Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring mothers and celebrating motherhood, maternal bonds and the influence of mothers in society. It is celebrated on various days in many parts of the world. Mother’s day is not about me, it’s about the gift I was given when I had my children. President Woodrow Wilson 

I remember every moment like it all was yesterday;  the ultrasounds, every labor pain, first words, first steps, sharing their tears, and their first day of school all leading up to watching my son walk in his cap and gown on his graduation day. My middle daughter, with her gorgeous blue eyes and witty personality has amazed me since the first moment I held her in my arms. My youngest, the one I was told would never even be born, still asks to be tucked in at night and still calls me “Mommy”. She has shown me what a real life miracle really is. These children are my gifts as a mother.  

Are you looking for ideas of things to do on Mother’s Day with your mom? The options are limitless, but here are a few ideas:

• Make her breakfast in bed or go out for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner.
• Go for a walk; rain or shine.
• Enjoy a movie of her choice.
• A day out shopping is always fun. Our Lamey Wellehan stores are looking forward to helping moms find the perfect shoes, socks, and accessories on Mother’s Day.
• Baking, scrapbooking, and games are great for quality time indoors.
• Plan a day trip, a weekend getaway, or have a picnic in the park.
• Go to a spa to enjoy a day of beauty and pampering.
• Have fun!

So this Mother’s Day take the time to wish your mother, step-mother, mother-in-law, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, friends, mothers-to-be and even your children  a very happy Mother’s Day. They all deserve to know they are loved, appreciated and respected for who they are and what they do.

As for me, this year on Mother’s Day, like every Mother’s Day before this, I will thank my children for giving me the greatest gift I have ever known; motherhood.

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The study ran over a two year period and was a partnership between the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine and the Califirnia College of Podiatric Medicine.  The study is under peer review and is pending publication.   The big take-away of the report was that placing kids in well fitting, very flexible footwear results in less stumbles and falls when learning to walk.  The report suggests that thin, easily flexible shoes provide increased proprioceptive feedback (sensing how the foot relates to the ground), helping the child learn to walk.

The study also analyzed the stages of child development.  The first 2 years the foot is in development; and footcoverings are needed just to keep tiny toes protected from the environment.  Simuating the barefoot environment (or just being barefoot) is best.  Critical bones are not completely formed until the age of 5, whick leaves open the possibility of malformation with the use of improper footwear (or improper fit).  The foot itself isn’t fully formed until the age of 18, but the most critical development occures in the first 7 years.

Lamey Wellehan has been a long-standing retailer of Stride Rite products and is has always understood the importantce of proper fit and proper footwear.  We stock the new Stride Rite SRT^TM styles, shoes that are designed to be ultra-flexible and a sensory feedback design.  The system enables children to better feel the ground beneath them, allowing them to more quickly adjust to changes and ultimately improve their stability.  To learn more abouth Stride Rite’s SRT products, stop into your local Lamey Wellehan store

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I am partial to floral prints.  My favorite way to wear them is with stripes.  The picture below is a blogger demonstrating a how to with prints and florals.  I love it; give it a try with the contents of your own closet!

I also love me some printed shoes.  I am proud to say that Lamey Wellehan has a plethora of prints for you to be on trend this spring and summer.  There’s just few below from Dansko, Papillio, and Crocs.  Come in or check us out online to find more.  My favorites are the lobster print crocs.  They’d be great with a navy & white striped tunic and a floral scarf.  What will you pair with these printed shoes?If you’re feeling a bit confused about how to wear prints without overwhelming yourself and those around you, here’s a few guidelines I picked out.  I’ll start small and work my way up to the more adventurous ways:

• Chose an accesory with a print: small like a bangle to large like a clutch or scarf.  Pair either with basic clothing and you’ve gotten your feet wet.
• Wear printed shoes.  Like the accesory, you can pair it with basic clothing and let your feet make the statement.  Maybe you’re feeling a little edgy?  Pair your printed scarf or bangle with your printed shoes.
• Mix your prints.  There are very few rules to this.  Some to be mindful of: wear compliments.  If you’re mixing stripes with florals or polka dots, be sure they’re in the same color family.  Avoid bulky or baggy clothing with loud prints.  Florals and florals work as well, chose one piece with a larger print and keep the second one on the understated side.

Now you’re prepared to go and be creative.  Check out magazines and blogs for inspirations and then report to your closet and make it happen.  Good luck and remember to have fun!

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We were told, when volunteering at an animal shelter, she should wear an old pair of jeans and an old shirt (clothing that won’t matter when it gets stained or ruined). In addition to these items, we were instructed to get shoes that won’t get her feet wet (whether it be from water or a puppy that may have an accident). I decided to go to Lamey Wellehan for a pair of kids Western Chief Rain boots. My daughter chose the Stud of Horses Rain boot; she will be both stylish and comfortable!

The benefits to volunteer work will far exceed any activity my daughter will do and it may be years before she even understands that. In the meantime, she is content knowing she is helping animals. Since my daughter is quite shy, volunteering will give her the opportunity to practice and develop her social skills and meet people with common interests and common goals-to take care of animals.

Some of the many benefits of volunteering are:

• It will give her something meaningful & purposeful to do.
• It provides a sense of belonging, connecting and feeling wanted and needed.
• It fulfills the human need of wanting to know you made a difference and a contribution.
• Animals love unconditionally. It doesn’t matter what kind of day my daughter has had, no matter how she feels about herself or whether she is happy, sad or angry, all the animals love her exactly the same.

Every time my daughter walks into that building in her dirty old jeans and brand new Western Chief Rain boots she is making a difference; a difference in her life, a difference in the lives of others, and a difference in countless animals lives. I am so proud of her and will continue to support her in whatever paths she chooses.

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Like much of our products at Lamey Wellehan, Orthaheel offers supreme arch support.  Orthaheel, however, doesn’t just do that.  Orthaheel has a medical grade foot bed- which sets it apart from others.  They do not just offer arch support, but their orthotic footbed improves foot function which can reduce any heel or ankle pain.  Orthaheel products are built to restore natural foot function.  Orthaheel is also endorsed by Harvard Medical school- educated integrative medicine practicing Dr. Andrew Weil.  Check out www.Dr.Weil.com if you aren’t familiar.  Orthaheel prides themselves in being, “a comfort and wellness brand with classic American styling, but what’s different about it is the biomechanical foot bed.” 

Beyond the wellness and comfort side of Orthaheel is their great value and styling.  Most of their products are under $80.00.  To get the amount of support at such a value is paramount.  This spring, Lamey Wellehan has three styles of Orthaheel sandals in various colors for whatever your wardrobe needs may be.  My personal favorite is Lola in white (pictured below, also available in chocolate brown.)  If you’re looking for something simpler, Lamey Wellehan also offers the Tide- Orthaheel’s number one selling style.  We have it in three colors, black, bronze, and gold.  Lola and Tide are both thong-style sandals, but if you don’t prefer that in-between-your-toes feeling, Yasmin is your shoe.  She comes in gold and chrome with some decorative ornamentation.  Spoiler alert: look for Orthaheel footwear and slippers coming Fall 12 at Lamey Wellehan.

Join my mother in kicking out foot pain and looking great.  She went with the Tide, but Yasmin is next on her list.  Come in soon and try out a pair or visit us online.  Once you put them on, you won’t want to take them off.  They’re your answer for needed comfort and wellness; especially if you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis.  You can be your stylish self and feel good doing it!

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My son recently asked me if it had been six weeks since the groundhog had seen his shadow. I pondered that for a minute. It felt like it had been months since the little guy poked his ead out on February 2^nd. I did some quick finger math only to discover that not only had 6 weeks gone by, but it had been 10 weeks.  It didn’t feel like winter was over, with our tease of a couple of 70 degree days followed abruptly by a bone chilling wind that has lasted weeks. It’s hard to believe that winter would ever end.

At that moment a decision was made; yes winter is definitely over. Every day the temps seem a bit milder, and winter coats are swapped for lighter jackets. We’re thinking about cute sandals and boat shoes. I see more and more people walking the dog, gearing up to drop those extra couple of pounds that winter has brought our way. Runners are out in full force too.

No matter what way you choose to shake the “winter blahs”, Lamey Wellehan has the perfect fit for you. Come in and take advantage of our great selection of sandals for the whole family. Don’t forget to check out the new trends in athletics department.  Happy Spring!!!

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Spring is here. Despite the flurries last week, I am ready to ditch the tights and socks and embrace sandals and flats.  I’ve always liked everything about spring; the promise of summer, the later sunsets, and the bright colors.  In my mind, I equate the four seasons with four reasons to spruce up my wardrobe, my closet and naturally, my feet. 

This year, along with the warmer weather, Lamey Wellehan is welcoming a new vendor; Fossil.  Just in time for spring, we have the Maddox Flat in four colors- nude, brown, black and gold.  The buckle on the Maddox flat toughens up the simple leather ballet flat and adds some fun.  My favorite color is nude because it’s a perfect neutral for brown and black; but most importantly, I can wear it with all the bright orange, cobalt, and fuchsia I am wearing this spring.

 As the weather reports show less potential for that white stuff and temperatures higher than 50, I will be shedding my flats for open toes.  From Fossil, Lamey Wellehan also has the Suzie sandal.  It’s a gladiator inspired sandal in black and cognac.  I prefer the lighter cognac and its simple enough to wear around town with jean shorts and a fedora (which you can also now find at LW) or with a printed maxi dress while going out on a Saturday night.  Those are just my plans for Suzie, you can make your own- I am sure you’ll love her.

What’s great about Fossil is their accessories are just as fabulous as their shoes.  While the shoes are available on our website and in all six stores, Fossil bags are being tested in two of our stores; Bangor and Scarborough.  They’re certainly worth the drive either north or south.  I love them because of their patterns- they’re bright and cheery just like spring.  Their leathers are beautiful and while I favor the patterns, the versatility of the leather bags is great.  You can use them all spring and summer with dresses and sandals and transition them into fall and winter with sweaters and boots.

Whether you love big bags like me, Fossil offers all sizes and we’re happy to have the chance to provide them for you.  I love the ease of a crossbody for those times when my hands are occupied by a coffee, a phone, car keys, and a shopping bag.  I love to mix contrasting prints when it comes to my bags and wallets and with the huge selection of prints and materials; I am able to do that with Fossil.  If you prefer to keep it simple and match, you can do that with Fossil too!

Hurry in and check out our amazing new Fossil collection for your shoe and handbag collection- you won’t be disappointed. Help me welcome spring, fun colors, and less foot coverings while saying hello to Fossil and adios to winter.

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A trip to Lamey Wellehan for some new athletic shoes was definitely in order. The traditional “walking shoe” is great, but not necessary. Last year I wore my Keen’s for walking, however this year I am getting a new pair of Asics running shoes. They are lightweight, have great cushioning, and provide me with the support I need. My daughter, on the other hand, loves her kid’s Saucony’s. They fit her well and feel good.  Getting my child into a pair of athletic shoes, versus her beloved flip flops, is a challenge; so finding ones she loves was such a relief.

Walking is aerobic exercise. It keeps you fit and it helps you take off extra weight and keep it off. Obesity has become an epidemic among Americans; it is especially troubling that so many American children are now overweight or obese. Numerous studies have shown that lack of exercise is a major factor. To maintain one’s current fitness level you would have to walk 2-4 times a week for at least 20 minutes. To lose weight you would need to walk 4 or more days a week for at least 30 minutes. My goal is to get my daughter out and walking 4 times a week!

 I have always tried to take care of myself, stay fit and eat right. I try to teach my daughter the same. Having her out walking right beside me is a great way to spend time together as well as be a great influence on her. Along with its remarkable benefits to the heart, walking:

• improves circulation
• helps breathing
• combats depression
• bolsters the immune system
• helps prevent osteoporosis
• helps prevent and control diabetes
• helps control weight

So do a little shopping and get yourself some new shoes (and while you’re at it, new clothes never hurt either!), some great athletic socks and get yourself motivated. As the weather warms up be sure to get outside, get moving, get healthy, and feel great!

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With the 2^nd toe longer than the rest, the foot structure has been altered, sometimes causing discomfort and callusing of the second toe joint at the ball of the foot.  Normally, the toe joint of the first toe bears the majority of the body’s weight at the final phase of the gait.   When your second toe is longer, the pressure is shifted to this smaller toe joint (and area of the foot normally not designed for these forces).  Those with this foot shape may have calluses on the outside edge of their big toe and they may have a sensitive second toe.

Do you have a longer second toe?  If so, it is very important that you get shoes that fit properly.  Most people test shoe fit by feeling where the big toe ends inside the shoe.  If you have Morton’s toe, it is the 2^nd toe you need to be checking, making sure you have 3/8^th of an inch or so of extra space.  Without that space, your toe may jam or bruise.  When looking for athletic shoes, you may need to have styles that have features to deter over-pronation.  At the same time, shoes with proper forefoot cushioning are important.

Not all feet are the same, so check out your foot and look at its shape.  If you have a shorter big toe and a longer second toe, being aware of proper shoe fit will help reduce foot pain down the road.

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Many people wear orthotics now.  The exact number is unknown because there isn’t a clear definition of what an orthotic is.  Some circles narrowly define the term be to only custom-made devices.  Others include pre-made and custom and even others call anything put in the shoe that adds support an “orthotic”.  It can be confusing!  Regardless of how it it defined, the odds are that you know someone who wears orthotics inside their shoes.

At Lamey Wellehan, we consider orthotics to be anything that alters the foot’s biomechanics to create a desired effect.  Custom orthotics are the most user-specific, although pre-made may be a great option for many people.  Not considered part of the orthotic family, arch supports fill the void under the arch of the feet.  Finally, an insole is not structured in any way and it’s primary focus is on comfort and cushioning.

If you wear orthotics, there are a few tips that can help you have “happy feet”. 

1. Get used to them gradually.  On the first day or two, wear them only for a few hours.  Add time over a course of a week or so, letting your feet and body adjust to them.
2. Verify proper shoe fit.  Orthotics work with the foot and the shoe and the shoe must have enough volume inside to properly fit both your foot and the orthotic. 
3. Select the right shoe.  A full-length orthotic will need a shoe that has a removable insole, so you can make space for the new insert.  The orthotic needs to sit on a fairly flat plane.  Shoes with narrow waists won’t allow the orthotic to sit properly in the shoe.  Shorter orthotics may be able to fit ontop of the shoes insole, but you need to make sure your heel is properly seated in the shoe. 
4. Orthotics are not silver bullets.  Identifying the cause of foot or back discomfort is hard and just changing the alignment of the foot or increasing cushioning may not solve the problem.  If you have pain, see a medical professional first to find out why.

At Lamey Wellehan we have many products in our foot health department that may help.  Most importantly, we have a staff who will take the time to help find the right shoe to fit your orthotic.  With guidance and proper shoe fit, you’ll be making great strides toward increased comfort!  Do you have questions about orthotics?  Write us at pedorthics@lwshoes.com – we’d love to hear from you!

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