Sometimes I feel like the only one- the only one who is never content with the length of shoelaces that come stock with some footwear. Laces always seem way too long right? Shoe shops never seem to have a great selection of laces, but I was pleasantly surprised that behind the counter of Journeys Shoes and Clothing hung this pair of 39-inch laces that fit a pair of my Mauris perfectly. 36’s were too short, 45’s too long so yes, a pair of shoelaces made me happy. 

Thanks to a gigantic attention-getting promotional Skechers sneaker on a table at a volunteer fair I happen to be walking by the other day, I came to learn about an organization called Back on My Feet.

Back on My Feet works to combat homelessness by directing resources toward specific housing and employment initiatives, while fostering self-esteem in homeless individuals (many who are veterans) through the communal act of getting together for a run. Big city marathons to small morning groups- keep an eye out for them. There are chapters in 12 major US cities. I encourage anyone to check out their site for more information. Wicked-cool shout out to the staff from the NYC chapter.

Vans Bike Grips 

I needed some new grips for my mountain bike. I used to love the ODI mushroom grips back in my BMX Freestyle days- were they still making grips? (searches web) Hell yeah they are.

For someone who grew up wearing Vans, these rubber grips featuring the classic waffle-sole pattern, also made-in-the-USA like the old Vans used to be- bought ’em faster than a wheel spin.

What the heck- just a few little things that made me happy recently