But now, today, as I was discussing this with a very wise young lady, she said to me, “tell me your why?” “My WHY,” I thought, good question! Quite honestly it was the exact push I needed to bravely open my blog and write.

I am changing the entire direction of my web site and I hope you will still travel this road with me. I promise to still bring you the glitz and glamour I so dearly love as usual, but this time it will be different.

I will be focusing more with content for women in the second act of their life. I cannot be the only one who finds most of the other blogs unrelatable? And IS unrelatable even a word? Word Press says no, but I say yes! Fashion to a 25 year old is not the same as it is for us, and while I love their choices, well let’s just get real here for a moment. Same for skin care, traveling, dating, oh and who wants to discuss breast feeding or having babies? You see, I just lost your attention didn’t I, just by bringing it up! We can still be the quintessential fashionistas  for part 2 of our lives. We just need to look at it differently than what’s being shoved down our throats everyday.

I have also started dating again. The satirical and serious process of online dating is narcissism in it’s sheerest  purity. I cross my heart and swear to die, you won’t believe a single word of it! Hysterical doesn’t even begin to describe my adventures.  I will bravely bring you in to my world and take a peek at the madness.

Consequentially there is a direct correlation on how we look that affects the way feel. And with that being said, I want to inform you on the latest and greatest products out there! From makeup to skin care to fashion choices.  After-all, it’s so different for us! What worked at 30 doesn’t work now. And bless the hearts of those zealous advertisement executives who try in vain to make us believe it.

My biggest challenge is definitely accepting the fact that I am now in my 50′s! I’ve prayed for grace to accept this, but being honored with vanity or should I say “being vain,” makes it all the more difficult. I now intend to celebrate it, enjoy it, and accept it. It’s been a long process, but like with other things in your life that you cannot change, such as body type, eye color, personality disorders, {kidding, just wanted to see if you were still with me,} I’m learning to embrace it, you know, the stellar evolution of which we have zero control of!

So here we go ladies, it’s about to get embarrassingly real, hope you enjoy the journey with me!

Bella

Omni Tucson Resort is home to one of the most fabulous golf courses I’ve seen.  I mean PGA status … so impressive!  It is also nestled into the Santa Catalinas  with such spectacular views. And with the rich history of golf, this artful blend of natural beauty and recreation is elevated to a new level of discovery.

When I was invited I was asked to bring my children with me to experience Camp Omni. (I did borrow my grand babies for this one) and what a chance to spend three days with two of my favorite little people. Ashleigh 16 and Tristan 12.

Camp Omni is such a creative way to experience your vacation with your children, in a way that they actually feel like they are on vacation too!

My fabulous Steak Salad from the

Legends Bar & Grill

This is the perfect place to unwind after a day of tennis, swimming or playing on  the golf course. The sports bar offers casual club fare, a great selection of spirits,  TV sports, shuffleboard and billiards. The kids and drifted into the Legends Bar & Grill most nights. We found a cozy spot that felt like we had the entire club to ourselves, complete with a shuffle board. While waiting for our dinner to arrive we would have a fast game, then promptly jump right back into it after dinner.  I think besides the pool and virgin Margueritas  this is where the kids had the most fun.

Saturday morning started off with a Tennis lesson provided by the hotel.

Then off to the pool we went …

Ashleigh and Tristan had so much fun ordering their drinks and lucky for us it was a fun BBQ day filled with games poolside, crazy music and perfect sunshine.

Here are the kids hamming it up in the pool!

Ashleigh playing games ….

Resting in their room after a long fun filled day!

Me resting after a long day! : )

Camp Omni was a great bonding experience for myself and the kids.  It’s so important to me that when you are traveling with children, you stay at a kid friendly place. And the Tucson Omni Resort fits the bill perfectly!

Hope everyone is having a great summer, happy traveling!

Bella

Here is some extra information on the Camp Omni experience. And the world class Spa and Golf Resort Omni Tucson 

Camp Omni takes family vacations to a whole new level, offering deluxe accommodations, 15% discount when you stay two nights, kids’ gift cards to be redeemed anywhere in the hotel, a scavenger hunt with a prize upon completion and a welcome amenity. Our ‘Camp Counselors’ will call in advance to help you plan your adventure with us.

The Omni Tucson National Resort has it all – from its picturesque setting in the foothills of Tucson’s Santa Catalina Mountains to the lush fairways of its 36-hole championship and desert-style golf courses.  Recently selected by Golf Digest as Best Places to Play 2008/09 and one of the “75 Best Golf Resorts in North America,” this 650-acre desert resort with 128 guestrooms is one of Tucson’s finest spa and golf resorts.

Disclaimer –  I was compensated for this posting, the entire weekend was provided by Omni Hotels.

What do these girls all have in common? The perfect easy beachy waves. I love, love, love this style. It works for casual every day things like going to the store, works for going out, and you can even take it to the red carpet. There’s a reason it has been Jen Aniston’s Go-To hair style for so many years.

But, it can be surprisingly hard to achieve. There are a ton of tutorials on how to do this on-line, most involve a curling iron, a rounded 1″ flat iron (which is kinda cheating since you are using it as a curling iron), or braiding wet hair. My issue with most of these is that rather than creating waves, I’m creating curls (which look more like Giselle does above, when I’d prefer to look more like Jen or Kate). In the case of braiding the hair isn’t usually wavy, I end up with uneven kinks.

So, how to get actual waves that come out perfect each time?


I’ve found a great answer- it’s these White Sands Velcro Strips.

I’ve found a great answer- it’s these White Sands Velcro Strips.

The velcro strips are very versatile, creating pretty much any size velcro roller you want or the perfect wave. I’ve been using them on damp/mostly dried hair that I’ve sprayed Liquid Texture on to. I then take two velcro strips and put them around the hair (they have a net on the back to prevent them from sticking to your hair). They’re about 12 inches long and have holes all along them to push the plastic sticks through. Then I create a wave by putting the stick through as shown on the right in the picture. I can use a pretty large chunk of hair in the velcro, and I use 3 pair for about half of my head. I then use my blow dryer on high to finish drying the hair, and remove when everything has cooled down. If I want to look a bit more polished I might use a curling iron on one or two small sections to add some curl in with my wave. I complete the whole look with a quick spray of White Sands Stuck-Up.

The result is hair that is wavy and stays that way all day! I can alter the waves by changing the way I’ve used the sticks (meaning, I can make the waves bigger or smaller), and the whole styling process only takes about 5 or 10 minutes. says http://www.15minutebeauty.com/

Remington Airwave, a cool dryer that looks a bit like a torture device but is really a clever little wave-making machine.

How this tool (which retails for a budget-friendly $29.99) works: You slip each section of your wet hair into the sleeve and the air inside twirls it like a tornado, whipping it into a twisted rope. Then all you have to do is move it up and down the length of each “rope” until each it’s dry.

TIP: Use extra hair serum to help with the frizz.

Have a great Memorial Day weekend luvs! Off to the pool …..

Bella

The anticipation alone of meeting women (twitter bad-asses) whom I’ve made long term ONLINE relationships with, was now about to take another turn. Afraid of the online delusional representation is always a concern. You know what I mean? Albeit super excited at the same time. As we met one by one my fears wained away …. all perfectly lovely, strikingly beautiful and full of fun!

From the moment I arrived at the Wild Horse Pass Resort, I was treated like royalty. Two days later we were driven to the Four Seasons Resort at Troon North. And over the next four days with an itinerary that would rival the Presidents we were swept away, let me show you in pictures!

Meet the ladies!

Left to right … Stephanie our host from Wild Horse Pass, Annie Fitzsimmons, Liliana Baldassari , Gina Stark, myself, Taren Buffington host from Wild Horse Pass, Front row left to right …  Ann Trann, Debra Cincioni, and our tour guide, can’t remember here name…

Our first destination the Stunningly Beautiful Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa, nestled into the South Mountains.

The Aji Spa at Wild Horse Pass Resort reflects the heritage of the Gila River Indian Community in a way you won’t experience anywhere else on the property. The artwork and d￩cor in the 17,000 square foot facility speaks to the culture of days gone by. A feature exhibit is an Olas Ki. This historic dwelling was used to provide shelter in the winter. At the spa today, you’ll find one serving as a meditation room where you can attain calmness and solitude. With 17 treatment rooms, services are abundant and varied from manicures to seaweed wraps, but you almost can’t pass on a spiritual healing treatment by Belen Stoneman. A member of the community, Stoneman is a shawoman and has the power to heal naturally through communication with spirits.

Enjoying the Spa day with Annie Fitz and Debra Cincioni

Us girls on the range, with our horse wrangler Chuck!

Our Sorbet dessert at Kai Restaurant, Wild Horse Pass

Breakfast at our SPARTY! Provided by the Four Seasons Resort 3rd day.

My manicure which happen to match our Yoga mats the Four Seasons had custom embroidered with our Twitter handles! Oh and I must not for get the embroidered pillow cases ever night they freshly put on our beds with our names on them. I was so impressed with the details.

Early morning hike up Pinnacle Peak!

Touring the Musical Instrument Museum

Set up for our fabulous Tequila tasting party.

Big smiles all around with Chris our Tequila expert!

Poolside at the Four Seasons Resort @ Troon North pic via Suuper G

Heirloom tomato salad with local goat cheese.  Four Seasons

Gorgeous last evening at Talavera, Four Seasons, Scottsdale

So many details as I could go on forever.

Every evening was filled with exquisite cuisine, days were filled with major pampering and the friendships that were made were lifelong!

Hope you enjoyed this journey in pictures with me!

Bella

Many thanks to Suuper G {Gina Stark} and Ann Tran along with her husband Michael for all of these lovely photos!

The Four Seasons at Troon North  is nested in the high Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is a place of western lore and cosmopolitan culture, a place of awe-inspiring beauty and spectacular golf, a place unlike any other.  Adjacent to the legendary Troon North Golf Course. With casita accommodations scattered across a boulder-strewn hillside, the Four Seasons boasts one of the Valley’s most dramatic settings, and with a hiking trail to nearby Pinnacle Peak Park, the resort is a good choice for anyone who wants to explore the desert on foot. Guest rooms and suites are among the most lavish you’ll find in Arizona. If you can afford it, opt for one with a private plunge pool and an outdoor shower — a luxury usually found only in tropical resorts.

The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass and Spa Resort  was designed to be an authentic representation of the Gila River Indian Community’s heritage and culture. The architecture, design, art and legends of the Pima (Akimel O’otham) and Maricopa (Pee Posh) tribes are celebrated in every detail imaginable, indoors and out.  A true destination resort, the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa offers several dining options to meet any need and please any palate.

Experience a one-of-a-kind cultural culinary journey at Kai, the Forbes Five Star Award and AAA Five Diamond Award Signature Restaurant; enjoy Southwest/American cuisine for breakfast, lunch or dinner at Ko’Sin; snack on tasty light fare at our Lobby Bar; lounge by the pool with menu options from Hanyo Grill; visit the nearby Sivlik Grill at the Whirlwind Golf Club or tempt your taste buds any time of day or night with 24-hour room service.

Two weeks ago I was in dire need of a new color and cut. Rolf’s Salon and Spa contacted me with the opportunity to have a girls GLAM day! Five friends joined me for what I can only describe as pampering at it’s best!

Everyone was treated to hair, makeup and a gorgeous style. Rolf’s is known for their incredible stylist. I can’t say enough about my color and cut, so easy for spring and I just adore it!!! Thanks Rolf’s.

Here is a quick video of our day!

If you’re looking for a great new spring look, call Rolfs Salon at 480-755-7653 to schedule a complimentary consultation. They also have four valley locations, click here for the one closest to you.

Hello everyone! Been so crazy busy I’ve neglected my blog once again. So much to share with you I don’t even know where to start.

My GLAM day at Rolf’s was amazing, I will be posting the video here tomorrow.

Just spent four fabulous days with some major players on Twitter. All of whom you would be lucky to call your friends. Amazing women each and every one of them! Long story short, we were invited by two resorts here in Arizona to enjoy their amenenties and have a special 4 day retreat. Can you say YES fast enough?, I couldn’t.  Details Wednesday with all of the pictures and Chic ladies I met, some of which you will know I’m sure.

How’s your summer going? The lovely pictures above show where my mind is wondering, always to the beach.  : ) Oh and before you ask, the last picture of the starfish sandals is my latest DIY project! Just love them…..

Happy Monday Dolls

Bella

P.S. Have you tried Bobbi Brown’s Beach oil yet? I swath in it everyday. It’s the perfect summertime smell! Available at most stores, Nordstroms, Sephora … etc.

pics via this is glamorous   & my pinterest

Brian Atwood strappy cage heels {nordstroms}

Weight Watchers Mango Bellini
This Mother’s Day treat your Mom to a delicious cocktail. This is a unique twist on an old favorite and great served with brunch.
Gina’s Weight Watcher Recipes
Servings: 1 serving • Time: 5 minutes • Points: 2 ww points

• 1 tablespoon fresh mango pureed
• 4 oz chilled Prosecco or Champagne

Combine mango puree and chilled Prosecco in each champagne glass and serve.

perfectly lovely party setting

fantasy heels

layered blocks of color

Street Style

Beautiful Dior

orange crush

dance

So in love with this color combination. As you can see from the photos above, there are so many ways to incorporate this current chic look into your life.

Yesterday I was so honored to take part in a GLAMfest at Rolfs Salon here in Scottsdale. I was asked to bring in five friends for a day of pampering, makeovers and fun! The entire day was videoed and captured in pictures by Rolf’s. They were kind enough to schedule us on a day when their salon was closed. From the moment I arrived, I felt like a queen and a star. Hair, makeup and lunch.

Needless to say we had a fabulous time. The guests I chose to invite were a mix of young and older. From 16 to 70. I wanted to show that no matter what age you are, GLAMovers are essential and truly necessary for our well being.

Intimidated by the camera’s, self conscious of course! Girls being girls, and the laughter was unstoppable. Thank you Rolf’s for making such a beautiful experience for all of us to share.

The video and pictures will be available at the end of the week, I will be posting them here. Oh, and the tie in here is what I wore! Pink and Orange of course!!!!

Happy Tuesday Dolls

xox

Bella

Last Sunday for Easter I made fruit kabobs for our family and friends gathering.  It was a major hit, especially considering it was almost 90 degrees that day!  So simple to make just cut up fruit and thread onto a skewer.  We had about 50 people at our Easter brunch so I made quite a few.

Quite the gourmet cook aren’t I? : )

Two of my favorite people.  My daughter Jaime on the left and my granddaughter Ashleigh on the right.  Getting ready for softball game after Easter dinner.

Hope you had a great week!

Bella

Yesterday I attempted to emulate this look. Fresh and breezy and perfect for Summer! I wrapped the side strands around the pony tail to give it a more polished feel. Below are a couple of shots that were taken with my cell camera, so please excuse the quality.

What’s your favorite hairstyle for Summer?

I came across this dress last week. A great add to any wardrobe and the price is pretty fab too!

PEPLUM SCUBA PENCIL DRESS

Price: $96.00

April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.  ~William Shakespeare

Shakespeare said it best!  The spirit of youth, April does feel like a new beginning every year.  Everything is so fresh and pretty, just like the photos above all of which inspire me!

Bella

Pics via this is glamorous, flickr, ManoloHome