October 2016 - Pura Vida Sometimes

How Small Men Inspire Nasty Women

October 30, 2016 No Comments

There’s been a lot of buzz in the media lately about nasty women. It’s something I’ve spent at least two decades practicing, refining, and perfecting, in spite (and because) of lesser humans’ best efforts to keep me in my place. Being strong and true to yourself gives peace of mind, so if you’ll allow me, here are some tips on how to be a really nasty woman: Know thy enemy: Albert Einstein affirmed that “great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds.” Similarly, nasty women will always be judged by small men, and also embraced by the great ones. […]

global gleanings, travel, Trusted Traveler

Skip the Lines and Become a Trusted Traveler

October 26, 2016 No Comments

Travel used to be easy. Lines were short, and the process was uncomplicated. In fact, I lived close to a small airport and could roll in with my carry-on a half hour before takeoff and be fine. No longer. Recently, security lines at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix have been getting me down. But my last international trip sealed the deal for me – it was time to become a trusted traveler. If you’re traveling anywhere, and especially internationally, it behooves you to become a trusted traveler. Luckily, in four relatively easy and definitely worth-it steps, I gained a […]

birthday, family, letter to my daughter

Letter to My Daughter: I Give You the Best of Me

October 20, 2016 No Comments

Letter to My Daughter - Best of Me - Pura Vida Sometimes

Sweet Warrior Princess: Today is your day. Okay, all 365 and 1/4 days of the year are yours, to be sure, but this one you get presents and cake. When you were born, three years ago today, I committed to write you a letter within the week…but I was tired and way too cozy with the warmth of you asleep on my chest and it never happened. Every year, the week of your birthday, I have the same intention – but I get busy, and more tired, and somewhere along the way, thoughtfulness and creativity are sacrificed. My letters to […]

Career

The Best Life Lessons from Great Leaders

October 16, 2016 No Comments

When I first started my career, I was ready to conquer the world and was sure I already had all the resources I needed to do so. I applied for jobs that were much bigger than me and I had grandiose dreams. I still have the dreams, but now have a better grasp on what it will take to accomplish them and of my place in the workforce. But when it comes down to it, when you’re first starting out, there’s a great reason that there’s a level playing field…at the bottom. In your early 20s, as much as you may […]

beauty

4 Eyes, 5 Nerd-fabulous Frames

October 11, 2016 No Comments

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase after clicking on them, I will receive a small commission. I’m still resisting wearing glasses – I own them, and always drive at night with them, but I don’t want to commit in perpetuity. That said, I’ve been noticing that I blink, squint, and scoot closer when I don’t wear them, so it may be time to bite the bullet. Twist my arm – I went shopping. I’ve had luck at Target Optical and most recently at Costco Optical, but I wanted some frames that were a little funkier […]

travel

Create a Moment: Spa on the Road

October 10, 2016 No Comments

If you’re single and your time is all your own, enjoy it. For the rest of us, we have to take full advantage of the intermittent and fleeting moments of respite to self-indulge. Business trips, for me, are long days of hard work and evenings in the home-away-from-home spa. Seize the opportunity to create a relaxing experience when and where you can. When I travel, I’m most often in 4- and 5-star hotels, far nicer than anything I’d be able to afford on my own. And although I’m working 10 to 12 hour days talking to people and wishing I […]