Thanks for the information on the strap, I found the hard one for about $30 on the internet so I am trying that.
Does anyone know how to get a Gpx file on the Edge 500? I have one with coordinates for the South Boundary Trail in NM but I can't figure out how to program it. The ones I have uploaded before weren't a GPX after all. 
FWIW - It appears the 500 now supports workouts. I am not sure how they work but they are in the training center, maybe I will investigate for fun later this week. I don't do workouts for training but DH does so that may be a factor if he wants one.
Amanda
2011 Specialized Epic Comp 29er | Specialized Phenom | "Marie Laveau"
2007 Cannondale Synapse Carbon Road | Selle Italia Lady Gel Flow | "Miranda"
You don't have to be great to get started, but you do have to get started to be great. -Lee J. Colan