a free spirit I’m primarily just taking a couple swim suits, my Hawaiian Rip Skirts, a few tee shirts and my new Quince jumpsuit. Easy peasy! While a splurge for me, I love my Tieks and find them to be very comfortable. Have even bought a pair from Poshmark to match a certain outfit. Looking forward to your future travel posts. There’s always more to learn from one another!
I visited a running shoe store last summer after my husband thought I was pronating a bit as I walked. They actually measured my foot (first time that has happened in years), had me stand on a computerized pad that generated a display of my foot, and watched me walk. It turned out that I pronate very little, but they had me try on a variety of running/walking shoes. I bought a pair of Brooks, but they told me the New Balance brand is very similar. I made my choice mainly on the color of the shoes! š The Brooks have a wide toe box but still fit my. more narrow heel well. They are very comfortable during my walks.
I can’t wait to see your posts from Miami! I also follow Tania and Jolynne, so I will live in the sunshine vicariously through the three of you.
Ups your clothes to hotel and take carry on bag with essentials like meds. Pre arrange with hotel.
I’m looking into that tomorrow. Thank you!
Fed ex and UPS is a good idea. Maybe try two luggage options, one being carry on?
I would switch to a bike when my feet hurt. I have latex allergies, so some comfortable shoes I canāt wear.
I can wear, Nike exercise shoes, Ecco, Clarkās ( older shoes were made better), Aquaitlia, La Canadian. I have narrow heels and a wider forefoot, all ballet, loafers, and pumps fall off.
Iām a disaster in the kitchen, no advice from meā¦š¤·āāļø
Bikes arenāt my fav but thatās what Iāve been thinking about trying.
Recumbent sit down bikes at the gym are wonderful.
If you are flying direct to Miami, you shouldnāt have a problem. I live in Naples and fly frequently to Westchester Airport on Jet Blue and never have a problem!
I have to change planes which I suspect is where I might have an issue
I have a pre or recumbent bike at home. Very comfortable and worth the investment.
Good to know. I will have to try one
Same here! Loafers RARELY work, ballet flats and pumps NEVER! So frustratingā¦
Has anyone tried Vivaia shoes, similar to Birdies/Rothys/Allbirds w/ knit fabric, lots of interesting styles?
They target me as a person w/ bunions.
I wear size 11 (!), have bunions and found Vivaia shoes to gap along the sides of my feet. But they were quite comfortable!
They sound great!
Enjoy your trip!
Regarding shoes, I second the suggestion by Yvonne to be fitted at a shoe store that specializes in running and walking shoes. The best ones not only measure your foot, but watch while you walk on their treadmill to see how you land, if you pronate, etc. then make a personalized recommendation.
Do you have a sous vide? Itās my impression thatās how Starbucks makes its egg whites. A few years ago I made them in a sous vide using 4 oz. Ball jars and lids. Just popped them in the fridge when done. Thanks for the reminder to try this again.
Iād never heard of a sous vide! Had to google that one. They sound fascinating.