Dealing with Delays

Dealing with delays

So this week I have had every flight delayed or cancelled. I have rearranged my schedule and childcare and I am now wondering if I will get home tonight at all. So what’s a busy mom to do in delays? Well here are a few of my tips for making the most of the winter travel woes.

1. Get caught up on correspondence. With all the extra time, take advantage of the free airport wifi (if you are fortunate to be sitting in one of those airports) and catch up on all the emails that go unanswered. The vendor emails saying hello. The opportunity to thank your friends and colleagues for the little things that may go unnoticed. Use this time as an opportunity to notice those around you and be thankful.

 

Dealing with Delays2. Read more. I always want to read a little more but I give my self the excuse that I am too busy. Well, now is the perfect opportunity to stand in a bookshop and read an HBR article, catch up on the latest blog from Fast Company or enrich your mind with a recommended book. And, the great thing about airports, they all have bookstores to help you pick up some knowledge the old fashioned way. There is something special about the feel of a new paperback that gives you the sense that you are holding the power of a story. Use this time to become a better storyteller. Read, listen and learn.

 

3. Relax. While everyone is stressing about how they will get from point A to point B, take the time to notice that worrying about the situation won’t help you get home faster or make that meeting. The weather is God’s way of helping us realize that we are not in control so strop trying to be. I know that no matter what time I finally make it in tonight, I will still get to hold my Maggie tight and give my husband a kiss. This realization is really what matters in the world. So grab a glass of wine at the local restaurant, pick up that paperback and relax while waiting for your flight to board.

journal

document travel

Probably one the best gifts I have ever received. This is from my friend Monique (who knows me pretty well after working together for over 8 years). Combining my love of Moleskins and travel – it’s a perfect marriage.

The Moleskin Travel box contains luggage tags (designed as moleskin journal covers) and a beautiful travel journal to document trips in style. I will most definitely use this for my upcoming Hawaii adventure. What has been one of your favorite travel-inspired gifts?

And to my bff Monique: thank you for your friendship and thoughtfulness.

awaysassets_shoes

comfy shoes = comfy travel

Airport security can be a breeze if you are wearing the right shoes. Here are a few of my favorite pics – from comfy to chic – the ballet flats are on my wish list!

1. Aquatalia by Marvin K. – a splurge but these would fit in great on an urban getaway.
2. Sanuk Vagabond Chill – it’s a sandal that looks like a shoe. I love how comfortable this brand is – I bought a pair in Hawaii and I am hooked.
3. Crocband Flat – I am not a huge fan of crocs normally – but these cute flats have broken outside of the “croc” stereotype. I bought a pair for a trip to Europe and loved how light, comfy and easy to clean they were. These are great for the beach or outdoors.
4. Me Too Kaden Flat – If I have a long business day ahead (flight- meeting – return flight – drive home) – I will opt for the comfy classy flats.
5. Yosi Samra Samara Fold Up Ballet Flat – These cute flats are compact enough to fold up in your purse. These are on my wishlist – so I can wear my heals to the meeting but make it through the airport in a flash thanks to fold up flats. I have also heard rave reviews about how comfy these are.

Do you have a go-to shoe for travel?

posts_photoapps

up up photo tips: app edition

Last year before traveling to Spain I decided to upgrade my iphone 3GS to the iphone 4 for the sole purpose of the camera. I found the best souvenir I can have is to document my memories. The addition of some great photo apps allowed for me to travel light: carrying my iphone and an SLR (as apposed to my normal packing of a digital camera, cellphone, SLR, holga and camcorder). Continue reading…

posts_yelp

an app for appetites

Yelp offers user generated reviews (and although it extends beyond restaurants) it provides an invaluable resource for finding the great local joint while on vacation. You can look up restaurants based on price point, location and genre. So far, some of my greatest foodie finds have been through this app. The key to ensuring a quality selection is to have at least a 3.5 – 4 star rating with more than 10 reviews (the more reviews the better) and make sure to check out the quick tips for go to menu items. Continue reading…