Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Does He Know How You Like It? He Should...

As I sit at home alone, sipping on a glass of wine, feeling relaxed and dressed comfortably in my oh so feminine PJs, many thoughts are swimming in my mind.  Since it is rare that I am able to enjoy my home without hubby and the kids, I have time to lounge without feeling obligated to do something.  I choose to write and share my thoughts on a nagging topic.

Over the years, I have heard women express concern about their relationships.  They have openly shared their frustration about their husbands no longer satisfying them.  The things they use to do are no longer done.  The things they long for them to do were never done.  Why is this?  Were they ever clear about their needs?  Did they disclose how they like things to be done?

Now, I am not just talking about sex and intimacy, although this is quite important.  In fact, I am referencing all things in their relationships, even things that may seem minor.  From how to manage the household to how to be organized to who will handle chores to who will pay bills.  Most of the time the minor things are the most frustrating.

Men do not realize that life can be a lot simpler, calmer and peaceful at home if they tend to the little things. Tending to the little things that matter to their wives will eventually lead to what they want -- more sex and peace.  On the other hand, women often do not disclose their wants and desires with their husbands to ensure that their own needs are met, at least in a calm manner.  How can someone take care of you the way you want them to if you do not share how it should be done?  We should not have to read each others' minds.

Does your husband know that if he washes the dishes every now and then, you would be thrilled?
Does your husband know that if he takes the kids to their activities before you ask, then you would emotionally be in a better place?
Does your husband know that if he arranges child care and takes you out to dinner without there being a special occasion, then you would be elated?
Does your husband know that if he changes the light bulbs without being asked, then you would be less frustrated?

These are just a sample of the little things that can make a major difference to a woman who needs more from her mate than money and sex.  However, many women expect their husbands to just know everything, but it is impossible.  If you haven't had discussions with your husband to advise him of just what makes you happy, then you cannot be angry that he does not know.

Recently, my husband and I watched one of Oprah's Life Classes that featured author and marriage and family life expert, Dr. Gary Chapman.  He talked about his book entitled 5 Love Languages and the importance of knowing how your mate wants and needs to be loved.  We all assume that we are considerate of our mates' feelings and desires.  However, we are often incorrect in how to satisfy them.  Do we ever ask how they want to be loved?  Do we ever ask how we can make them happy?  You would be amazed at how this bit of information could make a major difference in the success of your relationship.

The show was eye opening and encouraged my husband and I to visit Dr. Chapman's website, www.5lovelanguages.com, to take a quiz.  The quiz helped us identify our own love languages, so that we can communicate better and express our love for one another in a stronger way.  It led to very interesting discussions.  I know many men do not enjoy having in depth discussions about love and communication, but I must say that my husband was intrigued by this.  Why wouldn't he be?  He definitely benefited from it.  I know for certain how he likes IT and he knows how I like IT.  It is a win-win situation!

After 18 years of being happily married, I still learned a thing or two about how to satisfy my husband.   If you need clarification in your relationship, just ask the question "honey, how do you like it?" and make sure that he knows how you like it too.

To defining how you want to be loved,

Sabrina
Suburban Mom


Tuesday, May 7, 2013

What's in Your Marriage Contract? You Have One, Right?

Most likely, many couples did not have a marriage contract in place prior to tying the knot.  Let me be very clear, I am not referring to a prenuptial agreement.  Instead, I am referring to many of the unspoken things you wish you addressed way back when.  For example, what happens when either party's physical features change, will there be children in the family, who will be the primary caregiver when children arrive, will both parties have to work and contribute to the family financially, what will you have to do to ensure a lustful relationship, how do you prioritize your relationship even when there are children, etc.  These are important things that are rarely addressed until you are legally bound.

Today, I want to focus on the visual you, the physical you, the sexual you.

Do any of the following comments sound familiar, even if they were made jokingly?
  • If you get fat, I am leaving you.
  • You don't look as good as when we were dating.
  • I am going to trade you in for a younger model.
  • No, I wasn't checking her out (although it was done right in front of you).

Well, I feel comfortable to share with you that during the time my then boyfriend now husband and I dated through several years of our marriage (even post children), my husband frequently stated "if you get fat, I am leaving you."  Did I believe these harsh words?  Of course I did.  However, I was not offended.  I knew his expectations up front.  I also take pride in my physical self and I would not allow my weight to get out of control.  I will admit that I am challenged with keeping my weight in tact, especially after having two children, but I will never become obese.  He does not have to worry.  I honor this term in our marriage contract.

For me, it is not just a matter of size.  It is also a matter of style.  There are so many times when I take my daughter to gymnastics practice and I see some moms who are notorious for looking as though they just rolled out of bed.  They look sloppy.  This is unnecessary.  I don't care how bad life gets, the world does not need to see the weight on your shoulders.  If I am insulted for you as a fellow mom, how do you think your spouse feels?  In the evening, if you look the same as you did when your husband left in the morning, then you have to admit you have a problem that needs to be addressed.  Remember, if you look better, you will feel better.  If you feel better, you will do better.

What about the sex?  Yes, I am asking the question.  Was this topic addressed in your marriage contract?  Did you discuss the importance and the significance of satisfying each other's needs to maintain a healthy relationship?  I think it is reasonable to assume that if you are struggling to maintain your sexy, then you are really struggling to nurture a consistent, meaningful, desirable sexual relationship with your husband.  This is very important because without the intimacy you are just roommates.  I know you have heard this before...if he isn't making love to you then he is making love to someone else.  Do not wait until this occurs to take action.  Do not let go of your relationship so quickly and easily.  Make the change now.

The good news is that it is not too late to create a marriage contract for the future of your relationship.  Trust me, both you and your husband will appreciate it.  It gives you an opportunity to be honest about your expectations and about what will stimulate and motivate you to be the best you and a better wife.

Keep it sexy!

Sabrina
Suburban Mom


Friday, April 26, 2013

My New Lashes!!!

In one of my earlier blogs, I wrote about eyelash extensions and I shared that I am on the path of physical self improvement.  I want to look fabulous all day, every day.  I am very open to doing whatever I need/want to do to make this happen.  So, in addition to working out more regularly and eating healthier, I am indulging in non-surgical (at least for now) enhancements.

I recently had my eyelashes extended and I love them.  My husband (the one who hates everything that is "not-so-natural") loves them too.  Take a look at the before and after pictures:


Before


After


What do you think?

Keeping it sexy...

Sabrina
Suburban Mom

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Do You Have MomJo?

Recently, I watched a reality show that I view every now and then, Guiliana & Bill.  Guiliana was spending time with her infant son and her mother.  They talked about motherhood and how she is open to what will come with her journey.

During their conversation, she touched on the importance of maintaining her MomJo. Her MomJo? I immediately connected with her.  For many of us, once we become moms, we lose ourselves.  We get so wrapped up in our children, understandably, and give them 150%.  There isn't anything remaining for us.  We grow accustom to depriving ourselves of many things, whether it be entertainment or simple indulgences such as spa retreats, date night with the hubby or girls night out.  Although they may be simple, they are crucial to our sanity.

Having MomJo is being a phenomenal mother, yet still being a sexy woman.  Although the role of mom is probably the most important one you will assume, you can still look fabulous for yourself and your significant other.  You can still engage in the activities that make you whole, those that make you happy.  The point is that we are all leading very hectic lives, however, the key is to maintain a sense of self and not completely comprise it.

Guiliana understands the importance of maintaining her MomJo and so should you!

As a mom of 2 who has been married for 18 years, lost her MomJo along the way and has worked hard to regain it, I share these words of wisdom.

Keep it sexy!

Sabrina
Suburban Mom

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

He Loves You but He Doesn't Lust After You

Do you ever find yourself questioning whether or not your husband still wants you?  In the early stages of your marriage, I am sure that your love making sessions were hot and heavy.  Experimentation and exploration of each other led to intense, pleasurable moments.  Right?  Even if his sexual appetite was greater than yours, you probably felt really good to be wanted.  He ensured that he showed you how badly you were desired.  You felt sexy.  But things have changed over the last few years.  Intimacy is limited, love making is less intense and infrequent, and sex is just that, sex.  So, what happened?  Life...

Life got serious.  You created your path and worked hard for the marriage, the 2.5 children, the house in the suburbs.  After careers, children, mortgages, car payments, tuition, etc., everyone has to grow up.  We all change once responsibilities increase and challenges arise.  Unfortunately, it changes who we are and who we become.  As women, we change physically and emotionally.  In many cases, it is not an improvement.  Men watch intently for the change, as they are often told that this occurs within women after marriage and childbirth.  Don't satisfy this anticipation.

If you realize the love making (if it exists) just isn't the same, do something about it.  Don't give up so easily.  Don't succumb to the thought of "I am his wife and the mother of his children and he should accept me for who I am".  That is bullshit.  Yes, he knows this but he still wants the maternal woman to take care of him and his kids, and I hate to say it, he wants the whore in the bedroom.  Face it, that's just the way it is.

Yes, it is acknowledging that men are physical and visual.  You know that your appearance is crucial to keeping his attention.  Didn't you look beautiful when you first met?  Didn't you ensure that each time you went on a date you looked fabulous to make him want you?  It is still important if you want to keep him.

Can you honestly look in the mirror and say that you always look your best and feel secure that your man thinks you look wonderful?  If you are hesitant in responding positively, then imagine what he is thinking and feeling.  Stop wearing sweats everywhere you go.  Apply a little makeup to polish your look.  Lose the excessive weight to look your best, to be healthy and to increase your stamina.  He will notice.  He may also begin to show you, again, that he is interested in being with you intimately.

Keep in mind that you are competing with the women he spends time with at the office, the women he meets when he is traveling for business, the women he sees every morning when he purchases his coffee.  Regardless of what is going on in their lives, if they are on their way to work, they probably look darn good.  They are putting their best foot forward.  This is what he sees every single day during the week.  This is who you are competing with for his attention.

Many women believe they will forever be bonded to their men emotionally and physically because they have children and they have built a life together.  The reality is that people change and often men want the family life, but they also want a hot wife who stimulates them.  You were able to do it once and you can do it again.

As a woman who has been happily married for 18 years, rears two children, manages a household and runs a business, I believe I have earned the right to provide you with a little advice.  Always look your best to feel your best.  When you feel your best, you do your best.  Make a concerted effort to be fabulous every day.  When he witnesses the change in you, he will return.  He will want you.  He will lust after you.

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mom



Thursday, March 28, 2013

Big News for Fashion Fair Cosmetics

For years, I haven't heard anything about Fashion Fair Cosmetics.  Then, one day I was perusing the cosmetics department at Lord & Taylor and came across the dedicated counter space for -- you guessed it -- Fashion Fair.  But, I was extremely disappointed.  The promotional display was junkie and outdated. It seemed as though it had not been tended to in a long time.  I didn't dare touch anything.


Fast forward to this year, the prestige brand (owned by Johnson Publishing), partnered with celebrity makeup artist and author Sam Fine, to create a new color collection.  The collection, named Sam Fine Fashion Fair Supreme Color Collection, is introduced at the time when the brand reaches a milestone of 40 years.  It will feature sleek packaging with eight lip colors, a lip gloss and two eye-color quads.










I will  definitely visit the stores to try this collection.  Let's see if they can win me back after -- 20 years -- YIKES!

I'll keep you posted...

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy


Source of photographs and content:  Huffington Post


Friday, March 22, 2013

Ever Heard of The Beauty Blender

I recently came across this unique product that provides a better way to apply makeup.  Its egg shape eliminates hard edges, thereby avoiding lines in your makeup.  The Beauty Blender is the ultimate makeup sponge applicator that leaves you with a professional finish and flawless complexion.

The Beauty Blender can be found at Sephora and is priced between $19.95 - $39.95, depending on whether or not you purchase it on its own or with a cleanser.

Beauty Blender

Check it out and let me know if you think it's better than your fingers or a triangular sponge!

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Unbelievable Inexpensive Fashion & Beauty Quick Fixes

Recently, I did something I usually do not do throughout the day -- watched Rachael Ray.  It is not that I do not like Rachael Ray's show or that I do not admire her talent or all that she has done professionally.  Instead, it is because there are just too many things I can tackle to make the most of my time while the kids are at school and the hubby is at work.

Anyway, on this particular day, Rachael Ray's guest was Zanna Roberts Rassi, Senior Fashion Editor at Marie Claire.  She shared great, usable tips and I thought it would be great to share them with you.

Need a little help being discrete with "the girls"
Use toupee tape as double sided tape for concealing the boobies.  It is stronger and cheaper than high bond double sided tape for clothing.  Think about J. Lo in the fabulous and daring green Y2000 silk chiffon Versace dress.  I am sure she used this product at that time!

Get the sexy back in your walk 
If your shoes are constantly slipping off and your sexy walk is being affected, use pantiliners in the interior base of your shoes to avoid the issue.

Not ready to resort to Botox® to prevent sweaty armpits
Use pantiliners to absorb sweat from your armpits.  They will guard your clothing against perspiration and permanent stains.

Out and about and need to correct the shine on your makeup
Use disposable toilet seat covers.  That's right...they serve as great facial blotters to eliminate the shine.

Not enough loops
If you have issues with your favorite belt because there aren't enough loops for it to neatly lay on the side, use clear hair rubber bands to extend the loops.  It actually works!

I hope you can use some of these tips!

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy


® mark owned by Allergan, Inc.

Friday, March 1, 2013

Surprisingly Simple Moisturizing Tips

How many times have you taken a shower and skipped the moisturizing step because of a lack of time?  Well, there isn't a need to do this any more.  You can stop neglecting your skin and only add a few minutes a day to your regimen.

Our bodies inherently have essential oils that keep our skin healthy and hydrated.  As we age, our bodies' ability to naturally produce these oils diminishes.  This is the reason moisturizers are so important.  They provide hydration for the skin which prevents premature wrinkles.  Premature wrinkles?  These words alone are enough for me to moisturize about 5 times a day!

My goal is to look as young as I can for as long as I can.  I moisturize while I am in the shower, immediately out of the shower and throughout the day.  It is important to keep my skin smooth, hydrated, supple and healthy.   I was actually taught my daily regimen by my mother.  To her, maintaining supple skin was considered good hygiene.  If dry, ashy, cracked skin was apparent, she believed that I was not taking good care of my body.  This has remained with me throughout my life.

I conducted a little research on ways moms with little time can take better care of themselves.  Here are a few tips:


  • Brew green tea and mix a few drops with your moisturizer.  It has antioxidants which helps the skin appear youthful and fresh.  
  • Add olive oil or coconut oil to your lotion for added moisture.
  • Immediately after your shower, while your skin is still wet, apply baby oil.  Then pat dry.

That is it -- quick and simple.

I hope this blog is helpful!

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Like Butter Baby

I LOVE nail polish! It is the finishing touch to your overall look.  You can be well dressed, but if your nails are not manicured, your look appears incomplete.

There are so many brands of nail polish in the marketplace.  For some women, it is difficult to distinguish the benefits of each.  They all offer a full range of seasonal colors mirroring the current fashion trend, bold, intense color, smooth application and longevity.  However, the price can differ dramatically.  From $4.50 in mass merchandiser outlets such as Target to $8.50 in specialty cosmetics stores to $20 for prestige brands in department stores.  Now, another brand has been introduced -- Butter.  This time it is priced at the higher end of the specialty cosmetics stores, but not quite as high as the department store brands.

During my last visit to Ulta Cosmetics, I couldn't ignore the tantalizing display of Butter nail polish.  I had to check it out and inquire about what justifies the higher price.  I spoke with a salesperson and I was told that it lasts longer than the more popular brands and it is worth the price.  So, at $15 a bottle, I decided to test it.




I found the color options to be beautiful and plentiful, but somewhat comparable to existing brands.  Since the product was highly recommended because of its coverage and longevity, I focused more on those aspects.  I was impressed by the coverage of Butter nail polish.  I applied the base coat, one coat of color and then a top coat.  I usually apply two coats of color, but only one was needed for Butter.  Four days, several showers and dishwashing episodes later and my nails are still freshly polished.  This one is a keeper.

If you try the Butter brand nail polish, let me know your thoughts on the product.

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy



Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Add a Little Something Special to Your Blink

As a mom with two children, a husband and a business managed from my home, it is a major challenge to look good every day, but I TRY.  There are days when I feel as though I do not have time to apply even a little makeup or dress stylishly; however, I force myself to do these things and ultimately I am happy that I had taken the time.  I am certain that my husband and children do not want to return home and see me in the same pajamas I had on when they departed for school and work in the morning.  Have you ever done this?  Honestly, I also know that I need to keep my husband's interest and appearance plays a major role.  I know he appreciates this!  Trust me, it keeps the romance alive!!!

Eyelash Extensions


I have been searching for ways to consistently look great, without being a slave to makeup, and look seemingly natural.  I scour the beauty industry to find new and exciting things that I can do to enhance my look.  Although this is not new, the one popular non-surgical permanent beauty treatment that I will do is add eyelash extensions.  The lashes are applied by a cosmetician who generally adds a single lash to each natural lash with an adhesive.  The bond is designed to last until the natural lash falls out.



Eyelash Extensions

Lash extensions can be added to increase volume, length and color intensity. The length of time for the service is approximately one to two hours.   The cost can range from $100 to $500, depending on the number of lashes used, the skill of the professional and the location and reputation of the salon.  My understanding is that the re-applications are not as costly.





Make sure that you know to what you are committing.  Take a look at the short video below.  It demonstrates exactly how lashes are added.



Indulge me for a few seconds with a brief exercise.  Close your eyes and envision the following:

  • Your eyebrows are tattooed to perfection so that you do not have to draw them in any longer.
  • Your eyelashes are long, beautiful and dark where you no longer need mascara.
  • All you need to do when you awaken is to add minimal makeup (eyeliner and lip gloss or lipstick) to complete your look.
  • When you start your day, you look fabulous, and therefore feel fabulous.
Now open your eyes.  Make your beauty appointments.  Get ready to look even more fabulous than you already are.


To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Facial Tattoo or No Facial Tattoo? That is the Question.

It's not what you think.  I am talking about eyebrow tattoos (permanent makeup).  I use to be so opposed to anything that wasn't naturally mine or that couldn't be altered with good old cosmetics.  Now, don't get me wrong, I am such a girly girl.  I love trying new skincare products, makeup, the latest nail polish colors and just being in-the-know of what's available to enhance my "natural" beauty.  I get a rush from it.  However, altering myself for the sake of beauty is a little scary.

As a busy mom, sometimes I neglect my beauty regimen and I am not proud to announce this.  But, I am working diligently to change it.  My goal is to look beautiful all of the time.  This is not for my husband (well it is a little bit).  This is primarily for me.  You know the saying, "if you look good you will feel good".  If I feel good, then my family would reap the benefits.

One of the areas I consistently focus on are my eyebrows.  I believe they make or break my look.  Fortunately, I have been blessed with well-shaped brows.  However, within the last 3 - 4 years, I have had to use an eyebrow pencil to slightly enhance them.  I am generally fine with my brows, but there are times when my day becomes hectic and I am unable to tend to them.  I do not want to worry about this, so I am considering tattooing my brows.

Eyebrows are so crucial to our beauty.  The shape, arch, thickness and color make a significant difference.  For many women, tweezing and waxing eyebrows to get the right individual look for you, can wreak havoc on our brows over the years.  Eventually, you may find that they just don't look as good as they once did.  A great option to the fill-in-the-brows-with-an-eyebrow-pencil look is to tattoo your eyebrows.


Speaking of eyebrows, I love, love, love Meagan Good's brows.  She recently admitted, on a daytime talk show, that they are tattooed.  In her younger days, she shaved them so frequently they stopped growing.  Tattooing her eyebrows was out of necessity.



     


         Actress, Meagan Good


Check out this quick video demonstrating the process:



I am sure you are wondering about the advantages and the disadvantages.  Here they are:

Advantages

  • no daily maintenance
  • perfect eyebrows all day every day
  • you'll always look great

Disadvantages

  • tattoo is permanent
  • tattoo fades over time
  • color intensity changes as tattoo fades

I am not going to list any costs because I identified various prices depending on the level and/or location of the salon.

My advice is to conduct thorough research before making the decision to get your eyebrows tattooed.  Take time to investigate estheticians' credentials, references and portfolio.  Also, visit the establishments to determine their cleanliness and processes relevant to completing this service.  Once you have compiled all of your information, make a decision.  Decide to do something for yourself and go for it!

So, if you are a mom who has little time to spend on applying makeup but wants to look good every moment of the day (at least with respect to your eyebrows), consider eyebrow tattoos.  You will look FABULOUS without doing much.

Permanent makeup is scary to me, especially when it will be applied to my face.  However, eyebrow tattooing is one that I will try.

Have I piqued your interest? I hope so.  Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below.

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy

Monday, February 11, 2013

Fashion and Beauty Blog for the Suburban Mom

Welcome Suburban Moms!

Suburban moms often get a bad rap, but it may be well deserved.  Many people have preconceived notions about who is a suburban mom.  She may be someone who has traded her powerful corporate position, her chic fashions, her high-heel pumps, her perfectly made up face and her well done nails, all for a great life with her husband and children.  This wonderful trade off may have led you to become the mom who has lost her sex appeal and wears sweats and sneakers regularly, Uggs on most days, hair in a ponytail unless you are going out and no makeup when leaving the house.  Is this you?  Well, it doesn't have to be.  Just because you are a Suburban Mom does not mean that you have to lose yourself.

So, if you are tired of not looking and feeling your best and you need guidance to regain your sexy, keep in touch with Suburban Mommy Makeover.  I will bring to you product reviews of new and tried & true beauty products and fashion trends that you can really use in your every day life as a mom.  I will also share advice from the experts to help you reinvent yourself and add zest to your life.  Trust me, when you start to look better, your self-esteem will be elevated and you will feel so much better.  The goal is to help you, the Suburban Mom, become the person you've envisioned, while still making your family the priority.

To your mommy reinvention,

Sabrina
Suburban Mommy