Gina Miller's Blog - Travel, Fitness, Luxury Accessories & Anti-Aging

Why I Took a DEXA Scan the Friday After Halloween (Yes, While Still Digesting Almond Joys and Swedish Fish)

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 15:33:00 +0000

Confession time: I took my DEXA scan the Friday after Halloween. Not my brightest timing decision. My bloodstream was basically 30% Swedish Fish, 20% Rolos, and a solid 10% Almond Joys. But I showed up anyway because I wanted the truth...not the candy-coated version...about what’s really going on inside my body.

And that’s exactly what a DEXA scan gives you: data. Not guesses. Not feelings. Hard numbers about your body composition, bone density, and visceral fat. If you’re serious about staying strong, aging well, and avoiding the “I think I’m doing enough” trap, this scan is worth every penny.

What the Scan Told Me

Here’s the headline:

Body fat: 27% - totally healthy for an active woman in her 50s, but my goal is closer to 23%.
Lean mass: Good, but I could stand to build more muscle (especially in my arms and legs).
Visceral fat: Very low - I’ll take that win!
Bone density: Excellent across all measured regions.

So, while I’m proud of the results, I see clear areas to improve. Specifically? Building more lean muscle through heavier lifting. That’s been tricky lately because I’ve been dealing with a nagging left wrist injury, which has made it hard to train at full capacity. But the scan reminded me: strength isn’t optional. It’s essential.

Bone Density: The Quiet Foundation We Forget About

For women in perimenopause and beyond, bone density is one of the most important (and under-discussed) health markers out there. Estrogen levels decline during this stage, which accelerates bone loss, meaning your risk for osteoporosis increases dramatically in your 40s and 50s.

The good news? You can fight it.

Weight-bearing exercise, strength training, and resistance work literally tell your bones to stay strong. Your body is remarkably adaptive: if you load it, it builds.

In my case, the scan confirmed what I was hoping for: my bone density is in the normal-to-excellent range for my age, likely because I walk with a weighted vest and strength train consistently. But I’ll be honest: I know I need to lift heavier. I’ve been protecting my wrist (slowly rehabbing it), but my goal for the next few months is to ramp back up to heavier compound lifts - the kind that make your bones and muscles both stronger.

The Importance of DEXA Scans for Women over 40

Because knowledge is power.

You can’t fix what you don’t measure.
It gives you a baseline for your fat, lean, and bone mass.
It helps you make smart training and nutrition decisions.
It’s motivating! Seeing the science of your progress changes how you work.

If you’re in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, DEXA scans run anywhere from $100–$250, depending on the provider and how detailed the analysis is. (I purchased mine at a charity auction, so let’s just say it was a mystery discount.)

Good news: DEXA scans may be HSA/FSA eligible, especially if you’re doing it for bone health or under medical guidance. If it’s purely for body composition, you might need a letter of medical necessity from your doctor, so keep your receipt and check with your provider.

How I’m Using the Data

My plan from here is simple:

Aim for 145–160g of protein daily (that’s what it takes to maintain and build muscle).
Lift heavier weights as my wrist allows.
Keep doing weighted walks and resistance training 4–5 days a week.
Re-scan in six months to measure progress.

Because at this point in life, my goal isn’t just to look strong, it’s to be strong. Inside and out.

Final Thoughts: The Candy Can Wait. The Data Can’t.

Look, you don’t have to be a data nerd to care about this stuff. But you do have to care about your body if you plan on using it for the next 40 years.

A DEXA scan is like a report card for your health, one that tells you exactly where you stand so you can make better choices moving forward.

If you’re lifting, eating well, or just trying to age on your own terms, this is one test I’d put on your list. Bonus points if you do it after Halloween. NOTHING humbles you faster than staring at your internal candy statistics in HD.

Find One for You

Ready to know your numbers?

Search “DEXA scan near me”. In Dallas where I am clinics like Body Lounge (this is where I got mine and loved the experience), BodySpec, and DexaFit have convenient options starting around $100. Ask if they can run both bone density and body composition for the full picture.

Then send me your results. We can compare Rolos-to-muscle ratios.

Commodore Perry Estate Review: European Luxury in the Heart of Austin, TX

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Tue, 18 May 2021 23:20:00 +0000

Imagine opening a luxury hotel in the middle of a pandemic. That's exactly what Auberge Resorts did in June 2020 when it opened the Commodore Perry Estate in Austin. Nine months after the property started welcoming guests, it is blossoming into a luxury respite only a few hours from most Texas metro areas that can transport you a world away...at least in your own mind.

This story will cover:

How much do rooms at the Commodore Perry Estate cost?
Commodore Perry Estate history
Commodore Perry Estate food, restaurant and menu

My daughter and I visited the Commodore Perry Estate in March 2021, during Spring Break. We didn't want to fly, as I had to still quarantine at work after flying, but we definitely needed a getaway after not traveling for the majority of the past year.

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A post shared by Commodore Perry Estate (@commodoreperryauberge)

This was truly my first trip outside of the Dallas/Fort Worth area in more than a year. To that end, I wanted something special. We were spending a full five days and I was craving, no needing, a true retreat that would rejuvenate me and have some fun activities for her.

After deciding on Central Texas because of its great location, we stumbled across the Commodore Perry Estate after falling down the Google rabbit hole. We'd done Austin's W Hotel, Driskill and Four Seasons. We were ready for something more interesting. The Commodore Perry Estate hit the spot.

Location

The property is in Austin's Hyde Park neighborhood just north of downtown. The pool itself overlooks Hancock Golf Course. I enjoyed the location as it offered a chance to go for a walk in the morning or afternoon for some exercise. It's within walking distance to Fresh Plus Grocery, Hyde Park Bar & Grill (where we had a great lunch) and Antonelli's Cheese Shop. It's also right across the street from Austin favorite, Jo's Coffee.

The Rooms

My daughter and I booked a standard room in the Inn which was approximately 400 square feet and stunning. It was the right blend of European luxury with Texas influences. The shower was one of the most impressive I've seen: a stunning black plaster married against their beautiful mauve and cream tile flooring. Gorgeous!

The room was among the property's smallest yet still featured drawers, ample closet space for my daughter and me, a mini-fridge and space for brewing tea and coffee in the morning.

The only downside? Not enough space for me to work on my laptop. There was a small table, which I used to store our books. This wasn't that much of an inconvenience as I was able to find a quiet place to work and make video calls throughout the property.

The estate is in the middle of a neighborhood. My Juliette balcony overlooked someone's backyard.

Our friends booked a suite that was substantially larger and offered a soaking tub. It also opened to a beautiful courtyard which offered ample light into the room.

Atmosphere

The property evokes a European villa set against Austin's casual vibe. The resort and lush 10 acres upon which it sits is spectacular. Commodore Edgar and Luticia Perry built the Mediterranean/Italian villa in 1928 to serve as the couple's country home for entertaining. In 2017, Auberge Resorts announced it would assume management of the property and spent years, along with millions, renovating it. For more on its history, click here.

The entire space feels modern while remaining true to its original architectural integrity. From the gorgeous tile floors to drawing-rooms-turned-intimate-dinings-rooms, no detail seems spared.

The staff was wonderful. We never heard a "no" and they were always quick to greet us by name. The guests were a mix of visitors from across Texas, as well as locals who are members of the private club the Commodore Perry Estate offers.

I've heard the pool area gets crowded with families during holidays but we didn't notice much of a crowd during spring break at all. It's a very Austin-luxe vibe.

The Restaurants

The property has a number of dining options, the Mansion and Lutie's Garden Restaurant which had not yet opened when we visited. We ate breakfast most mornings in the Mansion, as well as a few dinners.

Hotel food can, many times, be unimpressive, over-salted and average. This was anything but. It was spectacular. I had one of the best roasted chicken dishes I've ever tasted followed a spectacular order of mussels the next night.

My daughter and her friend ate lunch at the pool most days. While it was fine, it was more of the typical pool fare - chicken tenders, fries and hamburgers.

PRO TIP - the check-in area has perhaps the best cookies I have ever had...and I've had a lot in my day. Be sure to snag a few. They don't mind if you keep coming back for more.

Activities For Kids

I've schlepped my daughter all over the world for both work and play. She's not someone who needs to be overly scheduled because she can find things to do but the resort did offer a few activities for children.

The hotel has a scavenger hunt which takes kids (and adults, too!) on a tour of the property searching for architectural details, design elements and hidden gems. My daughter and her friend loved this as it really did challenge them.

The pool isn't too large but it has plenty of space for a few kids to play. It could definitely get crowded if there are too many children there. Take that into consideration if you're looking to relax.

This particular week, the hotel offered a Creative Camp which was a half day art camp that provided snacks and lunch. My daughter loves art. While the teachers ideated some creative exercises for the students, she texted me a few hours into the camp asking me to pick her up because she was bored. I get it.

The Gym

I got in a quick workout at the gym. It's not massive but it offers everything you need: a few ellipticals, free weights, bikes and machines.

The Cost

Let's talk money. This experience is not inexpensive as Auberge resorts never are. Our room, which was as entry level as it comes at that property, was $559 per night. We were able to take advantage of a Third Night Free promotion which absolutely made the price more palatable. The property does not charge a resort fee, which was a pleasant surprise but does, of course tack on state and city taxes.

Conclusion

I loved Commodore Perry Estate and have recommended it to friends as often as I can. It's a great staycation option or quick getaway solution when you simply need to get out of town.

Have you stayed at the Commodore Perry Estate? Did you love it as much as we did? I'd love to hear about your experience.

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Dr. Brandt No More Baggage Review | VIDEO

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 16:24:00 +0000

This story is good for:

Anyone looking for an honest, unpaid Dr. Brandt No More Baggage review
Anyone looking to get rid of puffiness under the eyes instantly
Those wondering how much No More Baggage costs

Are you looking for an instant under-eye de-puffing treatment? Dr. Brandt's No More Baggage from the late doctor's Needles No More line does the trick. I purchased this product in early 2020 and after using it for almost a year - I can absolutely say - This. Stuff. Works!

You can get 20% your entire purchase at Dr. Brandt with code GINA20!

I also like to use a jade or rose quartz roller under my eyes to assist with de-puffing. TIP: keep your rollers in the fridge for a soothing cooling effect.

About No More Baggage

This product is part of Dr. Brandt's Needles No More line which claims to be made of "breakthrough, revolutionary formulas that target the appearances of lines and wrinkles without the needle!" I can't make the claim that No More Baggage has helped my fine lines and wrinkles disappear but it definitely eliminates under-eye bags. The suggestion is that you use the product regularly as part of a preventative anti-aging routine.

It also comes in a .23 ounce travel size

What's Your Favorite Quick Fix?
Do you have a favorite beauty quick fix? I would love to know what it is. Please share it in the comments section.

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Buy Dr. Brandt's No More Baggage - Get 20% at Dr. Brandt with Code GINA20

5 Snacks To Curb Your Sugar Craving

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sat, 09 Jan 2021 17:20:00 +0000

This post is good for:

Anyone looking for healthy snacks to stop sugar cravings
Anyone looking for healthy, sweet snacks
Anyone looking to avoid trips to the vending machine at the office
Anyone looking to keep blood sugar in check

Is sugar your kryptonite? It is mine. I could incorporate a pound of Swedish Fish, a bag of Reese's Mini Peanut Butter Cups and a few oatmeal raisin cookies into my daily diet and not blink an eye.

While indulging with a wonderful sweet treat has a place in any healthful diet, simple sugars should not be something that make up the majority of your diet. The key here is occasional indulgence not a daily staple.

I ate a sugar-laden diet when I was fat. Diabetes also runs in my family. I now make a concerted effort to avoid the white crack and it has paid off.

Why We Crave Sugar

Sugar has a similar effect on the brain as an addictive drug. It triggers the brain's reward system and increases production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, memory and attention.

According to the Washington Post, "many sugar cravings stem from a blood sugar imbalance. When your body ingests sugar, your blood sugar spikes and your body releases insulin to lower it to a safer level. If the insulin brings your blood sugar level a bit too low, as often happens, your body craves foods that will raise it and increase your energy. You're on a blood sugar roller coaster, and it's hard to get off it. The key to balancing blood sugar is to eat foods that prevent too much insulin from being released, such as protein and healthy fats, and consuming only small amounts of sugar (if any). It's also important to eat regular meals and snacks, because blood sugar drops when you skip a meal."

Plainly put - eating sugar causes you to crave more of it. There are foods, though, that can help you quash a craving without damaging your waistline. Here are five simple swaps to make when you are dying for something sweet.

5 Snacks To Help Curb Your Sugar Craving

Dark Chocolate

The complex flavors of a good dark chocolate really do calm that "I NEED SUGAR" noise that can start screaming about 3:30pm when you're at your desk. Opt for a chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa. It's strange how the bitterness of the dark chocolate actually curbs not just your sugar craving but your appetite overall. You'll find it's almost impossible to eat more than a few squares.

It's impossible to gorge on these.

Valrhona makes great dark chocolate. You can find their bars at Trader Joe's, Amazon and other mass retailer. I love Vosges Pomegranate Goji Dark Chocolate Bar (this one has a super fruit bonus!). Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and also has vitamins and minerals such as iron, copper and magnesium. It's a great food to incorporate into your diet and is also a part of the Mediterranean Diet, which is consistently considered one of the best diets in the world

Apple with Nut Butter

An apple with natural peanut butter or almond butter is really satisfying. The natural fruit sugars in the apple are satiating while the fiber in the apple is filling. The nut butter adds a dose of protein and healthy fat. Simply slice the apple in half and apply half a tablespoon of nut butter to each half of the apple. It's a great snack. For a bit more flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon on top!

A Few Sugar-Free Breath Mints

LOVE these!

A few breath mints. I like Lifesavers Sugar-Free Mints. People pop into my office to grab them. In fact, I gave them as office holiday gifts in 2020. These take a while to finish and can help you get through that screaming craving.

There are those who don't believe in artificial sweeteners and I tend to be one of those, as well. I think these in moderation, though, are fine.

Dried Apricots with Walnuts

Dried apricots with walnuts are a surprisingly filling snack that can keep you full. The apricots provide the sweet while the walnuts deliver healthy fats. Opt for unsulfured apricots if you can. Also be sure to keep the serving size in check because these can become a calorie bomb if you eat too many. Think five and five: five apricots and five walnut halves. This is approximately 165 calories.

Protein Bars

Buy these bars

A tasty nutrition bar can completely quiet your candy bar craving. Opt for one that has under 250 calories and some protein.Power Crunch makes great bars. Their Vanilla Creme is my latest obsession and something I eat when I want to make a trip to the vending machine for candy. Their Salted Caramel bar is also amazing. I also like thinkThin bars which are under 200 calories.

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Buy Snacks to Help You with Your Sugar Cravings

The Best Diets of 2021 | DASH, Med & More!

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 22:09:00 +0000

This post is good for:

Anyone interested in learning more about various diet plans
Anyone interested in the DASH Diet, Mediterranean Diet or Flexitarian Diet

U.S. News and World Report has released it annual Best Diet list for 2021 and there are some usual suspects atop the list.

The Mediterranean Diet is, once again, the Best Overall Diet followed by the DASH Diet and the Flexitarian Diet which both tied for second. The Mediterranean Diet also earned top honors for Best Plant-Based Diet, Best Heart Healthy Diet, Best Diabetes Diet, Best Diet for Healthy Eating and Easiest Diet to Follow.

The Mediterranean Diet is universally accepted as one of the healthiest and easiest to follow as it incorporates produce, lean protein, olive oil, nuts, dark chocolate and wine. It is considered so good for you that a study at Spain's University of Barcelona found it so effective to protect against coronary heart disease that the study ended early because it was deemed "unethical to continue".

In my experience - it's a fun diet to follow because....wine and chocolate...obvs! The recipes are great and it can be customized for a variety of palates. At heart, the Mediterranean Diet is good, old-fashioned healthy eating.

SHOP MEDITERRANEAN DIET BOOKS

The DASH Diet had an eight-year run as the Best Overall Diet which ended in 2018. It was designed by the National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute and is designed to prevent and lower high blood pressure. Weight loss is the nice bonus.

DASH stands for Diet Approaches to Stop Hypertension and focuses on incorporating produce, lean protein and whole grains into your diet. It also encourages capping sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day.

SHOP DASH DIET BOOKS

More About the Best Diets of 2020

According to the mag, "a panel of nationally recognized experts in diet, nutrition, obesity, food psychology, diabetes and heart disease reviewed our profiles, added their own fact-finding and rated each diet in seven categories: how easy it is to follow, its ability to produce short-term and long-term weight loss, its nutritional completeness, its safety and its potential for preventing and managing diabetes and heart disease."

There are actually nine lists:

Best Overall Diet: Mediterranean Diet
Best Commercial Diet (a program that requires a fee): WW (Weight Watchers) - "a smart, effective diet"
Best Weight Loss Diet: Flexitarian Diet - marriage between vegetarian and flexible. This is "a nice approach that can work for the whole family"
Best Diabetes Diet: Flexitarian Diet
Beat Heart-Healthy Diet: Mediterranean Diet & DASH Diet (tie)
Best Diet for Healthy Eating: DASH Diet
Easiest Diet to Follow: Mediterranean Diet
Best Plant-based Diet: Mediterranean Diet
Best Fast Weight Loss Diet: HMR Program - "the Health Management Resources Program is a weight loss system and lifestyle-change program designed to reduce calories via meal replacement with added fruits and vegetables, to reduce calories."

Have you tried any of these diets and had success with them? If so, please let me know in the comments section.

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LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BEST DIETS OF 2021

Hermès Kelly Wallet Review

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 22:26:00 +0000

This post is good for:

Someone curious about Hermès
People interested in buying luxury designer accessories at auctions
Anyone interested in Hermès wallets

Wallets are tough, aren't they? They're something we use almost daily to host our cash, credit cards and coins. Beyond that they hold receipts, stamps, loyalty cards and all the other crap we tend to accumulate over the days, weeks and months.

Wallets really are the central nervous system of your handbag which is why finding the right one is so key.

They're so important yet they usually get a tertiary consideration, at best. Throughout my life, I've spent too much time hunting down the perfect wallet. I owned a Louis Vuitton Zippy wallet (here's my Zippy Wallet review)...until it got stolen in a smash-and-grab at my daughter's school. It was a fabulous wallet that I was open to purchasing again but then I stumbled across this Kelly wallet.

I was thrilled to find my Hermès Ghillies Kelly Wallet for sale during a December 2020 auction from Heritage Auctions. It wasn't perfect aesthetically (which you can see in the video) but it has been exceptional for holding all of my stuff in a clean, sleek manner.

If you're considering an investment wallet, the Hermès Kelly wallet is a smart choice. My Kelly Wallet review video has everything you need to know plus details on how I purchased it.

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Question - What has been the best wallet for you? Please let me know in the comments section.

Browse Hermès Kelly Wallets

Hermès Evelyne III PM Review | ICONIC Black with Gold Hardware

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sat, 05 Dec 2020 22:09:00 +0000

This post is good for:

Anyone interested in Hermès Evelyne bags
People interested in trying out their first Hermès bag
Anyone who loves handbag reviews

I. Am. Addicted.

When I purchased my first Hermès Evelyne PM in bright red (Rouge de Coeur is the official color) I thought I would be one and done.

Nope.

It became one of my go-to bags. So much so that I decided to get another one. I always wanted one with gold hardware. Ideally, I wanted purple or green with gold hardware but when I saw one in black (officially Noir) with gold hardware for sale on Hermes.com, I jumped. And I'm glad I did.

The black with gold hardware combination is iconic and truly versatile. I can pair any scarf I like with the bag and it will work. While most Twilly scarves work with the Rouge de Coeur Evelyne, everything works with the black and gold version.

These bags are perfect. You can carry just about anything in them and I do. I carry my iPad, iPhone, keys, and makeup bag. For my wallet I do use my Louis Vuitton Félicie Pochette which has turned out to be the perfect wallet/clutch/crossbody bag.

Are there any handbags you have started collecting? Obviously Chanel 2.55 bags are popular, as well as Birkins and Kelly bags. Please let me know more about your collection in the comments section.

Buying Hermès Evelyne Bags

You can scan Hermes.com for Evelyne bags. They usually have good inventory but the gold hardware versions go quickly. You can always look for them on the secondary market, which is where I purchased my first Evelyne (from Fashionphile). I've linked to a few below from some of my favorite luxury consignment sites.

Shop Hermès Evelyne Bags

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Louis Vuitton Félicie Pochette My LV World Tour Review + Unboxing

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sun, 11 Oct 2020 15:55:00 +0000

This review is good for:

Anyone who LOVES Louis Vuitton
Anyone interested in a Louis Vuitton Félicie Pochette Review
Anyone interested in purchasing a My LV Product
Anyone curious about Louis Vuitton Pochettes

I have a confession to make: I am not a Louis Vuitton monogram lover. Some people go crazy over the iconic pattern. Me? I'm neutral. Don't love it. Don't hate it. What I do love is the craftsmanship and quality that come with Louis Vuitton products.

The Louis Vuitton Félicie Pochette is just the second Louis Vuitton handbag I've ever purchased (I've grabbed a few wallets and jewelry holders over the years). I thought this tiny crossbody would be a fun addition to my handbag collection that could tell a story.

Turns out, that's exactly what it is. You can customize with your Zodiac sign, favorite cities, iconic hotels and other fun symbols that reflect you.

The versatility this bag offers is impressive. The Félicie Pochette can be used as a crossbody, a shoulder bag or a clutch.

You can customize a number of Louis Vuitton products through their My LV process.

About Louis Vuitton's World Tour Collection

Louis Vuitton's personalization services through the My LV World Tour collection is "an opportunity to personalize your favorite Louis Vuitton leather goods with your initials and a bespoke selection of labels inspired by the collection of Gaston-Louis Vuitton."

Travel stickers were originally affixed to luggage as a way to showcase where you had globetrotted, almost serving as the 1800's version of a #humblebrag.

The collection offers five different categories of stickers: Grand Hotels, Cities, LV Heritage and Make It Yours to "create a design that will reflect your personality."

If you do purchase an item from the collection, please not that it is non-refundable and can take up to eight weeks for delivery.

About Louis Vuitton Pochettes

Image via LouisVuitton.com

A classic Louis Vuitton Pochette is considered by many an entry-level LV product (or gateway drug!) because of its wallet-friendly price point. A Mini Pochette retails for just $365 on LouisVuitton.com, if you can get one. It's consistently sold out online and in stores. On resale sites like Fashionphile, they often sell for more than the retail price.

The Félicie Pochette is a the big sister to the Mini Pochette. A plain Félicie Pochette retails for $1130 USD. The My LV World Tour version retails for $1570 USD.

Should You Buy a Louis Vuitton Félicie My LV World Tour Pochette

If you love whimsy and versatility, yes! This is a great bag for a night out (worn as a clutch) or for running errands with your daily essentials. Again, because of the customization process, this bag is non-refundable. Shipping can take up to eight weeks to be delivered to you. Mine took almost four weeks, as indicated in the video.

Regardless, I really think of it as an heirloom piece that my daughter can carry in 15 years and {hopefully} have a fun story tell when she is asked about it.

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Shop Louis Vuitton Pochettes

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

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 01:56:00 +0000

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

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

The other headlines are just as tough and real:

No shit.

No matter how much I’ve tried to ignore the news and social dialogue focused on the negative effects the pandemic has had on women, women of color and working women, the truth is there. Staring, no SCREAMING at me at a pitch that’s almost as high as the voice in my head telling me to keep it together, for my daughter. For my colleagues. For myself.

RELATED: In Defense Of Crying On Powerwalks

Our county will start the 2020-2021 school year, like so many across the country, in a remote capacity. It will be a repeat of the spring: trying to teach, trying to work, trying to lead, again, trying to keep it together in the toughest of professional times for the sports industry.

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This pretty much sums up this #WFH Monday.

A post shared by Gina Miller (@theginamiller) on Jun 29, 2020 at 1:21pm PDT

My situation is one of the good ones: we have strong internet access (when it works), we have an iPad. I’m fortunate to be in a professional position to work remotely when I can. I can bring her to work with me, with a mask of course, and stick her in my office while I work. That has been our summer after so many of our camps were cancelled or pivoted in a way that we weren’t comfortable with.

My daughter’s attitude is amazing. She’s as eager, positive and sweet as a child can be. I've been busier than ever with professional challenges that have tested me in a ways I could have never imagined. True story - one day, after I got repeatedly kicked in the lady balls, she kept telling me mom “Don’t let a bad moment turn into a bad day. You’re a champion with championship behavior and you GOT THIS!”.

I mean…more tears, right? Because that's still all I do.

But it is so much. So. F-ing. Much.

I’m no expert but after being mom and hanging out with other moms for almost a decade, kids, in general, do go to their mother’s first. Knowing that and the strength it took to get to that point….to be the one….is one of the things that can keep us mothers fighting and plowing forward with the optimism our children, and we, need.

This is hard. So hard. How can we make it better? By being there. Acknowledging that while this shit sucks, we can work together (socially distanced, of course) to support and help each other fight through. I don’t know where I’d be if it wasn’t for that core group of mothers who have offered to have her stay with them for the day while I work. It saves her from another day quarantined in my office. Little gestures like that mean the world.

Maybe that’s it. In this era of world-turned-upside-down chaos, it’s the little things, the kind gestures that will save us.….as well as wearing a mask, social distancing, staying at home, being kind to each other.

I only share this because beneath so many of our friends’ beautifully curated Instagram feeds and Facebook posts, there’s the reality that we’re all just trying to make it through the day during this ridiculous time that has forever changed us. Don't let the façade of social media or the veneer of someone say she is "GREAT!" fool you. Many of us are fighting the good fight. And we need to fight together. We’re all going through it. Doesn’t matter if you’re single, married, divorced, separated, wealthy, poor or somewhere in the middle the challenge is so real. Real in a way we didn’t know it could be.

What is also real is that we don’t know when this cycle of working/teaching/trying to keep it together will end. The one thing we know is that parenting never ends. If the pandemic isn’t going to disrupt our careers, we’ll need to keep fighting in lock step with the parents and moms who work, don’t work, work part-time, whatever. If we can do so as a team, though, perhaps it will make the battle a bit easier.

I hope.

Stay supportive. Stay safe. Be kind. #WearADamnMask.

Hermès Evelyne III 29 Review | Rouge de Coeur with Palladium Hardware

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 00:56:00 +0000

This post is good for:

Anyone interested in Hermès Evelyne bags
People interested in trying out their first Hermès bag
Anyone who loves handbag reviews

I resisted the Hermès Evelyne bags for a long time. I noticed it in, probably, around 2015 or so. It was simple, almost too simple. Then four years later, something clicked. I fell in love with the simple elegance of it.

Maybe old age? A change in taste? Whatever it was, I'm glad I made the change because I'm absolutely in love with crossbody bag.

Since I purchased it from Fashionphile in January 2020, I've worn it almost daily when running errands and during my off-days. Obviously the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all our abilities to go out and about but it has still gotten a ton of use.

History

The bag was created in 1978 by Evelyne Bertrand, the director of Hermès equestrian department. She originally designed the bag to carry riding equipment such a brush, comb, rags and other necessities. It was sort of an afterthought of a bag until it picked up some blog coverage in 2010. The New York Times even chronicled its resurgence.

Now you can get it in a variety of gorgeous colors, ranging from white or yellow to bright red or deep blue.

Hermes Evelyne I, II, III

The Evelyne has three different iterations.

Evelyne I is the first generation and features no exterior pocket or adjustable strap.
Evelyne II is the, you get it, second generation. While it has an exterior pocket, the strap is not adjustable.
The Evelyne III has the full package: pocket + strap = crossbody perfect.

Hermès Sellier/Image vis Hermès.com

Hermes Sellier Evelyne

There are so many varieties and options I didn't even cover in the video. There's also the Sellier, which is made out of Hunter cowhide leather and features an Hermès Sellier mark on the outside of the back rather than a perforated "H".

I don't like it as much as the Evelyne in the traditional Epsom or Clemence leather but, who knows, maybe that will change.

PIN THIS

Should You Buy an Evelyne Bag?

If you're looking for a functional versatile crossbody bag, then absolutely consider an Hermès Evelyne bag in a variety of sizes, ranging from the TPM to the GM. It does not contain interior pockets so you might want to consider an insert. This is an Hermès item, so it will not be a "cheap" purchase, relatively speaking. The quality, though, speaks for itself and will truly be something that lasts a lifetime.

Shop Hermès Evelyne Bags

The great thing about Hermès Evelyne is that you always can find at a friendlier price point. On the resale market at sites like Rebag or Fashionphile, you can find them starting at $1500 or so for a gently-used bag. That's an incredibly good price for an Hermès bag.

In Defense Of Crying On Power Walks

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sun, 10 May 2020 15:05:00 +0000

There's been something in the air lately. It's not the pollen, ragweed or whatever else flies around Dallas during the spring months.

It's tears. Tears all the time. Talking to friends. Talking to colleagues at work on a Zoom. Talking to family. Talking to strangers. Tears all the time.

There's no real reason for the tears. They're caused by emotions that I'm sure you're feeling, too. The feeling of uncertainty: What will happen next? The fear of unraveling: Can I keep working/managing/leading/teaching/faking a good attitude without losing my shit? The anxiety: Will I get a phone call this week informing me that my entire professional life is shutting down?

I go on power walks and cry. I sit on Zoom meetings with colleagues and cry. (That was embarrassing. Thank you, Marleine, for not judging.).

RELATED: The Working Mom's COVID-19 Struggle Is REAL

Working remotely while homeschooling an eight-year-old with learning differences by myself is something for which there is no playbook. We've cooked all but four meals at home since we locked down everything. The dishes! Trying to find ways to incorporate recess/Spanish/PE/art/music into the curriculum in between work meetings and relevance brainstorms have left me with zero brain space to even think about calling or texting friends and family.

There's that, too. I've become a bad friend. I haven't texted, called or checked in with my people in ~~days~~, weeks. I think a bit more: when was the last time I called my family? I'm a bad daughter/sister/human.

All the "bad person" thoughts.

I'm lucky that my daughter's attitude, energy and enthusiasm are amazing. We have more fun together than most people should. She tells me "Mommy, you got this!" all the time. More times than she should. That makes me cry.

She did tell me that my butt is "less squishy" since we've been in lockdown. That makes me smile and laugh. At least all the exercise and power walks are working.

Then I hear the jobs report and about the lines at food banks on the news. Fighting back "am I next?" tears.

On this Mother's Day - there's no brunch or flowers. It's coffee at the bar as I type this while I let my daughter sleep in because bed times don't seem to matter now. 11PM is perfect for an eight-year-old to go to sleep! Isn't it?

Here's the thing: I don't need brunch, flowers or another scarf in an orange box. The silver lining in this CV19 shitshow, and you're hearing this all the time, is how much it taught me about what matters - bike rides, playing Twister, not burning the grilled cheese or slicing off my fingers while chopping cucumbers.

I'm not sharing this for sympathy. I don't deserve any. I am healthy and employed. Heck, I produce stupid YouTube videos reviewing Hermès scarves (don't judge - talking about them makes me happy).

I'm sharing this because we need to know that these uncomfortable feelings are okay and that we're not alone. You are not alone. Many of us are crying in our cars or on power walks right now. We've been doing this long before coronavirus. It seems like we're a bit more open about it now. Those defenses and armor we've had around us for so long, at least the ones I've had, are gone.

If you're in your car, on a power walk or huddled in your closet trying to keep it together or fight back a tear, don't worry about it. Let it go. You'll probably feel better after letting it go. Know that I'm there with you. If you need to chat - you know where to find me.

If you need to talk to someone, there are resources to help:
Virtual School Counseling
SMU Center for Family Counseling

Hermès Scarf Review: A Vos Crayons by Leigh Cooke

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Fri, 08 May 2020 13:29:00 +0000

Part of the fun of collecting Hermès scarves is the hunt: finding a coveted piece at a flea market in Paris or coming across an amazing deal at the most unlikely place.

The story of how I acquired the Hermès scarf, A Vos Crayons by Leigh Cooke, is one of those stories. I found it at the Neiman Marcus Bargain Box in Longview, Texas which is one of the most amazing hidden gems for anyone looking for a luxe for less find.

I'm going to let the video tell the story because this one is worth watching.

Do you have a favorite spot for finding scarves or other luxe for less finds?

Hermès Scarves by Leigh Cooke

Fleurs de Fuschia/Image via Hermes Scarf Guide

Des Fleur Pour Le Dire by Leigh Cooke/Image via Hermes Scarf Catalog

In the Pocket by Leigh Cooke/Image via Hermes Scarf Catalog

Shop Hermès Scarves

Hermès Scarf Review: Cordages Twilly

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Wed, 06 May 2020 01:51:00 +0000

Have you fallen in love with Hermès Twilly scarves yet? They're such a whimsical way to add a pop of color to any outfit.

You'll see a lot of Hermès Twilly scarves wrapped on the handle of a Birkin or other satchel-type bag. Personally, I don't like that because I don't want the oils from my hands making the scarves dirty.

Instead, I'll tie a Twilly onto the handle or just wrap one around my wrist.

Twilly scarves are a great way to sample the Hermès brand. When I first started buying Twilly scarves, their full retail prices was approximately $125. As of May 2020, a standard Hermès Twilly retails for $175. You can also find them resale sites like Fashionphile or Vestiaire Collective.

Hermes Cordages Twilly

I purchased Hermès Cordages Twilly at the Hermès boutique in Dallas at Highland Park Village in, I believe, 2015. The bright turquoise color immediately got my attention. I bought this one along with the 1001 H Twilly.

French artist Pierre Marie designed the Cordages Twilly along with a Cordages scarf in the 70 centimeters size. Marie He started designing Hermès scarves in 2008 for the fashion house and has designed more than 20.

Fun Fact: Pierre Marie was 26 years old when he started designed scarves for Hermès in 2008, making him the youngest scarf designer in the history of Hermès. (Architectural Digest)

The Cordages scarves depict nautical themes featuring ropes, floats and buoys. What do you think? Love it? Hate it? Meh? Let me know!

Shop Hermès Twilly Scarves

Hermes Scarf Review: La Cite Cavaliere

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sat, 11 Apr 2020 16:05:00 +0000

It's Paris reimagined! Love this Hermès scarf from Octave Marsal that debuted in 2019. La Cite Cavaliere is funky, surprising and gorgeous. You could spend hours looking at it and still not see everything.

I purchased this scarf at Hermès George V store in Paris on December 30, 2019 which was a wonderful experience. It was crowded but not as much as the Rue St. Honoré store.

I prefer buying scarves secondhand as I enjoy the hunt. The important thing to note when buying scarves secondhand is to buy from someone you trust or a company that guarantees the authenticity of an item. Some of my favorites places that do that are Fashionphile, The Real Real, The Luxury Closet.

Shop Hermès Scarves

Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 5 Review: Is This For Real?!?

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 02:10:00 +0000

Wow. Done.

I really didn't think I could do but I did and only cheated just a wee bit.

Day 5 on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet
I woke up this morning, without an alarm at 3:55AM. Three. Fifty-Five. AM! I haven't done that without a flight to catch or TV live shot to do in...ever. When my eyes opened I thought about going back to sleep but didn't feel like it. I genuinely had a never-before-experienced burst of energy in the wee hours of the morning.

I decided to make it productive. I streamed two short yoga routines on YouTube and started a blog post about my recent hotel stay in Israel at Brown Beach House in Tel Aviv (wonderful, btw, see for yourself HERE).

When 6:30AM rolled around, it was time to get dressed. I made Jordan breakfast and had a quick cup of coffee before school dropoff.

RELATED:

Eating at the Office on Day 5

An early conference call followed by an impromptu meeting didn't allow me to eat breakfast, the L-Nutra Bar, until 11AM.

TIP: it tastes great if you put it in the refrigerator!

The last round of spinach and white bean soup & kale crackers

Around 1PM I heated up my last spinach and white bean soup that I ate with the kale crackers, which might be my favorite part of the FMD plan.

The Cheat

After a 1:30 meeting, which stretched every second to 3PM, it hit me: I was tired. I had been going full speed since 3:55AM and was getting drowsy. That's when I did it.

I opened the Blueberry Acai Diet Coke in my refrigerator. Couldn't help it. I needed that caffeine. Or at least I thought I did. I drank every last drop. Honestly, it wasn't that good. Not that it ever was but after going a few days without any crap like that in the system, it just didn't taste well.

Back on Track. Maybe?

After the Blueberry Acai Diet Coke incident, which did pick me up, I regrouped for the rest of the day in effort to make it to Jordan's 5:20 soccer game. After 53 minutes of trudging down the Dallas North Tollway, I finally made it to her game in the third period.

As I was standing there watching her, I could barely muster the energy to cheer or chat with other parents. I was tired. And I was hungry.

Dinner - butternut squash and quinoa soup. That's it.

Following the game I raced home, heated up my final butternut squash and quinoa soup and seriously considered having some nuts or something to get a bit more energy in my body. I fought the urge, brewed my tea and that was it.

I was done.

I finished the fifth day of the entire protocol without nary an almond or lick of peanut butter and jelly. That means, Blueberry Acai Diet Coke aside, I. Didn't. Cheat!

Day 5 Takeaways

The energy boost that fasters report experiencing is real. I woke up feeling like a million bucks this morning and continued feeling that way for much of the day. About 12 hours later the drowsiness, understandably, set in and I needed something to keep me alert.

As I sit here typing this at 8:46PM after my last bowl of butternut squash quinoa soup, I am proud of myself for powering through today and these five days. It wasn't so much about the diet as it was making a mental commitment to something hard and accomplishing it. And while this wasn't really that big of an accomplishment, I needed that little victory at this point in my life. And I'm glad I was able to earn it.

Question? Comments?

Have any questions about my Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet experience? I'll be doing a video and blog post on why I did this. I'll also share my results. Yes - before and after results. Leave comments/question below and I'm happy to address them in the video.

Disclaimer: this is solely my experience on this plan and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. This is not a sponsored post. All items paid for and purchased by me.

Brown Beach House Tel Aviv Review: An Urban Oasis in The Heart of Tel Aviv

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Thu, 10 Oct 2019 15:04:00 +0000

Finding hotel accommodations in Tel Aviv can be tough. Hotels are expensive and, many times, the price doesn’t reflect the level of expectation. It is an expensive country.

With that in mind, I looked thoroughly for a room for my one night stay in June 2019. After hours of research, I found it theBrown Beach House. I was actually still in Tiberias when I booked the room wanted to be in Tel Aviv to make my commute to Ben Gurion Airport for a 1AM Sunday morning flight home more palatable. Getting to the airport for a flight on Shabbat is well-planned consideration anyone visiting Israel should make.

Turns out, my last-minute decision to stay at the Brown Beach House was one of the best I've made during my 10-plus years going visiting Israel.

I found the Brown Beach House hotel, a 55-room boutique property, through Google research. It looked fun and well-situated. I was able to score a room for $275 for a Friday, June 7th stay which included a complimentary breakfast. I was thrilled with this as it was a holiday weekend with visitors flocking to Tel Aviv to celebrate Shavuot.

The hotel has a Hollywood-glam-at-the-beach vibe. The lobby is quite small but welcoming. When I arrived, the front desk attendant offered me a glass of sparkling wine, which I gladly accepted after my train from Tiberias. Check-in was a breeze and I was struck by how intimate the hotel seemed. The staff was genuinely congenial, something you don't often see in Israel.

Brown Beach House Tel Aviv Location

The Saturday morning view from the beach boardwalk that's a five-minute walk from Brown Beach House

The hotel is two streets away from the Tel Aviv Beach and close to all the wonderful restaurants along the water. It's about 1.6 miles from Jaffa, the old port city that is a must-see for many visitors to Tel Aviv. It's only about a mile from the famous White City buildings, another popular spot.

Brown Beach House is located in a busy urban area which makes it ideal for anyone who enjoys walking to explore a city. Tel Aviv is about vibrance and energy but I was still able to relax both at the beach and in my room.

RELATED: Ritz Carlton Herzliya | Luxury Done Right in the Middle East

The Room

My room was a Studio Suite on the second floor. It was spectacular. They measure around 400 square feet and offer a bar separating the sleeping and seating area. A small balcony gives you the chance to enjoy the cool Tel Aviv weather. The bathroom was large, even by U.S. standards. The Molton Brown products were a nice touch.

I was on the second floor yet slept like a baby. Any street noise didn't bother me at all. Perhaps it was the sumptuous, comfortable bed or perhaps it was the wine at dinner. Whatever it was, I woke up feeling like I'd slept like a baby. Something I needed after a tough trip.

The Amenities

The hotel offers a small spa which is basically a waiting room, two suites and a unisex shower that guests can use to freshen up. The hotel also has a number of serene outdoor spaces to take advantage of the gorgeous weather.

While I was there, they offered a yoga class in their studio/event space. They don't have a fitness center on site. Instead, guests receive access to Space Fix, a gym right next to the U.S. embassy and just a five minute walk from the hotel. I took advantage of that to sneak in to sneak in a quick workout.

The hotel provides beach towels and beach bags for guests who would like to enjoy the water. They also offer beach cruisers for guests who want to cruise.

Dining Options

Breakfast at Flamingo Cafe: the appetizers. YUM!

Breakfast at Flamingo Cafe: No clue what this was!

There are hundreds of amazing restaurants within short walking distance to Brown Beach House. The front desk staff suggested a spectacular seafood spot for dinner, Salva Vida. This meant my only meal at the hotel was breakfast at the kosher Flamingo Cafe, which was complimentary with my hotel stay.

If you've never eaten an Israeli breakfast, prepare yourself. They're huge, generally featuring bread, hummus, salad, vegetables and fruit. Those are just the side dishes! The main course usually ends up being an afterthought.

Not gonna lie: I have no idea what I ordered. The restaurant had some other offerings but I wanted something authentic. It was a dish with feta cheese. It was fine and something I didn't finish after the first few bites. I was more than happy, enjoying my side dishes, coffee and friendly service. I had a great seat with a view of the street which made the morning just perfect.

The Vibe

A view from the lobby bar at the Brown Beach House

Outdoor balcony at Brown Beach House

The Brown Beach House is cool, reminding me of a W Hotel property but with a beachy, boutique aesthetic. Great bar, fun decor and guests from around the world. I had a drink at the bar on Saturday while biding my time for my late night/early morning flight back home. While there, I enjoyed chatting with the global mix of guests who were from Jerusalem, Mexico City and Los Angeles. I loved it! Only in Israel.

The Service

What struck me about Brown Beach House was the service. Again - hospitality in Israel has come a long way but still has some opportunity for growth. The staff was warm and helpful. They suggested the wonderful dining experience at Salva Vida. They let me store my luggage all day on Saturday while I strolled Tel Aviv and even let me freshen up after strolling Tel Aviv all day before I left for the airport.

Overall Impression

View from the balcony

I can't say enough great things about my experience at Brown Beach House. The location was perfect. My room was spectacular...I don't know how I scored that room. The cocktails were great. The team was hospitable, something that can be hard to find throughout Israel. It was a fabulous hotel experience.

Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 4 Review: Here Comes That Energy Boost

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Thu, 10 Oct 2019 01:50:00 +0000

Day four on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet? Gamechanger.

I woke up at 5:30AM with some energy. Not just some energy. I felt good. The headache I felt on days two and three still persisted but it wasn't as pounding. It was...manageable. I don't take aspirin, ibuprofen or any of that stuff, so I've just been dealing with it. Today it truly was tolerable.

Save this workout if you're looking for an upper body burner! pic.twitter.com/qKZU1OHoz3
— Women's Health (@WomensHealthMag) September 19, 2019

I felt so good this morning that I even did this light, stress light, arm workout from Women's Health. I had so much energy this morning that I almost skipped into school when I dropped of my daughter in her classroom.

Day 4 on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet

There was no eating at the office today because of Yom Kippur. I debated taking the day off from work but am actually glad I didn't because we had some bigger projects to manage. This kept me slammed until about 1:30PM. I've always said that one of my strengths is my high work rate: I can grind. Today I was grinding like a six-year-old hopped up on Skittles and Mountain Dew. I didn't stop to eat or drink, I just powered through. And felt amazing.

RELATED:

It was only when I slowed down that I realized I was hungry. Knowing I wouldn't be eating anything until sundown, I continued to focus on finishing a few projects. I event took time to stream a few Yom Kippur services. Again, I'm Jewish.

Finally Eating on Day 4

Minestrone Soup

When the sun set at 7:02PM CT, I devoured the L-Bar. Following that I made dinner for Jordan (Asian dumplings and cucumbers) and started making my dinner: minestrone soup, olives (two packets, mind you!) and a Choco Crisp bar with tea. I avoided the tomato soup which I will save for a quick #saddesklunch at the office.

Choco Crisp Bar for dessert, anyone?

As we approach 8PM and I am typing this, I feel fine: clearheaded, focused and satiated...full even...after consuming only an L-Bar, soup 12 olives and a Choco Crisp Bar.

Day 4 Takeaways

I realize that my day four experience might not be the norm. It's probably not ideal to do this diet during a time in which you plan to fast, without food, for real. From a caloric standpoint, I didn't have many calories in my system to prepare for a full day of not eating. Again, though, I felt amazing pretty much all day.

From a mental standpoint, I have to say I approached the end of the Yom Kippur fast with a bit of disappointment. Typically the breaking of Yom Kippur fast is celebrated with a lovely meal featuring friends, family and loved ones.

I broke my fast with - soup, olives and bars. It's a disappointment that should be put in perspective, though. That's the beauty of this high holiday: it's a time for reflection. As I sat at the table, eating my olives and modest meal, I truly did realize how fortunate I am to be enjoying it.

Disclaimer: this is solely my experience on this plan and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. This is not a sponsored post. All items paid for and purchased by me.

Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 3 Review: The Brainfog Is Still There!

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Wed, 09 Oct 2019 01:36:00 +0000

Prolon offers a daily email to offer words of encouragement. Day three's email said "Some people find day 3 to be challenging".

Great. That's exactly what I want to read when I wake up at crack-thirty in the morning with a caffeine withdrawal/fasting/brainfog headache. Ugh.

Day three on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet offer another round of sparse meals: L-Bar, Butternut Squash Soup, Kale Crackers (damn, I was happy to eat those!) followed by White Bean and Spinach Soup for dinner. I supplemented the day with more tea, water, sparkling water and the L-Drink.

RELATED: Day 4 Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Review: Here Comes the ENERGY!

Day 3 on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet

I found myself really looking forward to that morning coffee. It seems like a decadent treat that is almost sinful. And I love it.

That peanut butter and jelly was calling my name!

I have my coffee around 7:30 and as I made my daughter's breakfast, the scent of the peanut butter and strawberry jam I put on her English muffin got me. I usually lick the knife when I am done making that for her in the morning. Today, I just rinsed the knife. Success! It's the little victories like that which keep you going.

RELATED: Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 2 Review: Brainfog Sets In

Tuesday, day three, was full of meetings at the office until 11AM. In turn, I didn't eat my L-Bar until about 11:30. I ate faster than usual because I was slamming so hard to get some work done.

Kale Crackers - YUM!

I had a 1:30 meeting which pushed lunch to 2:45. That's later than I normally eat which hit me: I would have snacked or eaten something likely before the meeting or after. Today, trying to stay true to the program, I powered through and didn't eat anything. It was the water, tea and sparkling water that kept me on track. I've learned to savor kale crackers.

Not going to lie: when I left for home around 5:30, I was starving. My commute home sucks, so by the time I got home around 6:15, I was starving. Like ready to eat my fist hungry. Couple that with my headache, that is still pounding as I type this at 8:09PM on a Tuesday and I'm almost over it.

White Bean and Spinach Soup

I heated up Jordan's leftover pasta which she devoured. She couldn't help but laugh at my dinner which consisted of small bowl of White Bean and Spinach Soup. It was good. Not great.

The spearmint lemon tea is a lifesaver. I like drinking it after meals for a few reasons: it signals the end of the meal helping me make that mental switch. It also reminds of my trips to Israel. They end so many meals there with hot water, mint leaves and lemon. The thought of it makes me smile.

RELATED: Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 1 Review: It's Not That Bad!

Day 3 Takeaway

While I've battled some slight hunger pangs it's the headache that's beating me down. I have experience doing juice and smoothie fasts, so I know these headaches are to be expected. I want them done.

If anything, I feel a bit lazy because I'm intentionally not exercising or being too active. I joke with friends that I work out for my mental well-being more than anything. I certainly miss that activity, but like I said earlier, I do like the extra I have on my hands!

Curious: Have you ever done a fast? Which ones? What experience do you have doing them? Any tips or tricks? Please share your experience in the comments section.

Disclaimer: this is solely my experience on this plan and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. This is not a sponsored post. All items paid for and purchased by me.

Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 2 Review: Brainfog Sets In

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 02:49:00 +0000

Another sneak peak from Instagram Stories

"I woke up like this and I didn't have one cocktail last night! Promise," that's what I told a number of friends and colleagues on my second day of my five-day Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet when they asked me how I felt.

Monday morning was not pretty. Literally and figuratively. I woke up with puffy eyes and headache! Way to enter the work week.

Some individuals who fast experience brain fog or caffeine withdrawals. I think my headache might be both. I usually have one cup of black coffee in the morning and either a green tea or diet drink (I know, it's my thing, don't hate me!) in the afternoon. Since I was focused on eliminating that second hit of caffeine, perhaps some of the headache was from the caffeine withdrawal. Perhaps it was something else: sugar or carbohydrate withdrawal. Whatever it's from it sucked but I was still focused on powering through the day and staying on the protocol.

A Day 2 on Prolon's Fasting Mimicking Diet Review from Instagram Stories

Day 2 on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet

I intentionally wanted to do the fast while I was working. Being so busy helps me not think about food. So as I approached my second day on the fast, I was ready to stay busy and work until I felt hungry.

I had black coffee around 7:30AM at home before going into the office. Again, coffee is discouraged but allowed on the plan.

Eating at the Office

A look at an L-Bar, it's smaller than a water can.

Breakfast was at work - an L-Bar Nut Bar around 10AM. I'm pushing breakfast to a bit later in the day in effort to space the "meals" during the day. It makes sense in my head.

Day two also introduces the L-Drink which is slightly flavored and, in theory, supposed to provide energy and help satiate you during the day. Maybe that's the case. I just drink to get fluid in my stomach. I flavor it with some of Prolon's hibiscus or mint tea.

What's saving me is sparkling water. I'm drinking La Croix and some of Target's new Good & Gather sparkling water. They come in a range of flavors and have no calories. They're probably not allowed but, oh well!

From my Instagram Stories on Day 2

Lunch was tomato soup, which is my least favorite so far. I also get to eat about eight olives. My boss and I joked that soup looks like something our daughters threw up when they were little. Kinda true.

RELATED: Prolong Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 1 Review: It's Not That Bad!

Afterschool pickup involved a trip to Trader Joe's with my daughter. If you know Trader Joe's, you know the sample station. Needless to say they know Jordan and me by name there. She popped by for a sample, I declined. Shopping was relatively easy as we picked up more sparkling water, raspberries, cucumbers and some pretzel bread. I wasn't tempted at all! That's a win in itself.

Making dinner was painless, too. I cooked some pasta we had on hand and added some sauce we were looking to finish. While I made that, I also heated up the Butternut Squash and Quinoa soup that is suggested for the day two dinner. It was fine. The quinoa adds some real-food substance to dish that I craved.

Another Choco Bar and spearmint lemon tea followed for "dessert".

Day 2 Recap

As I got ready for bed, I took some time to do some stretching. There's no strenuous exercise on this plan, which I miss, so I wanted to do something somewhat physical. I was hoping that would also help my brainfog/caffeine withdrawal headache. No luck.

As I said goodnight to my daughter, she asked me again why I was doing this. I told her it was to feel better. I hope that's coming. I think it is.

Despite waking up looking like I tied one on the night before, I'm so glad I started this diet on Sunday. I don't think I could have handled Monday at the office and the first day of this plan simultaneously.

The caloric intake during the second day, certainly tapers. In fact days two through five on the plan range between 700-750 calories. Good times.

Disclaimer: this is solely my experience on this plan and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. This is not a sponsored post. All items paid for and purchased by me.

Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 1 Review: It's Not So Bad!

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 02:09:00 +0000

"And why exactly are you doing this?" a colleague asked me when he saw the kale crackers I was eating instead of a typical pregame meal.

"I just want a reset," I deadpanned while actually enjoying the kale crackers.

This was my first day on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet, a plan that, in theory, is supposed to replicate the benefits you receive from fasting. The difference is that you can eat, rather than not eat. Now, it's not feast on gorgeous produce. Instead it is is prepackaged food prepared by L-Nutra a nutrition technology that sells the five-day fast.

Day 1 on the Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet

I decided to start on a Sunday, Decision Day in MLS. I work for FC Dallas and we were playing Sporting Kansas City with a playoff spot on the line (we won and clinched a playoff berth...with a first-year head coach and the youngest team in MLS).

Gamedays are busy and high-energy for me: I'll walk anywhere from two to six miles, I host a TV show, I oversee media operations, I visit with guests, help with social media when needed, pick up the odd piece of trash that flies onto the Toyota Stadium concourse...you get it. It's busy. I usually have no shame having a cookie...or three...on gameday. Additionally, we offer a pregame meal to the media, which I usually eat. It's generally not too bad: grilled chicken, chicken soft tacos or pasta with vegetables. We also offer foods at halftime such as popcorn and those dang cookies. Gameday eating is more out of habit rather than hunger.

I thought this would be a good day to start because the day one of the Prolon protocol is the highest calorie day. On average, users consume almost 1100 calories, something that was doable, at least I thought.

Turns out it was. Day one was easy. It helped that I was busy but I had no true hunger pangs and felt fine throughout the day.

RELATED: Prolong Fasting Diet Day 2 Review: Brainfog Sets In

The Night Before

I had a big dinner the night before with a friend at Hudson House in Dallas (their Tuna Tower Salad and french fries are on my "Last Supper" list and should be on yours, too!). When I woke up on Sunday, I wasn't hungry at all. I started the day with a cup of black coffee, which is allowed on the diet (or 24 ounces of caffeinated, unsweetened tea) and an Algal Oil capsule. All good.

Breakfast

I had "breakfast" an L-Bar nut bar, which was actually quite good, if not small. It's the highest calorie item on the Fasting Mimicking plan, coming in at a whopping 260 calories.

RELATED: Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Day 3 Review: Brainfog Sets In

The Workday

The day progressed fine. Lunch was the Butternut Squash Soup, two NR-T capsules, Kale Crackers and olives. The combination of all three worked really well together.

For an afternoon snack, I had a small L-Bar Choco Crisp with hibiscus tea that I put in a water bottle and drank cold (it was a record 97 degrees in Dallas that day!). I tried to enjoy that at halftime but didn't have the time. I ended up scarfing it as I was ensuring our postgame press conference room was set up.

Some calm amidst the postgame madness

Postgame is usually crazy but today was crazier than usual because of the win which helped us clinch the seventh seed in MLS' Western Conference. We had a slew of media requirements to fulfill and postgame operations to manage. This made any chance of being hungry or thinking about food impossible...and kind of good thing.

Dinner

Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet Minestrone Soup

I got home that night around 8:30PM and heated the Minestrone Soup which I ate slowly because by that time, I was feeling the hunger pangs. I followed that with the Choco Crisp bar and some leftover tea.

Day 1 Takeaways

The first day wasn't that bad. It was tough to break from the habits of munching mindlessly during a game. That is a good thing because I snack out of habit rather than hunger which is something I am trying to break. I also didn't have any extra caffeine, which is something I normally consume prior to my pregame show. Again - I think that is something out of habit and not a necessity.

I was initially worried that I would be exhausted or low on energy eating only 1100 calories on what needs to be a high-energy day for me. Turns out, it wasn't an issue at all.

Disclaimer: this is solely my experience on this plan and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. This post is not sponsored. I paid for the fasting protocol on my own.

5 Free Workouts You Can Stream Anywhere

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 00:13:00 +0000

Do you struggle trying to squeeze in a workout? To that end, is exercise one of the first things to go when your schedule gets overloaded? Here's the thing: it shouldn't. Exercise really is one of, if not the, easiest thing on your to-do list you can accomplish.

Dubious? Do you have 30 minutes to spare? Of course you do. Then you have time to exercise.

Exercise should be non-negotiable. The benefits of working out extend far beyond anything relating to weight loss. It gives you more energy, improves you mood, helps you think better, reduces cholesterol and improves your posture. That's the tip of the iceberg. The UK's Academy of Medical Royal Colleges published a report in 2015 calling exercise the "miracle cure".

Let's be honest, though. Life can get in the way. The kids are sick, you have a presentation at work that is kicking your ass, you're traveling, it's too cold outside for walk. I get it. Even if you can't get to a gym, you can squeeze in a 30-minute workout five days a week.

Thank you, World Wide Web.

When I'm pressed for time in the morning and can't get to a gym, I stream a workout while Jordan is still sleeping. The internet offers a range of 30 minutes workouts for every fitness level that can be done in a small space, with or without equipment, in your home.

Even better? They don't cost a thing.

5 Free Workouts You Can Stream From Home

You can stream these workouts directly from YouTube on your computer, phone or tablet tablet or with a connected device like a Roku. Typically, I stream them on my TV via Roku in my guest bedroom.

30-Minute Strength Training Workout with Weights | Popsugar

Popsugar is my favorite fitness channel. They have a variety of workouts for all ranges of fitness levels featuring LA-based instructors.

One of my new favorite workouts the channel offers is the 30-Minute Strength Workout With Dumbbells. It offers a full-body challenge, with cardio in only 30-minutes. I use eight pound dumbbells and absolutely feel it the next day...in a good way.

Yoga For Core (and Booty!) | Yoga with Adrienne.

I adore yoga. But get bored with it. You've been there. Admit it.

If I'm only going to do one, quick workout and am looking for something lower impact, Yoga with Adrienne's Yoga for Core (and Booty!) works. It's a toning working that also provides that's deep stretch which is so important. You will not leave this workout wanting more.

Brutal HIIT Ladder Workout | Fitness Blender

Fitness Blender is the no-frills, get it done workout. There's no music, it's low-tech but effective.

This 20-minute high intensity interval workout is, in fact, brutal. It's a full body booty kick that will have you completely wiped out by the end of the 20 minutes. It works. Stretch for five minutes before and after the routine and you have a great 30-minute workout.

30 Minute Low-Impact Workout to Torch Calories | Popsugar Fitness

From high-impact to low. Don't let the term "Low Impact" fool you. This workout will kick your ass. You can read my full review here but, in short, it gets your heart going without putting too much impact on your joints, knees and other creeky parts.

30-Minute At-Home Cardio Boxing and Kickboxing Workout | Popsugar

Perhaps it's a throwback to the Billy Blanks Tai Bo days (loved those VHS tapes) but I have adored kickboxing for decades. It's a great full-body workout that raises your heartrate while toning every muscle in your body. This particular workout, again from Popsugar Fitness (they are not paying me), checks all the boxes buttons in 30 minutes. You will feel it this the next day. I use weighted workout gloves for an extra muscle-toning boost.

BONUS: Sydney Cummings' YouTube Channel

I've become addicted to Sydney Cummings workouts that she posts on YouTube every day at 4AM CT. She mixes them with a variety of trainings ranging from cardio workouts and full body conditioning to yoga and sculpting. She offers workouts in a variety of lengths from 10 minutes to an hour. Her YouTube channel is well-organized, by workout length. They all, of course, are free but she offers an insiders program, The Sydney Squad, that provides additional training insight, nutrition tips and more.

Sydney is relatable and enthusiastic in a way that's refreshing and authentic.

I do one of her 30-minute workouts at least three times a week.

TIP: Create a YouTube playlist of tried and true workouts you like. I currently have 31 on my playlist. Each of these are phenomenal routines which eliminates the time it takes to search for a program which makes the decision easy. Take it a step further and categorize your workouts into categories such yoga, strength training (abs, legs, arms) and cardio for an even more streamline workout library.

The Takeaway
Exercise gives you energy and is an immediate mood-booster. The great thing is that you don't have work out for hours on end to reap the benefits. A 20-30 minute routine that gets your blood moving does the trick and will pay dividends long after your workout has ended.

Exercise Equipment for Your Home

My Favorite New Accessory | A Unique Wood Watch by JORD

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Thu, 24 Jan 2019 02:59:00 +0000

I have a confession to make. And it’s about an obsession.

I love a good watch. I also need a good watch. I will go to great lengths to find one.

I know I’m not alone.

My entire life is dictated by time. When I worked in TV news full-time, time was everything: one minute and 15 seconds for a live shot or two minutes and 30 seconds for a sportscast. When practice starts at 9AM and interviews start promptly at 11:15AM, you need to be there.

As a working mom, I don’t have to tell you: punctuality, scheduling...it all matters.

Plainly put - it's about time. I have a strong sense of it but nothing beats a good timepiece to help me stay on track. A quality watch can help you plan the day and stay on track, too. From a tactical standpoint, a quick glance to a timepiece with a big face could be key to doing that, as well.

I recently discovered JORD (pronounced Yode, like "Yoda" but with no "a") watches and found them to fit the bill. They're interesting, well-made and have a modern aesthetic that incorporates wood...yes, wood...as its primary material. They also have that big face that helps me know what time it is. The JORD team gave me the opportunity to review a watch and, I have to say, deciding on a particular design was tough!

JORD Sier Arcadia Watch

I loved the gold and rich blue contrast of the Sier Arcadia watch while the Cora in zebrawood and turquoise struck me, as well. Ultimately it was the minimalist elegance of the Frankie watch in sandalwood and emerald that got me.

About the JORD Frankie Watch

I wear the Frankie Watch like a boyfriend watch: big, oversized and loose. It’s a look I've always liked. The emerald green face set against the deep, rich sandalwood makes for an interesting contrast. It's absolutely large enough for a guy to sport, as well, but perfect for a woman who likes that substantial, chunky look.

Even with everything I'm wearing, notice how the JORD Frankie watch pops.

You might think a wood watch is heavy or bulky. That couldn't be further from the truth. I have some of those hefty gold and stainless watches (Yes - ones that starts with C and ends with "ier") and those are much heavier on the wrist. The Frankie watch, one of JORD's largest, is almost weightless.

The case itself is 45 millimeters at its widest point, or about the size of a silver dollar. It's 10.5 millimeter thick, again, delivering a sleekness you normally don't see in watches this size.

You can dress this watch up for an edgier night out or wear it to work as part of your daytime wardrobe. I wore it to the first day of FC Dallas training camp this year and it was perfect. The time itself is easy to read. Meaning, if we’re approaching the end of a training session and our coach needs to be somewhere for an interview, I know exactly where we stand with a quick glance to the face of my watch.

JORD watches are extremely affordable, ranging from $139 for the Fieldcrest to $600 for the limited edition Meridian Black Palm. The Frankie is a wallet-friendly $189 but, frankly, looks and feels much more expensive.

They're made in St. Louis MO, using a sophisticated selection of natural woods like acacia, bamboo and rosewood married with modern movements and components.

You can customize many of the watches to your preference by mixing a variety of faces and woods. You can also get the back of most JORD watches engraved for an even more personalized gift.

JORD always offers free shipping and no-hassle returns.

JORD for You!

Want more? I have you covered. I've partnered with JORD to help you win $100 off your JORD watch purchase. Everyone who enters with receive a 10% discount code but one lucky winner will receive a discount code for $100 off any JORD watch purchase.

Click HERE to enter to win $100 of your JORD watch purchase!

JORD Watch Contest Details:

The winner will receive a $100 gift code toward the purchase of any watch in the JORD watch collection.
The winner will be emailed in about a month (after the contest has concluded).
Anyone who enters will also be emailed a 10% off gift code.

The Takeaway
Whether you’re scheduled to the nanosecond like me or are simply looking for an elegant timepiece to add to your wardrobe, JORD Wood Watches are a great choice. The craftsmanship and enduring quality of well-made watch will never go out of style. JORD Wood Watches offer that classic watch aesthetic with the modern surprise of wood construction.

Watch provided for review purposes. Post produced in collaboration with JORD Wood Watches.

Wooden Wrist Watch

LIT Method's Low-Impact High Intensity Workout Review

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 02:50:00 +0000

This is all you need!

Have you ever suffered from decision fatigue trying to find an online workout to stream? The struggle is real. From pilates and PiYo to HIIT and BBG, there is an endless supply of choices.

That's a good thing...and a bad thing.

It's great in that you can, literally, do any workout anywhere in the world. It's a negative when you try to consider all the options you can choose from. You might be 15 minutes into an online workout before you realize it's too hard, not hard enough or a complete waste of your time.

My "gym" for this workout (AKA TV room)

I'm here to help. I love streaming workouts. Whether I'm at the gym and looking for a simple arm routine or need something more substantial when I'm looking to squeeze in exercise at home before work, I'm always on the prowl for effective, creative workouts to add my routine.

PRO HACK: If you find a workout you like on YouTube, create a "Workout" playlist. Refer back to these when you're short on time and don't want to spend time searching for something. Want to make it more organized? Simply create playlists for whatever you like: arms, legs, full-body, cardio, yoga, you get it. Here's my YouTube workout playlist.

LIT Method's Low-Impact High Intensity Workout - The Review

Popsugar usually gets it right. They use outstanding instructors to offer just about every type of workout on the planet on their YouTube channel. They're my first-choice for an online workout to stream. Curious - what is yours?

About two months ago, I received a YouTube notification indicating LIT Method's Low-Impact High Intensity workout was available. This immediately intrigued me, as I have been looking for something that doesn't hurt my creaky knees yet delivers a good burn.

Friends, this workout from LIT Method founders Justin and Taylor Norris is it. It combines low-impact cardio with toning exercises and body weight work that will have your muscles screaming and heart pumping. I also like it because it only requires some workout bands, a mat and foam roller. All pieces of equipment that are portable and easy to bring to work or with you on a trip.

I streamed this on a Monday night after work. Forty-five minutes later, I was spent.

The workout begins with a light cardio warmup. You can kick it up a notch but given the fact I ran the day prior this workout, I kept it low-impact.

The weighted portion of the workout features a body weight circuit that you perform twice which includes lunges, inchworm pushups, squats with boxing moves, etc. That portion plus the warmup is a full 25 minutes.

With about 20 minutes left, the band work begins. You can buy bands anywhere. I use Fit Simplify bands which come with a bag that is so compact it can fit in my makeup bag. The band work features more squats along with those slow-burning, fire hydrant leg lifts and another more of inchworm pushups....with bands. MUSCLES. ON. FIRE.

Browse Workout Bands

The final 10 minutes focuses on arms and abs. You won't build muscle using bands, it's all about toning. I didn't have the exact bands they use in the workout. It was fine. I modified my exercises and focused more on slow bicep curls and tricep extensions.

The final four minutes is all ab work - pretty common exercises you see at the gym.

The cool down is excellent because it incorporates a foam roller which has become one of the most important aspects of my workout. I have a plain white foam roller I use at home. I need to buy one of these. The latter is exponentially more effective.

RELATED: How to Use a Foam Roller

Browse Foam Rollers

LIT Method Low-Impact High Intensity Workout - The Verdict

My shoulders got the most work during this particular workout thanks to the pushups, shoulder taps and planks. I am writing this more than hour after I finished the workout and they're still burning. My legs also got a solid workout.

I highly recommend this routine. It is a great full-body workout that can be done anywhere. If you're looking for a low-impact that still offers the endorphin rush of a high-intensity workout, LIT Method's Low-Impact, High Intensity Workout absolutely delivers.

Have a workout you would like to see me review? Tweet me or message me on Facebook.

Ritz Carlton Herzliya Review

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 16:12:00 +0000

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.

Ritz Carlton Herzliya Location & Logistics

Israel's Ritz Carlton is actually located in Herzliya, an affluent suburb located about 10 miles north of Tel Aviv. The hotel sits atop the Herzliya mall and overlooks the beautiful Herzliya Marina.

My balcony overlokoing the marina!

In terms of "what to do" in Herzliya, I didn't go beyond Acadia Beach or the Marina. The homes, boats and views in the Marina were enough eye candy to keep me happy. The beach itself offered everything I needed. I was content staying in my little Herzliya bubble.

A condo complex in Herzliya Marina

The immediate surrounding area offers a modern mix of restaurants, bars and shops. From sushi and steak to bistro fare and casual mall eateries, you can find any cuisine to suite any palate.

RELATED: Tips for Women Who Travel Solo

Arrival & Check-In

I arrived at Israel's Ben Gurion airport after 11PM on a Friday. While trains don't run on Shabbat, getting a car or cab is no problem. I booked a car using the Gett app (Israel's version of Uber) and arrived at the Ritz Carlton close to 1AM.

Ritz Carlton Herzliya Lobby

The entrance to the hotel itself is grand but at that early morning hour, guests are welcomed at a secure, smaller entrance at the street level. A bellman and gentleman manning the street-level entrance greeted me and escorted me up a small elevator me to the reception area in the main lobby.

Can you tell I was exhausted? I'd been traveling for 17 hours!

At that hour no one was in the lobby but one front desk attendant who offered a warm, gracious welcome. When I checked in, she informed me I had her favorite room in the hotel. Who doesn't love hearing that! The check-in process was a breeze: I presented my credit card, passport and got my key. Simple as that.

The hallway leading into the lobby.

The Room

In a word: Wow.

She didn't undersell the room. Even approaching 2AM in the morning with no natural light to fill the space, I could tell it was special. The large, king suite was the size of a studio apartment and had a balcony that ran the entire length of the suite. It featured a guest bathroom, coat closet, small kitchenette and seating area. The bedroom offered a luxuriously appointed king-size bed with a dressing table and ample closet space with drawers in the closet itself.

Girls love a good bathroom and this one had everything you want in a swanky hotel WC: separate commode, large shower with overhead nozzle and spray nozzle, dual sinks and a soaking tub that invites you to stay for hours.

Beyond the beauty of the room, the welcome itself made me feel instantly at home. The hotel offered a beautiful fruit plate as well as a cheese plate to welcome me to Herzliya. An attendant even placed a sweet stuffed lion (the Ritz Carlton "mascot") on the bed. Sadly, this served as the only souvenir I brought back for my daughter. She loved it.

Not gonna lie, after traveling from Dallas to Miami to Paris and finally Tel Aviv, I was exhausted. I had a few grapes, unpacked and climbed into bed. It. Was. Heaven. The older I get the more I value sleep. This was the kind of sleep that any overworked parent dreams about: nine hours of uninterrupted REM sleep. #Heaven.

My balcony! 😃

Those skyscrapers? That's Tel Aviv!

I woke up feeling like a million bucks. Perhaps it was the view of Herzliya Marina and the Mediterranean Sea in the daylight or simply one of the best nights of sleep I'd had since....I don't know when....I was up and ready to go. And I was hungry.

The Food

For breakfast, I opted for the buffet at Herbert Samuel, which is considered one of the finest kosher restaurants in Israel. I didn't have any sense of what the restaurants in Herzliya Marina offered and, candidly, I wasn't up for getting dressed-up.

I went to the restaurant in workout clothes: leggings, flip flops and a jacket. I looked like a bedraggled American but didn't care. I was a bit underdressed as a number of families were coming from Shabbat services. Despite that, I never felt uncomfortable and enjoyed my table on the balcony which offered stunning views of the marina. Admittedly, I'm glad they put me on the balcony as most of the better-dressed families were inside in the main cafe.

The breakfast buffet was stunning, as well. It offered a typical Middle Eastern array of prepared salads, hummus, lox, breads, cereals, fruits and crudités. Shabbat excluded, a chef is available to prepare made-to-order omelettes, eggs, pancakes and waffles.

I enjoyed lox and baked salmon, roasted sweet potatoes, vegetable antipasti, fresh fruit and a chocolate pastry. I followed that up with more vegetables and dried fruit. It was fresh and filling! I found myself full through dinner.

The second of my ~~two~~, okay three courses.

The breakfast buffet was roughly $35, on par with most Ritz Carlton's breakfasts. While I don't typically splurge for a pricey breakfast, I was fine with it. Considering I was so full and didn't need lunch, it seemed like a bargain.

The breakfast buffet was so good, I went back again on Sunday. Why mess with a good thing?

The Gym

I enjoy working out while on vacation. For me, the ultimate luxury is the chance to focus on myself for an hour or so. The Ritz Carlton's gym isn't huge but it has everything you need: free weights, cardio equipment, a squat machine and yoga mats. It also offers towels, fruit, bottled water and hot tea.

Perhaps the best feature of their gym is a panoramic view looking north to Acadia Beach. I actually did a Periscope broadcast from the gym's balcony to showcase how beautiful the region is.

The view of Acadia Beach from the gym.

It's simply breathtaking. I'm talking about the type of views you take pictures of, blow up, frame and hang on your office walls to serve as inspiration. I couldn't get enough.

The Spa

Knowing I was heading for a stress-induced trip to Haifa, I booked a massage at the Ritz Carlton's spa. I needed it. I was traveling over Thanksgiving, away from my family and was preparing for a battle with my dad. He didn't want to enter an assisted living facility but needed to. No fun.

Entrance to the Ritz Carlton spa.

The spa offers a calm, intimate setting. Once you change into your robe, you're escorted into a co-ed lounge that features another stunning balcony overlooking Acadia Beach. The lounge offers hot tea, water, dried fruit and nuts for snacks.

My massage therapist was outstanding. I indicated that I had a wretched knot under my left scapular. She spent some time working on it while also providing a strong, deep-tissue massage. When she was done, I was a little loopy, something like after a massage. It hit the spot.

The ladies locker room.

The sun sets early in Herzliya, at 4:30PM on this particular day. I sat on the spa lounge's balcony for a good half hour after my massage, simply relaxing and reflecting. This was perhaps my favorite moment of my stay and it's a moment I've never had before in Israel. Most of my previous trips were rushed, hurried and chaotic. This experience lent itself to a gentle ease into a working trip that I was dreading.

Ironically, the rest of my time in Israel wasn't rushed or chaotic at all. It was calm and enjoyable. While it would be a bit ethereal to say that those few minutes of "me-time" set forth a cosmic domino effect that lasted my whole stay, I do think it set the tone. It put me in a place mentally that was accommodating, centered and open. Don't judge. I needed it.

Other Amenities: The Pool & More

There was so much I wanted to enjoy but didn't get the opportunity to try: the rooftop pool, the Rooftop Bar or a drink in the lobby. While the pool was open and an attendant was on duty, it was a tad chilly for a dip. No one was sunbathing or swimming in the pool. I did tour the pool area and, again, it was stunning. The views were postcard-esque.

Love this pool!

The rooftop bar also seemed to be closed for the season. If I was there during the summer, I guarantee the place would be packed.

While the lobby seemed pretty busy on the Saturday evening I stayed, I never had a glass of wine or snack.

The Final Details

Check out was swift and easy. No surprises or unexpected charges snuck up on me. The price is on par with other Ritz Carlton's. I paid $275 per night for my stay. With taxes and breakfast, I wound up paying $314.58 per night.*

I've paid comparable amounts for other hotels in Israel. I paid close to $500 per night for the King David in Jerusalem! 😳

Any time I've been asked about hotels in Israel, I've told friends to manage their expectations when it comes to Israeli hospitality. Typically, the level of service they experience in the states can be tough to find in Israel.

That's no longer the case. If you're looking for a first-class experience while visiting Israel, the Ritz Carlton delivers on every level.

I did not want to leave this view!

In my case, for this trip, it helped change my whole mindset on what a trip to Israel can be and what I hope it will be when I return with my family.

I adored this hotel and cannot recommend it enough. I've never wanted to go back to Israel after visiting the country but after this experience, I'm already looking forward to planning another trip.

But Wait There's More!

Curious about something I didn't cover here? Interested in another hotel review? Email me or Tweet me. I'd love to help you upgrade your travel game.

Want more? Never miss another post by subscribing to my blog. You'll get occasional emails with my latest travel and fitness insight plus exclusive offers created just for my newsletter.

*The first night of my two-night visit was provided by the hotel. I enjoyed the first night so much, I extended my stay for another night.

Louis Vuitton Twist Bag Review

noreply@blogger.com (Gina Miller) — Sun, 12 Nov 2017 17:12:00 +0000

Louis Vuitton's Epi Twist Leather bag is a multi-functional marvel. Thanks to its versatile chain, it can serve as three purses in one: a crossbody, shoulder bag and clutch.

Louis Vuitton offers the Epi Twist bag in three sizes: PM, MM and GM. It also comes in a crossbody wallet version. For the sake of this review, we're focusing solely on the purse.

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Louis Vuitton Twist Bag PM

The PM is the smallest size.: 7.1 x 5.1 x 3.5 inches (length, height & width).

Louis Vuitton Twist Epi Leather PM | Buy THIS Bag

The basic design comes in eight different colors and three different materials: epi leather, crocodile and lizard. Louis Vuitton's retail price for the "basic" model $3250 for an epi leather version. The crocodile version starts at $18,000 while the lizard version starts at $15,600.

Louis Vuitton Twist Bag MM

The MM is the medium size: 9.1 x 7.1 x 3.1 inches (length, height & width).

Louis Vuitton Twist Epi Leather MM | Buy THIS Bag

Similar to the PM size it currently comes in eight colors and three different finishes: epi leather and python. The retail price for this base model is $3550 while the python version retails for $7350.

Louis Vuitton Twist bag GM

The newest and largest size is GM: 11.8 x 9.4 x 4.3 inches (length, height & width). Louis Vuitton offers this only in the epi leather and in the colors beige and black.

Other Varieties

These are just the basic options. Louis Vuitton is constantly updating these bags with a variety of designs and finishes.

Louis Vuitton Twist Bag/Image Courtesy: LouisVuitton.com

As I said in the video, I think it's a timeless, versatile bag that will be a closet staple for years to come. What do you think? Love it? Hate? it? Please let me know in the comments below.

How to Score Louis Vuitton Bags for Less

The retail price of these bags is truly eye-popping. 😳 I rarely pay full retail for my bags, thanks to my love affair with designer consignment stores and websites that offer guaranteed authentic merchandise. Among my favorites are Fashionphile, The Real Real, Bag Borrow or Steal, Luxury Garage Sale, Trendlee and Vestiare Collective.

I am an obsessive online browser. The items for sale on these sites, many times, are more interesting than what it is in the stores because you can find vintage classics or interesting one-off items. It's like being a luxury fashion hunter.