Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Airplane Travel Essentials

Airplane Travel EssentialsSince I started working at Los Angeles duopoly KCBS/KCAL, I have been working in LA Wednesday through Sunday and flying back to Dallas on a redeye early Monday morning every other week to do work for FC Dallas.

I have gotten my travel game down. I have learned (FINALLY) how to pack without checking a bag.  A good travel bag is key. I picked up this Swiss Gear rolling carry-on bag at Target. It's been an absolute gamechanger.  Tumi and Victorinox also make great ones.

No matter where I'm headed there are certain essentials I always take with me on a flight. I have learned through years of road trips covering the Cowboys, Mavs and more that if you fail to plan, you've got a plan to fail on a flight.

Here are my airplane travel essentials: 
  1. Headphones - noise-canceling headphones are a must. 
  2. iPad - again, a must. I keep magazines, books, TV shows and movies on here. 
  3. A Comfortable Maxi Dress - these are a great travel option. They keep you covered while not being too hot or bulky. 
  4. Jack Black Natural Mint Lip Balm - great for moisturizing both on the plane and off. Double bonus? It provides sun protection with SPF 25. 
  5. A Big Tote - my Gucci Swing Leather Tote holds everything you see here...and then some. It's an airplane essential. The Tory Burch York Tote is outstanding, too, and at $295  is a bit friendlier on the wallet.
  6. Keihl's Creme de Corps - Keihl's is the traveler's best friend. You buy one bottle of lotion or an eye cream like their Creamy Eye Treatment and you will score samples galore. They will give you a small bottle of Creme de Corps that is TSA-approved. Just ask. A little of this goes a long way. 
  7. Caudalíe Beauty Elixir - airplane cabin air is so drying, this adds moisture to help your face stay hydrated. This is also a great after-shave for men. 
  8. Eye Masks - I use them and love them. They're essential when trying to sleep.
  9. Toothpaste - I don't need to explain this, do I? The toothbrush is a given, isn't it?
  10. derma e Hydrating Eye Cream - packed with hyaluronic acid to help keep the thin, dry skin beneath your eyes hydrated. 
  11. Hunter Wool Socks - I wear them and don't apologize for it. They keep your feet toasty warm.
  12. Shawl - instead of those skeegy airplane blankets I bring my own shawl. It also serves as my "coat" on trips. I clean after every extended holiday. 
I always bring an empty water bottle to fill when I pass security. If you want a pre-stocked TSA-approved travel bag packed with toiletries, there are some brilliants ones available for both men and women for under $15.

For advice on selecting and packing jewelry for a trip, read this.

What are your airplane must-haves?

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Sunday, June 15, 2014

Jewelry To Take With You While Traveling

venice, canal, houses, gondolas
Venice - photo taken during the starter marriage honeymoon
It seems like everyone I know is traveling right now. I am leaving the husb and little one at home and heading on a two-week Mediterranean cruise with one of my BFF's later this June. This is the exact honeymoon cruise I took with my first husband. I like to call that my starter marriage.

I am dreading packing for the trip. Think about it: fitting two weeks worth of clothing into my Bric's trolley suitcase that will need to fit into our 222-square foot cruise ship cabin. A cabin, mind you, that will be holding two women with lots of beauty products and shoes, size 11's no less.

Pack the Basics, Focus on Accessories
One solution I have found is to focus on accessories. My packing philosophy for long trips is to bring basics: shorts, a pair of jeans, a skirt or two, some simple blouses and one or two dresses. I mix up my looks with accessories like jewelry and scarves, which are easy to roll up in your luggage.

If you choose wisely, jewelry takes up no room. As much as I want to, I won't be bringing any Hermes XL bangles with me. Instead it will be stylish, delicate pieces that can fit into one travel roll I carry in my purse.

California-based jewelry designer gorjana makes jewelry that fits the bill perfectly for travel as well as every day living. The designs are on-trend yet have a timeless quality about them that endure.  Double bonus, the pieces are packable and versatile.

Scroll through to browse jewelry perfect for a trip or every day.


As for actually packing the pieces, a good jewelry roll can be your saving grace. I put my pieces in a freebie jewelry roll (similar here) I have had for years. It's about the size of a deck of cards with separate compartments for bracelets, rings, earrings and necklaces. Pack your earrings with your earrings, bracelets with your bracelets and so on.

Remember
NEVER pack your jewelry in your luggage. ALWAYS carry it with you. You don't want to risk it getting lost with your checked baggage.

The Takeaway
Smart accessories help you get multiple uses out of the same clothing on a trip.  Wear different accessories with the same dress and you have a different look without adding unnecessary bulk to your luggage.

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Father's Day Gift Guide For The Traditional Dad

Okay, say your dad actually wants a tie for Father's Day.  That's cool.  Just don't get him a lame one.  Here is a selection of "traditional" Father's Day gifts that will make your favorite Dad smile.

Skull and Bones Cufflinks | Taetossian Pen | Burberry Watch | Burberry Tie | Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Eau de Parfum  | Personalized Oak Whiskey Barrel | Nordstrom Wrinkle-Free Dress Shirt | Jack Black Starter Set | Personalized Money Clip

Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus have some great Father's Day gift ideas.

Scroll Through to Shop Fabulous Father's Day Gifts



Still stumped?  After years of working with guys, That Sports Girl knows what they want and has got you covered. We have Father's Day gift guides for the sports loving dadfoodie dad and techie dad.

Friday, June 6, 2014

An Interview With Exhale Co-Founder Fred DeVito: Why Core Fusion & Barre Classes Are Great For Men

One of the best Father's Day gifts you can give your favorite dad is one that will make him a healthier man.


exhale, core fusion, dallas, barre class
exhale's Core Fusion class
I have become addicted to exhale's Core Fusion Barre classes Dallas' Hotel Palomar.  They do a better job of lifting my booty than just about anything else.  There are a few men who take the classes but not many.  I contend guys should consider these workouts for two reasons:
  1. It's a phenomenal way to strengthen your entire body, particularly your core, while gaining flexibility.  
  2. It's a great way to meet girls!  The girl to guy ratio is usually 10:1.  That's why I am dragging my 27-year old brother with me.  True story: one NBA player told me "If you want to meet the hotties you gotta take pilates." Wise words.  I digress.  
Exhale Core Fusion classes were co-created by Fred DeVito.  He and his wife, Elisabeth Halfpapp, are the athletic brains behind the program that is a true gamechanger.

exhale spa, Fred DeVito, barre class, dallas exhale spa class
me and exhale co-founder, Fred Devito

During his May visit to Dallas, he shared the benefits of barre and Core Fusion classes for men with me prior to teaching a booty-kicking Core Fusion Barre class.

"We focus on things in our class that men don't focus on: flexibility and core strength," Devito said.  "Men focus on cardio and weights.  They’re good at that."

"The philosophy is that you’re only as strong as your weakest link in a chain.  If you strengthen the weakest links in your body, your entire fitness level will improve.  You’ll reduce the risk of injuries.  You’ll perform better, look better and feel better."  

"To get there it takes dedication, consistency and commitment.  You gotta work your butt off and you have to allow some time to see results and that’s difficult." 

DeVito suggests signing up the father or sig-o in your life for a class you're not taking. 

"Men don’t want to be in the situation where they’re looking stupid," he admits. 

"Get him to a class you’re not taking because then he’s not worrying about what you're thinking about him."

That's smart.  I'm trying to get not only my brother but also my husband to join me.  I know I'll give them crap for looking awkward while trying to master the moves.  

The Takeaway
In all seriousness, a series of classes, gym membership or session with a personal trainer is a great gift for the man in your life.  Whether he's looking for a change of pace or starting a program, he'll notice an enormous gain in strength, flexibility and stamina by taking these types of classes.

Click here for the latest exhale Dallas class schedule.

Core Fusion Extreme
As for what's next for exhale, they will be rolling out Core Fusion Extreme, a high intensity interval training class in a few weeks.


Image via Instagram.com/exhalespa

"It incorporates station work where they will be five stations.  You’ll rotate around and do 45 seconds of each exercise multiple times. It is a kick ass class.  When you’re done with the stations there’s center core work for balance and stability."

It's a one-hour class that will feature TREX suspension training, plyometrics, heavy weights and sliders.

"It’s all based on our core fusion principles and on working with correct form.  A lot of classes are about speed (i.e. how many reps can you do in 45 seconds).  We’d rather you pace yourself and work correctly so you don’t get hurt and build your endurance and stamina."

Don't have an exhale near you?  You can exercise with one of their DVDs.


Scroll through the selection below to learn more. 






*exhale provides classes on a complimentary basis.  Opinions expressed here are my own. 

What You Need To Know If You're Heading To The George Strait Concert At AT&T Stadium

If you're going to the George Strait concert at AT&T Stadium on June 7th, the Cowboys' purse and bag policy WILL apply.

tory burch, purse, shoulder bag, mini fleming
Tory Burch's Mini Fleming Leather Shoulder Bag Is Allowed

"Everything at the stadium falls under our purse policy," according to AT&T Stadium spokesperson Bret Daniels.

That means every game whether it be NFL, NCAA or high school, every concert, every soccer match, EVERYTHING. Your opaque bag must be no larger than 5.5" x 8.5" to be allowed into the stadium.

Here is some handbag inspiration to help you figure out what works.

NFL Bag Policy, AT&T Purse Policy, NFL Purse Policy


From L to R: Valentino Rockstud Mini Crossbody (I LOVE this calf hair version) | Small Prada Crossbody | Ferragamo Ginny Crossbody YSL Cassandre Crossbody | Tory Burch Mini Fleming Shoulder Bag (comes in many colors) | Tory Burch Mini Harper Crossbody (also cute in black) | Ferragamo Paris Crossbody | Danielle Nicole Libby Convertible Crossbody

If you attend a lot of events where purse and bag policies are in play, I would suggest getting one bag that works. I have a Chanel Wallet on a Chain I use for each game, along with a clear, quart-size Ziplock I use as Jordan's diaper bag.

I am always updating my Gameday Fashion and Cowboys Fashion boards on Pinterest.  Follow them for a constant stream of bags that will work for both the NFL & PGA Tour's purse policy.

AT&T Stadium Purse Policy TIP:
To determine if your purse will be allowed into AT&T Stadium, simply fold an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper in half.  If your bag is smaller than that, it's good to go.

Here are some weekend sales you need to know about:
Scroll Through To Shop This Story




Thursday, June 5, 2014

Diet And Fitness News You Need To Know

So there is a list of the Top 10 Most-Hated Foods in the US.  Of course there is.  Kitchen Daily did the dirty work.   Guess what's #1?  Brussel sprouts.  Try them roasted with balsamic vinegar.  You'll never look at them with disdain again.

Image via ThorPorre
As for the others hated food items:

  • Garlic - LOVE the flavor.  The breath we're left with?  Not so much. 
  • Cheese Fondue - not sure I've ever had it! 
  • Tofu - again....huge fan.
  • Celery - I love this veggie in all forms: raw, juices, with peanut butter on it. 
  • Oysters - one of life's delicacies. 
  • Mayonnaise - I hate it. 
  • Mushrooms - one of my favorite things to eat. Grilled portobellos? Oh my. 
  • Licorice - yep.  Gross
  • Cilantro - I don't get the hatred for this fine herb.

Here's what else caught my eye in the diet and fitness world this week: 
Have you taken a break from exercise and are looking to get back into it?  If so, go slowly.  You can't expect to pick right back up where you left off.  Learn how to tackle exercise after a workout hiatus.

Change your attitude about exercise, change your weight.  Thinking of exercise as "playtime" can be an effective in helping you lose weight.  If you think of it as fun rather than a workout, you might be less likely to compensate your calorie expenditure with extra food.  Confused?  Read this. 

Are you vegan?  Gluten-free?  Not down with dairy?  Keeping kosher all the time?  Here's how to maintain your diet without coming off like a jerk.

How about 10 vices that are good for you?  Chocolate, booze and coffee....I'll take it.

Mickey & Miller's Cowboys Hour, Episode 11

It's now officially a middle linebacker conundrum for the Cowboys with Sean Lee out.  What will Dallas do?  How is Brandon Weeden approaching the season?  AND what do you think about Stephen Jones leaving open the possibility of Josh Brent returning?


Mickey Spagnola and I discuss that and more Thursday, June 5th at 11am on Mickey & Miller's Cowboys Hour.

Join us by clicking this link or watching in the video box below.  Can't join us live?  You can always watch archived shows here.

 
Thursday, May 29, 2014

How To Get A Yoga Mat That Is Perfect For You

I can speak to the fact that one size does not fit all when it comes to yoga mats.  I am too long for most of them when I do downward dog.  The folks at Gaiam have a GENIUS solution: a Yoga Mat Finder.


They suggest taking into account four distinct factors when buying a yoga mat:
  1. Thickness
  2. Stickiness
  3. Price
  4. Style
I would suggest length, too.  Regardless, this is a great way to get a yoga mat that works for you.
Click here to find your perfect mat(ch) with the Gaiam Yoga Mat Finder.

Browse a Selection of Yoga Mats

Mickey & Miller's Cowboys Hour, Episode 10

Holy Sean Lee!  It happened again.  While the Cowboys have yet to formally announce it, the Cowboys linebacker appears to be done for the season after tearing the ACL in his left knee Tuesday in OTA's.  

Yeah. 

What does this mean for the Cowboys defense in 2014?  Is it time for Dallas to cut its losses and move on from a player who embodies everything you WANT the Cowboys to stand for yet just can't stay healthy? 

Mickey Spagnola & I discuss that, take your questions and more THIS Friday, May 30 at 11am CST. 


You can join us by clicking here or simply watching in the box below. 

Diet & Fitness News You Need To Know

chicago, food, food porn, royal pies
Clockwise from L to R: Kissing a fish at Dirk's Fish Market, Mushroom & Kale Pie at Pleasant House, Hibiscus Tea Soda at Pleasant House, Otto Gepperth at Gepperth's Meat Market 
I spent Wednesday in Chicago, chronicling food porn and eating my way through the city for a video shoot.  It was awesome, indulgent and motivation to stay committed to my fitness and healthy eating regime.

Here's the latest diet and fitness nuggets you need to know:
Image via Instagram.com/ElleMcPhersonIntimates

When "The Body" shares fitness tips, it's time to listen.  50-year old supermodel Elle McPherson (yeah, 50!) shared her healthy living tips with British Vogue.  Her advice is practical: move every day, make fitness a priority, get your sleep and drink lots of water.  Read the rest here.

From a 50-year old Aussie to a group of 99-year old fit Aussies, these senior citizens prove you're never too old to exercise.  It IS the fountain of youth.

Pregnant?  Exercise benefits both you AND your baby (check with your doctor first!).  Learn how exercise made my pregnancy a breeze.

How about the Ice Diet?  Turns out eating ice burns calories because it requires your body's energy to melt the ice.  One doctor suggests this can be an actual weight loss tool.  My take: the calorie burn is minuscule. Don't bank on this being the next big diet thing.

And in case your curious, I shared my fitness and healthy living approach with D Magazine's new Be Well blog.  This got me thinking: If you only have 20 minutes, what's your go-to workout?


Monday, May 26, 2014

5 Iconic Dallas Food Items

One of the best ways to learn about a culture, city or country is through its food.  Sunday's New York Times took it one step further and produced a virtual French lesson through classic French dishes native to particular regions.  It's a must-read for any Francophile foodie.

Cassoulet/image via Ptyx, Wikimedia
France is easy to tackle because each region has so many iconic dishes.  Bring it stateside and you can say the same about certain cities and states: New Orleans and jambalaya (or beignets or po boys or étouffée, I could go on), deep dish pizza and Chicago, green chiles and New Mexico.  You get the idea.

What dish evokes Dallas?  In the past, I struggled to find a singular item (a la the NYC metro card or Las Vegas casino token) to represent the city.  What about food?

Image via Flickr/Jack Keene
To me enchiladas, watermelon (a Texas summer staple), Snuffer's Cheese Fries, a Mambo Taxi (which I no longer drink because of the calories) and barbecue scream "DALLAS!".

I'm missing something here, aren't I?  Tortilla soup from the Mansion?  What food item characterizes our city?

Interested in keeping up with my pursuit of Texas chic? Hang with me on Pinterest, won't you?
Friday, May 23, 2014

Mickey & Miller's Cowboys Hour, Episode 9

Kick off your Memorial Day weekend by getting your Dallas Cowboys Fix.

Mickey & Miller's Cowboys Hour with Caesar Rayford
Join Mickey Spagnola and me for Micky & Miller's Cowboys Hour, a live Google+ Hangout featuring the most exclusive Cowboys coverage online.

We'll be broadcasting live from the Dallas Cowboys TV studio at the team's Valley Ranch headquarters.

You can watch multiple ways: 

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

What to Wear to the Gym: Workout Clothes Perfect for Warm Weather

With Memorial Day weekend approaching, the unofficial kickoff of Summer is upon us.  If you're a gym lover, it's time to cool off your workout wardrobe with lighter fabrics that will encourage you to keep going rather than suffocate you in the heat.

Nordstrom Activewear
Nordstrom is holding it's Half-Yearly sale and has a number of quality pieces that are perfect for warm weather.  Nodstrom also offers maternity and plus-size women's activewear.
Nike Elastika Dry-FIT Tank - only $22.49 right now!
Nike Elastika Dry-FIT Tank - $22.49 right now!
I love tank tops featuring the exposed built-in bra you're seeing everywhere.  These are incredibly comfortable and perfect for yoga, pilates, barre classes, cycling or skating.  This Nike Elastika Dry-FIT Tank is on sale for $22.49 and will last a while.  It also comes in black/yellow and heather grey/peach (only $20.10!) color combinations.  

Asics Pure Capris on sale for $33.75
Asics Pure Capris on sale for $33.75
These Asics Pure Capris are a good workout pant to wear to pair with these tops.

Zella Strappy Racerback Tank
Zella Strappy Racerback Tank
This Zella Strappy Racerback Tank isn't on sale but it's a great top for barre classes, pilates, yoga or walking.   In addition to gorgeous pink, it comes in blue, coral and purple.

The top is perfect to pair with Zella's Live In Slim Fit Capri Leggings in universal black.

Target Activewear
Target has a fabulous selection of exercise gear from C9 by Champion that's quite stylish.

C9 by Champion Fit and Flare Tank Top
C9 by Champion Fit and Flare Tank Top
This C9 by Champion Fit and Flare tank comes in a range of colors and also sports that on-trend built-in bra.

C9 by Champion Open Back Layering Top
C9 by Champion Open Back Layering Top only $19.99!
I adore this C9 by Champion Open Back Layering Top.  It comes in gorgeous Spring/Summer colors, as well.
C9 by Champion Woven Running Shorts
C9 by Champion Woven Running Shorts
Shorts are a perfect option for Spring and Target has a great selection of them.  These woven running shorts are stylish and also come in black and blue.

Accessories
Don't forget some of the accessories: shoes, ponytail holders or socks.

Full Toe Ankle Socks
Full Toe Ankle Socks
Toe socks are good if you're a barre or pilates fan.

For more "what to wear to the gym" inspiration, please check out my Pinterest board.

Learn More About the Items Mentioned in This Story

10 Supposedly Healthy Foods That Can Sabotage Your Diet

Did you have a juice-packed smoothie for breakfast, followed by a cheese and crouton-laden salad, a granola bar for a snack and a plate full of sushi with rice for dinner?  Pretty healthy, right?  Not so fast. 

If you're not careful, some so-called healthy foods can do serious diet damage.  Fox News features "10 That Can Destroy Your Diet".

They're gluten-free but still a treat, not a diet staple.
  1. Gluten-free foods - to eliminate gluten, food manufacturers add fat, sugar and starch.  This "free" food isn't so calorie-free.
  2. Coconut oil  - while it's having an oil-pulling moment, coconut oil is still a fat.  Don't go overboard with it. 
  3. Yogurt - I think yogurt is overrated, especially those sugary yogurts packed with high fructose corn syrup and syrupy fruit.  Get some Greek plain yogurt and add your own fruit. 
  4. Sushi - I LOVE sushi but that rice is a diet saboteur.  Ask for light rice with your sushi or simply eliminate most of it.  You won't miss it.  Your plate will be a mess, but you'll save calories. 
  5. Smoothies - if you pack your smoothies with juice and "boosts" it can be a calorie bomb.  Make a green smoothie with low-calorie almond milk.  You'll love it.  Here are some other recipes
  6. Dried Fruit - sure it's fruit but it's a calorie-dense, sugar-packed snack.  Tread lightly with this diet disaster.
  7. Salad - are you getting fat eating salads?  If you're topping your salad with cheese, nuts, croutons, fried won tons, dried fruit and creamy dressing, you're not doing yourself any favors.  Use simple balsamic vinegar on your salad in place of dressing.  Learn more about slender salads here. 
  8. Wraps - I love wrap sandwiches but those wraps are essentially big tortillas with lots of calories.  Try La Tortilla Factory Low Carb Tortillas.  They'll save you a few calories.  
  9. Granola - while granola is made of healthy ingredients, the calories in those ingredients add up: nuts, seeds, oats, dried fruit.  These are all calorie-dense foods.  A serving is usually a 1/4 cup.  How many of us really eat 1/4 cup?  I eat handfuls.  That's like 600 calories. 
  10. Corn - corn on the cob is a summer staple but it's a starchy carb.  Enjoy one ear of corn with no butter.  Add other fresh veggies like cucumber and jicama with maybe some hummus and salsa to your summer BBQ.  You'll love it, promise.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Purses You Can Carry At The Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial

If you have ever browsed this blog, you know I'm all about gameday style and helping you navigate the wonky world of sporting events.  The purse policy police aren't making it any easier.

Diane von Furstenberg Micro Mini Metallic Crossbody
Diane von Furstenberg Micro Mini Metallic Crossbody 
The PGA Tour has a new purse policy.  It's limiting.  Here is what you need to know.  Here are some handbag suggestions I offered for the HP Byron Nelson Championship.  Each of those bags will work for this week's Crowne Plaze Invitational at Colonial, although some of them you might have to squeeze to fit within the 6"x6" size restrictions.

Here are additional bags that are perfect for a PGA tournament:




For help with "What to wear to the game" or golf tournament, check out my "What to Wear to the Game" board on Pinterest
Sunday, May 18, 2014

Why Gucci's Swing Leather Tote Is An Instant Classic



Press play to watch my unboxing video.


Can we talk about Gucci's Swing Leather Tote? I love it. Gucci has created the perfect bag for working women, students or über-moms who need to haul diapers, snacks, wipes and sippy cups yet still want to look stylish.

This instant classic rivals the Louis Vuitton Neverfull as the new carryall du jour because it is chic, elegant and functional. Watch my original unboxing video as well as my "How's It Holding Up?" updated version to find out why I love it so much.

The Swing Leather collection has been popular for Gucci. The Italian house has updated the bag and added a small name tag to the original design of it. The Swing Leather collection also features wallets, wristlets, crossbody/WOC bags and children's totes.

The tote comes in two sizes: medium and small.

Gucci Medium Swing Leather Tote 

Gucci Swing Leather Tote Review, Gina Miller Gucci Youtube, Gucci Tote Review
Gucci Medium Swing Leather Tote in taupe leather with soft pink interior

The medium version (the one I have) comes in a variety color options and measures 13.4"W x 12"H x 7"D with an 8.6" strap drop, similar in size to the Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM (or medium size).  It features two interior pockets which can hold a cell phone, pens, notebook, etc.  It also has an interior zipper pocket which Gucci says can "fit an iPad." It does. Sold.

Gucci Small Swing Leather Tote

Gucci Swing Leather Tote Review, Gina Miller Gucci YouTube, Gucci Tote Review
Gucci Small Swing Leather Tote in rose beige leather with light blue interior

The small version also features a variety of color options while measuring 10.6"W x 9.5"H x 6.3"D with an 8" strap drop, similar in size to the smaller Louis Vuitton Neverfull. This roomy bag can also hold a lot.

UPDATE: As of 5/8/15, Fashionphile has two Gucci Swing Leather Totes on sale red and pink. If you want one, hurry! These go quickly.

The Takeaway 
At $1000 for the small and $1350 for the medium, these bags are investment pieces. I believe they are a better value than the Louis Vuitton Neverfull for two reasons: the generous interior pockets and the beautiful, supple leather construction. (Tweet this). The Neverfull is simply monogrammed canvas and starts at $1180 for the smallest version.

If you do invest in one of these, I feel it's a wise one.  They are timeless classics you can carry for years.  If you do tire of them, you can always consign or resell them and get a portion of your money back.  My Louis Vuitton Neverfull practically paid for itself.

Shop The Gucci Swing Leather Collection

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Diet And Fitness News You Need To Know

"Fountain of Youth" photoprint by Charles Gilhousen 
Exercise is the fountain of youth.  There's science to back it up.

Image via Instagram.com/MarioTestino

The Met Gala may have come and gone but Vogue offers timeless advice for getting in shape for a formal gala.  Seriously.

Image Via Pava

More proof why the Mediterranean Diet is rock star.  

Image Via JuTa

5 things to cut out of your diet today: artificial sweetener, instant rice, canned meat refined, white flour foods and dangerous vitamin supplements.  I gave up fake sweetener about four years ago and haven't looked back.  Game changer.

image via http://www.maangchi.com/

How about the Korean Diet?  Soy Bean Paste, anyone?

And finally, this might frustrate you: when natural foods aren't....natural.  Really?  Really.

Things College Grads Must Invest In To Get Hired In 2014

A good resumé isn't enough anymore.  To get noticed and hired in this competitive job market you need to take an aggressive and creative approach to marketing yourself.  Yes, that's basically what you're doing: marketing yourself to potential employers.

Image via Tulane Public Relations
I tell aspiring broadcast journalists this all the time: have a paper resumé, a digital portfolio, a strong social media network and a YouTube channel with examples of your work.  You wouldn't believe how many interns I have met who want to go into TV and yet their college professors don't tell them they need a demo reel.  I digress.

There is a great article on Forbes that explains 8 Things Today's College Students Must Invest In To Get Hired and the advice is outstanding.

Here's a quick summary: 
A Professional Headshot - you need this for your LinkedIn profile.  Delete all the drunk photos of you at the game.  Take it a step further and take the photo on the day you got your hair done.

A Stellar LinkedIn Profile - It shows up in Google results and recruiters are scanning this network to see how you tell your professional narrative.

A 3D Brand Bio - something that tells the story of your work, your life and your world.

Professional Clothing - so important.  Professional accessories are great gifts for college grads.  These don't have to be expensive, they just need to be quality pieces that makes a phenomenal first impression.

Recommendations - these go a long way in proving you're a strong candidate.

Good Stationery - you need these for thank you notes.  This was another gift suggestion I had for the recent grad.

A Video Bio - if you can produce a compelling video that engages a recruiter, think about the impression you'll make.  Again, it's no longer solely about the resumé.  You need to take it a step further.

A Career Coach - these are helpful.  There is no one formula for success but it's good to talk to someone who can offer objective advice on all aspects of your career from your presentation and appearance to your resumé and actual body of work.

Check out my internship survival guide for detailed information that you can apply not only to your internship but also to marketing yourself for that first job, as well.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Details on the 2014 Taste of the NFL: The Ultimate Tailgate Pary

Gourmet food, football and raising money for a good cause are three of my favorite things.  So why don't you join me at the 10th annual Taste of the NFL: The Ultimate Tailgate Party THIS Sunday night at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine.

Tracy Kornet, former Cowboy Preston Pearson and me at the 2012 party
The event has raised more than $1.34 million dollars to help hungry North Texas children during its run.

As always, there is a tempting array of delicious food and signature cocktails designed by DFW's best chefs and bartenders.  There will also be some phenomenal silent and live auction items you can bid on to help support NTFB.

There will be a great mix of former Cowboys players, as well as a few current faces you'll recognize.  Abacus executive chef and proprietor Kent Rathbun is the culinary all-star who helps make this event a touchdown year after year.  I'll be emceeing along with JACK-FM's JT.

For more information on Sunday's party and ticket information, click here.

Teeing Up the Conversation with Executive Women's Day at the HP Byron Nelson Championship


I consistently lament the fact there aren't enough women's networking groups in DFW.  From tackling topics ranging from women hating other women in the workplace (that's a book I could write) to working motherhood, there are certain issues that career-focused women face.

The PGA Tour offers an outstanding initiative that gives like-minded working women a chance to connect with its Executive Women's Day.  This two-year old program includes a panel discussion, a behind the scenes tour of the inner workings of a golf tournament and an inspirational keynote address as well as an entire day of networking.



With the HP Byron Nelson Championship teeing off Thursday morning, I moderated an impressive panel on Tuesday at the Four Seasons featuring Irving Mayor Beth Van Duyne, Morgan Stanley Vice President Sallie Behnke, Corgan Interiors Principal Lindsay Wilson and Lockheed Martin Quality and Mission Success Director Robbin Murley.  They shared insight on mistakes they've made in their careers (learn from them and move on), offered advice for returning to the workplace after a hiatus (stay connected via networking) and more.


Morgan Stanley Managing Director and National Women's Business Council chairperson Carla Harris offered outstanding career and life lessons in her keynote address.


The PGA Tour offers Executive Women's Days at various tournaments and will do so at The Crowne Plaze Invitational at Colonial next Tuesday.  I'm excited to moderate the executive panel there for the 2nd straight year.

This initiative will expand to 35 tournaments in 2015.  You can participate in the conversation throughout the golf season by following their account on Twitter and also follow #PGATourWoman.

What is this program's success a testament to?  The need for more opportunities like this for working women.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Shoes to Wear to a PGA Golf Tournament

Are you staring at your closet wondering what to wear to the Nelson this weekend or the Colonial next week? You're not alone.  When the PGA Tour visits north Texas, I am flooded with questions about what to wear to the tournaments, particularly when it comes to shoes.

1 Keds Cork shoe | 2 Stuart Weitzman Rockon Espadrille | 3 Tory Burch Nude Jackie Wedge | 4 Tommy Hilfilger Polo Dress | 5 Cole Haan Hart Wedge Platform | 6 Tory Burch Black Jackie Wedge | 7 TOMS Classic Open Toe Wedge | 8 Tory Burch Dunn Patent Scroll Platform Slide

Tennies are Fine, Leave the Hoochie Shoes at Home
If you don't want to wear tennis shoes, which are fine but something some women want to avoid, you still have options. One thing ISN'T one, though: heels.
Leave the hoochie shoes at home
I see golf tournament newbies teetering in heels after drinking too many margaritas.  Their heels sink into the grass and their shoes get ruined.

Again: avoid heels.

Work a Wedge or a Cute Flat
If tennis shoes aren't your game and you still want a bit of a lift, go with a comfortable wedge shoe or a flat with a tiny bit of a platform.
I buy these at the Tory Burch outlet when they go on sale.
A well-made wedge is comfortable yet stylish.  I have a closet full of Tory Burch wedge slides I stockpile and wear to Rangers games, golf tournaments, Cowboys training camp, college football games and more.

Browse the selection below of cute flats and wedges for inspiration.

Fair Warning: I don't do cheap footwear.  It's bad for your feet and costs you more in the long run.

For more "What to Wear to the Game {or golf tournament}" inspiration, please check out my "What to Wear the Game" board on Pinterest.

Shoes That Work for PGA Golf Tournaments