Morpheus8- The Powerhouse of Skin Remodeling

After the birth of my second child, I was feeling quite run down and tired looking. One day during naptime I went on an online search for something I could do to refresh my tired eyes and my “tech neck”. I kept seeing celebrity endorsements, great reviews, and stunning before and afters of Morpheus8.

Tightening Titan:

Morpheus8 is not a laser but a medical esthetic device that employs microneedling and radiofrequency. Microneedling is just as it sounds: tiny tiny needles are used to create “micro” traumas on the skin, causing your body to start healing those tiny injuries. Radiofrequency is a thermal energy that has been proven to tighten skin by stimulating collagen and elastin, and at higher levels, it can melt fatty tissue. Both microneedling and radiofrequency have been on the market for a while, but neither have been applied this particular way or together at once.

Morpheus8 is unique because it combines these two techniques but in a superior way. The device can penetrate as deep as 1mm up to 8mm depending on the area treated and the treatment goal. Micro-needles are pressed into the skin (not dragged like typical microneedling treatments) and once the needles are pressed in at a specific depth, the radiofrequency is emitted….essentially the thermal energy is being injected into the skin. Because the needles are not dragged and the energy isn’t emitted until the needles are past the surface of the skin, the downtime is virtually diminished. Basically damage to the surface of your skin is bypassed so you can go about your life pretty much immediately. Also targeting the deeper dermal layers allows the energy to stimulate collagen and elastin where it is more abundant as opposed to the surface (where typical radiofrequency treatments are applied) so the results are more dramatic

I decided to give it a go so I found the nearest provider and set up an appointment. At arrival of the appointment my face was cleansed and a topical numbing agent was applied. An hour later, we got started. The nurse showed me the handpiece that kind of looked like a video game gun. She placed it on my forehead, I heard a beep and felt a little pressure, but no pain. She picked it up, moved it over slightly and repeated that pattern over my entire face. I did feel a few zaps around my lips and on my lower neck that weren’t awesome, but totally bearable. Within 45 minutes, I was out the door with a bit of a pink face. Now I tend to keep my beauty treatments to myself because frankly its non of my husband’s business. But I was expecting a few question when I got home….however by the time I got home, the pink was gone. At first I didn’t notice any changes, but after a few weeks, I could see with my naked eye that my skin was just glowing and looked smoother and firmer. At my next appointment 5 weeks later we compared photos and I was able to see real changes along my jawline and crows feet.

A Perfect Fit at Beautiful You

After a series of 3, real changes are noticed by others and I’ve decided that I think this treatment is magic. It’s been 15 years since I’ve offered a new treatment at Beautiful You, but I felt that this was worthy and complimentary. I love that its minimally invasive, I didn’t have to hide out after my treatments, and the results were real, and pretty significant. I decided that Morphues8 is a perfect fit at Beautiful You!!!

“I didn’t have to hide out after my treatments, and the results were real, and pretty significant”

Becoming a provider I have learned that there’s so much more that Morpheus can do.

What CAN the the Morpheus do?

• Reduce and smooth lines

• Tighten skin

• Decrease/erase eye bags

• Smooth Acne scars, Surgical scars, Trauma Scars

• Reduce active acne

• Fade stretch marks

• Reduce cellulite

• Reduce external labia

• Contour arms, tummy, inner thighs, butt

• Reduce double chin

• Reduce excessive sweating in armpits and hands

Where can you do the Morpheus?

• Face

• Neck

• Chest

• Tummy

• Arms

• Knees

• Armpit

• Bra roll

• External Labia

• Butt and thighs

• Hands

Our clients are LOVING their treatments. We are especially impressed with the results on the tummy and the external labia..it is an absolute substitute for surgery in those areas. For the face it’s perfect if you don’t want to go under the knife or if you are hesitant, resistant, or allergic to botox.

If youre interested in Morpheus8, contact us here at: Beautiful You xo

New product obsession: COLOR STREET NAILSTRIPS

Thank you GOD! Someone has invented something that can allow me to have nice nails again without all the time needed to spend in the nail salon. These days I’m too busy chasing a toddler to have the luxury to go to the nail salon regularly and I definitely am not able to paint my own nails the right way. Even if I could, I can’t wait for them to dry before fudging them up doing who knows what. I know this issue doesn’t only apply to moms. This is a true female crisis!! We are all so busy. 

Enter Color Street nail strips. Not to be confused with press-on nails, these are nail shaped strips of sheeted nail polish. Base coat, polish and top coat. They are wet underneath and dry on top. Once you apply, they are dry and ready to wear!! 

Application directions. Pretty simple.

The application is pretty simple even for uncoordinated people such as myself. A quick prep with an alcohol pad removes any oil from the nail (the pad is provided in each set). You match the strip size to your nail bed, remove the clear cover. Press onto nail and stretch to fit. You can either file (provided) the excess or trim with your own fingernail. That’s it. You do want to avoid lotion and hand washing for about half hour to let them truly set but you cannot smudge the polish. It is dry!!!  I applied my first pair in the passenger seat on the way to a party. No lie. That easy. They remove very easily with nail polish remover  no soaking or scraping your nail.  They last at least a week.

I think they have some pretty solid color options but they also have a lot of god awful ones. Hopefully as they gain popularity, the color options will improve. They are only $11-$13 per set and if you apply accordingly, you can get 2 wears out of each set. A lot cheaper than the nail salon. A lot less time as well. 

My favorite colors are UPPER EASTSIDE (a darker nude/taupe) TOKYO LIGHTS(golden sparkles) and JEWEL OF MUMBAI (dark rich navy). The sparkles are more durable and less obvious at the end of the nail life when they start to chip, so you’ll get the most wear out of them.  

I just love these, HOWEVER- I don’t think they are better than a real manicure. It’s just really fantastic when you can’t have the real thing. And I can’t. Like I said my schedule doesn’t permit the time and hassle. 

To order the nail strips, click here:  http://www.mycolorstreet.com/19495

PREGNANCY& BEAUTY

I'm pregnant! So exciting right!?  So many incredible things to look forward to!  

Since I am of advanced maternity age (35) I was able to do chromosomal testing to confirm that Bryan and I are having a healthy baby BOY due early January!!!  We are thrilled!!! If I'm going to be honest though, I must say in the back of mind, I did begin to panic about my appearance. How fat will I get? Will I get stretch marks? Will my husband find me attractive? Will things go back to the way they were after or be completely ruined forever? Am I going to age at a rapid rate and look like a complete hag? As a more "mature" mother to be, I have been routinely using Botox, retin-A and other cosmetic helpers and preventatives for quite a while to keep a youthful appearance. All of which are now off the table and unsafe during pregnancy.    

I truly believe you deserve to feel and look great while you are giving the most precious gift of all: life! Your little baby will be soooo worth all the changes, hardships and sacrifices, but there is nothing wrong with making an effort to look great while pregnant.  You still get to be you! It's very important to treat yourself kindly at this time in your life.  So pamper away!!!!!

Here are a few of my "must have" SAFE beauty interventions during pregnancy: 

1- FROWNIES- the old school Botox. Frownies are cheap and easy to use. You wear them at home or while you sleep. They basically stick to your skin like a stamp and keep you from frowning and creating deep lines. They have been around for ages and have been the top go-to for women resisting Botox and fillers. Women have been swearing by them for decades.  www.frownies.com or on Amazon

2- Revision Intellishade tinted sunblock and skincare. It's mineral based, goes with any skin tone, helps improve skin, protects from the sun (SPF 45) and wears like a light foundation. Pretty much an all in one product. It can be purchased locally at Dr. Mackenzie's office/ Pacific Plastic Surgery at 1722 State Street. 805-898-0700

3- Vitamin C Serum- to combat hormonal pigmentation and keep your complexion looking bright and beautiful. Apply after cleansing and before your cream.

4- Restorsea Restoring Night Cream- keep those lines from forming, and keep that skin plump and regenerating while you sleep. When I called my cosmetic derm Roberta Senglemann, I said "what can I do while pregnant!??" She said "honestly....sunblock AND Restorsea restoring night cream." She does NOT sell it, so it was quite an endorsement. And it's not cheap: $175 for a tiny container. But can you really put a price tag on beautiful skin? Especially when the morning sickness kicks in? NOPE! If you're feeling extra indulgent and self-generous- wear it day and night. Buy it at www.restorsea.com or at Bergdorfs

5- Eyelash Extensions- this is also a spendy indulgence but think of all the money you're saving by skipping out on Botox, fillers and COCKTAILS! Haha but so true. I see Shannon at Hello Gorgeous every 3 weeks to keep my lashes looking thick, long and sexy. What a difference it makes! Soon enough sleep will be futile with frequent potty urges. It hides tired eyes brilliantly and saves all that time you spend applying mascara and curling those lashes. 

Shannon at Hello Gorgeous 805-689-9613

6- Burt's Bee's Mama Bee Belly Butter. It is easily found at any CVS/drugstore, is inexpensive, and can be used on the entire body! It will help keep your skin moist and able to stretch without the marks forming. It's also scent-free as many of us mamas-to-be can no longer tolerate certain fragrances.  

7- Selsun Blue- yes that dandruff shampoo- as a face wash. This applies specifically to anyone who is experiencing breakouts. Antibiotics and harsh products for acne are a No-No while pregnant, but this shampoo has been touted to help for rosacea and acne. And it is also great if you have oily hair, which I do. The sulfur smell is not so fabulous, but I feel it's worth it considering it has really been helping my skin and scalp. 

8- Fitness and mindful eating- now is not the time to "get into shape"... if you were not exercising before, please do not start running now. Start with light exercise and adjust as your energy levels go up or down. If you have been fit all along, you may continue to stay on your routine as long as you feel good and it's not potentially physically harmful (kickboxing, speed skiing, etc). Luckily I ran a half marathon a few days before I found out, so I was at the top of my fitness game. I have continued to run/weight train with supervision of my trainer and a heart rate monitor. However, EVERY BODY IS DIFFERENT. Please consult your doctor or trainer!!! And please do not consider this a green light to sit on the couch and eat nachos. It is sooo tempting. I know. Eating for two sounds so fabulous.  But you don't want to have to think about dieting and exercising when your baby arrives and your entire world has changed: you will have no sleep and no free time!! You do not want to worry about losing weight.

A few guidelines: The first trimester you don't need any extra calories, the second trimester you need 200 extra, and the third trimester 300 more. That's basically a plain bagel, no cream cheese!!! So keep it in check. You also want to give your child the best possible foundation. Please eat organic whole foods. No cheetos, no Red Bull, diet sodas or artificially colored or flavored candies. No KFC or Taco Bell. Your future child and your future body will thank you.

UPDATE: here is a 39 week photo of my burgeoning belly- 3 days before baby B was born 

Steve Madden over the knee boots in the box in the background- great for hiding swollen ankles!!!!

HONEYMOON at the ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA

Deciding where to take your honeymoon can be an agonizing process.  So many choices and so many places you really want to go...we had to narrow it down somehow.  I told my husband- if we are on a beautiful beach, what's the difference if it's close to home or half way around the world? (Mind you if we wanted to have a cultural experience this theory wouldn't work, but all we wanted to do was lay on the beach and relax).  He agreed, so naturally Mexico was the best destination for quick travel times and the sensation of "being far away from home."  Hawaii just doesn't do it for me.

Ok so now where in Mexico? Last year we did Tulum and absolutely loved it, but it's very "boutique" and for this occasion we needed serious luxury: spa, gym, room service, poolside service, restaurants, shops THE WHOLE SHA-BANG!!!!  We chose Playa del Carmen since it's an easy flight into Cancun and a 25 min drive to the town, plus the waters are Carribean -so they are clear and warm.  A few friends had highly recommended the Rosewood and one friend did not recommend it.  Generally, Rosewood Hotels are top tier accommodations but with one friend not loving it, we had some nerves. Especially with the price. Naturally we went to Trip Advisor to help tip the scales and read stellar reviews all around. (GENERAL TIP: ONLY READ REVIEWS FROM PEOPLE FROM DESIRABLE AREAS- San Francisco, Beverly Hills, Santa Barbara, NYC, Miami, etc).  The choice was clear- yes yes yes!!!

We were beyond happy about our choice.  The Rosewood was everything and more!!!!! 

1. THE PROPERTY: It's a unique resort because it sits between a rain forest lagoon filled with alligators and tropical birds, and the most pristine white sand beaches. There were 3 restaurants, 3 pools, a great spa, and gym.  It's a huge property so beach cruisers are issued to get around OR you can ride the golf carts that go by every few minutes.  The path is wide and paved, and very picturesque so we loved riding bikes all around everyday.  We rode our bikes every morning to the gym, then to breakfast and to the pool.  It's only a short ride, nothing any able bodied person would have an issue with.  One day we took the "nature trail" which was probably about 6 miles round trip all around and off property.  We saw a beautiful cenote, rode all around the lagoon and the golf course, and saw a few other resorts.  It was great!  The resort also offers a "biology tour" on the lagoon almost every day where they ID the birds, gators, iguanas (they were everywhere BTW) and other creatures.  

There was an onsite shop with beautiful resort and active wear for men and women.  My husband and I saw so many things we wanted for our time there as well as back home too.  The spa was beautiful and relaxing and the service was incredible.  We both had a 90 minute massage and would highly recommend it.  The gym was small but super clean and had the adequate equipment for us to get a good cardio and weight lifting set in each day.

The region, as I had said, is on Carribean  waters.  Clear and warm water with white sand that was so fine it felt like powdered sugar between my toes.  I couldn't get enough beach walking in.  The feeling on your feet is just something you have to experience.

2. THE SUITES- we had a beach view lagoon suite. There was also a choice of beach front suite or the presidential (price went up in about $500 increments/night).  We were very happy with our suite.  We had a beautiful view and a bit more privacy than being right on the sand.  Our room had a separate living space, bedroom, 2 tvs, a huge bathroom/closet/vanity area with a humongous tub and separate shower.  We had a covered balcony off the side of the living room and on the top of our suite was our private sundeck with a daybed and plunge pool: we had a 360 degree veiw (half beach and half lagoon)  It was sooooo beautiful.  We spent most afternoon/sunset time in our pool with a bottle of champagne (ooooh yes).  The room was comfortable in every way and terry cloth slippers and robes were provided as well as beach sandals and beach bags.  Every time we left, we would return to a clean room with a fresh bowl of fruit and new bottles of water and usually some sort of treat and sweet note.

3. THE SERVICE: This is a top-notch resort and the service is right on par.  We were completlely blown away with the personel at this resort from the house keepers to the managers.  Our favorite person though was our lunch time server, Arturo.  He was so much fun to talk to, so knowledgeable about the food, wine and beer of the region and was obviously great at his job.  We never needed anything: everything was anticipated for us at all restaurants, bars, and even poolside.  The bottles of Rosé were served with Rosé ice cubes.....can't let that rosé get watered down!!!!  I got sick one day and needed medication- they called the property doctor and had antibiotics delivered to my suite within an hour!!!!!  My husband needed shaving cream- no prob, they delivered it.  One day it rained and they felt really bad about it, so they made up rainy day "activities:" Mojito class, Wine tasting, Beer tasting, Churro making and free pay-per view movies and popcorn in your room all day long.  Half way through our trip we changed rooms for a better view- THEY PACKED ALL OF OUR STUFF, MOVED IT AND UNPACKED IT PERFECTLY, all while we were drinking margaritas by the pool.  This place does not come cheap, but I can guarantee it is money well spent...no regrets!!!!

4.  THE FOOD: my main objective for this trip was to eat, drink and be merry.  Mission accomplished!!!!!  Every morning we ordered off the menu- amazing benedicts, omeletts, pancakes and mexican fare....but that's not all.  Each breakfast included a fresh pastry, charcuterie and fruit "buffet." We had croissants, donuts, english muffins, procuitto, brie cheese, fresh mango and kiwi, and watermelon juice.  If you are an AMEX platinum holder- breakfast is included, which can save you several hundred dollars on a week long trip for 2.  Everything we ate was so good that we really over indulged!  We had lunch everyday by the pool (which was also beachside) at the Mexican restaurant.  Each day we started lunch with chips and guacamole. The salsas were so good that we went home with the recipe.  We tried fish tacos (#1 choice), mexican pizzas and ceviches.  All insanely good!!! We also dined at the sushi restaurant on property, which I thought rivaled my favorite sushi here at home and the Italian Restaurant was also very very good!!! Our top choice was the Mexican place Punta Bonita- The margaritas were all made with fresh lime juice, and the craft beers were local and really good (according to my hubs).  The wine list was extensive with lots of local choices.  At dinner there we had an octopus carnita dish which was more like a ceviche- very fresh and delicious.  We followed that up with my best meal of all time- the duck breast.  WOW!!!!! Bryan had the fresh fish of the day served in a tomato broth and he loved it.  I was too busy with my duck to even give it a try.  We topped the meal off with fresh made, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon and sugar churros and tequila liquer.  We went to bed very happy that night. 

Honestly we went to bed happy every night.  And like I said- we signed that (huge) final bill with a wink and a smile because it was totally worth it!!!!  (Oh yeah- the 10lb gain was worth it too.....more about getting that off in the next post)

Below are some of my favorite pics from the trip:

Lush grounds.

A welcome surprise.  One of the many surprises left in our room each day.

Watermelon-jalapeño Margi- so pretty but the fresh lime was my favorite.

Bike touring- watch our for gators!!!

Fresh made roasted salsa and guacamole. Every. Damn. Day.  

Hi friend... 

Panoramic view of the lagoon

Pristine beach with clear and warm water.

Re-Hydrating the right way.

Morning view from our rooftop deck.

Another vantage point from our rooftop deck

Churros. Melt in your mouth! 

Mexican Benedict. Olé!!!! 

Getting off that honeymoon/holiday Bloat

I always think of January thru March as somewhat of a grace period when you can get your bearings before spring arrives and you have to be back in shorts, skirts, and possibly your swimsuit.

After all of the honeymoon bliss of eating and drinking to our hearts' content and most likely your holiday parties and feasts- we all need a little skimming off the top- the muffin top haha!!!

I asked my trainer to put together a sample menu so I can abide by some rules and reset my standard of eating.  He suggested a 2 week "eat clean" plan to re-establish new habits and get a nice foundation for meal planning moving forward.

It was pretty easy to make the meals, stick to the plan and see some results.  I never weigh myself, just go off of how my clothes fit and my overall appearance.  

If you must dine out while on this plan, he said to ignore the menu completely to avoid temptation and just order salmon or chicken with veggies or over greens, which most all restaurants can easily accommodate. 

I prefer to only a have a few choices and that the plan is simple and repetitive.  It makes it much easier for me to follow/cook/execute and stay away from cheating.  There is no grey area.  There's snacking between meals and one glass of wine per day allowed! Trust me, when you're eating very clean...one glass of wine really does the trick ;)

2 weeks no cheating and the damage I did in Mexico had been erased.  Here's the plan...GOOD LUCK!!!!

BREAKFAST choices- both are designed to make ahead of time and eat on the go or in a rush.  This will help you stay out of the bakery line and away from ordering those croissants or muffins.

Overnight Oats: mix 3/4 cup old fashioned steel cut oats and 1.5 cups almond milk in mason jar/bowl, stir well.  Add 1/2 chopped banana, 1 tablespoon almond butter, 1 teaspoon honey and a dash of cinnamon.  Stir well and place in the fridge overnight to enjoy in the AM

Veggie Frittata: sauteé your favorite chopped veggies in olive oil, add salt and pepper to taste. Mix veggies in with 6 whipped eggs.  Pour into 9x9 glass casserole dish and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.  Allow to chill and cut into desired serving size.  Should make 6-8 servings.

LUNCH options

Arugula salad- with shredded rotisserie chicken, steamed yellow squash, 1/4 cup of cooked quinoa, a tad of feta cheese with olive oil/lemon/fresh garlic dressing.  Be conservative with the feta and dressing, and generous with the squash. The dressing can be made at your preferred ratios and in a large quantity so you can save the leftover for the next day's salad.

Tuna salad stuffed avocado (large)- scoop out most of the avocado and mix it with one can of tuna, a heaping spoonful of greek yogurt, minced red bell pepper, a dash of lemon, salt and pepper.  Minced dill pickles optional.  Stuff back into the remaining avocado and enjoy.

DINNER options

Grilled/Baked Salmon (lemon/salt/pepper), Grilled Filet (salt/pepper), Grilled/Baked Chicken (salt,pepper) with steamed broccoli/zucchini/asparagus/green beans/Brussel sprouts (lemon,olive oil, salt,pepper) AND A GLASS OF WINE! Not a lot of variation on the protien, but lost of veggie options.

SNACKS- for between meals

1 apple/Handful of raw almonds/half cup of carrots and hummus

BEVERAGES- 60oz of water per day minimum, black coffee (1 with real cream and sugar if desired) black iced tea (no sweetener).

Holiday Gift Guide

Every year, we wait till the last minute and say "OH SH*T" I need to Christmas shop!!!!! Generally, those closest to you are easier because you know what's on their list.  But what about your book club buddies, your facialist, or the GF that seems to have everything? I found a few things that are pretty one-size-fits-all for Christmas.

**Meili & Grace ANTI-AGING PILLOWCASE- this is not a dig "you need to stop those wrinkles" kind of gift.  This is for anyone who doesn't want to wake up looking like a wilted flower with dreadlocks forming on the back of your head (hello hair extensions).  

The silk used to weave the case contains 18 amino acids. They are also known as silk amino acids, silk proteins or silk sericin. Amino acids themselves have been known as the “building blocks” of the body. They build cells and repair tissue, they form antibodies to combat bad bacteria and viruses; they carry oxygen throughout the body and assist with muscle activity, and they help rebuild DNA.  Sounds good to me.  The material feels extremely luxurious and stays cool all night long.  $65 antiagingpillowcase.com or buy in store at Cos Bar in Montecito

**Everyone loves something good to smell. The trick is to find a fragrance that isn't too extreme and will appeal to everyone.  Agraria Home offers the most beautiful room diffusers in my favorite scent: BALSAM.  This is a light scent that will make anyone take a deep breath and relax.  I did the first time I smelled it in someone else's home.  I went right out and bought it for myself. 

These diffusers last forever and give constant fragrance without leaving the yucky wall residue that candles do. They come in beautiful packaging as well.  $130-160 depending on size.  Buy at www.agrariahome.com

**Ok- FOR THE GUYS- new bf, hubby, personal trainer and some low-maintenance ladies.  I LOVE the Herschel Supply Co WEEKEND BAG.  I prefer to pack light when possible so this would be a great gift for moi as well.  I love the black and tan combo so it goes with anything and any style.  It's light, roomy and durable.

Shockingly only $79 in store at Urban Outfitters/Nordstrom or www.herschelsupply.com

RANDOM RECIPE

One of my favorite holiday things is (surprise surprise) SPICE WINE!!! It's the winter version of sangria.  I had some for the first time a few years ago while I browsed around at the Camden Market in London.  I was instantly in love and knew I had to have it again.  I googled a few recipes and landed on this one: very simple and so "holiday-ish."  It's the perfect drink for cold weather and family/friend get togethers.  Also, the heat burns out some of the alcohol so you can sip all day long and not go over the edge.

SPICE WINE RECIPE:

1 Bottle red wine (I use inexpensive pinot), 1 orange sliced slim, 3 cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon to taste, ground all-spice to taste, 1/4 cup brandy/whiskey, 1/4 cup sugar, splash of OJ.

Combine all ingredients in pot or slow cooker and warm on LOW.  Do not boil!!!! Slowly stir so sugar dissolves.  Enjoy!!!!! 

FITNESS OBSESSION: ZUMBA!!!!!!!!

We've all heard about Zumba- it's like the new Richard Simmons workout: anyone can do it and everybody loves it! But as popular as it is, I was never dying to try it.  Thanks to my client Vicki's persistence, I finally ended up in a Zumba class.  This was not just any Zumba class though.  This was Josette Tkacit's class, which now I understand, is the country's most attended Zumba class!!!! After visiting once, I knew why.  The class takes place in a humongous ball-room.  To my delight, there are no mirrors so I wasn't forced to witness my own humiliation and desperate flailing :)  I took a place in the very back row but even the back is crowded- up to 200 people per class!!! This actually made me feel more anonymous and not so self concious.  Josette stands on a stage up front and not just leads the class...she truly inspires.  The whole time I kept thinking- I wanna dance like her, I wanna be her.  I was addicted- it is now my new fitness obsession!!!

This the the all-so-talented awe-inspiring Josette! Check out that crowd behind her

A few weeks after I started Josette's class I tried another Zumba class at the Bay Club. Oy it was terrible.  After Josette, you can't go anywhere else.  I didn't realize the crazy difference between her and the rest, which I guess is why her classes are consistently filled to the brim.  Here's the difference:  

The steps are pretty basic so even the worst dancers (moi) can do it, but it's a lot of jumping, skipping and moving all around.  Other classes seem to be more salsa footwork so it's not as sweat inducing and it's downright confusing for people like me!!!  Every class with Josette has a different combo of routines, but there's enough of it that is familiar for you to pick it up very easily.

Josette's class has amazing music, I have actually downloaded a few songs from the class to put on my running playlist.  A class with Josette almost feels like a night out in the club.

It's a crazy good workout: by the end you are red in the face, soaking wet, and feeling like a million bucks.  I have walked in feeling stressed, depressed and uninspired, but always left feeling great!

It's inclusive: this class is for everyone!!! I have had the chance to secretly observe my classmates.  It ranges from high school volleyballers to 80yr old ladies, veteran dancers to never danced a day in my lifers, super fit to just beginning, and the handful of brave souls: THE MEN.  There's one song they all get onstage- every guy in the class... and we all hoot and holler...IT'S A RIOT!!

IT'S CHEAP!!!!! I pay up to $30/session with my trainer for a group class (which is worth every penny) but I can't afford another expensive workout habit.  A 12-class Zumba card is only $67!!! That works out to $5.58/class.

TIPS FOR JOESETTE'S ZUMBA:  

1. Wear boobage support- I wear 2 sportsbras (whatever you need to run).  

2. Tie your shoes tightly- if not, your feet will slip around in your shoes and you'll get blisters. 

3. Watch your dance-mates- if you're in the back, it can be hard to see Josette's footwork.  Find someone in front of you that is good, and follow their steps.

4. "Check your ego at the door" Josette's motto and it's true.  You're gonna suck for a while but it's fun and it's worth it!!!

5. Be prepared to sweat- if that means you need to bring water, a towel, wear a headband, whatever...just be prepared.

6. Wednesdays are bring a friend for free day!!!!

HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON IN ZUMBA CLASS: M-F 5:30pm SATURDAY 11:30am at the          Carrillo Rec Center. More info at http://www.josettetkacik.com/

New Electrical Skincare Device for At-Home Use!!!!!

Welcome to the wave of the future.  You can now use high-tech and usually in-office-only electrical currents to take the best care of your skin at home!   World trained celebrity facialist (My own sister) Melanie Simon and (long time family friend) brilliant electrical engineer David Mason have put their expertise together and created The ZIIP Nano-Current skincare device to easily fight aging and acne, as well as to energize the skin.

ZIIP is superior to those other handheld devices on the market because it uses NANO currents (not micro), which are smaller and better received by your body.  This explains why you don't feel the currents as much or experience post treatment redness, swelling, etc.  

These electrical currents have been proven to heal the skin which is why most people see an immediate clearing of acne after even a single treatment.  The ZIIP also promises AND DELIVERS to lift, sculpt, and tone your skin.  The only trick is: you have to use it!!!! Don't let it become like the treadmill that you hang your clothes on.  Put this bad-boy to work and see the astonishing results.

The ZIIP is user friendly- honestly it pretty much works on its own, but if you need some help, the instructions are pretty thorough and there's online support PLUS AN APP to program the device just for you!!! How's that for custom skincare??!!!  It comes with vials of conductive gel full of active ingredients that compliment and boost the currents.  An added bonus is that the packaging is really beautiful to look at and have on your vanity. It also comes with a charger and special travel packaging so you can take it with you wherever you go.

Beautiful and functional- the device and the conductive gel vials

I highly recommend the ZIIP for yourself or they make a wonderful gift to give as well.

ZIIP: $495 www.ziipbeauty.com or In-Store at Violet Grey 

POST HOLIDAY CLEANSE

Well, it's that sad time of year when the parties are over, the gifts have been opened, the hangover nachos have been eaten, and all we are left with is a layer of bloat and blubber.  I always feel the urge to do something drastic to get me back to normal, or a good start in that direction anyway.  However, the master cleanse and juicing diets only last a day or so for me before I binge and ruin the whole thing.  I think a realistic alternative is what the health gurus are now calling "souping".  You make a few batches of different soups and live off those for about 5 days.  This is a much more savory and filling way to "cleanse."  There's several reasons why this is easier and better than the typical cleanse in my opinion

1. FIBER- instead of just sucking the juice out of the veggies/fruit, the entire veggie is used so the fiber is there.  This keeps you fuller longer, makes you feel like you're actually eating, and will aid in digestion.

2. LESS SUGAR- all of those juices you buy at the juice shop have fruit in them...which means there's a lot of sugar in the very small amount of calories you are consuming in a day.  We all know the trouble with sugar health wise, plus it causes you to crave more goodies.

3. LESS EXPENSIVE- some of these juice cleanses cost an arm and a leg!!! One trip to your grocery store and about $50 of veggies will get you thru the week.  That's pretty cheap.  Some of the juicing programs are $50+ A DAY!!!!!!

4. SOCIALLY FRIENDLY- you can meet friends for lunch or dinner and order a veggie soup off the menu if you're in a pinch...however if you're only doing a few days, stick to your own soups so you can control the salt, oil, and other added ingredients in soups at restaurants (creams, cheeses, meats, legumes). Also you can modify soups afterwards for husbands, bfs, or roomies.  You can also serve as a side dish to meat entree so you can eat along with your loved ones and not feel left out.

OK now that we established how great and easy this will be, here's a few soup recipes to keep things from getting boring during your cleanse.

BROCCOLI SOUP: 4 cups chicken/veggie broth, 1 head of broccoli, 1 quartered red onion, 3 garlic cloves, salt and pepper to taste.  Boil all ingredients until veggies are soft. ALLOW TO COOL then blend.  VIOLA!!!! Freeze the soup after 2 days in the fridge, otherwise it gets acidic.

CABBAGE SOUP: 4 cups chicken/veggie broth, 1/2 head cabbage chopped, 1 cup celery diced, 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 yellow onion, 2 garlic cloves minced, 14oz canned stewed tomatoes (look for no sugar/salt added), 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper to taste.  Saute onion and garlic in a tad of olive oil, add in celery and carrots until tender. Add all other ingredients and bring to boil. Reduce heat and continue to cook until cabbage is tender.  Add seasoning last to taste.

GREEN CLEANSING SOUP: 4 cups chicken/veggie stock, 1 leek, 2 cloves garlic, 1 head of broccoli, 6 kale leaves, 2 zuchinni, 2 sticks of celery chopped, parsley, salt and pepper to taste. Boil all ingredients and reduce until soft.  ALLOW TO COOL then blend.  Store excess in freezer after a few days. (After it's done I add a tad of cream, , chopped chicken, croutons and parmesan for my fiancee so we can eat together at dinner)

Green cleansing soup

These 3 will keep life a little more interesting.  Have about 5 servings a day. Be sure to drink plenty of water (at least 10 glasses a day or 80oz).  Also feel free to concoct your own soups, just steer clear of CORN and POTATOES- too much sugar and carbohydrate.  If you don't have the time/desire to make your own soups, you can have them delivered (for a hefty cost) from www.soupelina.com and www.soupure.com in the LA area.  GOOD LUCK!!!!!

Tulum- Paradise!!!!

Tulum came highly recommended to us, and since it's a 5 hour flight to Cancun and a 1 hour drive, the travel time is not too bad.  The #1 thing I love about Mexico is that it is easy to get to , yet you feel so far from home...OK and the margis. After agonizing for weeks on Trip Advisor reading reviews after reviews, we decided to stay at "THE BEACH" hotel in Tulum.  It is a small boutique hotel, just like all the other hotels on that strip of beach. It is beyond ridiculous there. We love it. We had an awesome room- our bedwas facing the beach and the sun rises directly ahead so we got to watch the sun come up every morning.  
 

Our room which was actually a bungalow, was perfect. It's an open bedroom/living area with a couch and small table, marble floors and sliding doors. We had a jacuzzi in our room behind the bed- curtains and a half wall separate the two so you can have privacy or look out into the beach from the tub. We also had an awesome shower/bathroom(this is a must for me).  Out our back door was the patio that leads onto the sand with hammocks and day beds and Palm trees; and out the front door is the pool. The pool separates into fingers that lead up to each bungalow. Upstairs is a private sundeck and private plunge pool with a perfect view of the beach/sunrise in the am and the sunset in the pm. First day we literally laid on a beach bed all day and read, napped and drank maragritas.

The second daywe got up and went for a run- and a full-on rain storm hit. We were soaked but it was great. We checked out a lot of other hotels along the way (they're all located on this several mile stretch of beach) and we are so happy with ours.  We noticed THE BEACH is one of the only hotels that have bungalows right on the beach...the rest seem to be further away from the shoreline and a little more "on property" feel.  We literally walk out the back door onto the beach and a few steps away from the water.

A lot of the places here are European owned so the food is amazing. Our place only offers Mexican food: it's delicious and we get breakfast included every morning. 

I drank out of a coconut daily that fell from a Palm tree right there on the beach.  We went to an outside restaurant for lunch called "Casa Banana."  It's Argentinian- we split a skirt steak sandwich and washed it down with 4 margaritas...I was on vacation so it's ok :) We actually went back for lunch everyday to Casa Banana except the last day. The dinner spot we went to a few times is called Hartwood. It was written up in NY times and the concept is that only food and livestock from this region are served. No imported foods at all. The menu selection is like The Lark in Santa Barbara. It's not Mexican but all ingredients come from here. I had pork ribs, of course, and Bryan had some amazing grouper fish dish.  An Italian place that was highly recommended called Posada Margherita also didn't disappoint.  The pasta was fresh and the seafood was sooooo good.  On the last day of the trip we ditched out of line at the ruins just to go back and eat there.  The ruins will always be there, right? Next time.

CASA BANANA SANDWICH

POSADA MARGHERITA SEAFOOD PASTA

The weather is warm and constantly breezy- very comfortable, and moving clouds all day. The clouds make for picturesque sunrises and sets. The water is tepid and clear. The rain comes and goes quickly and makes the whole experience more tropical.
 

It's turtle season in October, so baby turtles come up onto the sand around 730 at night. We never saw them, only the hole they came out of and little turtle footprints.   So cute.
 

Tulum is very Eco friendly. We only got AC from 530-930pm in the room. And no exterior lighting at night. They ask us to keep the electricity to a minimum at night to conserve and to avoid confusing the baby turtles (I guess they follow the moon)

We took a little excursion to snorkel at Akumal...it was worth the drive....dip into these waters:

ONLY CONS:

All ATMs in the town were broken and most places are cash only. Exchange your money at the airport!!!!!! At one point we had to add up everything we ordered at dinner so we didn't run out of money. I felt like I was back in college. We used our last dollar!!

The internet connection here is horrible(only Bryan would consider this a CON but I had to mention). I prefer to "unplug" on vacation so it didn't bother me.

Recommendations:

THE BEACH HOTEL thebeach-tulum.com

CASA BANANA for lunch

POSADA MARGHERITA/HARTWOOD for dinner

AKUMAL snorkel

COQUI COQUI for fragrances and gifts