OC Family Vintage Mama

My Brother Is In Jail

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 22:27:00 GMT

I debated on whether to post this or not. My emotions over all of this are still very raw and I'm not sure how my family will react to me sharing something so personal. Writing is very therapeutic for me so I hope you don't mind me sharing.

My brother's in jail. Right now, as I write this, my little brother is sitting in jail with 2 felony charges. He's only 20 years old. He has a court date later this month that will determine whether he stays or gets out. I've been terribly depressed about this. I've cried and cried and have been praying passionately for him. So how the heck did this happen? In my opinion, his dad failed him.

My mom remarried when I was 6 yrs old to an alcoholic. Both my mom and step-dad prayed for a son to add to our family of girls and in October 1989 their prayer was answered with J.

I don't remember J being an especially troublesome kid (wait, he once pee'd on my Barbies and liked to shove things up his nose). He was awfully curious though, often taking apart his toys to see how they worked. He also loved wearing his Superman costume with his cowboy boots. I once tickled him so much, he cried.

He was the only one of us kids to go to a Christian school. He was an average student, very athletic and had many Christian friends. He accepted the Lord as his Savior and was baptized at age 8. He even preached the Gospel to me when I was lost.

Growing up though, he was disciplined differently then us girls. Sometimes his dad was very, very stern with him, but most of the time he pretty much left J without direction. I remember coming home one day from school to find J eating his Flintstones vitamins as if they were candy. Of course I told my step-dad, but instead of taking them away and correcting him, he said he'd be okay.

On the other hand, my step-dad was very strict with us girls. It was a rare occasion that we were allowed to go out with friends or even more rare to have friends over. We were careful to be respectful and knew our place in the family.

But hey, we were teenagers too and we screwed up. If we were caught drinking, it was the first and the last time. J however not only drank in front of my parents, but his dad allowed J to go out knowing that he was going to be drinking!

Us girls had to ask for permission to go out on the weekend., J's dad allowed him to spend the weekend at his girlfriends house. THE WEEKEND!

The moment I was suspected of doing drugs I was in rehab for a month. J however was never even given a stern warning by his dad.

When I was hanging out with the wrong people I was quickly whisked away out of the county to get away from bad influences. J hung out with the wrong crowd and soon there were death threats against him. He was even asked to leave his private school in order to protect the other students, just in case they sought him out there. I think that called for being taken out of the country! But he wasn't.

My mom did the best she could parenting J(basically as a single parent with a dysfunctional, alcoholic spouse) and encouraged him to pursue a career in law enforcement. He did and things did get better for a while. He even went to a Police Cadet Boot Camp. We were all so proud of him. He signed up for the Marines and he was on his way to a career in the military like he always dreamed.

However, without the direction of his dad he started falling into bad habits again. Right before he had left for the Marines, he met a girl and soon after she was pregnant. The stress of becoming a father soon proved to be to much and he was discharged.

Since then it's all been a blur of partying, having another baby, disappearing, living on the street, stealing, lying, constant arguing, an addiction, warrants, violence, more death threats and now an arrest.

And where is his dad? Laying in bed with a beer, depressed that his son is in jail. Pathetic.

We live in a culture that often belittles and even stupefies dads and fatherhood. There's no doubt about it, J's life would have been very different if his dad had taken a more active roll and actually parented J.

I don't know what is going to happen to my brother. All I can do is pray and wait for the perfect Father in Heaven to intervene and for J to be accepting of His guidance. As for my step-dad, I hope this is a wake-up call for him as well.

Update: J was finally allowed some visitors and from what they tell me he is feeling more alone than ever. He is desperate to get out, but the "friends" he was counting on to bail him out seemed to have disappeared (duh!). He'll just have to wait for his court date...which happens to be his sons first birthday. I'm going this weekend to visit him. We'll see how that goes.

Visit Lydia on her blog TheVintageMama.com or stop by to chat on twitter and facebook.

Wish Tantrums Lasted Forever

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:14:00 GMT

I hear it all the time. I even catch myself saying it to new parents..."Enjoy them while they're young because the grow up so fast". After hearing it and saying it so much, it began to lose it's meaning. But last week I was reminded of how precious this time really is.

We took The Rascals to go see Toy Story 3. It was a particularly tough day as Froggy has been in a biting frenzy and Spanky was extra annoyed with everyone. But we made it to the theater all in one piece...only to wait in a line for the movie. Oh great! Let's see what whining, biting, dropping of food mess these boys will get into while we wait.

So I stood there, trying to eat my hot dog while dodging Froggy who was trying to grab the dog and was now screaming in frustration. Spanky was with dad eating the only wheat-free, semi nutritious thing they had in the menu, bon-bons, which were melting in his hands because he insisted on holding one in each hand. Alfalfa wasn't much drama except for his uncanny ability to spill or drop food...which he did...on his lap.

So as I sat there trying to compose myself so as not to get heartburn from the hot dog I just wolfed down, I see a mom and her 3 teenage boys sitting across the way from me. She looked relaxed as she chatted on her cell. She wasn't worrying about nap times, snack times, or chocolate oozing from thier hands and onto their shoes. She just sat and chatted.

The boys were just as calm. No shoving, biting, or throwing of toys at heads. They just sat, and whispered to eachother and....wait....did he just....yes he did!

He just checked out that girl!

Oh, no! So did the brothers!

And they did it again.

And again.

Then I realized that one day those boys would be my boys! My cute, cuddly boys who give me kisses and sing to me Twinkle, Twinkle and whose eyes light up when I give them ice cream and tell me "thank you mama!" when they're all done.

One day I won't be their number one girl.

Suddenly all the frustrations and annoyances from earlier that day just melted away. They may be loud, and whiny and difficult, but it's only for a little bit so I better enjoy them while they're young.

To kick it old school with Lydia visit TheVintageMama.com or chat it up with her on Twitter or Facebook.

Woohoo, It's My Song!

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 22:16:00 GMT

Have you ever heard a song that just makes you feel like it was written just for you? Perhaps it was a sad love song that strum your broken heart strings or a sweet melody that was already playing in your heart. Maybe it's a song that that just makes you so incredibly happy for no other reason then the beat that makes your head bob and your foot tap (and if your like me you'll bite you're lower lip too 'cause you are so feeling it).

Here are my top 10 songs that I swear were written just for me. If you want to hear them while you read, scroll down to the bottom:

Anything, Anything by Dramarama ~ From the first time I heard this song (I was probably 5 or so) I loved it. It is seriously inappropriate for a child to listen to, but I really didn't hear the words. I was more mesmerized by the ripping guitar and raw drums. This song demands to be blasted whenever I hear it, unless The Rascals are near in which case it gets turned down.
Everlong by Foo Fighters ~ When La Bamba and I were deciding on the song we would dance to for our wedding, this song was our first choice. This is our song. However in the end we decided to keep our song just that, our song. We wanted the emotions that this song stirred inside us to be just for us, and not the wedding. I included both the original and acoustic versions because both are so me and La Bamba. Our most favorite line is "breathe out, so I can breathe you in...hold you in". Makes me melt!
Say It Ain't So by Weezer ~ This song got me through some rough teenage times. I love how it starts so mellow and delicate, and then just explodes.Oh and how the guitar sings!
Dancing In Heaven by Q-Feel ~ If you've ever watched Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, then you know why this song rocks! When I hear this song I can't stop myself from twirling and dancing. I've been trying to convince Alfalfa to dance a routine with me, but he hasn't agreed yet. Think I'll ask Spanky because not only does he love to dance, but he doesn't get embarrassed easily. BTW, this song has the most ridiculous video. It almost ruined it for me...almost.
A Little Less Conversation by Elvis ~ If I were a country, this song would be my national anthem. This song is me in every single way. I just LOVE this song!
Baby, It's You by The Beatles ~ I first heard this song when I was in Kindergarten. Even before I knew what romance was, I felt it with this song. It's so simple yet so passionate. Excuse me...I'm getting misty-eyed...
Living On Video by Tans X~ This song reminds me of 3 things. One, cruising with my super cool aunt in her VW convertible when I was a little girl. Two, going out with my delicious hunk of man La Bamba. And 3 of the ridiculous dance I made up for this song called The Muppet Dance. No I'll not demonstrate.
Latinos by Proyecto Uno ~ Oh this song makes me wanna dance! Whenever my sister and I would be getting ready to go out in our single days, this song was usually playing in the background. I also have a priceless video of Alfalfa dancing to this song in his tighty-whiteys when he was 3 yrs old.
Cheek to Cheek by Fred Astaire ~ This song is so sweet and carefree. Makes put on my silky robe, a feather boa sway and click my heels. Ah, nostalgia...
Amazing Grace ~ This song, particularly when done in bag pipes, stirs something very deep in my soul. I'm just so weak and surrendered when I hear it. I also sing this to my Rascals as their lullaby. Could be the most beautiful song my heart will ever feel.

Surprised by my list? What songs would you swear were written just for you?

Don't forget to enter my giveaway! The winner of the $25 gift certificate to Adore Vintage will be announced Thursday July 22nd.

Vintage Crafting in Fullerton

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 09:44:00 GMT

Hello again! On yesterdays post I shared with you a bit about the place I call home, Fullerton, and what a lovely vintage place it is to be.Today I want to show you one of the many boutiques in Fullerton that specializes in vintage jewelry, crafting, art supplies. Wow...even that description doesn't really begin to describe the awesomeness of this shop. How about we take a commercial break so I can gather my thoughts...

More awesome than words right? In fact Nancy Jamar, the owner of this wonderful store, and I discussed how silly and utterly wonderful something as simple as an old, rusty, Victorian button can make us feel. Well it may be silly to the rest of the world (and to my hubby whom I now call La Bamba), but it is the thread that binds lovers of nostalgia everywhere!

So if your into that whole silly nostalgia thing, then you'll be as giddy as a school boy when you walk into Gilding The Lily!

Nearly everything you see, from the Victorian brass buttons to the out of print paper, are antiques. And those items that are not antiques are carefully crafted reproductions, such as Gilding The Lily's very own line on cast iron replicas and Swarovski rosary chains.

Nancy also has one of the largest collections of authentic Miriam Haskell pearls! I admit I had to be schooled on why Miriam Haskell pearls are such a big to-do. Well I read up on Miriam Haskell jewelry and all I have to say is "hotcha!". I want some pearls too!

Gilding The Lily has many local artists that purchase their supplies from there. Even Disney costume designers come by to shop the hard-to-find treasures. Yes this shop is truly unique and charming, which is probably why is was featured in Romantic Homes Magazine.

Gilding The Lily also hosts several classes and workshops throughout the month, so if your like me feeling overwhelmed by the vintage inspiration, a class might be just the thing.

You can find out about the next class on their class blog GildingTheLilyClasses and more about the shop at GildingTheLilyVintage.

Experience the vintage euphoria by visiting the shop at:

305 N. Harbor Blvd. suite101

Fullerton, 92832

714-680-8893

GildingTheLilyVintage@yahoo.com

Can't shop in person? You can also find many of Nancy's treasures online @ VintageDesignResource.com

Toodle-loo!

For more from Lydia "Vintage Mama" Poblano, visit VintageBeautyBlog or follow her tweets here.

The Perfect Pin Up Red

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 22:30:00 GMT

Hey dolls! Sorry for the late Saturday post. I got caught up working on a project I have for you ladies and then it took me forever to edit the video (which is long over due). But anyway, here's my first talkie!

Can you tell I love this lip color? In real life it is more of a bright, cherry red with blue under tones. Because it has those blue undertones a wider range of skin colors can wear it and look awesome. You can purchase the Nouba Millebaci Long Lasting Lip Color on Amazon (affiliate link) which just happens to sold by my former employer BeautyEncounter.

So I hope you enjoyed my video. Honestly it took me forever because I get so tongue tied (well, that and my rascals are usually too noisy in the background), but I hope to make more very soon.

Have a lovely weekend!

The Evolution Of The Tantrum

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 22:50:00 GMT

Seems that my baby has been learning a thing or two from his older brothers. I just wish I had captured the wail...no, shriek, that came out of this sweet baby boy.

My ears nearly bled.

Oh well, next time.

There's always a next time.

For more from Lydia "Vintage Mama" Poblano visit VintageBeautyBlog and TheVintageMama.

Are Home Facials As Effective As Professional Ones?

Mon, 31 May 2010 10:05:00 GMT

Despite what you have read on eHow, you will not get the same results from home facials as you would professional ones. I'm really sorry to bust this myth (okay maybe I'm not) but somebody has tell he truth around here. Here are the reasons why you won't get the same result at home:

We use professional stuff. Many times the products we use are made available only to professionals, so you probably won't be able to get your hands on it. If you did manage to get your hands on some professional-only use stuff you won't know how to safely use it (see number 2)
We know how and when to use it. I know this isn't rocket science, but it is science. Some products can do some serious damage used incorrectly. I remember one customer at the boutique who was desperate to find a heavy duty moisturizer for her parched skin. When I asked her more questions (so I could recommend the right product) she admitted that she had given herself a chemical peel (yikes!). She wanted to save a few bucks so she bought it online. What she didn't know was that the peel she used is a doctor-use-only product that burned the top layer of her skin. Please don't try this at home honey.
We know skin. You may know if your skin is blemish prone, sensitive, or oily, but what you don't know can make all the difference when it comes to facials. For example, often times I would have clients complain that their was dry because they saw flakiness, however I knew that the flakiness was actually layers of dead skin peeling off. Different condition=different treatment.
We have gadgets. Oh yes we have gadgets galore! Ozone steamers, radio frequency, micro-current, galvanic, microderm, oxygen...the list goes on and on. Unless your willing to invest $1000 or 2 and the time to learn how to use this wonderful gadgets, you won't get the same results at home.
We have the magic touch. This is the number one thing that really makes the difference in my opinion. Massage has a profound effect on the overall condition and health of the skin. Although you can give yourself a wonderful facial massage ( I do them on myself all the time) there is something otherworldly that happens when you can completely let yourself go and enjoy the bliss that comes from a luxurious facial massage. Your skin gets rosy, plump and absolutely fabulous.

So does that mean that home facials are pointless? Absolutely not! Home facials are essential to healthy glamorous skin. If you get professional facials, they help to maintain and continue your results. And if you don't do professional treatments, then home facials are are going to be your backbone to your skin care regiment.

Do you treat yourself to some lovely home facials? Tell me more!

Retro Safety Tips For Kids, Right On!

Sat, 22 May 2010 15:07:00 GMT

Lately my Froggy has been waking me up at the unholy hour of 6am (doesn't he realize mama needs all the beauty rest she can get?), but it was actually a very good thing that he did otherwise I would have never found the special presentation on TV featuring Retro Bill.

Retro Bill is a spokesperson, adviser, presenter, advocate and all around great guy that gives kids tools and info on how to stay safe. Sadly it's been shown that the original DARE videos and program that we all saw as kids are pretty ineffective, (I think it even made me more curious to tell you the truth), but Retro Bills videos on drugs are very well done!

In fact Alfalfa and I used the show that I recorded on the TV as part of our studies this week. It opened up tons of conversation between us and answered tons of questions he didn't even realize he had.

Retro Bill has many more great videos like "What to do if your home alone and someone comes to the door" and "What kind of touching is okay?" Check out a few of his uploads on youtube:

Cool, huh?You can purchase the complete dvd series and even an autographed photo on his website for very reasonable price. *Right on!*

"Like" Retro Bill on facebook and follow his tweets to connect and learn more about this great guy!

For more retro fun check out my other blogs VintageBeautyBlog.com and TheVintageMama.com

Wiggle It, Just A Little Bit

Wed, 19 May 2010 09:35:00 GMT

My family called me a wiggle tail because I was a little skinny, wiry kid full of energy ~Diana Ross

{Buxom Perfume Oil by WigglePerfume}

You wiggle to the left, you wiggle to the right, you do the Ooby Dooby with all your might ~Roy Orbison

{Jelly Mold Pocket Mirror by McYarnpants}

The Sun in London ran a front page declaring my bum a national treasure. I really did laugh at that. Its not like it can actually do anything, except wiggle ~ Kylie Minogue

{Wiggle Dress by UnforgettableYou}

Life is not a struggle. It's a wiggle ~ Peter McWilliams

{Wiggle Butt Pet Tag by Poochy Couture}

To 'shake one's booty' means to 'wiggle one's butt', allow me to demonstrate ~Homer Simpson

Now go out and wiggle it!

Eyes Tea For Puffy Eyes {Blissful Saturdays}

Sat, 15 May 2010 10:05:00 GMT

Welcome to the very first Blissful Saturday. Blissful Saturday will feature a post about little things that you can do at home to treat yourself to some blissful beauty. The inspiration?

You know you can take the girl out of the spa but you just can't take the spa out of the girl! Especially when it's the spa at the Four Seasons in Paris! One day, one day...

So this weeks Blissful Saturday is all about the eyes. Lets face it, puffy eyes are ugly. The two super easy ways that I would de-puff my clients eyes during a facial were using chamomile tea bags and chilled eye pillow.

Chamomile tea works just as well as eye gels when it comes to relieving swollen lids. To use simply soak two organic chamomile tea bags in warm water for 2 minutes. Gently squeeze a bit of the excess water and set aside or place them in the fridge for for 10 minutes to cool . Then place the moist, cool tea bags over your eyes, sit back and enjoy the bliss for at least 10 minutes.

Another way you can de-puff your eyes is with a cold eye pillow. Some are filled with flax seed, others with a mixture of herbs. Mine is filled with lavender which I keep in the freezer so it's always ready to use. Just place it over your eyes and viola! Instant bliss. I like to sleep with mine on (especially on hot summer nights) so I can wake up feeling refreshed and de-puffed...

er, de-poufed?

Whatever! My eyes are bright and happy!

Have a great weekend dolls!

For more from Vintage Mama visit VintageBeautyBlog or TheVintageMama.

Barnyard Birthday Party Scrapbook

Sat, 08 May 2010 16:56:00 GMT

Last week my Hunny and I were invited to the cutest little barnyard party you ever did see. With barnyard balloon animals, giant pig pinatas, a petting zoo and pony to ride on, this party was a blast! Check it out...

Thank you Brenda and Nick for inviting us to your awesome party! Happy Birthday Giuliana!

Like my scrapbook? Visit Smilebox.com to get yours free!

For more from Vintage Mama visit VintageBeautyBlog.com or TheVintageMama.com

The Forbidden White House

Wed, 05 May 2010 01:06:00 GMT

The weather has been pretty wacky here lately, but luckily the weather was warm enough to take the rascals (who are suffering from a cold, poor babies) out for a stroll today. And what luck it was. Instead of returning home on our usual route, we took a detour and almost missed the treasure.

Hidden by 6 foot tall shrubs peeked the roof of a gorgeous white house. I leaped to get a better look, but all I saw was a quick glance of the second floor. I lifted Alfalfa, he got a better look, and he was awe struck.

Suddenly a handyman came out from the gate (which was completely covered as well so no hope in peeking through there), he smiled at us and said, "You know, that house is alive."

Huh? Is he gonna freak us out with some crazy haunted house story?

"Is that so?" is all I managed to say as I was hoping with all my might he wouldn't say anything about ghosts or spirits.

"Oh yeah! You can't remodel Victorian homes, just restore them. They're alive!"

Okay he's cool.

"They certainly are. Is that what your doing now? Restoring?"

"Yup! Oh that house is simply gorgeous!"

Thanks for rubbing in the fact that I can only see the roof top buddy!

So he then shares that a 96 year old woman lives there and her bedroom is the exact bedroom she was born in! How cool is that?! Unfortunately she recently suffered a bad fall and she is trying to recover. My heart strings were tugged and I asked if she's lonely and would like some company every once in a while, however he assured me that her very large Italian family takes very good care of her.

So I'm on a mission. Well two actually. One, I must have a better look at that house (You know when you tell your rascals that they can't do something then it compels them to do just that? Yeah, it's like that.) And two, I would LOVE to interview this legend and find out all I can about her life. I'm gonna work on that and get back to you on my progress.

To find out more about this house and its history visit the City of Fullerton.

To read more from Vintage Mama please visit her blogs VintageBeautyBlog and TheVintageMama.

Davy Jones Still Rocks!

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:50:00 GMT

Some teen crushes just never die. One of my dear mamas crushes is Davy Jones from the Monkees (Davy?! Ohhhh!). Every time I mention this crush, my mama gets all rosy and flustered. It's so cute! As a kid I would even tease my mama that Davy was my real daddy. So in honor of my mamas birthday today, I present to you my Rock This Look ensemble inspired by "I'm a believer".

This song is just so happy and cheery, just like my mama. I imagine my mama going on a picnic , meeting her Davy Jones, who then feels so inspired that the band serenades her with this song...

Baskets & Boxes by Bed Bath & Beyond Wedges by Miss Me

I put this song for 2 very simple reasons. One...my mamas name is Maria and this song is called "Mary, Mary". And two, I just love how hard Davey is working those maracas! It take a lot of coordination you know!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA!

If you would like learn more about my glamorous mama, check out this previous post. If you would like to wish my mama a happy birthday and perhaps get your AVON shopping on, please visit her online store.

For more from Vintage Mama visit her blogs @ VintageBeautyBlog and TheVintageMama.

Kissing Nursing Goodbye

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 00:24:00 GMT

I never really gave self-weaning much thought. I never knew anyone who it had happened to, nor did it happen with my first 2 sons. Oh I'm sure it happens quite frequently, a quick search on Google confirms it. But I was absolutely certain that it would not happen with my Baby Bear. But last week when I snuggled into bed with him for a nice long feeding, he refused.

Baby Bear and I had troubles with breastfeeding almost since the very start. He was born 4 weeks early (borderline premature), but showed he was quite a rigorous eater when I nursed him a few minutes after his birth.

His rigor however began to decline (as it does with most sleepy newborns) and I had to supplement him to prevent my little 5lb baby from losing anymore weight. Thankfully, he began to gain more strength and my milk came in so that by day 5 I was breastfeeding him exclusively.

A few weeks later, Baby Bear began to show signs of colic. Normally nursing would help to calm a baby down, but for Baby Bear it just added to his woes. It turns out that my let down was so forceful that it would choke Baby Bear and cause him to swallow a lot of air. As a result, he would only drink fore milk (which has a laxative effect) and a bunch of air. So when I thought I was soothing him, all I gave him was a crampy, gassy tummy.

The lactation nurse helped me to find the best way to feed Baby Bear (block feeding) and soon we were on our way to a happy nursing experience...or so I thought.

Although Baby Bear was able to finally nurse without getting a tummy-ache, we still had our troubles. He was easily distracted and it was exhausting trying to keep him focused on nursing ( my nosy toddler didn't help either).

In fact was so exhausting that I had even made a few attempts to wean him by giving him a bottle and cup. He of course refused it wholeheartedly. So I made peace with the fact that my very clingy and fussy baby was going to nurse well past his first year.

Then last Monday the unthinkable happened...he pushed me away.

Hmmm, maybe he heard Jack-the-Bear and got distracted.

I tried again. Still pushed me away and arched his back. I left it alone thinking that I would try again later. I finally did get him to nurse when he was still groggy from his nap. Good, we can put this nonsense behind us.

But he did it again as I went to nurse him for bedtime.

My heart broke. I knew it was something serious now.I cried thinking that I had done something wrong. Perhaps he felt my exhaustion and frustration, but most likely it was his gums that had been swollen and irritated for weeks that made him wean early. Either way, my heart ached.

The next day I managed to convince him to nurse one last time. I knew it was going to be the last as he was now getting upset every time I brought him close to my bare breast.

I snuggled him closely.

I sang to him sweet lullabies the entire time.

I gave him lots of kisses and caresses.

And then he was finished.

You can read more from Vintage Mama on her blogs VintageBeautyBlog and TheVintageMama.

My Glam Spa Day @ Pelican Hill Resort

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 21:21:00 GMT

One of the many perks of being a contributing blogger to an award winning publication is being invited to experience some of Orange County's best spa's. This time around I was invited to the super posh spa (and baby, I mean posh) atThe Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast.I immediately knew this spa was going to incredible. Not just because of the amazing ocean view as I drove up; not because of the valet guy who didn't bat an eye as he drove my Sentra past the row of Benzes and Porches, and not because of the amazing Italian inspired architecture. The reason I knew this spa experience was going to be incredible was because of the warmth and passion of it's staff.As soon as I walked in I had two lovely ladies at the front desk greet me and fill me in on my treatment (I still didn't know exactly what I was being treated to) then I had the sweetest concierge give me a tour of the spa. Seriously she was so sweet! She talked all gentle and spa like, had a shy little smile and would do just about anything to make sure your spa experience was amazing. Oh yes, mama gonna like this place indeed!

Right before I had my treatment I met with the Kasia Mays, the Director of Spa Development. Being a spa-enthusiast, I was anxious to hear what her vision was for this newly renovated spa. I was completely impressed. What she wanted the spa to be known for was the talent of her therapists and service of her staff. What a beautiful thing!So the treatment I experienced was their Amber Gold Signature Massage with the very talented Aimee Phillips (whom I highly, highly recommend!). She had this lovely display on the bed of all the goodies she was going to use and explained (in an oh-so-soothing-spa-voice) the treatment to me as well.

If you've ever had a massage, then you know that feeling of "its over already?". Don't they always end too soon? Well this massage seemed to last forever and I was so thoroughly satisfied that I didn't have that feeling. Here I am right after my massage. Glamorous, no?

Here are some more pictures of my glam spa day at Pelican Hill.

The Lounge with my dried fruit, nuts, their signature tea and Ms. Crawford.

Relaxing in the roman style whirlpool with a lavender and rose geranium scented towel.

The boutique.

The worlds largest circular pool with views of the golf course and Pacific Ocean.

Needless to say I will be visiting this spa again soon. I'm already making plans for a getaway with my Hunny (of which they have special 3 day packages) and possibly a girls spa day (with daycare on site!).

So what do you think?
Are up to a glam spa day at Pelican Hill?

How To Get Million Dollar Legs Like Betty Grable

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:05:00 GMT

I found a high school picture of myself recently. I love this photo for many reasons, but the one that jumps out at me are my legs. Oh, how I love my teen legs! Just the right amount of jiggle, minimal cellulite, no spider veins...

{This is a photo of me about 16 years old. My sister and I were playing "photoshoot" where we spend the whole day dressing up and taking pictures of eachother...that reminds me, we're over due for another shoot!}

Perhaps they're not worthy enough of a million dollar insurance policy like Betty Grable's legs (which, by the way, was a publicity stunt), but not too shabby, huh?

Of course as a teen, you usually doesn't have to work so hard at keeping your legs curvy and fab, but as a grown, glamorous woman, well, we need to work hard! So I've put together a how-to list to help us gals get some luscious legs that Betty herself would be proud to prance on!

Before we get started, let's remember dolls that fabulous legs come in all sizes. Great legs can be thick, curvy, strong, short or jiggly. Take a look at these legs here, here and here. All very different, yet amazingly lovely!

ExerciseBetty-cise~

Yes it's a word I just made up (perhaps I should trademark it?). Exercise just sounds so ugly. You get all sweaty, out of breath, you wear ugly track suites...however with betty-cise your skin is rosy and glistens, you breathe in deeply, you wear something adorable that you can move around in, and best of all, you look totally betty! So here are my betty-cise picks to get million dollar legs!

Ballet:

Pilates:

Just dance!:

Skincare for legs:Smooth - Oh, how I love a good scrub! Luckily the skin on our legs is a bit thicker so it can with stand the abrasiveness of sugar and salt scrubs. You can also try Japanese dry brushing instead (either before or after you shower and scrub) to get legs smooth and dewy.

Hydrate - Million dollar legs deserve more than your average drugstore lotion. They need a luxurious hydration that rivals your best firming night cream. I love Longue Vie Corps by Guinot and Firming Body Cream by L'Occitane.

Glisten - Sometimes you just need that extra something that leaves your skin feeling like velvet and glistening like satin. Try Japanese Camellia Oil by Elemis or for extra glam use Huile Prodigieuse by Nuxe with real gold glimmer!

Professional Treatments:

Mesotherapy - Uses tiny injections to minimize appearance of cellulite and strengthen skin. See this video for more info about this amazing treatment.Massage - Also used for minimizing the appearance of cellulite and for stimulating circulation to the legs. I just started a series of massage treatments with my aunt who is a massage therapist and after 3 treatments I can already feel my skin firmer!

Body Countering - Uses specialized machines to reduce the appearance of cellulite and also reshape your legs and derriere. Try Endermologie or Velasmooth, both of which are FDA approved. BTW, my sister tried Velasmooth and had wonderful results!

Spider and Varicose Vein Treatments - Thankfully there are many treatments options to get rid of these little buggers. Read more about them here.

Other Tips and Tricks:Compression Stockings - These are like regular stockings except they firmly, but gently, compress around the ankle to improve circulation. Companies are making these is fab styles and they are so finely woven that they look like fine silk stockings. These are definitely a must for healthy, glamorous legs! (BTW, I suffer from terrible edema when I'm pregnant, but compression stockings prevented any swelling on my legs)Classic Stockings - They make any legs look like a million dollars! Treat yourself to some nostalgic Bettie Page hosiery from Secrets In Lace or some fishnets from Hips and Curves.

Heels - The number one way to make your legs look incredible.

So there you have it ladies! Everything you need to get your own pair of million dollar legs just in time for Spring, Summer and beyond.

Have I missed something? Got another fab tip to make your legs look extra glam? Please share it in the comments below!

For more from Vintage Mama visit VintageBeautyBlog or TheVintageMama.

Neil Diamond's Got The Way To Move Me, Cherry!

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 21:44:00 GMT

I was folding laundry this lovely spring morning, rocking to Neil Diamond's "Cherry, Cherry ", when I thought to myself "could this be any more perfect?". But of course it did get better when my Hunny surprised me with a fresh bouquet of flowers from the farmers market. Oh how I love fresh laundry, spring, fresh flowers and Neil Diamond serenading me with cherries!
Here are some more cherry lovelies to put a little extra "spring" in your step.

Cold Cream: Modern and Cult Classics

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 22:54:00 GMT

Being a vintage beauty lover (and I know you are honey!), you're probably familiar with cold cream. But what exactly does cold cream do and why is it so awesome? How do you use it? Should you be using cold cream? What vintage brands are cult classics? Which modern-day cold creams are a must try?

What is cold cream?Cold cream is an oil-based cleanser/ moisturizer. Think face cream meets massage oil.

Why is is so awesome?

It dissolves makeup in a jiffy ~ The oil encapsulates oil-based makeup lifting up, off the skin so that it easily wipes away.
Leaves skin moisturized ~ Because it leaves a thin film of oil on your skin, there's (usually) no need to follow up with a separate moisturizer.
Protects skin ~ Again, because it leaves a thin film behind, cold cream acts like a buffer to skin with a compromised barrier because of rosacea, chemical peels or the use of retinols.
It's versatile ~ It's a facial cleanser, eye makeup remover, moisturizing mask and heavy cream all in one!
It's oh so retro! ~ Need I explain?

How do you use it?Apply generously to dry skin, let it sit for a minute or two, then wipe off with tissue or warm, moist clothes. These disposable esthetic wipes are my favorite to use in facials, however these reusable compressed facial sponges are perfect for moist removal of cold cream.

Should you be using it? Yes! Almost every skin type will love cold cream!

Aha! You said "almost every skin type"! Persons with active pustular or cystic acne may not benefit from using cold cream as much. However, many times acne treatments involve heavy exfoliation that may leave your skim feel raw, so a cold cream mask will help relieve that uncomfortable feeling.The jury is still out on whether mineral oil clogs pores. In my opinion it greatly depends on the level of refinement of the oil (impurities in mineral oil can cause clogged pores) and your individual skin reaction. If you have a tendency for clogged pores and/or an aversion to mineral oil, there are plenty of plant based cold creams that may suite you better. See below

The Cult Classics:

Nivea Creme ~ Only the original in the blue tin imported from Germany

Boots Original Beauty Formula Cold Cream

Jergens All-Purpose Face Cream ~ My Grandma's favorite!

Pond's The Caring Classic Dry Skin Cream

Bigelow Rose Wonder Cold Cream

The Modern-Must-Try:

Dermalogica's PreCleanse

Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Crème

Guinot Hydra Tendre Soft Wash-Off Cleansing Cream

Trilogy Cream Cleanser

L'Occitane Almond Apple Cleansing Oil

Cataphracts's Handmade Cold Cream

Ready to try some nostalgic cleansing love with cold cream or cleansing oil? Or perhaps your already a believer in using cold cream. Tell me why you love it in the comments below!

For more from Vintage Mama visit VintageBeautyBlog and TheVintageMama.

Cocktails Anyone?

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:53:00 GMT

My sister is going to be moving into a house this weekend after 7 years in an apartment and of course the first thing on our minds was Cocktail Housewarming Party!I love housewarming parties!

I still remember the housewarming we had as a kid when we moved into our Hawaiian house (I'll have to post pics of my childhood home. Everything, and I mean everything, was Hawaiian in that house!). There was swimming, shish-kabobs, a giant roasted pig with an apple in it's mouth, and Astrud Gilberto. Oh yes, a party was never complete without Ms. Gilberto playing on the stereo. My sister and I made fun of the music then, but now that we're all grownz up we realize that a house party really isn't complete without Astrud!

In fact Astrud is great to listen to as your getting ready for a Cocktail party as well! Check out this clip from one of my favorite movies , Down with Love , showing "Barbara" rocking to Astrud as she gets all dolled up for "Zip".

Ah, I LOVE this clip! I'm not sure about you, but you see all that prancing around that Barbara does? I totally do that!Okay so now that I'm all in a cocktail party sort of mood perhaps I need to put together a little outfit, yes? Stay tuned for tomorrows Rock This Look post where I put together a look inspired by Astrud and cocktails!

Change Your Eyeliner, Change Your Life

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 01:52:00 GMT

Exaggeration? I think not. Changing something as simple as your eyeliner can make you feel fresh and glam. Try these combos to breathe new life into your eye makeup:

If you have brown eyes, use navy
If you have green eyes, use wine
If you have blue eyes, try gray
If you normally wear liquid or cake liner, try a cream or smudge pencil
If you normally wear pencil, try liquid or cake
If your feeling extra glam try a shimmering eye liner.

Problem Solved.

Have a beauty dilemma? Ask Vintage Mama @ VintageBeautyBlog.com