How to Look Younger at Any Age

Ever notice how young girls just seem to look fresh and glowing?  Why is that?  Sure, it's because their skin is firm and smooth, but there's more to it than that.  They have moms who work hard to be certain they have everything they need, who drive them to dance class and cheerleading and their friends' houses, who ensure they get proper nutrition, emotional support and enough rest... these girls have fewer responsibilities and way more time than mature women!

They have time to take care of their skin, experiment with make up, fix their hair and look cute!

Don't worry, life is fair.  These youthful beauties get married, have kids, and become frazzled just like the rest of us!  Here is the blessing: as our daughters grow up and leave the nest, we are the ones with more time!  We've just forgotten how to pamper ourselves!

I was watching a make up artist on one of the shopping channels who was selling a line of cosmetics.  I was fascinated by the before and after shots that showed how the models' appearances were dramatically improved with the use of the make up that was being featured.  I wished I could have this great collection of products that seemed to transform average looking ladies into sexy seductresses.  As I sat there on the couch feeling sad because I couldn't afford the price of these items, I thought, I have make up.  I have some foundation and blush and eyeshadow and mascara.... I wonder... if I used what I already have in that box under the sink, would make any difference?  Well, guess what!  It did!

I had gotten into the habit of running around with nothing but a smidgen of lip gloss on my face and twisting my hair into an unattractive bun on top my head.  No wonder I felt depressed!  I think it started when I had my first baby; I was happy if I got to take a shower and brush my teeth!  Life took off at warp speed and I was holding on with a death grip.  At some point, things began to slow down, but I was still looking and dressing like I was in some sort of a race for survival.  It was time to take time for me.

That's the first step, if you want to look and feel younger.  Take time for you.  Put your make up on.  Fix your hair.  Just for fun, wear some jewelry and one of your nice outfits sometimes instead of always grabbing your yoga pants and a T-shirt to go shopping in.  You are still beautiful and you have so much to offer.  As we get older, we get more patient and compassionate.  There is nothing more attractive than a loving spirit.  Celebrate who you've become on the inside by giving yourself a little TLC on the outside!  You'll love the results!

How To Pack for a Relaxing Beach Vacation

If you're feeling a little stressed out and run down, there's nothing like a few days on the coast to clear your head, loosen up your body, and put you in a more calm state of mind.  It doesn't really matter what beach you visit, or the time of year... the sound of ocean waves splashing on the shore is always tranquilizing... the smell of salt water is always invigorating... the feel of a cool breeze on your skin is always refreshing!

In order to have the best beach get away ever, prepare ahead of time by packing everything you'll need in your suitcase and doing a few simple things that will make you feel like a beach babe before you even sink one toe into the sand!

Begin by taking a long, hot shower or bath and using a body scrub head to toe.  If you don't have any body scrub at the moment, just lather up a bath brush or a wash cloth and rub it all over.  Finish with body lotion so your skin feels soft and smooth.  You're going to be wearing a bikini.  If that seems scary, it's probably because you live in a colder climate where nobody runs around in their bathing suit. People who live at the beach don't wear a lot of clothes.  They're used to seeing people in swim suits, so they certainly won't mind if you wear yours!  Don't be shy or embarrassed.

If you want to have a beach wave, you can buy special products for that, but if you don't have time to go out and get something, just use mousse.  Wash and condition your hair.  Towel dry, and apply a serum or leave in conditioner.  Take a large pouf of mousse, massage it into your hair, and scrunch it up with your fingers.  Use your blow dryer to get your hair about half way dry.  Let it air dry the rest of the way, periodically scrunching it all over hour head as it dries.  The result should be sort of wind blown and messy looking.  You're not going for perfection.  You want a natural, free spirited look.

Now you're ready to throw the essentials into your bag and rush out the door!

Take lots of beaded jewelry and rings.
Bring a sunscreen as well as a self tanner.  Use the self tanner under your SPF.  Wash your hands!
Pack a beach bag and a beach towel, flip flops and a small clutch
You'll need several bikinis, to mix and match
Take a scrunchie or a clip for your hair
Don't forget your sunglasses, and a hat if you want one
Take a cover up and a sweatshirt
Some shorts or jeans or leggings, depending on the weather
A denim or tiered skirt is fun to wear at the beach
Tank tops or T-shirts or maybe a peasant blouse
Bring some magazines or something to read
A sun dress or maxi dress
Undies and P.J.s
A sweater, warm coat, scarf and gloves during cooler months
Bring an umbrella if rain is predicted
You may want extra sandals, or some old tennis shoes or boots
In your  cosmetic bag, you'll need:
Bronzer, mascara, lip balm and gloss (foundation is optional), cleanser, moisturizer and body lotion
Bring a wide tooth comb or a brush and a little dry shampoo
Don't forget a plastic bag to put your wet bikini in when you come home

You are going to have an incredible time at the beach!  Have fun!