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

Irving Mayor: Women can be assertive wo being aggressive. You either know ur stuff or u don't. U have a backbone or u don't. #pgatourwoman

— Lynda Oliver (@ltwoliver) May 13, 2014

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.

OVERHEARD: Either you stand up for what you believe or you don't. @astellas @PGATOURWoman @thatsportsgirl pic.twitter.com/MruzUpUxy0

— Momentous Institute (@momentous) May 13, 2014

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.

@PGATOURWoman #pgatourwoman Carla Harris - successful people use everything in their toolbox: intellectual background, experience, network.

— Debbie K Womack (@DKWomack) May 13, 2014

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

RT @hpbnc: What an amazing day here at the @hpbnc ... standing ovation for @carlaannharris #inspired #pgatourwoman pic.twitter.com/MxficivboM

— Mallory Beck (@beckisakeeper) May 13, 2014

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.

The Working Mom's COVID-19 Struggle is REAL. Here's How to Survive.

"The Pandemic Has Been Particularly Hard on Working Mothers”. 

That was the bulletin that popped on my New York Times app recently.

Secrets of Female Car Buyers From an Industry Pro

Lisa Carr was destined to be in the car leasing business. 

Say her name out loud.  Right now.  

Get it?  Lisa. Carr.  Yes, that's her real name.  

Granted, Carr isn't her maiden name but she has been married to her husband, Bill, for 30 years with whom she has two children, Kristin and Will.  She's been in the automobile industry for 33 years and is still going strong as the Director of Agent Development for D&M Leasing.

As she has grown in this industry, she's seen it evolve particularly as it relates to the buying power women have. 

Lisa Carr and Gina Miller

"I think women are getting in the driver's seat, so to speak," Carr told me one day at D&M Leasing's North Dallas office.  "In years past, women were in the passenger seat and giving their opinions.  Now they're making decisions." 

The facts back up her observation.  Women buy more than half of the new cars in the U.S. and influence up to 80% of all car purchases according to a Women-Drivers.com. 

What's interesting is the way women approach acquiring a car.  

"Women these days are not only thinking about where they are right now but they also have the vision to go 36-48 months down the road and wonder 'Where will I be at that point? What are my driving needs? How are they going to change?  Am I going to be in a flexible enough situation to move seamlessly to one situation in my life and then another?"

Think about it: a single woman gets married, has a kid and needs a bigger car or a stay-at-home mom's kids start school and that mom doesn't need the large mini-van.  The needs change.  Lisa believes women have the foresight to consider these things when looking for a car. 

"Females have a clear direction on the fact that what's happening in their life right now may not be happening in their life in 48 months." 

As Lisa was explaining this to me, I felt she like was describing me to a T.  I am always that "what-if" kind of person.  Perhaps more pessimistically put: I examine potential negative consequences.  It's the reporter in me.

There is a certain amount of moxie one must have when working in a competitive industry like the car leasing business. For inspiration Lisa turns to one of my favorites, Nolan Ryan.

She has two pictures of his more "infamous" moments over her desk: the shot of him pummeling Robin Ventura and a picture of a bloody Ryan taken just after Bo Jackson hit a line drive which nailed Ryan in the mouth.

"I think of those pictures a lot when I'm dealing with something," Lisa says smiling.  "I say bring it!" 

She's a woman after my own heart. 

Because I had to know...

Lisa is a self-professed car geek.  She loves everything about them.  I had to know what her absolute favorite one was to drive.  She answered without hesitation. 

"A 2005 Red Ford Thunderbird Convertible.  It was a surprise from my husband for our 25th wedding anniversary," she beamed. 

2005 Ford Thunderbird Convertible/Courtesy: TFLCar.com

Not a bad gift! 

*This article is brought to you by D&M Leasing. Please Visit DMAutoLeasing.com for more information.

The Perfect Work Bag for Women

Is almost impossible to find!

I know because I've searched for decades.  Only recently have I found some quality options.  I bring this up because the Wall Street Journal writes about the conundrum working women face when schlepping around their work items, along with their personal stuff in a solid bag that is functional yet stylish.

The woman profiled, Silicon Valley executive Kim DeCarlis, seems quite the practical professional carrying a medicine kit, eye mask and ear plugs in her surprisingly fun Johnston & Murphy computer bag.

Gucci Soho Shoulder Bag aka the Kitchen Sink Bag

I jaunt across North Texas from sports facilities to my story shoots to Mother's Day Out carpool lines.  I have a bag that goes everywhere and carries everything: my Gucci Soho Shoulder Bag.

Gucci Soho Metallic Leather Shoulder Bag

It comes in a variety of colors.  The metallic color is chic and versatile, too. I call it a Kitchen Sink Bag because it would truly hold that and more while still being stylish enough to take someplace fun and not scream "WORKING MOTHER WITH A SIPPY CUP IN BAG!"  Candidly, I think if it came between the husband and the bag, the bag would win.

Sophie Hulme Leather Tote

I am also in love with the Sophie Hulme Leather Tote.  It's professional, structured and holds my iPad, notebooks, cell phone makeup and jumbo bottle of hairspray.  I get more compliments on this bag than any I have ever carried.  Both men and women comment on it.  It also comes in tan and burgundy.  Just gorgeous.

Quality Work Bags Under $400
Both of those purses are investments but I will use them for years to come.  Here are some stylish options for under $400.  Still some major bucks, yes, but for something you will use daily, this is money well-spent.

Michael Kors Hamilton North South Tote, $358

Coach Madison East/West Leather Tote, $298

Lauren Ralph Lauren Tote, $268

Get These Fabulous Work Bags

What It's REALLY Like Being A Lady In The Locker Room

You will usually be the only woman in the majority of your work photos! 

As graduation approaches, I am doing my tour of college and high school campuses speaking to sports broadcasting, sports management or sports marketing classes about careers in the sports industry. I love visiting with young professionals and hearing their questions.

RELATED: 5 Things You Need To Get Out Of Your Sports Media Internship

Inevitably, I am always asked about being a "woman" working in sports media. The questions are generally these two:

• How do you handle the feeling of having to prove yourself working in a male-dominated business? 
• How you handle being a woman in a guy's locker room? It's not just students who ask. I get this question. All. The. Time. 

I was asked one of these questions today.

Let's pull back the curtain and discuss what too many professors, teachers, mentors and hiring managers won't:

What It's REALLY Like Being A Lady In The Locker Room.

The $23 Dress

The $23 dress in pink, blue, purple, green & red. 

Let's talk about that $23 dress meteorologists are wearing. Its clean lines, figure-hugging fit and bright colors make it the perfect dress for TV anchors, reporters and mets. The price can't be beat. The black on the side panels creates a slimming effect that is a female anchor's best friend.

That dress illustrates one of the biggest headaches professionals, primarily women, who make their livings on television have: finding affordable, clothing that looks good on-camera. It's harder than you could ever imagine.

Before you roll your eyes, read on.

RELATED: Learn From CBSLA Makeup Artist Mark Starr How To Do Eye Makeup For Television.
RELATED: On-Camera Wardrobe Tips For Women

DOWNLOAD: 10 Wardrobe Tips For Women On-Camera

8G Greens Superfood Supplement Review

While a $12 bottle of green juice is great once in a while, it's not a practical solution for people who work, travel and are running around all day. It also gets expensive. 8G Greens Superfood Supplement is a phenomenal solution, particularly for busy working moms and working women trying to stay healthy.

RELATED: 5 Delicious No-Cal or Low-Cal Alternatives Soda

You can carry the little tube of 10 tables with you anywhere you go. You simply drop them into a glass of water and they dissolve, Alka Seltzer-style, into a tangy, citrus drink that is really tasty.

Are Kids Career Killers?

I wish I could take credit for that headline but, alas, it was the subject line in an email I received from the women's career site The Little Pink Book.

In a word, no.  I don't believe that's the case.  Since I had Jordan, exactly 15 months ago Thursday actually, I feel like I've become a better professional.  Granted I haven't gotten a promotion or received a raise, unfortunately, that's not quite the nature of my daily work.  But I have become more focused, targeted and, in my opinion, producing at a higher level. 

Why?

Well, for one, I'm not out drinking every night like I was in my pre-Jordan life.  Post-game cocktails are part of the job for many sports reporters and anchor, sorry.  Secondly, I'm uber-focused on creating a better life for her and my family and the creative juices to help get there are fueling me.  I'm also healthier, have a more optimistic attitude and have become a better friend, all while being a bit sleep-deprived.

But a line in a recent Elle Magazine article about Kelly Ripa struck me. 

"For many women, family is often at odds with a career...."

Why is that?  I get that my experience at this parenting thing is quite new.  I haven't fought with my daughter or had to leave work early to take care of her.   Regardless, why is it that in 2013 we are STILL saying these things and asking these questions?  Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer was criticized for taking a two-week maternity leave after the birth of her son.  Ridiculous!  NO man would be questioned about his time off from work to care for a child.  I get she's the mom and it's supposed to be different.  Really?  She can do whatever she wants.  Her son will be fine.  Probably better educated and cared for than 90% of us.

The expectations for working mothers to fit into some maternal mold is frustrating.  There is an automatic assumption that many women "will stop what they're doing and focus all of their attention on their children."  I am questioned why I don't do that every day and why I am still working.

The one thing I have learned is that every parent is different and handles parenting differently.  For me, I need to be busy and work.  It makes that time with my daughter SO much more precious.  I have friends who are stay at home moms who can't wait until they can hand off their kids to a sitter.  Is that child better off, with a mother who is anxiously counting down the seconds to get rid of the kid in favor of cocktail hour?

This is good dialog that could be discussed for hours.  My friend who has three children of her own, Tracy Kornet, and I tackle this and more in our latest edition of the Real Botox Diaries. 

What do you think?

Good News: Less May Be More When It Comes To Exercise

At least that's what a new study conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham determined.  According to the results published in Exercise & Science in Sports & Medicine, four workouts a week might be the sweet spot.

The New York Times puts the findings in layman's terms.

        "We think that the women in the twice-a-week and four-times-a-week groups felt more energized and physically capable" after several months of training than they had at the start of the study, says Gary Hunter, a U.A.B. professor who led the experiment. Based on conversations with the women, he says he thinks they began opting for stairs over escalators and walking for pleasure. 

       The women working out six times a week, though, reacted very differently. "They complained to us that working out six times a week took too much time," Dr. Hunter says. 
       
       Rather, they felt pressed for time and reacted, it seems, by making choices like driving instead of walking and impatiently avoiding the stairs" 

Just from my experience, I've found the less is more approach to be more effective.  When I was training for marathons, I gained weight because I ate more and was so tired that I was pretty much a sloth the rest of the day.  When I exercise too much during the week, say six times, the workouts aren't the highest quality.  There's can be a "going through the motions" aspect to them.

My sweet spot is around five workouts a week with one of those five being a simple power walk with the family.  That's something any of us can do.  The workouts don't have to be long ones either.  30-45 minutes of quality exercise.  I did just that this Friday morning with one Texas Rangers executive before our day began at spring training. 

Confession of a Fitness Fashion Victim

Do you worry about how you look when you work out?  I don't.  You don't either, right?

Turns out, we're in the minority.  Many women equate the yoga studio or pilates class as a bamboo-covered runway to show off their latest workout fashion finds.

Don't believe me?  The popularity of Lululemon and Nike activewear is so lucrative that other fashion designers are getting into fashion/fitness game.  Tory Burch wants to do a golf line while H&M is launching its H&M Sport line.

I realized I was the fitness fashion victim during a yoga class at exhale recently.  I was wearing tattered, 7-year old leggings from Target and an old Texas Rangers t-shirt I had scored during a Rangers/Astros series in 2012. Frankly, working in sports I score so many free t-shirts that I didn't buy workout clothes.

The offensive T-shirt

That is changing.  During this particular class, I felt like I was wearing a plaid shirt and Doc Martens amidst couture clad yogis.

I always equated workout wear as an unnecessary expense, thinking my shorts and t-shirts would do just fine.  I'm wrong.  There is also some functionality to activewear.  Shirts with a banded waist won't ride up and expose my stomach while I'm trying to do a headstand.  Longer pants can help with crow pose to keep sweaty legs from slipping on my forearms.

After doing some legwork, I found adorable and affordable activewear options:

C9 by Champion Women's Mesh Cami Tank

I bought this cami tank top at Target and LOVE it.  It doesn't expose my stomach when I am doing crazy yoga poses and the built-in bra is pretty supportive.  Double bonus?  It's only $18.39! 

C9 by Champion Reversible Capri Tight

C9 by Champion offers some adorable tights that are reversible.  It's like two pairs of leggings in one.

Nike Principle 2.0 Dry-Fit Jacket

Over the years, I have accumulated a nice collection of Nike jackets.  These have a fashionable slim fit and do a good job of keeping you warm.  I have had this pink one going on five years.  It has withstood numerous long runs AND bad t-shirts.  At $58.50, it's a worthwhile investment.

AND you can support a team you love while working out or running around town and look fashionable in the process.  Look at what I found:

Texas Rangers Signature Fleece Hoodie

Dallas Cowboys Fleece Shorts 

I'm still on the hunt for cute Stars & Mavs workout gear.  If you find some, please let me know! 

How To Do Eye Makeup For TV, Videos & Webinars

Mark Starr Applying Eyeliner

After 15 years of working in TV news I thought I knew how to do my makeup. When I started working with the talented team of makeup artists at KCBS/KCAL in Los Angeles, I learned that I knew nothing.

Find More Camera-Ready Makeup Essentials

While I was there I tried to soak up as much knowledge as I could. Our wonderful weekend makeup artist (and former Soul Train dancer) Mark Starr, let me shoot a few of our makeup sessions. In this video, he shows us how to apply eye makeup for TV.

If you work in local TV news, produce YouTube videos or webinars, this will add some polish to your overall look. Mastering Mark's tips takes work but if you practice you will get better at applying your makeup.

RELATED: How To Fix A Broken Powder Compact
RELATED: You NEED MAC's Spice Lip Pencil. Here's Why
RELATED: Learn More About The Wardrobe, Hair & Makeup Products It Takes To Get Camera-Ready

Valentine's Day Gifts For Her

Click on any item to learn more about it.

Guys, I'm here to help. I told all my gals what you REALLY want for Valentine's Day. Now, it's your turn to step up to the plate.

I'm the aberration: I think this is a lame holiday. Maybe it's because I was never much of a dater. I was always too busy working to date much. But for 75% of the women out there, Valentine's Day and its gifts are a big deal.

I have had girlfriends complain about getting Tom Thumb carnations, cheap jewelry and bad dinners. If you focus on these categories when it comes gifts, you will likely have the best Valentine's Day ever.

Purses & Jewelry

Purses and jewelry are great gifts. Most women go crazy over a new purse. They go even crazier over a designer one. Think Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Tory Burch (a relatively affordable designer brand). You can't go wrong.

TIP: if you're at the point in your relationship where that engagement ring might be expected, go with a purse. She'll be heartbroken if you give her some earrings and she was expecting an engagement ring. That's happened to three of my girls.

If you're married, get some bling. Designer stuff is better. She can get the cheap stuff for herself. A simple Kendra Scott necklace is a nice touch. A Cartier Love Bracelet? Amazeballs. Anything in between, ranging from David Yurman to Lagos or gorjana, would be awesome.

Nice Flowers

Women really do love flowers. Don't go the cheap grocery store carnation route. Get some nice flowers. In Tom Thumb's defense they have lovely bouquets. The thing is you will probably have to order them in advance because most guys who wait until Valentine's Day are stuck with those cheap carnations.

If she is a girlie-girl, you can get the bouquet of roses (Gilt City is running a special HERE). If she kills weeds or has a more sophisticated eye, a gorgeous orchid bouquet will knock her socks off. Bonus? Orchids last forever.

Good Champagne and Chocolate

I am not an advocate of dining out on Valentine's Day (AKA Amateur Night). Restaurant menus are usually dumbed down to appeal to the folks who dine out only a few times a year. Get creative and cook dinner or order something. Buy some good champagne (Ruinart, Moët & Chandon or Veuve Cliquot are all wonderful) and chocolate or chocolate covered strawberries (Gilt City has a deal on them HERE) to end the night. My favorite Valentine's Day memory involved a bottle of Krug and chocolate covered strawberries.

Have Fun

Don't be afraid to have some fun with your gift. If she's not into the holiday, like me, this cute pajama set or something else that will make her laugh is perfect.

What Are Your Plans?

Thinking about something for Valentine's Day? Don't be afraid to share your plans in the comments section.

Shop Valentine's Day Gifts For Her

Hooey Diet Alert: Hoodia Ice Cubes Help You Drop Pounds?

Please.  What's the saying?  If it sounds too good be true.....

It's called the Hoodia Ice Cube diet.   In theory, you either drop one hoodia-filled ice cube into some liquid or just pop the frozen cube straight every day.  The hoodia frozen in the ice cube is from a succulent plant native to the African desert.  Desert Labs, the company that manufactures the little green cubes, says they contain a molecule called P57 that is supposed to suppress your appetite.

Hoodia started getting a lot of press a few years ago as a supplement that tricks your brain into thinking you're full .  60 Minutes even profiled the plant in 2004.  It does have some scientific evidence to back up the appetite-suppressing claims but it's still pretty cloudy. 

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 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 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

25 Great Bags For Work

Gucci Swing Leather Tote | Kate Spade Lilly Avenue Carrigan Tote | TopShop Bucket Bag | GiGi New York Parker Satchel | Barrington Gifts St. Anne Tote

Are you constantly searching for the perfect bag for work? I am. It's a struggle to find one that is stylish yet functional and capable of holding all our crap: computer, iPhone, iPad, makeup, business cards, water and who-knows-what-else.

What to Wear to the Gym - Stylish Clothes for Working Out & More

For the sake of growth and evolution, NOT vanity, I'm sharing my fitness fashion choices.  Hopefully this can help serve as affordable inspiration.

I learned that I look like a slob at the gym when I was fashion shamed during a yoga class in January.

I have since ramped up my workout wardrobe and found that you don't have to spend a fortune to look decent at the gym and running the subsequent errands that always seem to follow a workout.

Look #1

This ensemble was my weekend yoga attire.  It features the C9 by Champion Skinny Pant pants from Target I love.  They're $29.99 right now.  I had scored a $5 coupon at checkout and bought them in-store for $24.99.  I swear these make your butt look smaller.

I paired these pants with the Inner Light Top from Lucy I bought years ago.  It's fine for yoga.  If you're going to run in this top, you need a bra.

Lucy Inner Light Women's Workout Top

The bright blue top I wore is no longer available online but you can find adorable options from Zappos.  They're $47.99 but they last a while.  My top is four years old.

Look #2

I wore this Lululemon outfit to work out with my therapist trainer, Steve Burgess, followed by numerous errands on Tuesday.  One of those errands included a stop at the Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch.  I hate visiting there in workout clothes but it was just one of those things I couldn't avoid.

Despite the tight fit of the pant and the top, I never felt inappropriate.  They both delivered great coverage.  The top was a Christmas gift two years ago from Lululemon's Run Swiftly line.

I scored the pants at the Lululemon outlet in San Marcos.  This place is the bomb!  They stock last season's merchandise at a lower price point.  I paid $49 for these running pants and I love them.  They have two pockets, one zipper and one inside the waist band, as well as reflective panels down the leg.   They don't seem to be available online anymore.

You can email them and get photos of items in stock.

The Takeaway
You can spend a small fortune on gym clothes.  There is no need to do that.  Whether you're headed to the gym or brunch afterwards, work the sales and shop the discount stores.  You'll be looking like a fitness fashionista for less in no time.

Get the Goods

Airplane Travel Essentials

Since 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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Ritz Carlton Herzliya Review

From stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and best-in-class service to cuisine that will change the way you think about Israeli food, the Ritz Carlton Herzliya sets the bar for world class hospitality in Israel.

Just the Med, yo. NBD.

Every visit I've made to Israel has involved multiple cities in multiple hotels. My third and most recent trip in November 2017 was no different. I spent two days in Herzliya followed by four days in Haifa. Knowing that my time in Haifa was going to be "work", in the form of moving my elderly father into an assisted living facility, I wanted to enjoy a few days of my trip to the Middle East.

RELATED: Brown Beach House Tel Aviv: An Urban Oasis in the Heart of Tel Aviv

I had read about the Ritz Carlton's foray into Israel when it opened in 2013. As a Ritz Carlton loyalist, I wanted to experience this property and finally be wowed by a hotel experience in Israel. I've stayed at the Kind David in Jerusalem, the Sheraton and Intercontinental in Tel Aviv and the Scots in Tiberias. King David aside, none of them impressed me. I felt that a level of service and luxury was missing in Israel and hoped the Ritz Carlton would change that.

I Lived on Guam for Six Months and Lived to Tell About It....Barely

"Hafa Adai, Guam!" 

That was how I started my sportscasts at 6pm and 10pm at KUAM Island News for six months in 1996 as the Sports Director of the tiny NBC affiliate.  It's the typical greeting for Guam residents and natives, called Chamorros.

When I tell people that my first, full-time on-air job right out of college was on the U.S. territory located below Asia and above Australia there is always an immediate double take followed by questions.

RELATED: 14 Things You Need to Know If You Want to be a Sportscaster

How To Squeeze In Exercise With A Newborn

It was almost fitting that I found this Wall Street Journal article Thursday morning while stretching after a killer Tabata class at Equinox.  Titled "Don't Hate Her for Being Fit" the piece touches on the sentiment I've been preaching for years: exercise will change your life, save your sanity and make your body better.  Simple as that.

"Fit moms spend nearly every free minute working out, cross-training for triathlons and scheduling regular boot camps and yoga," writes author Elizabeth Holmes.